The Buford Wolves sought to start their season off on a positive note after losing in the 5A State semifinals last season.
The Gwinnett County powerhouse used last year’s disappointment and soundly defeated the Tucker Tigers 40-14 Friday evening at Georgia State University Stadium as part of the 2018 Corky Kell Classic. Buford would strike first when running back Derrian Brown punched in the first touchdown from five yards.
It was early in the 2nd quarter and the Tigers were not ready to give up just yet. Senior running back Tyler Hughley would break away for 75 yards to tie things up at seven.
On the ensuing possession, Brown would punch it into the end zone from the goal line, putting Buford up 14-7. Momentum swung wildly to Buford as the green and gold blocked a Clayton Nelson punt.
In the second half, star Buford quarterback Aaron McLaughlin fired a touchdown strike to Brown which extended the lead to 21-7.
The Tigers would throw one last punch when Isaiah Dunson would be on the receiving end for a 69 yard TD reception to make things close at 21-14. That was all Tucker could muster.
In the end, Brown and the Wolves were too much for the Tigers. Brown would finish the game with 142 rushing yards and three total touchdowns.
“He’s a phenomenal player,” said Buford coach John Ford of Derrian Brown. “He’s everything good about high school football. He has a smile on his face every day. I’m glad the whole country got to see what he’s made of tonight.”
The Wolves will face Jonesboro High School at home next Friday. Meanwhile, Tucker will face off against Grayson next Saturday.
