The Sandy Creek Patriots are moving on to the second round of the state playoffs.

Led by a monster game from running back Ragion Neal and a defense that intercepted four passes, Creek shocked eighth-ranked Hart County 23-8 Friday in the first round of the state playoffs in Hartwell.

Neal tore apart Hart County’s defense, rushing for 182 yards and one touchdown on 16 carries (an 11.4-yard average).

"Offensively, our line did a really good job of opening holes for Ragion," Creek coach Chip Walker said. "He made some big runs when he got the opportunities."

Josh Williams also had a touchdown run for Creek, which finished with a whopping 396 yards of total offense.

Standout wide receiver Braxton Lane didn’t receive many touches on offense, but when he did, he was productive for Creek, catching two passes for 89 yards and one touchdown, a 79-yarder.

Creek’s defense was stout, holding Hart County to 140 yards of total offense, including only 33 yards rushing.

Patriots cornerback Josh Holt had two interceptions and four passes defensed, and defensive backs Jordan Griffin and Andrew Tolles each had one interception.

"Our defense played great; they really got after it," Walker said.

Creek (7-4) will play at third-ranked North Hall (11-0) Friday in the second round of the state playoffs.

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