Credit: High School OT

Aug. 22. A defensive battle between Hough and South Pointe to open the 2025 high school football season at Bank of America Stadium turned into a second-half quarterback showdown, with Hough ultimately prevailing 14-10.

The game featured dominant defensive performances from both teams, including strong play from the secondaries, which shut down the passing game in the first half.

Hough sophomore linebacker Ryan Peterson led the defense with 12 tackles. Senior linebacker LJ Porter added 11 tackles, including one sack.

Hough junior quarterback Ethan Royal opened the scoring with 3:38 left in the first quarter on a four-yard touchdown run, capping a long drive that began deep in Huskies territory.

South Pointe made a key switch at halftime, benching starting quarterback Cameron Miller — who had zero passing yards in the first half — in favor of two-way star J’Zavien Currence.

Currence sparked the Stallions, throwing for 138 yards and rushing for 25 more in the second half. He tied the game at 7 with a 14-yard touchdown run, and South Pointe later took a 10-7 lead on a 20-yard field goal with four minutes remaining.

But Hough responded immediately. Royal connected with senior wide receiver Tyran Evans on a 40-yard pass to the 1-yard line. Royal then scored his second rushing touchdown on the next play, giving the Huskies a 14-10 lead.

Royal finished 12-of-22 passing for 121 yards. Evans led all players with 69 receiving yards.

Hough sealed the win in the final minute when senior defensive back Drew Johnson intercepted Currence near midfield.

Penalties were costly for both teams. South Pointe was flagged 10 times for 109 yards; Hough had 10 penalties for 76 yards. The Stallions had two turnovers, while the Huskies lost one fumble.

Up next: Hough will face Independence High School on Friday, Aug. 29.