Northside Christian Academy head coach Dean Howell holds a post-game prayer with the team following its 2021 season-opener against WJ Keenan on Sept. 9. The Crusaders lost 22-12 to the junior varsity Raiders. THOMAS GRANT JR. | CHRONICLE

Northside Christian running back Sam Burks with the carry against WJ Keenan. THOMAS GRANT JR. | CHRONICLE

Lexington running back Jonah Norris with the carry against Airport. THOMAS GRANT JR. | CHRONICLE

Gilbert’s Brendon Boatwright (40) with the tackle on Hartsville’s J’Shawn Anderson to help prevent the 2-point conversion with 15 seconds left. The defensive stop preserved the 48-47 victory by the Indians. PHOTO | SCOTT CHANCEY

GCA quarterbacks Tre Robinson and Riley Staton. THOMAS GRANT JR. | CHRONICLE

Chapin quarterback Jayden Bradford with the run against Newberry. He threw for 135 yards and 2 touchdowns. THOMAS GRANT JR. | CHRONICLE