By NEAL WAGNER | Managing Editor

PELHAM – The Pelham Panthers moved to 6-3, 2-3, on the season after taking down non-region opponent Northridge 45-28 on Oct. 19, setting up a home matchup with rival Helena on Oct. 26 to close out the regular season.

Pelham quarterbacks Mathew Rye and Xavier Lankford split passing duties during the victory, with Rye completing 3-of-8 passing attempts for 72 yards, a touchdown and an interception and Lankford completing 6-of-8 passing attempts for 73 yards and a touchdown.

Brandon Sledge served as the Panthers’ workhorse in the game, as he carried the ball five times for 116 yards and two touchdowns and caught three passes for 61 yards and another touchdown. Jaylen Cook carried the ball six times for 37 yards and a touchdown, and Gabe Gamball rushed 14 times for 84 yards and a touchdown.

Kasey Clark reeled in five catches for 68 yards and a touchdown and PHS kicker Greg Blue nailed a 34-yard field goal and recorded six touchbacks in the game.

Defensively for the Panthers, Ryan Jewell recorded 16 tackles, a blocked punt and a fumble recovery, Dorian Tolbert had nine tackles and a fumble recovery and Phillip Duke had nine tackles.

Cody Ferguson recorded two tackles, a blocked punt and a fumble recovery.

The Panthers will host Helena (3-5, 2-3) on Oct. 26 as the two teams likely will be battling for a playoff spot.