Staff Reports

PIEDMONT – Jacob Cornejo compiled 208 yards on 37 carries and scored two touchdowns, and Cherokee County’s defense picked off four Piedmont passes to earn a 26-7 victory Friday night at the Field of Champions.

It was the second straight win the Warriors have had against their Highway 9 rivals. The game also marked the debut of new Piedmont head coach Jonathan Miller.

Cornejo put the Class 4A, No. 2 Warriors in front in the first quarter on a 3-yard touchdown run. Class 3A, No. 3 Piedmont countered with Cole Wilson’s 62-yard touchdown toss to Ishmael Bethel.

The Warriors bounced back in front on Keyshawn Woods’ 13-yard run later in the quarter to take a 13-7 lead at halftime. Woods finished with 106 yards on 12 totes with a score.

Cornejo scored his second touchdown in the third quarter on an 18-yard run and Tae Diamond added a 1-yard score in the fourth for the final.

Wilson went 4-of-14 passing for 81 yards for Piedmont, but had four interceptions. He also ran for 23 yards on five carries.

Bethel was Wilson’s top receiver with three catches for 70 yards and a score. Dontavious Jordan led the Bulldog ground game with 58 yards on 12 carries.

Warrior quarterback Carson Tittle was 3-of-5 passing for 27 yards.

Cherokee County opens Class 4A, Region 6 play on Friday at Good Hope. Piedmont travels to Sylvania in a Class 3A, Region 6 clash.