When Friday’s intense rivalry on Stafford’s home field began, the top spot in the district was on the line for the players. Both the Forge Eagles and Stafford Indians went into Friday’s game on September 27th, 2024, with an undefeated 4-0 record in the district, crowning them both as fit opponents for what Stafford students deemed as, “the game of the year”.
With an unwavering will to win, Stafford’s team proved their efforts through their 35-31 victory over Forge, leaving the Eagles no choice but to put their money where their mouth was.
A recent preview article, generated by AI and posted on MaxPreps, highlighted Stafford’s drastically stronger performance than previous years. “While the Indians didn’t have the best season last year (they finished 3-7), it’s starting to look like those struggles are a thing of the past,” the article reads.
In recent years, Stafford has fallen subject to the unfortunate trend of taking down their first opponents, then slipping up against their first district rivals; a main one being Forge. Despite the odds of history stacked against them coming into the 2024-2025 season, Stafford has done quite the opposite of falling back into that losing cycle.
After a standout performance from Senior Michael Creamer, who tied the all-time touchdown record at Stafford High during the battle against Forge, as well as the game-winning touchdown from Senior Zion Gray, Stafford solidified their win in the final nail-biting minute of gameplay.
-
Zion Gray, senior who broke through the end zone line to score the game-winning touchdown in the last seconds of the game.
photo by Akeem Walker'
-
Michael Creamer, senior who broke boundaries by tying the all-time career touchdown record in Stafford High School history during his gameplay against the Forge Eagles.
photo by Akeem Walker'
-
Kimani Morton, junior who put the Stafford Indians on the scoreboard with a touchdown during the SHS vs. Forge game.
photo by Akeem Walker'
-
Zavion Harris, senior who had a crucial forced fumble and a key block against the Eagles.
photo by Akeem Walker'
Other notable performances from Junior Kimani Morton who’s offensive skill put the Indians on the scoreboard, as well as Senior Zavion Harris with a crucial forced fumble, led the Indians to their successful triumph over Forge.
No matter the current standings, the road ahead stretches far beyond this victory to uphold their perfect record. Although this win was an emotional night for Stafford High School, the Indians remained focused and clear about what lies ahead. “Looking at the student section going crazy, watching them storm the field, I want to keep this energy going to finish out my high school career. We aren’t going to be complacent,” expressed Zavion Harris.
In the face of discouragement and apathy from opposing teams and even pessimistic peers, these competitors are pushing to prove to not only to their doubters, but also to themselves, that achieving glory is within reach.
