Wildcats roll past Dobyns-Bennett 33-7
Ja’Rell Jemerson runs the ball up the field in the Wildcats football game against Dobyns-Bennet on Friday Night. (photo:Kyla Carter | ORHS Sports Media )
The Wildcats ran past Kingsport Dobyns-Bennett 33-7 in a non-region matchup at Blankenship Field, marking their Class 6A debut against a team from the same classification.
Things started rocky when running back Damillyan Porter fumbled deep in Hilltoppers territory on Oak Ridge’s opening possession.
But the defense quickly flipped momentum, scoring the first points when an Indians player was tackled in the end zone for a safety.
Porter atoned on the next drive, punching in a touchdown to extend the lead. Eli Pearson’s extra point made it 9-0.
It was the first of three scores for Porter, who later hauled in a 22-yard pass from quarterback Blaine Stansberry and added a 55-yard burst in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
Stansberry also broke free for a 28-yard touchdown run, while Pearson nailed a 42-yard field goal. Oak Ridge led 23-7 at halftime.
Dobyns-Bennett, the second-winningest program in Tennessee history behind Maryville, is known for physical play at the line. But the Wildcats controlled the trenches from the start.
“I really thought their run game would be different and I thought the game would be different,” Oak Ridge lineman King Sandoval said. “I thought their run game and their line would be stronger.”
Porter finished with 194 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries. He had five catches for 33 yards and another score.
“I think the big thing for me is my vision,” Porter said. “I also know how to cut and when to cut.”
For Coach Derek Rang, the victory was especially meaningful as the longtime rivalry was renewed.
“It’s great to have the rivalry game back, but for me, the big thing is getting a good win, a big win over a good football team,” Rang said.
Next up, Oak Ridge (4-0) opens Region 2-6A play at home Friday against Cleveland (0-4, 0-1).
