MOUNT BERRY, Ga. - The Berry Vikings football team took on Maryville College in the first round of the NCAA Playoffs this afternoon, falling 20-16 in a close battle.
Berry struck first midway through the first quarter when Brandon Cade punched in a one-yard touchdown run, capping an eight-play, 64-yard drive. However, the extra-point attempt via a rush failed, giving Berry an early 6-0 lead.
Maryville answered late in the first quarter with Bryson Rollins connecting on a 22-yard touchdown pass to Brock Skelton. Brennon Sayler's PAT gave Maryville a 7-6 edge. Berry regained momentum in the second quarter when quarterback Christian Lewis hit Khamari Smith on an 8-yard scoring pass to make it 13-7 at halftime.
In the third quarter, Berry extended its lead to 16-7 with a 40-yard field goal from Trey Richards. Despite their struggles through three quarters, Maryville found new life in the fourth quarter, led by Bryson Claiborne's heroics. Claiborne's 5-yard touchdown rush trimmed the deficit to 16-14 with under nine minutes left.
On the ensuing possession, Maryville capitalized on a Berry interception, and Claiborne struck again with a 7-yard rushing touchdown to give Maryville the decisive 20-16 advantage. Berry's offense faltered late, failing to convert on critical downs as Maryville's defense sealed the victory.
Ultimately, Maryville's defense was clutch, recording four sacks and intercepting Lewis three times, including a critical pick late in the fourth quarter by Grant Henderson.
This caps a great season for the Vikings after capturing the SAA title in a three-way tie and hosting the NCAA Playoffs.
