Dillon experienced their second loss in four games, highlighting the importance of a strong defense. In this instance, their defense allowed 420 rushing yards, ultimately resulting in a 51-34 victory for Hartsville on September 8th. Hartsville, led by Hakeem Watters and Carmello McDaniel, made a remarkable comeback from a two-touchdown halftime deficit (28-14).
This loss brought back memories of Dillon’s 2022 season, where they suffered their only defeat against Beaufort, who also managed to gain 420 rushing yards.
Considering the possibility of facing teams with potent running back combinations in the playoffs, similar to the 2022 Beaufort team or the 2023 Hartsville team, it might be wise for Dillon to prepare offensive linemen Josiah Thompson (6-7-290) and Jayden Benjamin (6-4-320) for limited defensive line duties in the red zone. Such an unconventional move could potentially help the Wildcats secure the 2023 AAA state title.
Hartsville had scored 55 points in three consecutive wins before this game, making them strong contenders for the AAAA state title. In the HSSR rankings as of September 11, Hartsville claimed the top spot in AAAA, while Dillon dropped to second place in AAA, behind Daniel, who boasts talented running backs Kari Bennett and Tony Shaw.
Hartsville’s head coach, Jeff Calabrese, praised his team’s resilience in the second half after trailing at halftime. He also emphasized the historical significance of the Dillon vs. Hartsville rivalry, which had seen some of the biggest games in the Pee Dee region.
Hartsville dominated the second half, outscoring Dillon 37-6. Hakeem Watters rushed for 192 yards on 17 carries with four touchdowns, averaging 11.3 yards per carry, while Carmello McDaniel contributed 170 yards on 19 carries with two touchdowns, averaging 8.9 yards per carry. Starting QB McKendric Douglas sustained an injury during the game, but he managed 56 yards on four carries.
Through four games, McDaniel (65-705-12 TDs) and Watters (52-620-10 TDs) ranked among the top two rushers in the state.
Key tacklers for Hartsville included DB DaMarion Coe (18 tackles), LB Coleman Ratcliff (12 tackles), LB Xavier Robinson (10 tackles), DB Kylif Miller (9 tackles), and LB JaQuez Coe (9 tackles).
Dillon’s head coach, Kelvin Roller, commended his team’s effort but acknowledged the challenges they faced, including injuries and position changes. He praised Hartsville’s strong performance and emphasized the opportunity for growth from games like this.
Dillon played without sophomore RB Domonick Felton, while RB Jamarion Fling missed the game due to suspension. Converted WR Kamarion Singletary stepped up with 228 rushing yards on 33 carries and three TDs. LB Sirmod McCallum led the defense with 11 tackles and contributed on offense with 21 net yards on six carries and two touchdowns.
Other standout tacklers for Dillon included LB Keryien Brown (11 tackles), DL Wayvon Bright (5 tackles), LB James Scott (4 tackles), and Zay Robertson, who had an interception.
Dillon’s sophomore QB, Josiah Oxendine, completed 10-of-16 passes for 116 yards and added 17 yards rushing. Rahmond Hamilton led Dillon in receptions with three catches.
In the upcoming games, Hartsville will face Irmo, while Dillon will host Socastee.