By Jeff Devine
The Ariton Purple Cats capped off their regular season in a commanding way Friday night, steamrolling past the Brantley Bulldogs 56–7 in a non-region matchup that highlighted both offensive firepower and defensive grit and determination.
Ariton wasted no time building a 14–0 lead in the first quarter, which would set the tone for the rest of the game. The Purple Cats then piled on 21 points in both the second and third quarters. Ariton’s balanced attack racked up 252 total yards—138 on the ground and 114 through the air—while holding Brantley to a single touchdown they managed to make in the second quarter.
Running back Jacarrie Hammock led Ariton’s rushing charge with 72 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. Addison Senn added 36 yards on six carries, and Wells Ganey punched in two touchdowns on just three carries for 27 yards.
Through the air, Mitchell Hudson caught two passes for 34 yards and a touchdown, while Easton Kilpatrick, Hayes Hammock, and Brodie Lowery each contributed key receptions. Lowery also found the end zone, finishing with 21 yards on two catches.
At quarterback, Addison Senn went 6-of-13 for 80 yards and a touchdown, while Grant Davis completed both of his passes for 34 yards and another score.
Defensively, Ariton was relentless. Gabe Jones, Tate Kilcrease, and Jacarrie Hammock each recorded 13 tackles, with Jones adding three tackles for loss. Wells Ganey had 10 tackles and recovered a fumble, while Brodie Lowery and Barrett Silavent each tallied nine tackles, including one for loss. Connor Davidson also stood out with an interception and contributed in the kicking game, converting 3-of-4 extra points.
Special teams added to the strong performance, with Titus Senn returning a kick for 10 yards.
The win marks a statement performance for the Purple Cats heading into postseason play, demonstrating the team’s depth, discipline, and dominance on both sides of the ball. Ariton will participate in the 2A AHSAA playoffs next Friday as they hope to beat Washington County and move forward for a chance to clinch a State Championship title.
