Big victory puts playoffs in reach for Blacksburg

The table is still set for Blacksburg to qualify for the playoffs by winning Friday's homecoming game against Chesnee.

Blacksburg must beat Chesnee to finish its schedule with a 3-2 region record. Chapman would then need to defeat Chesnee the following week.

This would allow Blacksburg to finish a disappointing season by qualifying for the Class 2A playoffs for a second straight year.

"This would give us fourth place in the region and the final playoff spot in the region," Blacksburg coach Robbie Blanton said.

Blacksburg helped themselves Friday with a thrilling 40-34 win over Southside in double overtime.

Quarterback Dustin Byars threw two touchdowns to bring balance to a wing-T offense that gained 268 yards rushing. Byars added a 3-yard touchdown run and a pair of key 2-point conversions.

The Wildcats defense had two goal line stands and came away with two interceptions to give the Wildcats an opportunity to force overtime.

Blacksburg dedicated the win to team statistician Chuck Walker. Walker is recovering from surgery this week.

"I can't wait to give Chuck the game ball," Blanton said.

The Blacksburg coach credited his players for their determination in the second half against Southside.

"After we gave up big plays, our players would have dropped their heads at the beginning of the season. But they didn't tonight," Blanton said. "Our players never stopped believing in themselves. We just clawed back."

Blacksburg will need that same fighting Wildcat spirit Friday against Chesnee. Their playoff hopes depend on it.