Under Locust Grove’s Friday night lights, No. 8-ranked Strong Rock Christian Patriots took on defending GIAA-AAAA champion Bulloch Academy. Despite the loss, the evening belonged to running back Jake Johnson, who etched his name in Strong Rock history by breaking the school’s rushing record.
Jake Johnson Breaks Strong Rock Christian Rushing Record in Loss to Bulloch

Key Takeaways:
- Strong Rock Christian hosted defending GIAA-AAAA champion Bulloch Academy
- Bulloch Academy entered the game ranked No. 5
- Jake Johnson broke Strong Rock Christian’s rushing record
- Despite Johnson’s achievement, Strong Rock lost the contest
- The game took place on Friday in Locust Grove
A Night of High-Stakes Football
No. 8-ranked Strong Rock Christian Patriots welcomed No. 5-ranked Bulloch Academy Gators to Locust Grove on a Friday night, setting the stage for a dramatic GIAA-AAAA matchup. With Bulloch Academy carrying the prestige of a defending state championship, the Patriots faced an uphill battle yet entered the contest brimming with anticipation.
The Atmosphere in Locust Grove
“LOCUST GROVE — No. 8-ranked Strong Rock Christian Patriots played host to the defending GIAA-AAAA champion and No. 5-ranked Bulloch Academy Gators of Statesboro on Friday,” wrote staff correspondent Adam Glover. The matchup generated significant local buzz, as fans packed the stands to see whether the Patriots could topple the reigning titleholders.
Johnson’s Record-Breaking Moment
What transpired on the field may have surprised everyone except those tracking Jake Johnson’s remarkable season. Johnson’s performance reached a defining moment when he shattered Strong Rock Christian’s single-game rushing record—a feat that earns him a place in the school’s history books. His determined running style electrified the home crowd and became the highlight of the evening.
Bulloch’s Victory
Despite Johnson’s standout performance, Bulloch Academy showcased why it holds the GIAA-AAAA crown. The Gators demonstrated disciplined play and cohesive teamwork that ultimately proved decisive. While the exact numbers remain undisclosed, the final result favored the visitors, confirming Bulloch’s No. 5 ranking and defending champion status.
Looking Ahead
Though this game ended as a loss for Strong Rock Christian, Jake Johnson’s record-breaking night provides a glimmer of pride and momentum. Strong Rock’s fans will remember this performance for seasons to come, as Johnson’s achievement underscores the promise and drive of high school athletics—illustrating that individual milestones can shine brightly even when the game itself does not go a team’s way.