CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Monroe ended three years of postseason heartbreak with a triumphant 35-25 victory over Northeastern in the N.C. High School Athletic Association 2A football championship, capping an undefeated season.
“This year, we finally got the monkey off our back, especially in the third round,” said Monroe coach Johnny Sowell.
Monroe (15-0) secured the win with Zion Lindsey’s 18-yard touchdown run with 2:18 remaining. The Redhawks had overcome an 18-14 halftime deficit with two quick touchdowns by Nymir Kendall, covering 24 and 4 yards, in a span of just over three minutes. Neither drive lasted more than four plays, and Monroe never relinquished the lead.
Lindsey’s standout performance earned him MVP honors, as he rushed 18 times for 116 yards and a touchdown. Kendall added 79 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries.
“We’re a running football team,” Sowell said. “We came out in the second half and ran the football.”
Monroe’s ground game dominated, racking up 226 rushing yards while controlling possession for 32:40. Their defense stifled Northeastern’s high-powered offense, which managed just 154 yards in the second half after amassing 273 yards and three long touchdowns before halftime.
“Monroe’s defense played much better in the second half,” said Northeastern coach Antonio Moore.
Northeastern’s last touchdown came on a 2-yard pass from Trevaris Jones to Zion Demps as the third quarter ended. The Eagles were shut out in the fourth quarter, finishing 0-4 in state championship games.
Tyelle Saunders led Northeastern with seven catches for 107 yards and a touchdown, while Monroe’s Jordan Young had two catches for 79 yards and a score. Both were named their teams’ Most Outstanding Offensive Players.
Northeastern’s defense was highlighted by Khamani Bennett’s two first-half interceptions, earning him Most Outstanding Defensive Player honors. Jesus Jarquin-Ambrosio also shined with six tackles, two pass breakups, and a blocked punt.
Monroe’s victory marks its second state title in nine years, improving to 2-3 in championship games. The Redhawks finished their perfect 2024 season with a 15-0 record.
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