BUFORD, Ga. — Bryant Appling's 100th career victory came with a shutout and an unbeaten regular season. Buford defeated Central Gwinnett 57-0 Friday, improving to 10-0 overall and 6-0 in region play as the Wolves turned their attention to the playoffs.
The milestone brings Appling's record to 100-8 in his eighth season leading the program. His tenure includes six region championships, four state titles and a national championship. Friday's win also extended Buford's winning streak to 25 games.
Buford broke the game open with four second-quarter touchdowns, creating separation after a 36-yard scoring connection from D.J. Hunter to Chafin put the Wolves ahead late in the opening period. Silas Nuckles added a 2-yard touchdown run, and Hunter scored from 19 yards out. Touchdown receptions by Chafin from 10 yards and Ashton Thomas from 18 yards helped Buford take control before halftime.
Hunter finished 15-of-24 passing for 168 yards and distributed completions to 10 receivers. Among them was offensive lineman Noah Nixon, who gained 12 yards on a tackle-eligible reception.
The Wolves' defense supplied possessions and protected the shutout. Ethan Hauser and Reese Holland each intercepted a pass, Jalen Brewster recovered a fumble, and Will Wyatt blocked a punt.
Brewster also delivered a sack during Buford's most demanding defensive stand. Central Gwinnett reached the Wolves' 2-yard line in the third quarter, but Brewster's second-down sack pushed the Black Knights back. Two incomplete passes followed, ending the threat without points.
Buford continued adding to its lead with contributions from three more quarterbacks. Brayden Thompson scored on a 4-yard run in the third quarter and later broke free for 52 yards. Brandon Gwin connected with Jaxson Patterson for a 35-yard touchdown in the fourth, and Keshon Blow completed the scoring with an 8-yard touchdown run.
Central Gwinnett quarterback Terrell Killings finished 7-of-23 passing for 115 yards with two interceptions. Kayden Sylvestre caught a 42-yard pass, while Munir Taylor had two receptions for 17 yards. Terriq Trower intercepted a pass in the first quarter for the Black Knights, who finished their season 3-7 overall and 2-4 in region play.
Buford enters the postseason with a perfect regular-season record and another milestone secured for its head coach. The Wolves now pursue the next championship opportunity under Appling, whose first 100 victories have added substantially to the program's history.
