Randolph Defeats John Carroll in Football Battle
Randolph secured a 25-21 win against John Carroll to finalize playoff positioning.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Do you believe local high school sports programs offer significant benefits to your community?
Randolph claimed a 25-21 victory over John Carroll on October 23, 2026. This win solidified the final regional standings for both programs heading into the postseason.
Why it matters
The result determines the path for both schools in the upcoming playoff bracket. Both teams now prepare to host opening-round matchups as the postseason begins.
Lefebvre Watson led the offense with two touchdown runs, while Tanner Durbin added a 23-yard field goal. Randolph outlasted John Carroll despite trailing in total yardage, 261 to 313.
The players
Lefebvre Watson
He is a key offensive player for Randolph who scored two touchdowns in the victory.
Tanner Durbin
He is the kicker for the Randolph football team who successfully converted a 23-yard field goal.
Will Simpson
He is a versatile contributor for Randolph who recorded 48 rushing yards and one interception.
The details
Randolph overcame a deficit in the fourth quarter after recovering a John Carroll fumble at midfield. The team capitalized on the turnover with a decisive three-play, 53-yard touchdown drive to secure the win.
Timeline
October 23, 2026: Randolph defeated John Carroll 25-21.
November 6, 2026: Randolph and John Carroll play in the first round of the playoffs.
Season Trajectory
This result defines the final seeding for participants within the Private Double-A, Region 2 playoff structure. The victory ensures Randolph will host their first-round game against Madison County in two weeks.
Randolph has earned the right to host Madison County at home for the start of the playoffs. John Carroll will shift its focus to hosting a first-round matchup against Leeds.
The takeaway
Securing a home playoff game provides a significant logistical and momentum advantage for teams entering the postseason. Maintaining field position and capitalizing on opponent turnovers remain the deciding factors in close games.
What happens next
Randolph will host Madison County in a first-round playoff game on November 6, 2026, while John Carroll is scheduled to host Leeds on the same date.
Further reading
For more local sports coverage, see the Huntsville Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Al.
Live Poll
Do you believe local high school sports programs offer significant benefits to your community?
