In the return of UNC Commit Omarion Hampton, the reigning 3-AA Eastern Regional Champions Cleveland High won their inaugural contest of the fall 2021 football season against Cary, 52-0.
Hampton missed six games to a broken ankle, and in his first game back he looked in great shape as he finished with nine carries for 158 yards and four touchdowns in one half of work. Hampton, a four star recruit on 247 Sports in the class of 2022, has had a monster career as he’s averaged 9.8 yards a carry on the way to over 3500 rushing yards and 50 rushing touchdowns.
Hampton’s effort was matched by a young, resilient defense that forced four turnovers and held the Imps scoreless. Led by Keyshawn Monk’s 12 tackles, two for loss. Nick Imarah added in another 12 tackles, one for loss. KD Harrison put in another nine tackles, one for loss, and an interception. Josiah Peters had two tackles and an interception in the end zone in the first half to preserve the shutout.
Newly Austin Peay-committed signal caller senior Skyler Locklear went 10-14 through the air for 118 yards and a touchdown. Locklear added two carries for 52 yards and a touchdown. Locklear’s commitment was a no-brainer as he has put up close to 6000 yards and 72 TD’s in three years as the starter.
The Rams will be back in action on August 27 against J.H. Rose and NC State commit Michael Allen.