Wicksburg football has given fans some unforgettable moments. From nail-biting finishes to championship wins, the Wicksburg Panthers have left their mark on the gridiron. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just learning about the team, there are some moments you simply can’t miss.
Let’s go back in time and relive the top moments in Wicksburg football history that continue to make us cheer, cry, and celebrate!
1. The First Ever Touchdown – 1962
It all started in 1962. Wicksburg High School launched their football program and entered their first game with a mix of nerves and excitement.
Late in the third quarter, quarterback Jesse Dale fired a pass to wide receiver Mark Thompson for a 45-yard touchdown. The crowd roared as the Panthers put their first points on the board.
That day was more than just a touchdown—it was the beginning of a football legacy.
2. The ‘Mud Bowl’ Victory – 1977
In 1977, Wicksburg faced off against their biggest rivals in what became known as the ‘Mud Bowl.’
Heavy rain turned the field into a swamp, but that didn’t stop the Panthers. Running back Billy “Bulldozer” Harris plowed through the muck for 180 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
The final score? Wicksburg 14, Rivertown 6. And the field may never have fully recovered!
3. First Playoff Appearance – 1984
After more than twenty years of hard work, the team made its first playoff appearance in 1984.
Coach Walter Mills had focused on discipline, teamwork, and smart plays. That season, the Panthers went 8-2.
Though the playoff game ended in a tough loss, it was a proud milestone. Wicksburg had arrived.
4. The Comeback Win – 1992
Down 28-3 at halftime, many fans thought it was over. But not the 1992 Panthers.
Quarterback Rodney Jones led one of the greatest comebacks in school history. With precise passes and a last-second field goal, Wicksburg stunned Covington High, 31-28.
It was the game that showed everyone never to count Wicksburg out!
5. State Champions at Last! – 2001
This moment had been 39 years in the making.
In 2001, Wicksburg made it all the way to the state championship game. They played against the mighty Lakeview Lions, a team known for its defense.
But Wicksburg had a secret weapon—wide receiver Travis Grant. He caught two touchdowns and returned a punt for a third.
Final Score: Wicksburg 27, Lakeview 14.
The Panthers were state champions, and the whole town celebrated.
6. Friday Night Lights Upgrade – 2008
In 2008, the school unveiled its new stadium lights.
This meant more night games, bigger crowds, and more excitement. The first game under the lights? A 42-7 win!
Friday nights would never be the same again in Wicksburg.
7. The 5-Overtime Thriller – 2014
This game felt like it would never end!
In 2014, Wicksburg played against Benton Ridge in a playoff matchup. The game went into not one, not two, but FIVE overtimes.
Wicksburg held on, scoring the winning touchdown in the final OT. Fans stormed the field!
It was one of the longest and most exciting games in school history.
8. Coach Davis’ 100th Win – 2017
Coach Randall Davis became a Wicksburg legend when he earned his 100th win in 2017.
He had led the Panthers for 15 years and built a team based on respect and hard work. That 100th win came during homecoming, making it even sweeter.
“This win isn’t just mine,” he said. “It belongs to every player who ever wore this jersey.”
9. The Out-of-State Showdown – 2019
Wicksburg faced an opponent from Georgia in a special cross-state showdown.
Many expected the Panthers to struggle against such a big team. But Wicksburg held strong and won the game 21-20 thanks to a blocked extra point.
It was a proud moment that put Wicksburg on the map beyond Alabama.
10. The Record-Breaking Season – 2022
The 2022 season was one for the books. Literally.
The Panthers set records for most points scored in a season, most interceptions, and most shutouts. Star linebacker Marcus Green had 14 sacks!
They finished the season undefeated in regular play and made it deep into the playoffs.
Fans couldn’t believe what they were seeing week after week—it was magical!
Looking Ahead
Wicksburg football has a bright future. With a strong youth program, great coaching staff, and loyal fans, the next classic moment could come at the very next game.
Want to be a part of it? Grab a ticket, wear your black and gold, and get ready to cheer!
Quick List Recap of Top Moments
- 1962: First ever touchdown
- 1977: Mud Bowl win
- 1984: First playoff appearance
- 1992: Epic comeback vs. Covington
- 2001: State champions!
- 2008: Stadium lights installed
- 2014: 5-overtime thriller
- 2017: Coach Davis’ 100th win
- 2019: Out-of-state victory
- 2022: Record-breaking season
Every Panther game adds a new chapter to this exciting story. Keep watching, because the next top moment could be just around the corner!
