By KALA BOLTON / Staff Writer

The Montevallo Bulldogs got more than just a check in the win column with their 35-20 win at Hale County Oct. 21.

“We’re in the playoffs now,” Montevallo head coach Jamie Williams said. “All the credit to God, because we’ve been through so much. God has given these kids a lot of courage.”

Hale County took the first lead of the game, but Montevallo answered with 21 unanswered points to round out the first half.

R.J. Scaife reeled in a 28-yard touchdown pass from senior quarterback Taylor Burr, and an extra point by senior kicker Brett Gray tied the game at 7 with 8:27 remaining in the second quarter.

Senior Garrius Chappell scored on a 3-yard touchdown run with 3:54 remaining in the half, adding another score on a 34-yard run just a minute later. Two Gray extra points gave the Bulldogs a 21-14 lead to close out the first half.

Senior Eugene Rogers capitalized on a shanked Hale punt, returning the ball 7 yards into the endzone to extend the Bulldogs’ lead with 6:33 remaining in the third quarter.

Scaife sealed the win and a playoff berth for Montevallo with a 17-yard run. Gray sunk the extra point with 45 seconds remaining in the third.

“I cant tell you how many injuries we’ve had to overcome and even backups that have been hurt,” Williams said. “There’s just been so much adversity, and these kids could use that as an excuse, but each week, they come out and play their guts out. I’d love to say it something I’m doing, but its not — it’s these kids.”

Chappell led the Bulldogs with 28 carries for 232 yards. Scaife added 70 yards on eight carries while Burr completed 5-of-6 pass attempts for 80 yards and one touchdown. The Bulldogs totaled 320 yards on the ground.

“I don’t think it’s hit me yet,” Williams said. “I’m just so happy for these kids that all their hard work is paying off.”