Swainsboro drops season opener to Dublin

After back-to-back seasons with State Finals appearances, the Swainsboro Tigers entered the 2024 season with high expectations. However, they faced a formidable challenge in their season opener against their long-time rivals, the Dublin Fighting Irish. The game, held this past Friday at Tiger Field, featured two Top 10 Class A Division 1 teams. The Tigers ranked number 3 and the Irish at number 7.

The game began with the Tigers receiving the opening kickoff, starting their drive deep in their own territory. Senior quarterback #2 Bryson Tarver quickly made an impact, breaking loose for a 20-yard gain. On a critical 3rd and 7, Tarver delivered again. Securing a first down and pushing the Tigers into Dublin territory. Tarver’s mobility was on full display, Senior running back #11 Quin Brown also made his presence felt with some key runs. The Tigers predominantly relied on their ground game until junior quarterback #14 Kason Edenfield entered and connected on two quick passes, one to sophomore #3 Shannon Benjamín and another to junior #4 L.J. Morgan. These completions advanced the ball to Dublin’s 24-yard line. Brown then showcased his speed, taking the ball down to the one-yard line before being forced out of bounds by a Dublin defender. The Tigers capped off the 12-play drive with a touchdown by Tarver, followed by a successful extra point from junior #5 Peyton Mason.

The Tigers’ defense then took the field to face Dublin’s Wing-T offense, known for its physical running game. On the Irish’s first play, they handed the ball to their fullback, but senior safety #7 Jylerris Williams made the season’s first tackle, supported by a swarm of Tigers defenders. A penalty on Dublin set them back, but the Irish responded with a quarterback run. Although the Tigers initially had him wrapped up. The Dublin quarterback evaded tackles, setting up a manageable 3rd and 7, which the Irish converted with a pass into Tiger territory. The very next play, Dublin’s fullback found a gap in the Tigers’ defense, breaking free for a 47-yard touchdown. Tying the game at 7. The rest of the first quarter saw both teams’ offenses and defenses begin to settle in.

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In the second quarter, the Tigers’ defense struggled, allowing the Irish to score two more touchdowns, increasing their lead to 22-7. Despite the difficulties, there were some standout moments on defense, including hard hits from junior defensive lineman #50 Aiden Foskey and sophomore linebacker #9 Jobias Smith. Offensively, however, the Tigers couldn’t find their rhythm, resulting in several stalled drives and punts.

The second half saw Dublin control the game by dominating time of possession and adding three more touchdowns to their tally. The Tigers managed to score twice more before the end. One touchdown run by Brown and another by Tarver. The game concluded with Dublin securing a 41-21 victory.

Although the Tigers didn’t get the result they wanted, they displayed potential, especially with many young players gaining valuable experience. This early exposure could be crucial as the season continues.

This Friday, the Tigers will travel just 13 miles to take on in-county rival, the Emanuel County Institute Bulldogs, at Rountree Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM. Let’s pack the house and show our support, Swainsboro!