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The Johnson Atom Smashers are in the win column for the first time this year after a 35-21 slugfest with Islands. From the opening snap, it was clear that the team that would be able to run the ball more effectively would win the game, as both teams made it their number one priority to run the ball down their opponent’s throat. The Atom Smashers capitalized on their advantage on the line of scrimmage, running for over 200 yards in the game. “We were able to run the ball inside. We knew a lot of people are worried about Shamari [King], so being able to show that we got a couple other weapons, where if Shamari doesn’t get going we’re able to move the ball still, that was a great showing tonight,” said Johnson Head Coach Steven Smith. 

The Johnson defense came out of the gates on fire, forcing three-and-outs on each of the Sharks’ first three possessions. But despite going up by 15 points twice in the first half, at halftime the Atom Smashers found themselves in a seven-point game with Islands receiving the second half kickoff. With the home crowd behind them and all of the momentum seemingly on their side, Islands swiftly moved down the field and into Atom Smasher territory. Johnson then forced a fumble on first down and never looked back. “That momentum was big for us,” said Coach Smith. “We asked our guys in the locker room, you've got to check yourselves. They’re testing your manhood right here, and you've got to do something about it. And they answered the call.”

After recovering the fumble, Johnson went on a 12-play, 65-yard touchdown drive, pushing the lead to two scores once again. This time, the lead proved to be too much for the Sharks to overcome, as the Atom Smashers’ defense would then force two consecutive turnovers on downs. Johnson made the most of the short field, capping a quick drive with the lone passing touchdown of the game from Junior Shamari King to make it 35–15 with just a few minutes to go.

Although Johnson held Islands scoreless for all 24 minutes on the clock, they were not able to pitch a second-half shutout, as Islands scored their only points of the second half on an untimed down due to a pass-interference call as time expired. “[Islands] went down there and scored, they got in a lot of fight and hats off to what Coach Perry is doing over there,” Coach Smith said. 

Sophomore running back Devrin Davis was unstoppable, running for 131 yards and three touchdowns in just three quarters of work. Davis scored Johnson’s first three touchdowns of the game, including a 45-yarder in the first quarter. 

Next up for Johnson is a trip to Southeast Bulloch, who will be coming off a loss to Calvary. “We got a big, big test next week. They’re a very good, disciplined football team,” Coach Smith said. “We need a program-defining win.”

FINAL SCORES WEEK 4

Friday September 9, 2025

Richmond Hill 38, New Hampstead 7

Bradwell 35, Glynn Academy 28

Brunswick 42, Effingham County 14

Beach 49, Windsor Forest 18

Calvary Day School 28, SE Bulloch 24

Long County 50, Groves 20

Johnson 35, Islands 21

Jenkins 45, Liberty Co 7

Oceanside Collegiate, SC 41, Savannah Christian 21

Bluffton 33, Savannah Country Day 14

Bryan County 28, Savannah 7

Briarwood Academy 41, St. Andrew's 22

Bethesda Academy 50, John Paul II 14

Photo: Courtesy WTOC The ENDZONE

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