PONTOTOC, Miss - The Tishomingo County Braves are 5-0 for the first time since 2007. The Braves used two late defensive scores to cap off a furious second half rally, knocking off the South Pontotoc Cougars to spoil Homecoming. In adverse weather conditions, the Braves played an uncharacteristically sloppy first half with dropped passes and a limited number of explosive plays. The defense remained stout, but eventually allowed a Cougar score to take a 7-0 lead into halftime.

However, just like they’ve done all season, the Braves regrouped and responded. A Grayson Blakney 15-yard TD run, capped by a Cooper Tap extra point, knotted the game at 7 heading into the fourth quarter. The Braves were able to block two punts in the final frame, keeping the Cougars pinned on their own end of the field. With just over two minutes remaining, in a game that seemed destined for overtime, Gradyn Markle forced, recovered, and scored on a 25-yard fumble recovery. Another Cooper Tap extra point provided a 14-7 cushion for the Braves.

The Cougars found themselves down to their last possession, and in desperation mode, reached the Tishomingo County 25-yard line with just under a minute remaining. On 3rd down, the Cougars dropped back to pass. Before the QB could locate an open target, the ball slipped out of his hands and into the arms of sophomore defensive lineman Gunner Puckett. Puckett turned on the jets, racing 75 yards down the field to put the game out of reach. Another Tapp conversion provided the final score: 21-7 Tishomingo County. The celebration was on in South Pontotoc, as the 5-0 Braves beat the Cougars for just the second time in school history.

Tishomingo County returns to action this Friday night at home vs the Amory Panthers. Game time is set for 7 p.m. Pack the stands and support this historic group of Braves!