In a thrilling display of football prowess, McCallie staged an extraordinary comeback to emerge victorious against its biggest rival and secure the TSSAA football championship. The Blue Tornado's journey from a 21-0 deficit to a 27-21 win over Baylor in the Division II-AAA state championship game on Thursday in Chattanooga was nothing short of remarkable.

Unbelievable Comeback - McCallie's Football Triumph

McCallie's Dramatic Late Drive

McCallie's fate seemed uncertain as they trailed by 21 points in the second quarter. However, with just 15 seconds left in the game, Keylan Syam scored a 2-yard touchdown run, capping off a 98-yard drive that spanned 5:25. This remarkable drive was the turning point of the game, as it gave McCallie the lead for the first time. The two-point try was successful on an Elliott Drapeau carry, and the Blue Tornado took a 27-21 lead. The quarterback made several crucial passes during this drive, including three consecutive completions that moved the chains into Baylor territory. It was a testament to McCallie's determination and offensive prowess.

The 98-yard drive showcased the team's ability to execute under pressure and make big plays when it mattered most. It was a moment of pure excitement as the crowd erupted in cheers, realizing that McCallie was not going to give up without a fight. This drive set the stage for the dramatic conclusion of the game and left everyone on the edge of their seats.

Defense Shines in the Second Half

Baylor had taken a 21-0 lead early in the second quarter with a 69-yard touchdown catch by Jamyan Theodore. But McCallie's defense stepped up and stymied the Red Raiders' offense for the rest of the game. They forced turnovers and made crucial stops, preventing Baylor from extending their lead.

Keeyshawn Tabuteau's 7-yard touchdown catch on the final play of the first half was a significant moment. It cut Baylor's lead to 21-6 at the break and gave McCallie some momentum going into the second half. The defense continued to play strong, creating turnovers and giving the offense multiple opportunities to score.

Syam's Dominance in the Second Half

After trading possessions to open the third quarter, McCallie's offense went to work. Syam scored two 1-yard touchdown runs in quick succession, cutting Baylor's lead to one score. His ability to find the end zone in crucial moments demonstrated his skill and determination.

The two touchdown runs were the result of a well-executed offensive game plan. The offensive line provided excellent protection, allowing Syam to burst through the Baylor defense. It was a dominant performance by Syam, who became the hero of the game with his late-game heroics.

Missed Field Goal and Late Dramatics

McCallie kicker Elliott Arnold missed a 27-yard go-ahead field goal attempt midway through the fourth quarter. This gave Baylor an opportunity to re-take the momentum, but the Blue Tornado's defense came through with a stop and got the ball back.

The missed field goal was a heartbreaker for McCallie, but their resilience shone through as they continued to fight. The late dramatics added to the excitement of the game, keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

Injuries and Their Impact

Baylor running back David Gabriel Georges was injured in the fourth quarter and was ruled out for the rest of the game. This was a significant blow to Baylor's offense, as Georges had been a key player. McCallie's defense took advantage of the situation and forced a 3-and-out, getting the ball back in Baylor territory.

The injury to Georges changed the course of the game, as Baylor had to rely on other players to carry the offense. McCallie's defense stepped up and capitalized on the opportunity, showing their ability to adapt to unexpected situations.

Final Moments and the Championship

As the game entered the final minutes, McCallie's defense held strong, preventing Baylor from scoring. The Blue Tornado's victory was a testament to their teamwork, determination, and ability to overcome adversity.

The TSSAA football championship game was a showcase of the best of high school football. McCallie's historic comeback will be remembered for years to come, and it serves as an inspiration to all athletes.

The championship games were televised across the state on various stations, providing fans with the opportunity to witness this thrilling event. The full BlueCross Bowl game schedule included multiple divisions and classes, each with its own set of matchups.

The TSSAA football playoffs were a showcase of the talent and competitiveness of high school football teams across the state. McCallie's victory in the Division II-AAA game was a crowning achievement and a testament to their hard work and dedication.

