CANTON – Canton defeated Athens 44-21 on Friday at Norris Birdwell Stadium in a game between two undefeated teams ranked in the state. Both teams entered the night at 9-0 overall and 4-0 in District 9-4A Division II. Athens was ranked No. 9 in the state and Canton No. 10.
The win gave the Eagles a perfect 10-0 season, their first since 1964, and their first district championship since 2005. Athens scored first on an 85-yard touchdown run by sophomore quarterback Khion Brown. Canton answered with a 48-yard touchdown run by Landon Hamilton. Athens later took a 14-6 lead on a 4-yard touchdown pass from Thatcher Diamond to Thomas Faulk after Brown was hurt on a play. Canton then scored on a 25-yard touchdown pass from Cort Ray to Ethan Lewis.
Canton head coach Heath Ragle said the team's record reflected how difficult it is to achieve at the school. He credited the community's support and the players' work each day. Ragle said the team would enjoy the win and then review film of the game.