Updated Sept. 25, 2026, at 11:42 p.m.
ONEONTA, Ala. – Vinemont built a 24-point halftime lead and stopped Appalachian’s late comeback attempt Friday night, defeating the home Eagles 24-14 on the road.
Vinemont received the opening kickoff and marched down the field for the game’s first score.
Caleb Slain capped the possession with an 11-yard touchdown run, giving Vinemont an 8-0 lead.
The defense created another opportunity early in the second quarter when Brennan Marlow intercepted an Appalachian pass and returned possession to Vinemont.
Four plays later, Josh Rhodes connected with Lukas Ming for a 20-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 16-0 midway through the period.
Vinemont forced a three-and-out on Appalachian’s next possession before adding to its advantage.
Karson Arbet finished the ensuing drive with a 1-yard touchdown run, pushing the lead to 24-0 with 2:16 remaining in the first half.
Appalachian began cutting into the deficit early in the third quarter, scoring on a touchdown pass to make it 24-8.
The host Eagles found the end zone again late in the fourth quarter, trimming Vinemont’s lead to 24-14.
Appalachian then recovered the ensuing onside kick to give itself an opportunity to make it a one-possession game.
Vinemont’s defense responded by forcing a three-and-out, however, and the offense picked up the first downs it needed before ending the game in victory formation.
The win was Vinemont’s second straight and improved the Eagles to 4-2 overall. They remain 2-1 in Class 3A, Region 6 play.
Vinemont will return home Friday, Oct. 2, to resume region play against Etowah. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
