'Cudas defeat South Fork, 35-21 at home, advance in playoffs to sweet 16

NSBNEWS.net photos by Sera Frederick. Far left, 'Cudas quarterback A.J. Granger is thrilled with his team's 35-21 playoff win Friday over South Fork in the District 4A playoffs to advance. Near left photo, Mayor Adam Barringer, (sporting the 'Cudas cap) was on the sidelines rooting on the team.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- 'Cudas senior quarterback A.J. Granger was all smiles after his team defeated South Fork of Stuart, 35-21 Friday night in front of the home crowd. And why not? With the win, the 'Cudas advanced to the sweet 16 in the district 4A playoffs.

"We're all coming together," Granger said of the offense and defense, both of which dominated play for the first three quarters before allowing two late, but meaningless scores by the Dawgs.

"I expect to do a little better next week -- I have to do better next week," Granger said of the postseason.

Head Coach Rocky Yocam praised his players, with a new refrain: "We're in the sweet 16, we're in the sweet 16."

Carol Kelley, principal of New Smyrna Beach High School was overjoyed with the win and what it means for school spirit on and off the field: If you hang in there long enough as the Coach says, good things will happen."