The Fannin Rebels (0-1) hosted the Gilmer Bobcats (1-0) in non-regional play at Rebels Stadium last Friday in their season opener. Heavily favored Gilmer came into Friday nights game as some would say “Over hyped” and fell short of what was expected by the Bobcat fans. The Rebels however, came in with a quiet confidence and determination that showed the entire game. Gilmer did go on to win, 29-26

The Rebel’s, coming off last years defeat, looked to regain bragging rights in this long time rivalry with Gilmer. Fannin’s QB Brad Davis came out strong delivering two quick touchdown passes to Cooper Earls and Christian Resendiz. The Bobcats stunned and unable to answer, seemed out of there league for most of the first half of play. With so much hype leading up to this game and Gilmer thinking it was going to be easy, the Bobcats found out the Rebels were ready for the fight.The Bobcats eventually found the end zone in the second quarter diminishing Fannin’s lead, 13-7.

Going into halftime Gilmer seemed unable to figure out Fannin’s defense, but came back a different team. Coach Grage certainly changed their focus during the break. Gilmer scored 22 unanswered points, and lead most of the second half. At one point it was 29-19 and Fannin, looking like it lost its wind, found away to come back. Junior Tyler Collis scored in his varsity debut bringing the score to, 26-29.

The Rebel’s had several chances during the game to extend their lead, but a few dropped passes and interceptions allowed Gilmer scoring opportunities they should not have had. With the game on the line and a late fourth quarter interception the Bobcats looked to finish out the last two minutes, but Fannin was able to hold Gilmer on downs and took over with .46 seconds left on the clock. Davis quickly found his receivers, but they were unable to connect. Adam Ingram was targeted at the 2 yard line, but dropped the pass which would of put Fannin in scoring range with a fresh set of downs and plenty of time left on the clock. Fannin was unable to punch it in and and the late last second win over rival Gilmer ended.

The Rebels travel to Murray County in Chatsworth, GA. for a non-regional matchup this Friday. Game starts at 7:30 pm. The Rebels look to rebound from the Gilmer loss and make Murray pay for it.

Game Video Highlights

Here are the stats for last week’s game:

Brad Davis 21-39 237 yds 2 TD and 2 INT,    5 Carries 25 yds

Tyler Collis 12 Carries for 73 yds 1 TD

Jack Roper 8 Carries for 38 yds 1 TD

Jerod Petty 1 Carry for 6 yds

Cooper Earls 11 Catches 126 yds 1 TD

Cody Jacobs 5 Catches 52 yds

Adam Ingram 3 Catches 30 yds

Christian Resendiz  1 Catch 22 yds 1 TD