Tuscaloosa Academy Explodes for 62 First-Half Points in 69-0 Win

TUSCALOOSA, Ala.— Tuscaloosa Academy cruised to a 69-0 win over Ellwood Christian on Thursday, scoring 62 first-half points and recording its third shutout in four games.

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The Knights jumped out to a 35-0 first-quarter lead behind senior quarterback Mark Norris, who connected with senior wide receivers Mason Corder and Hinton Howell for touchdown passes.

Tuscaloosa Academy’s defense dominated, forcing multiple turnovers in the first quarter. Junior safety Jonmichael Little returned an interception for a touchdown, and the defense also forced a fumble that set up a one-yard rushing score by senior running back Fitz McInerney.

Tuscaloosa Academy's defense has complemented its high-powered offense throughout the season. Over their last three victories, the Knights have outscored opponents 168-0.

In the second quarter, Norris threw two more touchdowns, a 45-yard strike to senior wide receiver Graham Simms and a 10-yard pass to junior wide receiver William Amason. Norris finished with 159 passing yards and four touchdowns, bringing his season total to 27 touchdown passes.

Tuscaloosa Academy capped the first half with a special teams touchdown when sophomore cornerback and wide receiver Charles Pavlov returned a punt 50 yards to the end zone, giving the Knights a 62-0 halftime lead.

The second half featured two four-minute quarters with a running clock. Tuscaloosa Academy's offense took the field just once, with freshman quarterback Houston Oswalt connecting with Amason for a 25-yard touchdown. The pass marked Oswalt's second touchdown of the season and Amason's second of the game, bringing the score to 69-0.

Tuscaloosa Academy improved to 6-1 overall and 4-0 in region play. The Knights will look to remain unbeaten in region competition next Friday, Oct. 16, when they travel to face Holy Spirit.

Micah Nichols covers Alabama baseball, football, and basketball for Tide 100.9. Follow @MicahNichols0 on X for in-game updates, highlights, and more Crimson Tide coverage.