The Carson High School Cougars opened their season with a 41-24 victory over Central Davidson, snapping a long winless streak that dated back to the COVID‑delayed 2020 campaign.
The team surged early, taking a 14-3 lead after the first quarter and extending that to 27-17 at halftime, driven by a ground attack that amassed 386 rushing yards.
Early Dominance
Quarterback Colin Masingo orchestrated the offense, delivering a 34-yard touchdown run and connecting with Kaiden Cruz on a 25-yard pass for an early score, while also finding Konnor Karriker on a reverse play.
Running back Rosean Perkins was the workhorse, piling up 126 yards and two touchdowns, including a 63-yard burst that highlighted the Cougars’ dominance.
Halftime Lead
Central Davidson stayed within striking distance, but Perkins’ score in the final minute of the half cemented a ten-point lead at the break.
In the third quarter, Masingo’s long scoring run pushed the margin to 34-24, before Laden Montieth added a rushing touchdown that sealed the final 41-24 result.
A late fumble by Perkins prevented an even larger final score, but the Cougars left the field with a decisive win.
Defensive Highlights
Across town, the East Rowan Mustangs posted a 21-7 triumph over Wheatmore after a two-and-a-half hour delay forced a late kickoff.
The Mustangs’ defense shone in the second half, highlighted by a fumble recovery from Jayden Peters, while Julian Cauble threw a touchdown pass to Jason Bonds and Jaxon Lyons added a ground score.
Despite modest offensive numbers — Cauble completed 156 yards on 13-of-22 passing with one interception — the team’s balanced attack and stout defense secured the victory.
Defensive standouts included Ashur Tesh, who recorded 12 tackles, and Keaton Ware, who logged three tackles for loss.
Looking Ahead
Carson will host Mount Pleasant next, while East Rowan prepares for a home matchup against Pine Lake Prep, promising another exciting chapter for both programs.