By Marla Jones, Sports Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

COLLINSVILLE, Ala. — The Collinsville Panthers(2-0) defeated the Crossville Lions, 24-6 on Thursday night. 

The Panthers scored on a 29-yard run by Keaton Deboard with 2:56 remaining in the first quarter.  The point-after attempt failed but gave Collinsville the 6-0 lead.  

With 9:28 remaining in the second quarter, Deboard struck again, scoring on a 3-yard run.  The extra point attempt failed.  Jacob Jones intercepted the ball and returned it 30 yards for the Collinsville 18-0 lead at the end of the first half. 

Crossville scored to start the second half, on a 4-yard run by Hunter Haston.  The extra point attempt failed.  With 4:04 remaining in the game, Malachi Orr scored on a 13-yard run.  The Panthers were unsuccessful at their two-point conversion attempt. 

The game was about turnovers and defense.  Crossville had 132 yards gained and Collinsville had 105 yards.  In the first half, Crossville lost 4 fumbles and had an interception.  Dalton Hughes had two of the four fumble recoveries.  

“We are 2 and 0.  We made some mistakes, but we are 2 and 0” stated Collinsville Head Coach, Daniel Garrett. “Its good to get off to a good start.  We tell our kids to do your job and eventually, you will be fine.”

Keaton Deboard led the Panthers in rushing with 53 yards and two touchdowns.  Blake Sparks had 18 tackles and 2 sacks for the night.  Sparks had 18 sacks the week before.  For Spark’s outstanding efforts, he is named the Southern Torch Standout for the week. 

Collinsville will open Class 3A, Region 7 play as they host the 2019 Class 2A state champions, Fyffe Red Devils on Friday.  The Crossville Lions will travel to take on the Boaz Pirates in Class 5A, Region 7 play.