Phoebus Stuns Hampton 47-35, Advances to Region Championship

BREAKING: The Phoebus Phantoms delivered a stunning upset against the Hampton Crabbers, winning 47-35 in the Class 4 Region A semifinal on Saturday night. This remarkable victory, achieved in rainy conditions at Darling Stadium, not only keeps Phoebus’s hopes alive for a state championship five-peat but also adds another thrilling chapter to their historic rivalry.

The Phantoms, seeded No. 4, overcame a daunting 14-point deficit in the first half against the top-seeded Crabbers. This comeback was made all the more impressive given that the Crabbers had previously dominated the Phantoms 43-7 just five weeks ago.

Leading the charge for Phoebus was standout running back Tyree Diggs, who racked up 253 rushing yards and scored four touchdowns. Quarterback Maurikus Banks also played a crucial role, completing 7 of 11 passes for 228 yards and contributing two long touchdown passes, including a decisive 15-yard run with just over four minutes remaining.

The victory places the Phantoms (8-3) into the region championship game against No. 2 Lafayette (11-1) at 7 p.m. Friday at Wanner Stadium. Fans are eager for what promises to be an electrifying matchup.

After a shaky start, where the Crabbers quickly scored a touchdown and then capitalized on a fumble for a 14-0 lead, the Phantoms rallied. Diggs’s relentless running and the improved performance of Phoebus’s offensive line turned the tide, allowing the Phantoms to outgain Hampton, 495 yards to 310.

Despite Hampton’s quarterback Marcus Chapman rushing for 136 yards and scoring two touchdowns, he faced relentless pressure from the Phoebus defense, leading to two critical interceptions by Jayden Javier.

“Defensively, we knew we would be more keyed up against them,” said Phoebus coach Jeremy Blunt. “It’s about reminding everybody who you are, and who you’re going to be.”

The Phantoms began to shift momentum late in the first half. After a touchdown that brought them within 21-19, they capitalized on an intercepted pass and quickly struck back, setting the tone for the second half.

As the game progressed, Diggs broke through for a 62-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter, giving Phoebus a lead for the first time. The back-and-forth continued, but the Phantoms ultimately seized control with a series of powerful runs and critical defensive plays.

The urgency and determination displayed by the Phoebus players resonated deeply with fans, as Blunt emphasized the growth and resilience of his team. “It’s not about shocking the world because you know how to win,” he noted.

As anticipation builds for the region championship, this thrilling victory will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in Phoebus football history. Stay tuned for more updates as Phoebus continues its quest for another state title.