Dalton Catamounts Suffer Defeat to Cass in Crucial Region Clash

In a significant regional clash on October 20, 2023, the Dalton Catamounts faced a disappointing defeat against the Cass Colonels, finishing with a score of 48-16. This match, held at Harmon Field, marked the Catamounts’ final home game of the regular season, as they sought to strengthen their playoff aspirations.

Although the Catamounts now hold a record of 2-7 with a 2-3 standing in Region 7-4A, they still have a chance for a playoff spot due to the performance of Allatoona, who lost 34-21 to Hiram on the same night. The outcome against Cass, ranked second in the region, has heightened the stakes for Dalton’s upcoming games.

Game Highlights and Key Performances

The match began with Cass taking control early. Senior quarterback Brodie McWhorter scored the first touchdown of the night with a 1-yard rushing play, giving the Colonels a 7-0 lead after a successful kick from sophomore kicker Anthony Quijada. The Catamounts struggled to respond, and despite a promising drive led by sophomore quarterback Caine Woods, a missed field goal opportunity allowed Cass to maintain their advantage.

Cass extended their lead with a second touchdown from McWhorter, connecting with senior wide receiver Elijah Slocum for an 8-yard reception, bringing the score to 13-0. Dalton finally got on the board in the second quarter when Woods found junior wide receiver Kamdon London, who sprinted for an impressive 80-yard touchdown. Following a penalty against Cass, Dalton successfully converted the extra point, narrowing the score to 13-7.

As the game progressed, the teams exchanged defensive stands until Dalton managed to score again just before halftime with a 30-yard field goal from sophomore kicker Brax Bennett, concluding the first half at 13-10.

Second Half Turnaround

The third quarter saw Cass regain momentum quickly. After an effective drive, McWhorter scored his second rushing touchdown of the night, extending the lead to 20-10. Dalton’s subsequent possession ended with an interception by Cass’s junior cornerback Tyson Beauford, leading to another touchdown for the Colonels, this time a 45-yard pass to Slocum.

Dalton managed to score again with less than four minutes remaining in the third quarter, with Woods connecting with sophomore tight end London Cox for a 40-yard touchdown. However, after a blocked PAT attempt, the Catamounts settled at 27-16.

Cass responded with a series of strong plays in the final quarter, beginning with a 19-yard rushing touchdown from sophomore running back Kalil Charles. They scored again with a remarkable 86-yard rush, further extending their lead. The Colonels capped the evening with a final touchdown from McWhorter to wide receiver Chase Tatum, concluding the game at 48-16.

Woods showcased his skills despite the loss, completing 17 of 29 passes for 259 yards, alongside 41 rushing yards. London led the receiving corps with 121 yards on four receptions.

As the season heads towards its conclusion, the updated standings place Cass in second place in Region 7-4A, trailing the undefeated Cartersville. Dalton remains tied for fourth with Allatoona, both carrying a 2-3 regional record as they approach their final games.

The Catamounts will have their last bye week before facing Woodland on Halloween night, while Allatoona will take on Cass next Friday. The outcomes of these matches will be crucial in determining playoff opportunities for both teams.