Tim Hayes: Gate City a tough playoff draw at home

George Wythe High School’s football team had collected some big road wins this season.

The Maroons earned an overtime victory at Floyd County back in September, knocking off homestanding Giles in last week’s Region C, Division 2 title game.

However, the Maroons saw their season end on a sunny Saturday afternoon at Legion Field on Saturday with a 21-14 loss to Gate City. That’s something that has befallen many Gate City opponents over the years.

Since 1966, Gate City is 32-5 at home in playoff games. On Saturday, the vocal Blue Devil supporters boasted their share of cowbells and air horns.

"I knew they would bring a big crowd down and I knew they would be rowdy," Gate City running back Tyler Parks said. "Our fans did the best job they have all year. They really showed support all game. They really pumped us up and got us going."

Parks has given them plenty to cheer about this season and with Saturday’s win, officially secured his name as one of the elite running backs in program history.

His hard-nosed style resulted in 165 yards and two touchdowns as the line continually opened up big holes.

"I think that line is really good," George Wythe coach Donnie Pruitt said. "Any back would love to run behind that line. He’s a good back, I give him credit … [Gate City coach Nick Colobro] is a great guy and he’s a good coach. I wish him all the best in the world."

Gate City’s defense also made it a long day for GW junior quarterback Jacob Sharitz. Sharitz, who entered the game 16-1 as a starter on the varsity level, was sacked seven times and was also picked off once.

The running of Parks and the smothering defense added up to a victory for the Blue Devils and made it feel like old times at Legion Field.

Fans meandered onto the field following the contest and milled about long after the final buzzer had sounded, relishing the Blue Devils’ first state semifinal win since 2003.

"Growing up in a football town like Gate City, you hear about going to state and stuff like that," Gate City sophomore Owen Franklin said. "I never imagined I would be in that situation."