For the first time since 2010, Escambia County ended its season with a winning record on Nov. 1.

The Blue Devils defeated Francis Marion 14-0 at home on senior night in a tough game.

“It’s always good to end on a win,” ECHS head football coach Rico Jackson said. “We played sloppy (in the first half). I know the kids were uh… it was a tough game. Knowing the situation that was kind of hanging in the balance.

“I was proud of the ‘W,’” he said.

The situation Jackson was referring to centered on getting a playoff berth. Because ECHS lost 7-2 to Class 4A, Region 1 opponent Williamson a week ago, its playoff destiny was out of its hands.

The Blue Devils needed LeFlore to beat Selma, which didn’t happen as SHS won 38-8. Now, ECHS’s hopes in getting in the playoffs fell to Williamson, who had to beat Vigor. However, Vigor won 13-0.

“You can’t beat a winning season,” Jackson said.

The game was scoreless until the midway point of the second quarter.

ECHS senior quarterback Jordaun Patterson found senior receiver Lue Williams for a 38-yard touchdown pass with 6:15 left in the first half after the Blue Devils recovered a fumble. The score remained 6-0 until about 6:20 left in the third as senior running back Demetrion Barnes scooted in from 3 yards out. Dimitri Wiggins, a senior running back, converted the 2-point conversion.

Escambia County’s Malik Brown and Allen Patterson caught interceptions for the Blue Devils.

Jackson said the boys have put in a lot of effort this year.

“They’ve accomplished a whole bunch,” he said. “I can’t be more proud of them.”

ECHS finished its season 6-4.