November 28, 2008

(Sports Overtime) -- At Catholic High School, the Fighting Irish were finally able to get over the hump, and get to Murfreesboro.

After a handful of undefeated regular seasons, the 2008 version of the Irish finally made it to the ultimate destination. Catholic took down White House (12-2) Friday night 38-31, advancing to next week's Class AAA state title game on the campus of Middle Tennessee State.

After trailing 24-21 at the break, Catholic took complete control on both sides of the ball in the second half. The Irish dominated in the trenches and scored the half's first 17 points. The Blue Devils scored a touchdown with one second left on the clock to account for the final score.

Catholic will now face Mitchell on Saturday for the Class AAA state title game. For the Irish, it's their first appearance in the title game since making the move to public school football. Catholic reached the championship game in 2003 in the Division II playoffs.

Meanwhile, in Class AAAA, the Maryville football machine rolled to its 74th consecutive win. The Rebels took care of business at Greeneville, beating the Green Devils 33-6. Maryville (14-0) will now face Hillsboro in the title game. The Rebels have won four straight titles.

In 2A, Alcoa will also be making another trip to Murfreesboro. The Tornadoes beat Marion County 30-14. Alcoa improves to 13-1 with the win. Like their Blount County brethren, the Tornadoes are also looking for their fifth straight championship trophy.

And in Class A, Oneida (13-1) saw its fantastic season come to an end. Entering the semifinals still undefeated, the Indians fell to visiting Trousdale 23-10.

Friday's Scores
PREP FOOTBALL
Division 1 Class 1A
Semifinal

Jo Byrns 31, McKenzie 21

Trousdale County 23, Oneida 10

Division 1 Class 2A
Semifinal
Alcoa 30, Marion County 14
Milan 28, Goodpasture 7

Division 1 Class 3A
Semifinal
Knoxville Catholic 38, White House 24
Mitchell 31, David Lipscomb 25, OT

Division 1 Class 4A
Semifinal
Hillsboro 31, Henry County 24
Maryville 33, Greeneville 6

Division 1 Class 5A
Semifinal
Franklin 28, White Station 10
Oakland 35, Ooltewah 0