The Warriors used a strong rushing attack and stellar defense to snap a two-game losing streak, defeating the Marietta Blue Devils 41-20 on Friday night in a must-win game.

“This was a playoff game for us, and it’s the first time we’ve played well for 48 minutes. I’m very proud,” Coach Queen said after the game.

After taking a 21-7 lead into halftime, Marietta scored to cut the Warrior lead to seven. The offense responded with an 80-yard drive that ended with senior running back Bryce Perryman’s first of two touchdown rushes of the night.

The Blue Devils drove down the field and scored again, but a crucial personal foul moved the ball back 15 yards on the kickoff. All-State kicker Ian Shannon was unable to drive the ball into the endzone, and senior Brandon Bennett returned the ball to the Marietta 35-yard line. With excellent field position, it took the Warriors only five plays to get into the endzone as senior quarterback Tyler Queen ran for his second touchdown of the night, to give NC a 34-20 lead.

Perryman ran for one more touchdown in the fourth quarter to halt the score at 41-20.

Queen kicked off the Warriors’ offensive outburst with a touchdown run in the first quarter. He then threw two touchdown passes to junior receiver D.J. Render, which gave the Warriors a 21-7 lead.

“It felt good to get in that endzone,” Render said, “but we played well, it was a good win.”

The defense allowed only two scores, both of which coming in the third quarter.

“Defensively, we played well tonight, we were able to contain their quarterback, he was exposing us early,” junior cornerback Gilbert Blow said.

Perryman tallied 256 rushing yards to go along with his two touchdowns in a huge performance.

NC’s playoff chances were greatly elevated on Friday, as the Warriors are now in prime position to clinch a playoff berth for the fourth straight year.