St. Thomas Aquinas and Atlantic clashed in a thrilling Region 4-5A championship game that ended in controversy and heartbreak for the Eagles. Despite a valiant effort from Atlantic, St. Thomas Aquinas emerged victorious in double overtime with a 49-42 win.
The game started with Atlantic taking a commanding lead in the first half, thanks to star wide receiver Teddy Hoffmann’s exceptional performance. Hoffmann scored five touchdowns, including a passing touchdown on a trick play, to give the Eagles a 28-14 lead at halftime.
However, the game took a dramatic turn in the second half as St. Thomas Aquinas mounted a comeback, eventually tying the game at 35-35 with 32 seconds remaining to force overtime. In double overtime, controversy struck when a pass from Atlantic quarterback Lincoln Graf to wide receiver James Jones was ruled incomplete despite Jones’ claims that he had gotten a foot down in-bounds.
The disputed call led to a turnover, and St. Thomas Aquinas capitalized on the opportunity to secure the victory, breaking the hearts of the Atlantic players and coaches. The loss marked the fourth time in six seasons that Atlantic has been eliminated from the playoffs by St. Thomas Aquinas.
Despite the disappointment, Teddy Hoffmann’s standout performance and leadership on the field were commendable. Hoffmann’s clutch plays and five-touchdown showing highlighted his talent and determination to lead his team to victory.
In the post-game interviews, both teams expressed their emotions and reflected on the intense matchup. Atlantic head coach Jamelle Murray praised his players for their efforts and resilience, while Graf acknowledged the pain of defeat but remained grateful for the opportunity to compete at a high level.
The game was a testament to the competitive spirit and skill of both teams, showcasing the passion and dedication of high school athletes in pursuit of victory. While the outcome may have been heartbreaking for Atlantic, the team’s performance and sportsmanship throughout the game were admirable.
As the high school football season continues, fans and supporters are encouraged to watch the thrilling matchups on the NFHS Network. A special promo code, PALM20, offers a discount on an annual subscription, allowing viewers to enjoy a wide range of high school sports coverage throughout the year.
In conclusion, the St. Thomas Aquinas victory over Atlantic in double overtime will be remembered as a testament to the resilience and determination of both teams. Despite the controversial finish, the game showcased the competitive spirit and talent of high school athletes, leaving fans eager for more exciting matchups in the future.
