Stonebridge High Lions Capture State Football Championship in Thrilling Overtime Finish

Stonebridge High School’s football squad capped a flawless 12‑0 season with a 27‑24 victory over rival Crestview High in the state championship game, played Sunday night at the Riverbend Stadium. The Lions’ defensive unit held the Crestview offense to just 198 total yards, while quarterback Jordan “Juke” Thompson rallied the offense with 28 completions for 312 yards and two touchdown passes.

In the final minute, with the game tied, Thompson hit wide receiver Adrian “Flash” Deer on a deep post‑route for the winning touchdown—his14th career reception and the game‑deciding score. Coach Mark Sullivan said the victory was a testament to the team’s resilience, “We didn’t give up, even when the pressure was on. Every player stepped up.”

The win is the first state title in the Lions’ history, and it comes after a dramatic 4‑game playoff run that saw the team overcome a 13‑point deficit in the semi‑final against Riverside, thanks to a last‑second field goal by kicker Tyler Dawson.

Celebrations erupted throughout the city after the final whistle, as students, faculty, and alumni streamed to downtown, parading the championship trophy and marching band. The Lions’ triumph has already sparked a surge in enrollment interest for the upcoming spring football season, with 75 new student registrations reported to the school’s athletic department. The team’s success underscores Stonebridge’s continued investment in youth sports and community pride.