BRETT IRVIN Gaffney Shrine Bowl center Brett Irvin always thought the Indians’ offensive line was a team strength. They proved it again Friday.

Behind gaping holes created by the offensive linemen, Gaffney running backs rushed for 257 yards on 57 carries in the Indians’ 35-21 victory over Dorman in the upper state championship game.

The Indians’ running game had the Dorman defense back on its heels for most of the game.

“We had a game plan and it was to drive it down their throats,” said Irvin, who’s joined on the offensive line by Cameron Smith, Dustin Keener, Kevin Brockman and Tyrone Dover. “That was the key all week. Once we got going, we knew we’d be unstoppable.

“We just ran it straight at them. They just couldn’t stop us.”

Or tailback Quinton Hemphill, who eclipsed the 200-yard mark for the second straight week.

“Quinton ran the ball extremely hard,” Irvin said. “He hits the seam so fast.”

Tailback Ventae Tate also was effective, gaining 64 yards on just 12 carries.

“Ventae also ran the ball hard,” Irvin said.

Irvin said the Indians’ running game seemed to sap the energy from the Cavaliers’ defenders.

LEDGER PHOTO BY LARRY B. LITTLEJOHN Gaffney quarterback Malcolm Long scrambles away from Dorman’s pass rush. “When we were running it, we could tell they were getting tired,” he said. “We knew they couldn’t stop us because we were in shape.”

The win was the perfect way for Irvin to cap his final appearance at Brumbach Stadium.

“This was special for all of the seniors,” Irvin said.

His senior season will become even more special with a win Saturday over Summerville in the Big 16 title game.

“We aren’t going down (to Columbia) to make the trip. We are going to win,” he said. “What happened last week (against Spartanburg) makes you feel like it’s just meant for us to win it.”