The Dudley Panthers faced off against the Hickory Red Tornadoes in an NCHSAA 3A West regional final football game. Dudley entered the state semifinal with a perfect 14-0 record while Hickory also had an unbeaten 14-0 record. Hickory took an early lead with a touchdown pass, but Dudley fought back to make it a close game. At halftime, Dudley trailed by two points after relinquishing the lead on a punt snap recovery for a touchdown. In the second half, both teams continued to battle and traded touchdowns. With just over a minute remaining, Hickory scored a touchdown to take a 42-41 lead. Dudley had a chance to win the game with a fourth-and-five play, but an incomplete pass sealed their defeat.

Why It Matters

This game was a high-stakes regional final that determined which team advanced to the state championship game. The matchup between two undefeated teams made it even more intense and showcased the talent and competitiveness of high school football.

State of Play
  • Hickory Red Tornadoes and Dudley Panthers faced off in the NCHSAA 3A West regional final game.
  • Both teams had perfect 14-0 records entering the game.
  • Hickory took an early lead but Dudley fought back and the game remained close throughout.
  • Hickory scored a touchdown with just over a minute remaining to take a 42-41 lead.
  • Dudley had a chance to win the game on a fourth-and-five play but an incomplete pass ended their undefeated season.
Bottom Line

In a thrilling and closely contested game, the Hickory Red Tornadoes defeated the Dudley Panthers 42-41 to reach the state championship game. This game showcased the talent and competitiveness of high school football and added another chapter to the rivalry between two successful teams.