Phoebus Stuns Hampton 47-35 in Thrilling Football Semifinal

New reports confirm that the Phoebus Phantoms achieved a stunning comeback victory against the Hampton Crabbers, winning 47-35 in a thrilling Class 4 Region A semifinal at Darling Stadium on November 18, 2023. This unexpected win not only secures the Phantoms a spot in the region championship game but also keeps their hopes alive for a state championship five-peat.

The No. 4-seeded Phantoms rallied from a daunting 14-point deficit in the first half, shocking the heavily favored No. 1-seeded Crabbers. Just five weeks ago, the Phantoms suffered a crushing 43-7 defeat at the hands of Hampton, making this victory even more dramatic.

The Phantoms, now 8-3, will face No. 2 Lafayette (11-1) in the region championship game at 7 p.m. on Friday at Wanner Stadium.

Phoebus showcased remarkable offensive and defensive improvements, outgaining Hampton 495 yards to 310. Running back Tyree Diggs played a pivotal role, rushing for 253 yards and scoring four touchdowns. Quarterback Maurikus Banks completed 7 of 11 passes for 228 yards and threw two long touchdowns, including a decisive 15-yard touchdown run with just over four minutes remaining.

The Phantoms’ defense, which struggled in their prior matchup, pressured standout quarterback Marcus Chapman effectively, forcing him into two interceptions. Chapman managed to rush for 136 yards and two touchdowns but struggled against the relentless Phoebus pass rush.

In an electrifying first half, Hampton initially took control, scoring on their opening drive and extending their lead to 14-0 after a fumble return for a touchdown. However, Phoebus responded with resilience, with Diggs leading the charge on an 11-play drive that culminated in a 1-yard touchdown run.

The momentum shifted dramatically just before halftime when Jayden Javier intercepted a pass from Chapman, allowing Banks to connect with Jayden Marbury for a 44-yard touchdown, narrowing the deficit to 21-19 at halftime.

The second half saw Phoebus take the lead for the first time with a 62-yard touchdown run from Diggs. Although Hampton briefly regained the lead, the Phantoms responded quickly, scoring again to establish a commanding 34-28 advantage.

As the clock dwindled, Diggs’ explosive runs set up Banks’ final score, sealing the victory and marking a monumental moment for the Phantoms. Coach Jeremy Blunt praised his team’s growth and resilience, stating, “It’s about reminding everybody who you are, and who you’re going to be.”

This thrilling victory is not just a win; it is a testament to the determination and skill of the Phoebus Phantoms, paving the way for what promises to be an exciting championship game next week. Fans and supporters are eagerly anticipating the rematch against Lafayette, where the stakes will be even higher.