Roanoke Triumphs in a 35-28 Thriller Against Fork Union Blue Devils (10-20-24)

By: Joey Raymond

Headline Photo Credit: Katie Raymond-LMS Network

Salem, Virginia —In a high-octane clash at Salem Stadium, the Roanoke Maroons outlasted the Fork Union Blue Devils 35-28 in a thrilling matchup filled with momentum shifts, spectacular plays, and a dramatic finish. The game showcased resilience from both teams as they traded leads and big moments, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

First-Half Recap: Early Defensive Standouts and Late Fork Union Surge

The Blue Devils opened the game by receiving the kickoff and initially found some success despite a huge early tackle for loss by Roanoke’s Gavin Thomson. However, their drive was abruptly halted when quarterback Jacob Smiley’s pass was intercepted after a forced pocket collapse by Roanoke’s defense. The Maroons struggled to capitalize, going four-and-out on their first possession, and the first quarter ended scoreless after both teams traded punts.

Roanoke came alive in the second quarter, orchestrating a strong offensive drive that culminated in a touchdown pass from Blake Moore to Khamari Garner, putting the Maroons ahead 7-0. Fork Union responded immediately with a strong kickoff return but would be forced to punt it away on their next offensive drive. However, the Blue Devils would recover a crucial turnover, recovering a Roanoke fumble in the end zone for a touchdown. However, a missed extra point kept Roanoke in the lead at 7-6.

Late in the half, Fork Union’s Will Ryland connected with Aaron Rocke for a 60-yard touchdown pass, putting the Blue Devils ahead 12-7 after their two-point attempt was intercepted. Despite Roanoke’s best efforts to regain the lead before halftime, they were stopped on fourth down deep in Fork Union territory, leaving the Blue Devils with a slim 12-7 advantage going into the break.

Second Half: Roanoke’s Response and Fourth Quarter Drama

The Blue Devils extended their lead early in the third quarter after another interception by Roanoke led to a quick Fork Union touchdown, putting them up 19-7. Roanoke, however, showed resilience, mounting a determined 57-yard drive that ended with Tyson Miller’s 17-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 19-14.

Fork Union stretched their lead once again with a field goal, making it 22-14, but Roanoke refused to back down. Blake Moore found Khamari Garner for a spectacular 63-yard touchdown pass early in the fourth quarter, closing the deficit to 22-20 after a failed two-point conversion. Moments later, Roanoke seized the lead as Moore delivered another long touchdown pass to Purcel Turner, and with a successful two-point conversion, the Maroons were up 28-22.

Fork Union wasn’t finished yet. With under two minutes left, they drove into the red zone and scored a game-tying touchdown, but another missed extra point left the score deadlocked at 28-28. Roanoke, with just over a minute remaining, started their final drive, and Blake Moore capped off a heroic effort with a clutch touchdown pass to Ethan Graves, giving the Maroons a 35-28 lead with only seconds left on the clock. Roanoke’s defense, which had played tough throughout, came through when it counted, holding off a final Hail Mary attempt to seal a hard-fought victory.

Closing Thoughts: A Testament to Roanoke’s Grit and Determination

This thrilling contest was defined by resilience, composure, and clutch performances. Roanoke’s ability to stay focused under immense pressure, especially in the final moments, highlighted the team’s determination. Blake Moore’s calm leadership and pinpoint accuracy in the clutch, particularly on the game-winning drive, showcased why he’s a key playmaker for the Maroons. His connection with receivers like Khamari Garner and Purcel Turner ignited the offense when it was needed most.

While Fork Union fought valiantly and displayed explosive playmaking ability, particularly on special teams, their struggles in converting extra points ultimately cost them dearly. The missed kicks and key penalties were pivotal in keeping Roanoke within striking distance and eventually allowed the Maroons to complete their comeback.

Roanoke’s defense, despite allowing some big plays, rose to the occasion time and again, particularly in the fourth quarter. Their ability to stop Fork Union’s final offensive attempts was crucial, capping off a performance that showed both heart and grit. In the end, this game was a testament to Roanoke’s perseverance—refusing to buckle under adversity, they earned a hard-fought victory and can carry that momentum into the rest of the season.