“Trey Lennon drops back and throws it up to Smith… and he catches it! Touchdown North Atlanta” roared the announcer. After a lackluster start, the Dubs managed to pull ahead in the final seconds of their season debut against the North Forsyth Raiders, leading to a come-from-behind win. Seniors Trey Lennon, Hunter Davis, and Randolph Smith led the way, carrying the team to a 31-27 victory. The Dubs pulled out all the stops to take this one away from the Raiders, but this game was just a preview of what is to come and a glimpse of the team’s true potential.

The Dubs started slowly with some early offensive woes, including a costly fumble. Falling behind early, 7-0, the team looked dry, but they quickly answered as Trey Lennon showed off his speed, finding a hole in the defense for a touchdown. Despite finding the endzone, a blocked extra-point, and an offensive bounceback by North Forsyth, the Dubs found themselves behind again, this time 14-6. Empty possessions plagued the North Atlanta offense, but the tide would soon turn as junior Xayden Benson had two impressive interceptions on back-to-back drives. Unable to score off the turnovers, North Forsyth was once again in scoring position, but another Raiders turnover left the Dubs with one last opportunity before the halftime whistle. Marching their way down the field, Lennon connected with Smith for the last-minute touchdown before the break. The Lennon-Smith connection was a common sight throughout the night. “We were in it; we knew we could win,” said Davis.

The third quarter was more of the same as both teams traded touchdowns early. Lennon once again plowed through the defense for another rushing touchdown. The score was now 20-18 with North Forsyth still on top, but the Raiders would increase their lead late in the third, seemingly putting the game away. Looking across the field, the Dubs were fueled by the premature celebration that filled the Forsyth sidelines. “It was like the game was over. They were all in a mosh pit dancing and celebrating,” said David Hughes.

The Warriors knew there was still time to play, coming out guns blazing in the fourth. The Lennon and Smith duo was on fire, finding the endzone for the second time, putting the Dubs within reach. With the clock running down, the Warriors had one final go at the end zone. They trudged down the field, and with a minute to go, Lennon threw a third touchdown to his trusty tight end, completing the duo’s hat trick and the team’s remarkable comeback. “It was special,” said Smith. “The feeling was truly indescribable.”

When the clock hit zero, it was the Dubs’ time to celebrate. Lennon finished with 293 all-purpose yards and five total touchdowns, three in the air and two more on the ground. The stars showed out in a great team win, but the Dubs know that the job is not finished. Coach Aull and the Warriors are focused on next week as they look to show out for an energized student section in the team’s home debut against Drew High School this week.