BUFORD — Buford’s debut at the new Phillip Beard Stadium lived up to the hype Thursday, Aug/ 14, as the No. 13 Wolves opened their season with a 20-13 victory over No. 22 Milton in front of a packed house and a national ESPN2 audience.
Watch the full game broadcast on ESPN2.
The win not only avenged last year’s 13-10 loss to the Eagles, but also showcased the balance, depth and resiliency that have made Buford a perennial state and national power under head coach Bryant Appling, who improved to 76-8 and boasts three state titles in seven seasons.
Defense sets the tone
All three phases contributed, but Buford’s defense stole the spotlight with three second-half interceptions that flipped the game. Junior Silas Nuckles delivered the defining play, jumping a pass early in the third quarter and racing 70 yards for a pick-six that gave the Wolves a 17-7 lead.
Moments later, Joshua Echols snagged another interception and returned it deep into Milton territory, setting up a short field goal by Andrew Ivanciuc. Sophomore Brendon Davis sealed the victory with a fourth-quarter interception as Milton attempted a late drive.
The Wolves’ defensive front was equally disruptive, with Clemson commit Dre Quinn, Army pledge Deion Miller and Texas A&M-bound Bryce Perry-Wright clogging running lanes and applying relentless pressure.
Offense provides timely strikes
Nebraska quarterback commit Dayton Raiola led Buford’s offense with key throws, including a 48-yard strike to Torre Costin that set up Georgia commit Tyriq Green’s 2-yard touchdown run in the second quarter for a 10-7 lead.
Ivanciuc also etched his name into stadium history, scoring the first points with a 39-yard field goal in the first quarter after pinning Milton deep with an earlier punt.
Resilient finish
Milton battled back with a long touchdown in the first quarter and a late fourth-quarter strike from freshman backup quarterback Trey Hasan, cutting the lead to 20-13 with under six minutes to play. But Buford’s defense refused to bend again, shutting the door with Davis’ interception in the final minute.
A grand opening
What began with fans still trickling into the 10,000-seat venue turned into a standing-room-only showcase by halftime, and Buford’s performance gave the home crowd plenty to celebrate.
For the Wolves, the night was more than just a win, it was a statement. A year removed from a frustrating loss to the same opponent, Buford controlled the second half, capitalized on turnovers and delivered a memorable first chapter in the Phillip Beard Stadium era.
The Wolves (1-0) now turn their attention to a road trip to defending Class 4A champion Benedictine in Savannah.
