Harding rolls, advances to state semifinals
For the first time in 30 years, Harding is riding into the N.C. 4A final four.
Powered by running back Quavaris Crouch’s 334 rushing yards and a sterling defensive effort, the No. 1-seed Rams beat East Forsyth 36-7 in the third round of the West Region playoffs Friday. The last time Harding advanced this far in the postseason was 1987 when the Rams lost in the state title game.
Harding’s explosive rushing attack set the tone early and often, with the Rams gaining 442 yards on 47 carries, with 10 runs of 15 yards or more. Crouch accounted for seven of them as the Rams’ offensive line opened gaping lanes against the Eagles defense.
Crouch put together a big first half, rumbling for 143 yards on 11 carries, with a long of 77 on his second touch of the game. His 18-yard scoring run included three broken tackles on his way to the end zone.
The Rams’ dominance on the ground wasn’t limited to Crouch, though. Harding churned out 177 yards on 21 carries, including the game’s first score, a 1-yard touchdown plunge by 290-pound tackle Jovaughn Gwyn, who lined up in the backfield.
Records: Harding is 12-1. East Forsyth is 9-5.
Three who mattered
Quavaris Crouch: The nation’s top junior running back was a difference-maker with 326 yards, including 143 yards in the first half.
Nick Childs: The East Forsyth receiver caught three passes for 31 yards, including the Eagles’ lone score from 7 yards.
Malik Dunlap: Harding’s sophomore strong safety’s interception and return set up Dekerius Thompson’s 22-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.
Observations
▪ Harding racked up three sacks, all in the first half.
▪ Crouch was pulled as a precaution in the fourth quarter when he limped off the field and Harding up 29-7.
Worth mentioning
▪ Harding is 5-1 at home, with their only loss to Mallard Creek.
▪ The Rams have allowed 17 points in their two playoff wins.
What's next
▪ Harding is home next Friday for the region finals against Vance.
This story was originally published November 24, 2017 at 10:24 PM with the headline "Harding rolls, advances to state semifinals."