When Buford Athletics spoke with Coach Bryant Appling earlier in the week he told us that he wanted his team to play hard, play fast and to play physical. All three were definitely on display Friday night at Tom Riden Stadium as the 2019 Buford Football season started with a 35-9 scrimmage win over Pebblebrook High School.

Big plays on both sides of the ball allowed the Wolves to stretch out the lead early, and it is only fitting that the first touchdown scored in the Bryant Appling era of Buford Football was a defensive touchdown after Evan DiMaggio (SR) recovers a fumble and takes it to the house on the opening possession of the game. Pebblebrook found it very difficult to find any offense throughout the night as they only found the end zone one time, late in the 4th quarter.

The offense was led by the dynamic tailback duo of Elijah Turner (SR) and Gabe Ervin (JR) who each rushed for a touchdown. Both looked very explosive and smooth as they carried the load for the Buford offense combing for 62 yards on only 11 carries. Sophomore, Victor Venn, added another touchdown for the Wolves, and his quickness and speed out of the backfield will be tough for opponents to handle. The 2019 Wolves are very deep at the running back position. Junior quarterback, Jarvis Evans, was efficient all night under center completing 12 of his 17 passing attempts including one touchdown pass to Jake Pope.

The atmosphere was electric all night and the energy around the Buford Football program is exciting. The student section was loud and involved throughout the whole game, and there was great support from the local community. The Wolves will need the same support next week as they take on the defending 7A State Champion, Milton High School, in the 2019 Corky Kell Classic at Coolray Field Friday, August 23rd, at 8:30 p.m. Go Wolves!

Defensive standouts:

Evan DiMaggio: 1 Tackle and a fumble recovery for a TD.

Tommy Beuglas: 2 tackles and 1 TFL.

Mason McCranie: 3 tackles and 1 TFL.

Offensive standouts:

Jarvis Evans: 12-17, 129 yds. 1 TD.

Elijah Turner: 32 yds. 1 TD.

Gabe Ervin: 30 yds. 1 TD.

Victor Venn: 26 yds. 1 TD.

Jake Pope: 1 TD receiving.

The Wolves will take on defending 7A State Champions, Milton High School, next week, August 23rd, in the Corky Kell Classic at Coolray Field at 8:30 p.m.