After a nearly spotless regular season, Pinecrest Academy faced familiar foe Mount Paran Christian in its regular season finale at home, a huge rematch against the only team to beat the Paladins this season. Buoyed by a peerless rushing performance by Ryan McCarthy and two massive defensive stands in the fourth quarter, the Paladins came away with a 28-21 win, shocking the defending state champs and ending the season as champions of Region 6-A for the first time in school history. Tied 21-21 entering the fourth quarter, the Paladins’ defense saved their best work for last.