Lyons, GA – December 8, 2024 | Head Coach Buddy Martin | Article by Matt Lynn
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The Toombs County Bulldogs traveled to Dublin on Friday night for a highly anticipated GHSA semifinal playoff matchup against the undefeated and historically dominant Dublin Fighting Irish. The Bulldogs delivered a stellar performance, defeating the Irish 42-15 and earning their first trip to the state championship in program history.
The game began with Toombs County setting the tone early. Taking the opening kickoff, the Bulldogs marched 56 yards in six plays, capped off by a six-yard touchdown run from sophomore running back Alex Scott. Alex Otero’s extra point gave Toombs a quick 7-0 lead with 8:50 remaining in the first quarter.
The Red Bullet defense held strong on Dublin’s opening possession, forcing a punt. The Toombs offense capitalized again, driving 84 yards in eight plays. Senior quarterback TJ Stanley connected with senior wide receiver LaGonza Hayward for a 14-yard touchdown pass. Stanley went 4-for-4 on the drive, amassing 62 passing yards. Otero’s extra point extended the Bulldogs’ lead to 14-0.
In the second quarter, Dublin responded with a sustained drive, finding the end zone on a two-yard run and converting a two-point attempt to cut Toombs’ lead to 14-8 with 6:50 left in the half. However, that was as close as the Fighting Irish would get. Stanley and Hayward struck again late in the half with a five-yard touchdown connection, sending Toombs County into the locker room with a 21-8 advantage.
The second half saw the Bulldogs dominate on both sides of the ball. Stanley scored on a one-yard quarterback keeper midway through the third quarter to push the lead to 28-8. The Red Bullet defense continued to stifle Dublin’s offense, forcing another punt. Early in the fourth quarter, Stanley broke loose for a 60-yard run to move deep into Irish territory. Two plays later, he found senior wide receiver Mike Polke on a 39-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 35-8.
Dublin managed one final score, trimming the deficit to 35-15 with 7:43 left in the game. However, Toombs County sealed the victory on the next possession. Junior Justin Powell delivered three consecutive punishing runs, including a 26-yard touchdown that put the game out of reach at 42-15.
The Bulldogs’ offensive balance was on full display, with a powerful ground attack and an efficient passing game. Stanley’s leadership and contributions on the ground and through the air were pivotal, while the defense delivered a disciplined and aggressive performance.
The Road to Atlanta Toombs County (12-1) will now face Northeast Macon (12-2) in the GHSA State Championship on Tuesday, December 17, at 1 PM in the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Tickets are available now at GoFan.com.
The Bulldogs have made history this season, and the community will no doubt rally to support their team as they compete for their first-ever state title.
