FROM STAFF REPORTS

ALABASTER – Evangel Christian earned a berth in the state championship game with a 68-0 win over Lighthouse Academy on Friday, Oct. 5.

ACSC this year will determine its champion by pitting the regular season’s top two teams against each other, Evangel Coach Tim Smith said, and the Lightning not only qualified for the game but earned homefield advantage.

Evangel (5-3) will play Ezekiel on Oct. 26 but first had to take care of business against Lighthouse.

A multitude of Evangel players got in on the action, starting with Tyler Henderson, who completed seven passes in 10 attempts for 167 yards and four touchdowns to go along with 54 rushing yards—all in the first half.

Dawson Humphries caught three passes for 86 yards and two touchdowns, and Carter Hand scored from 35 yards out on his one catch.

Justin Humphries ran for a 34-yard touchdown, Harris Black had a 13-yard touchdown run and Grant Bruce had a one-yard touchdown run.

Hunter Green led the defense with eight tackles and two sacks, while Nate Arvizu had six tackles and a sack.

Smith said he was proud of the team for playing hard on homecoming.

“They were really excited tonight to get out and play,” Smith said.

The Lightning led 24-0 in the first quarter and 46-0 at halftime.

Smith said the most important thing for Evangel before the championship game is for some of the team’s injured players to recuperate.

After the title game, on Nov. 9, Evangel will travel to Panama City Beach, Florida, for an 8-man tournament.

“We’re all excited about that,” Smith said.