BY JEFF MILLER
FOR THE OBSERVER
OPELIKA — Southern Christian Athletics started the 2026 football season off hot, defeating the Mississippi Tornadoes 51-12 at the Gatlinburg Black Bear Brawl on Saturday, Aug. 15, in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
The Patriots controlled the game on both sides of the football, turning in a complete team performance that featured big plays on offense, defense and special teams.
Southern Christian head coach Jason Scott said the trip proved beneficial for his team as it prepares for its home opener against Springwood School on Friday, Aug. 21.
“We had a good trip to Gatlinburg to face the Mississippi Tornadoes,” Scott said. “We saw what we needed to see to get our guys ready for [Springwood head coach Joey Burch] and the Springwood Wildcats. There are some leaks to patch up and some minor personal adjustments to make, but overall we found what we were looking for in Tennessee.”
Leading the way was senior Gabe Decker, who had a spectacular all-around game. Decker scored a rushing touchdown, returned a kickoff for a TD and added a pick-six on defense. His performance earned him most valuable player honors.
Southern Christian also received a strong performance from senior Toby Miller, who caught two passes for 72 yards while making his presence felt throughout the game from his defensive end position. Miller consistently disrupted the Tornadoes’ backfield, recording sacks and tackles for loss.
Senior Sam Terry made the most of his opportunity, carrying the ball once for 40 yards and a touchdown.
Junior Henry Sirmon was a constant presence on defense, making life difficult for the Mississippi offense throughout the game. Sirmon was part of a defensive front that repeatedly pressured the Tornadoes and helped keep their offense out of rhythm.
The Patriots’ special teams also played a major role in the victory. Southern Christian blocked a punt, and junior Cale Webb recovered the ball in the end zone for a touchdown. Cale Webb also contributed in the running game, making the most of his carries.
Additionally, eighth-grade kicker Finn Waldrep was perfect on the night, connecting on all three of his extra-point attempts.
Tucker Webb provided a physical presence in the ground attack, particularly when the Patriots needed tough yards up the middle. Webb was especially effective on two-point conversion attempts.
The Patriots’ defensive pressure was evident throughout the game, with Alex Tucker, Toby Miller, Griffin Wade, Tucker Webb, Jake Farr, Keon Owens and Henry Sirmon each recording at least one sack.
The Patriots continued to make plays late in the game as sophomore Whitt Pickard recovered a fumble on defense and returned it for a touchdown.
The 52–12 victory showcased the depth and versatility of the Southern Christian Patriots, with players from every phase of the game contributing to the win.
From explosive plays on special teams to a relentless defensive effort and a physical rushing attack, Southern Christian put together a dominant performance in Gatlinburg.
Patriots Return Home Friday Night
The Patriots will return home on Friday, Aug. 21, to host Springwood at Moore Stadium in Opelika at 7 p.m.
Coming off this past Saturday’s 53–12 victory over the Mississippi Tornadoes, Southern Christian will look to carry that momentum into Friday night’s matchup against the Wildcats.
Fans are encouraged to come out and support Southern Christian as they take on Springwood under the lights.
