09/05/2026
RYE COVE 35 — SOUTHERN GAP 24
Brought to you by Johnson's Kountry Store
A highly anticipated matchup delivered Friday night as Rye Cove and Southern Gap traded punches before the War Eagles pulled away for a 35-24 victory.
Playing the first road game in program history, Southern Gap showed it was more than ready for the challenge. The two teams battled back and forth before Cole Barnette broke through for the go ahead touchdown run, giving Rye Cove a lead it would never surrender. Barnette was outstanding on the ground, carrying 16 times for 132 yards and two touchdowns. Maverick Cress found the end zone three times, including a fourth quarter touchdown reception that provided some much needed insurance for The Cove. Quarterback Tyler Shupe added 78 yards through the air. Defensively, Will Darnell and Ben McElroy helped lead the way for Rye Cove, with Darnell being credited with nine tackles and two sacks.
Southern Gap had plenty of big play moments of its own. Aidan Baker and Gunner Baker each scored rushing touchdowns, while Carson Blankenship took a kickoff back for a touchdown. Quarterback Brayden White made an impact on both sides of the football, rushing 17 times for 88 yards and a touchdown while also recording an interception on defense. The Baker boys, Reid Stiltner and Devin Mullins were among the defensive standouts for Southern Gap.
The final numbers showed just how competitive the matchup was. Rye Cove outgained Southern Gap 245-182, but the biggest difference came on third down. Rye Cove converted 5 of 10, while Southern Gap finished 0 for 8.
Southern Gap made its historic first road trip a battle, but Rye Cove made the plays it needed down the stretch to remain unbeaten at 2-0, handing Southern Gap its second straight loss of the season.
📸- Eagle Images
