Written by Zach Johnson

The Rebels improved to 5-1 over schools from Florida, and 12-3 all time against out of state opponents.

Byrnes 56-2 thumping over Bayside was more than just another win; it was a statement that showcased the Rebels ability to bounce back after a loss. The game, which featured the return of senior running back Shakeem Wharton, was never within the grasp of the Bayside Bears. The Rebels High Powered Offense was too much for the Bears, as the Rebels scored 56 points and amassed a total of 446 yards. Defensively, the Rebels swarmed the Bears and were too much for Bayside’s fledgling offense.

Shakeem Wharton scored on runs of 73, 7, 1 and 9 yards. Wharton finished the night with 16 carries for 156 yards with the four touchdowns. Shuler Bentley completed 7 of 8 passes for 149 yards, which included a 3-yard touchdown pass to Akia Booker and an 8-yard touchdown run in the first half. Bentley was also able to connect to Tavin Richard on a 24-year touchdown pass and a 6-yard touchdown pass to Colton Korn.

On Sept. 16, the Rebels will face a major challenge as the Gaffney Indians (3-0) come to Nixon Field. The Indians are coming in after posting dominant wins over Boiling Springs, Dorman, and Greenwood. The Rebels-Indians rivalry is one of the most heated rivalries in the state. Since 2005, the Rebels are 4-3 against the Indians, with the 2010 game going to the Indians by a score of 26-16.