The Arizona State athletic department is on a mission to make the most of the momentum generated during the 2024 football season. In just coach Kenny Dillingham's second year, ASU rose from the depths to reach the Big 12 championship game. But the real challenge lies in maintaining this success and avoiding the label of a "flash in the pan." As signing day arrived on Wednesday and the Sun Devils prepared to play for a College Football Playoff spot against Iowa State in the Big 12 title game on Saturday, this critical time has arrived.

Unleashing the Power of the Big 12 Championship Game

The beauty of the Big 12 championship game on Saturday cannot be overstated. With over five million people tuning in on ABC, it creates a massive platform to showcase ASU's unique brand of football. The energy, entertainment, and team connectivity on display have significant value on the recruiting trail. There has been a remarkable effort to retain talent on the roster, with it becoming a key focal point in the second half of the season. This focus on retaining key pieces reduces the reliance on the transfer portal and builds a more stable foundation for the future. 1: The Big 12 championship game is not just about winning on the field; it's about creating a lasting impact. The national audience tuning in gets a firsthand look at ASU's football program, from the intense plays to the passionate fans. This exposure helps attract top-tier recruits and builds the program's reputation. The team's ability to perform on this big stage showcases their mettle and sets the tone for future success. 2: Moreover, the game in Dallas provides an excellent opportunity to showcase the program in a hotbed of high school football talent. It allows ASU to demonstrate their coaching philosophy, recruiting strategies, and overall program culture. By making a strong showing in Texas, the Sun Devils can leave a lasting impression on local athletes and potentially secure future commitments.

Supporting the Program through Ticket Sales and the Sun Angel Collective

The momentum from ASU's football victories this season has translated into increased support for the program. Ticket sales have been robust, and the Sun Angel Collective has seen a significant growth in new members and monthly contributions. Since the Utah game, there has been a noticeable spike in support, with the collective now experiencing double-digit percentage growth and adding hundreds of thousands of dollars to the program's resources. 1: This increased support is a testament to the fans' enthusiasm and belief in the team. It shows that the success on the field is resonating with the community and inspiring people to get involved. The Sun Angel Collective plays a crucial role in providing additional resources to support the athletes through name, image, and likeness. This support helps enhance the student-athlete experience and attracts more talent to the program. 2: The growth in season ticket sales for 2025 is also a positive sign. With a goal of having approximately 25,000-26,000 or more season ticket holders and aiming to create a stable base of 30,000 in the coming years, ASU is laying the foundation for long-term success. A strong fan base not only generates revenue but also creates a home-field advantage that can give the team an edge in future competitions.

Preparing for the Future with New Big 12 Opponents

Next year, ASU has seven home games against new Big 12 opponents such as Houston, TCU, Texas Tech, and West Virginia. This provides an exciting opportunity to build on the momentum and continue to grow the program. Each game presents a unique challenge and a chance to showcase ASU's abilities against different opponents. 1: The addition of these new opponents adds variety to the schedule and allows the team to test their skills in different game situations. It also provides an opportunity for the coaching staff to evaluate the team's progress and make necessary adjustments. By facing tough opponents, ASU can continue to improve and develop into a more competitive program. 2: Moreover, the presence of these new opponents helps expand the program's reach and exposure. It allows ASU to build rivalries and establish themselves as a force in the Big 12. The excitement surrounding these games can generate even more momentum and attract more fans to the stadium.

Defending the Big 12's Place in the CFP Rankings

In order to reach the CFP quarterfinals, ASU needs to earn a first-round bye or win a road game at a higher seed. The Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark has been strong in opposing the idea of a Group of Five winner being ahead of the Big 12 champ in the rankings. ASU's athletic director Graham Rossini shares this defense of the Big 12. 1: ASU is proud of their resume, having gone 10-2 and having a chance to win the conference title. This performance unlocks opportunities for the team and leaves their first-round bye status up in the air. Rossini emphasizes that the team is focused on winning the game and let the results speak for themselves. From a conference level, the Big 12 is putting forth a strong narrative and providing good information to support their case. 2: The Big 12 has a strong argument, with more eight-win teams than any other conference except the SEC and the Big 10. They also have a higher non-conference winning percentage. These statistics demonstrate the conference's competitiveness and justify the Big 12's place in the rankings. ASU is confident that their performance and the strength of the Big 12 will earn them the respect and consideration they deserve.