Columbia, South Carolina – Dutch Fork Defense Shines in Historic Shutout
In a decisive matchup on Friday night, the Dutch Fork Silver Foxes showcased their remarkable defense, blanking the Spartanburg Vikings 24-0 in the Class 5A Division I State Semifinals. This victory at South Carolina State’s Oliver C. Dawson Stadium in Orangeburg propelled Dutch Fork into the state championship for the twelfth time in school history.
The Game and Its Impact
With this latest win, head coach Tom Knotts improved his record to an impressive 12-0 in semifinal appearances. The Silver Foxes, boasting a season record of 12-0, demonstrated dominance on both sides of the ball. The victory against Spartanburg marks their sixth shutout of the season, a new school record.
Defensive Prowess
The defense, led by linebacker Josh Smith, who is also a USC signee, limited Spartanburg to a mere 161 total yards. The Vikings struggled throughout the game, managing only seven first downs, three of which came in the first half. Smith’s standout performance included 10 tackles, three of which were for loss, along with two sacks.
โItโs just a testament to our preparedness and the work we put in during the week,” Smith said. “This is something weโve been looking forward to. This is the best defense Dutch Fork has ever seen, in my opinion, and itโs just great we have the record. This was a goal.โ
Offensive Highlights
On the offensive side, Dutch Fork struck fast. Just 59 seconds into the game, quarterback Ethan Offing connected with Boykin Bickley on a stunning 71-yard touchdown pass. The Silver Foxes continued to press their advantage with Offing finding KJ Smith for a 10-yard touchdown later in the first half, which added to their early lead.
โThe two long passes to Bickley sort of set the tone,โ Knotts noted. Dutch Fork maintained their momentum into the second half, extending their lead further when Offing rushed for a touchdown, making the score 24-0.
Looking Ahead
The Silver Foxes now prepare to take on the Summerville Green Wave in the state championship game, scheduled for next Friday at 2:06 PM. Summerville advanced by defeating Sumter with a score of 35-6 in the other semifinal matchup.
โIt means a lot,โ Knotts said regarding the team’s success so far. โI think weโre doing things the right way. We have 31 seniors, and theyโve won a lot of games.โ
Conclusion
As the Silver Foxes approach the title game, they aim for their ninth state championship and the opportunity to finish the season unbeaten, a feat they have achieved just four times previously. The upcoming game promises to be another exciting chapter in Dutch Forkโs illustrious football history.
