Mobile Christian Leopards Roar in Playoffs: In the first round of the state playoffs, No. 1-ranked 3A Mobile Christian dominated Beulah with a resounding 52-7 victory at Harrison Field. Junior quarterback Damien Gaston threw for 192 yards and two touchdowns, while sophomore running back Antonio Brown rushed for 155 yards and two more touchdowns.
The unbeaten Mobile Christian Leopards (11-0) from Region 1 asserted their dominance early, establishing a 21-0 lead in the first quarter and extending it to 38-0 by halftime. Beulah, a four-seed from Region 4, concluded its season with a 4-7 record.
Coach Ronnie Cottrell emphasized the importance of focus and not underestimating the opponent despite the seeding difference. Mobile Christian displayed a balanced performance, scoring touchdowns on every possession in the first half except for one where they kicked a field goal.
The win sets up a second-round matchup at home against Houston Academy of Dothan. Antonio Brown’s explosive 72-yard run set the tone for the Leopards, who showcased a relentless offense complemented by a robust defense.
Key plays included Michael Moore’s 34-yard catch and run, Jason Todd’s 1-yard dash, and Gaston’s 23-yard touchdown strike to Gavin Weinshenker. Mobile Christian’s defense held Beulah to only 65 yards of total offense in the first half.
Antonio Brown continued his stellar performance in the second half with a 4-yard run, contributing to the 45-0 lead before Beulah managed to score with Demarion Foreman’s 9-yard pass to Reed Maloof. Semj Law’s 58-yard run concluded the scoring.
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The Mobile Christian Leopards demonstrated excellence across offense, defense, and special teams, earning praise from Coach Cottrell. Antonio Brown highlighted the teamwork, acknowledging the significant role played by the offensive line in creating opportunities for his explosive runs.
Beulah coach Matthew Johnson expressed pride in his team’s efforts and the foundation they’ve built, emphasizing the players’ love for each other and the game. The Leopards advance to the next round with a remarkable team performance.
Our Reader’s Queries
Is Mobile Christian 3A?
Mobile Christian achieved its inaugural AHSAA football state championship with an impressive 15-0 record. The team, which had previously been the 3A runner-up in 2016 and 2019, finally clinched the title. Head coach Ronnie Cottrell, who recently underwent eye surgery, found particular satisfaction in the victory.
Who is the head coach of the Mobile Christian football team?
Mobile Christian football coach Ronnie Cottrell had a victorious comeback at Bryant-Denny Stadium during the AHSAA Super 7 Class 3A state championship game in Tuscaloosa. Cottrell, who has been coaching the Leopards since 2015, previously held positions as assistant head coach, recruiting coordinator, and tight ends coach for Alabama under Mike DuBose.