The Gryphon football team beat Northpoint Christian School 50-20 in the state championship game Thursday, Dec. 3. The victory against Northpoint earned the Gryphons their third football state title, and fourth St. George’s state title just this year, along with titles in golf, basketball and baseball.

In one of the first plays of the game, junior quarterback Ben Glass scrambled into the endzone to give the Gryphons an early lead. Northpoint immediately answered, scoring on their first play of the game. Only two minutes into the game, the game was tied 7-7.

By the end of the first quarter, Northpoint was winning 14-13. In the second quarter, the Gryphons began to find their rhythm, scoring twice more and denying Northpoint any touchdowns.

As the game progressed, the Gryphons continued to score and only allowed Northpoint to score once more, ensuring a Gryphon victory.

Glass and junior Chase Hayden led the team offensively. Glass had four touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns, which tied the single-game touchdown record in his state division. He was named offensive MVP after the game. Hayden, who was recently named Mr. Football, ran for 266 yards.

Junior Noah Pope, the defensive MVP, contributed 14 tackles and four sacks to the win.

Over 220 students boarded fan buses to attend the game, while students and faculty at home cheered the team on from the warmth of the St. George’s dining hall.

“Even if you stayed here and watched it on T.V., it was a memorable experience,” Athletic Director Mr. Tom Densford said.