Bulldogs Shut Down Cherokee, 35–0

The Murphy Bulldogs left no doubt Friday night, rolling to a 35–0 shutout victory over the Cherokee Braves in Smoky Mountain Conference play.

Murphy came out fast, putting up 14 points in the opening quarter and never looking back. By halftime, the Bulldogs had built a 21–0 cushion, and they sealed the win with another 14-point burst in the third quarter. Cherokee was unable to answer, as Murphy’s defense pitched a complete shutout.

Senior running back Michael Brown led the way for the Bulldogs, pounding out 117 rushing yards on 17 carries and finding the end zone three times. Fellow back Blake Davis provided a spark with 83 rushing yards on just six carries, while also catching two passes for 51 yards, including a touchdown grab. Quarterback Brady Grant was efficient through the air, completing 9 of 12 passes for 140 yards and a score.

The Bulldog defense was equally impressive, limiting Cherokee to just 130 yards of total offense. Cherokee quarterback Dawson Panther finished 7-for-17 with 54 yards passing, while running back Kingston Welch was held to 49 yards on 15 carries. Murphy also forced an interception and recorded a sack to keep the Braves off the scoreboard.

In the receiving game, Ryan Payne hauled in six catches for 58 yards for Murphy, while T. Howlingcrane led Cherokee with three receptions for 30 yards.

Special teams also played a role, with Murphy winning the field position battle and Cherokee’s returners often being forced to start deep in their own territory.

The victory lifts Murphy to 3–2 on the season, while Cherokee drops to 2–4. Next week, the Bulldogs will host Rosman, while Cherokee will try to bounce back on the road against Hayesville.