Damascus dominates Liberty in first round; stays unbeaten

The Damascus Hornets (11-0) came into the 2A playoffs this season as clear favorites to win the state championship. To get their though, they would still have to go through a gauntlet of talented teams. Liberty (8-3) were their first foe, and the Lions found out early why this Damascus squad is so feared as they were downed 35-0.

The Hornets came out of the gate hot. They scored on almost every single drive they had in the first half, save a punt on their opening possession and an interception at the end of the first. Seven first half touchdowns saw them build up a quick 35-0 lead before the break.

A running clock in initiated in Maryland high school football once a deficit reaches 35. This allowed the Hornets to cruise through the second half on offense, running out the clock and putting the finishing touches on a statement victory.

Running backs Ben Lokos and Evan Purkey both scored two of the Hornets 5 touchdowns while TD Ayo-Durojaiye added one of his own during the rout.

Damascus will meet Walkersville next week in a battle of the undefeated. Walkersville were the 2a states champions last week - Damascus won the 3a championship last year before scaling down a level - and will meet their biggest challenge to their title in the regional championships.