On the Prowl: The Chapmanville Tigers Upset Over Bridgeport and the Upcoming Semi-Final Matchup with Nitro

🏈 Chapmanville vs. Bridgeport Game Recap (Quarterfinals)

The Chapmanville Regional Tigers (No. 9 seed, 12-0) pulled off a stunning upset victory over the previously undefeated and No. 1 ranked Bridgeport Indians (11-1) in the WVSSAC Class AAA Quarterfinals.

Final Score: Chapmanville 33, Bridgeport 27

Key Highlights:

• A Tale of Two Offenses: Bridgeport dominated on the ground, rushing for 347 yards (Gavin Williams accounted for 227 yards and multiple TDs). However, Chapmanville's offense countered effectively through the air.

• Tiger's Aerial Attack: Chapmanville quarterback Dakota Dalton had a phenomenal night, throwing for 264 yards and two touchdowns, in addition to punching in two TDs on the ground. Receiver Trey Ward was his top target, hauling in 129 receiving yards and a score.

• The Second-Half Swing: Chapmanville came out strong in the second half, converting a crucial third-quarter drive with a touchdown and a successful onside kick recovery that led to another score, giving them a lead they would not relinquish. The Tigers' success in forcing turnovers (Bridgeport lost a fumble, and had a field goal attempt blocked) and capitalizing on possessions proved to be the difference maker.

The win secured Chapmanville's first-ever 12-0 record and a spot in the Class AAA Semifinals.

⚡ Chapmanville vs. Nitro Game Preview (Semifinals)

Chapmanville's next challenge in the WVSSAC Class AAA Football Playoffs is a semifinal matchup against the Nitro Wildcats (11-1).

• Matchup: No. 9 Chapmanville Regional Tigers (12-0) vs. No. 5 Nitro Wildcats (11-1)

• Venue: The game is scheduled to be played at Nitro.

• Nitro's Journey: Nitro advanced to the semifinals with a high-scoring 57-38 victory over No. 4 North Marion in their quarterfinal game. They are a dangerous, high-powered offensive team.

👀 What to Watch For:

• Clash of Offensive Styles: This game will likely pit Chapmanville's potent passing game (led by Dalton) against Nitro's ability to put up big numbers quickly, as seen in their 57-point performance last week.

• Can Chapmanville's Defense Hold Up? The Tigers' defense was clutch in key moments against Bridgeport, stifling a dominant run game and forcing critical errors. They will need another championship-level performance to slow down Nitro's offense.

• Momentum: Chapmanville is riding high after defeating the No. 1 seed, giving them a huge boost in confidence and momentum heading into the semifinal.

🏆 The winner of this game advances to the Class AAA State Championship.