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Chiefs end regular season 10-0, head to postseason

Before the Northview Chiefs stepped on the field earlier tonight, head football coach Wes Summerford challenged his team to put a big check in the box.

The Chiefs did that and more in a 41-6 victory over Bay, Fla. to end the regular season a spotless 10-0.

“I told them, ‘guys, this (an undefeated season) doesn’t come around very often, and enjoy it,’” Summerford said.

After a scoreless first quarter, the Chiefs drew first blood and never looked back.

While the scoring from NHS came at will, its defense played stellar and quick on the ball.

Summerford said he didn’t have words to describe how well the defense played against the Tornadoes.

“Coach (Jace) Gandy really put a game plan together this week,” he said. “Unbelievable. I think that’s a credit to our defense. It’s been building all year. It doesn’t happen over night. I’ve challenged them all year. They stepped up in a big way.

Summerford said the philosophy on defense centered on keeping BHS in front, hustling to the ball and making tackles.

“We knew they had speed,” he said. “Their game is a quick game, and they get the ball to their athletes. They’ve got a bunch of good athletes.”

Summerford said this was a good moment for the seniors.

“I couldn’t be more excited,” he said. “I think I imagined this three years ago, but you don’t think it’s going to happen. What did it were these coaches and a good group of kids.”

The Chiefs now await word as to who they’ll play in the FHSAA Class 1A rural regional semifinal on Nov. 18. Summerford they’ll know on Sunday who is playing in the regional quarterfinal, the winner of which visits Bratt, Fla.
Offensively, Northview didn’t skip a beat tonight.

Jamarkus Jefferson scored two rushing touchdowns from 4 and 2 yards in the second quarter; and added a 14 yarder in the third.

Quarterback Kaden Odom hit Luke Bridges on scoring passes from 24 and 76 yards; and Malaki Haynes from 22 yards.

A complete story from tonight’s game will be published in Wednesday’s newspaper and updated online.