Maplesville’s defense had Linden spinning its tires the whole game, as the Patriots (9-4) could manage only four first downs and 64 total yards.

“We knew our defense was capable of doing that—just reading keys, the discipline part of it, and doing the things they’ve done all year,” Hubbert said.

With 3:20 left until halftime, Chambers passed to an open Chase Girlie, who shook one defender, reversed field and trotted into the end zone for an 18-0 lead.

The thrilling second quarter was all the Devils would need for the win, but they kept up their high level of play in the second half just the same.

With 5 minutes remaining in the third period, Chambers ran around left end from five yards out for his second touchdown of the night. Chambers then added the extra point for a 25-0 MHS advantage.

Linden defensive back Kynard Craig ended Maplesville’s next possession with an interception, but then Tyler Armstrong and Corey Hall would combine to sack Linden’s Dewayne Charleston in his own end zone for a safety.

Chamber scored his third TD of the night on a 14-yard run with 7:45 left in the game.

If MHS fans weren’t happy enough, Trevor Wallace sent them home ecstatic with a 70-yard touchdown run with 5:28 on the clock.

“They were the better team tonight, and they deserve to move on,” Linden coach Andro Williams said. “I’m real proud of my guys and the efforts they put in this season.”

The Red Devils piled up 15 first downs and 357 total yards.

Chambers completed six passes in 10 attempts for 104 yards.

Mitchell rushed 25 times for 124 yards, and Chambers had 52 rushing yards on 11 carries.

In addition to the playmakers on offense, Hubbert gave credit to the entire defense for its shut out.

“I can’t say enough about their attitudes of coming to work and getting the job done,” Hubbert said about the team’s preparation, facilitated by the coaching staff and put into practice by the players. “It showed.”