Marc Morris knew his team needed a near-perfect performance to beat Summerville in the second round of the 5A playoffs.
The Panthers didn’t give one Friday.
Summerville shut out Carolina Forest in the second half and the Panthers’ defense struggled to contain the Green Wave, which cruised to a 45-13 win.
“Every team in the state’s disappointed unless you’re the state champion,” Morris said. “Unfortunately for us, tonight was the end of it.”
Despite the lopsided score, Carolina Forest played well at times, showcasing the skill and toughness that got them to this point.
The Panthers were within striking distance at halftime, down just 28-13. But in the third quarter, they hurt themselves. Three times in that period, they drove into Green Wave territory. Those possessions ended in an interception and two turnovers on downs.
The back-breaker came with three minutes left in the third quarter. After failing to convert on fourth down, the Green Wave threw a 65-yard touchdown pass on the next play.
Despite the tough conclusion to the season, Morris praised his 13 seniors.
“That’s who your heart always goes out for,” he said.