Tarboro Dominates Murphy in NCHSAA 2A State Championship
In a thrilling showdown at Lenoir-Rhyne’s Moretz Field, Tarboro emerged victorious against Murphy in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) 2A state championship game. The Vikings secured a decisive 22-0 win, marking their second consecutive title and showcasing a powerful performance that left the Bulldogs struggling to find their rhythm.
The game began with a strong defensive showing from Murphy, who managed to hold Tarboro’s star running back Kamerin McDowell-Moore, a 2,000-yard rusher in 2025, to just 25 rushing yards in the first half. However, McDowell-Moore finally broke through in the second half, making two key tackles on his way to a 70-yard rushing touchdown. He added two more touchdowns, sealing the victory for Tarboro.
Tarboro’s defense was instrumental in limiting Murphy’s offensive output. They held the Bulldogs to just 88 yards on 17 carries and six first downs in the first half, while also recording five sacks on Tarboro ball carriers. Despite this, Murphy’s offense struggled to capitalize on opportunities, managing only 51 yards for running back Cameron Clem and 25 yards for backup Blake Davis in the opening two quarters.
McDowell-Moore finished the game with 192 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 17 carries. Meanwhile, Tarboro as a team recorded 282 rushing yards on 41 carries, with eight first downs in the second half. This dominance on the ground was a key factor in the Vikings’ success.
Murphy’s quarterback, Brady Grant, faced several challenges throughout the game, including a fumble that led to a turnover. The Bulldogs were also unsuccessful on fourth down attempts, going 1-of-4 in critical moments. Tarboro capitalized on these opportunities, breaking free for a 70-yard touchdown run that shifted the momentum in their favor.
Key Moments of the Game
- Second Half Breakthrough: McDowell-Moore’s 70-yard touchdown run marked a turning point in the game, as he eluded two defenders to score. This play set the tone for the rest of the second half.
- Defensive Stand: Murphy’s defense held strong in the first half, limiting Tarboro’s explosive plays and forcing turnovers. However, they were unable to maintain this level of performance in the second half.
- Two-Touchdown Lead: After McDowell-Moore’s second touchdown, Tarboro extended their lead to 12-0, putting significant pressure on Murphy to respond.
- Halftime Scoreless: Despite both teams’ efforts, the game remained scoreless at halftime, highlighting the intensity and competitiveness of the matchup.
Final Score and Implications
With the final score of 22-0, Tarboro solidified its position as one of the top teams in the state. The Vikings’ ability to control the tempo of the game and execute their offensive strategy effectively was a testament to their preparation and skill. For Murphy, the loss was a tough end to an impressive season, as they finished with a record of 12-3.
This victory not only adds another state title to Tarboro’s legacy but also highlights the talent and determination of its players, particularly McDowell-Moore, whose performance was a standout moment in the game.