Lions Roll Past Nashville, 45–14, to Improve to 2–0

Carterville’s strong start to the 2026 season continued Friday night as the Lions rolled past the Nashville Hornets, 45–14. The victory improved Carterville to 2–0 following its season-opening win at Marion. The Lions controlled the game with 468 yards of total offense, averaging an impressive 9.4 yards per play.

Johnny Miller powered the Carterville rushing attack with 220 yards and two touchdowns on just 14 carries. His scoring runs covered 38 and 74 yards as the Lions finished with 309 yards on the ground. Reggie Wilson added a 17-yard touchdown run, while quarterback Jack Dodson scored from four yards out.

Dodson also completed 8 of 13 passes for 159 yards and a touchdown. Gavin Johnson caught six passes for 155 yards, including a 58-yard touchdown reception. Johnson also connected on a 32-yard field goal and made all six of his extra-point attempts.

Carterville’s defense helped put the game away when Brayden Brown returned an interception for a touchdown. The Lions played clean football throughout the night, committing no turnovers and drawing only two penalties for 10 yards. Carterville will now return home for a Week Three matchup against the Charleston Trojans. This is the first of three home games in a row.