Tazewell High School’s Defense Holds Strong, Carter Creasy Leads Comeback in Backyard Brawl Win Over Richlands
In a thrilling Southwest District football matchup, Tazewell High School’s defense showcased its resilience and quarterback Carter Creasy led a stunning comeback to secure a 39-36 victory over Richlands in the annual Backyard Brawl. The game, which began on Friday and was halted at halftime due to lightning and heavy rain, finally concluded on Monday to the delight of a packed house.
When play resumed on Monday, Richlands held a 30-19 lead. However, Tazewell’s defense stepped up their game, preventing Richlands from scoring any more points. Cole Vanover’s electrifying 72-yard touchdown run extended Richlands’ lead to 36-19 late in the third quarter. But that would be the last time the Blue Tornado found the endzone.
Tazewell’s offense, led by Carter Creasy, rallied back. Creasy connected with Cody Patterson for a 40-yard pass which set up a 5-yard touchdown run by Averee Zeigler, narrowing the gap to 36-26. With their defense making a crucial interception and stopping a Richlands threat, Tazewell drove 95 yards and scored a touchdown to make it 36-33. Creasy’s 2-yard rushing touchdown with 5:33 left on the clock gave Tazewell the lead, and a 19-yard touchdown pass from Creasy to Patterson sealed the win, putting Tazewell ahead 39-36.
Tazewell coach J’Me Harris emphasized the team’s accountability and determination to improve. Despite a subpar performance on Friday, Harris praised his players for their determination and higher standards in the Monday game. He also acknowledged Richlands’ strong game plan but said his team adjusted well and performed admirably on defense.
On the opposing side, Richlands coach Jeff Tarter rued the mistakes and turnovers that ultimately cost them the game. Tarter highlighted the challenge of stoppping Creasy, noting the athleticism of Tazewell’s players.
The first half of the game was dominated by Richlands, who went into Friday night with an 11-point lead. However, Tazewell struck first with a 75-yard drive culminating in Creasy’s 29-yard touchdown pass to Logan McDonald. Richlands had their chances but were stopped on a fourth-down attempt at the Bulldog 18-yard line.
Creasy finished the game with an impressive 304 passing yards, three touchdowns, and a rushing touchdown. Zeigler contributed with two rushing touchdowns, while Brody Patterson stood out with six catches for 118 yards. Richlands’ Andrew Boyd threw for 143 yards, with Vanover recording four catches for 78 yards.
Looking ahead, Tazewell will face Fort Chiswell (2-0) on Friday, while Richlands will host Abingdon (1-2) on Saturday night.
This fiercely contested Backyard Brawl showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, making for an exciting and memorable football showdown.
