Bruins Get First-Round Playoff Win: Beating West Columbus 33–30
November 8, 2026 / Written by Christian Bateman
Camden County football has battled through struggles on both sides of the ball all season long — until Friday night. The Bruins broke through, earning their first playoff win under head coach Jakori Evans, defeating West Columbus 33–30.
Camden jumped out to a 23–14 lead in the first half and held on late, pulling away in the fourth quarter to secure the win at home. With the victory, the Bruins now advance to face the top seed in the 2A East, the Tarboro Vikings — a daunting challenge for a team that has faced its share of adversity this year.
Offense Finds Its Rhythm
The Bruins put up a season-high 33 points, the most they’ve scored all year, behind the playmaking of Javon Riddick, Elijah Thurston, and freshman quarterback Gabriel Norman.
Camden’s offense showed signs of gelling for the first time this season. Norman looked far more comfortable running the system than he had all year, accounting for every scoring play — handing off for two touchdowns and breaking free for a massive rushing score of his own.
Riddick delivered a standout performance, taking two handoffs and a kick return all the way for touchdowns, including the game-winning play. Thurston added valuable breathing room in the third quarter by knocking through a field goal.
With all of Camden’s top offensive contributors being juniors, this first-round playoff appearance may only be the beginning of what’s possible next season.
Defense Creates Turnovers, Sets the Tone
The Bruins’ defense came out aggressive, forcing West Columbus into costly mistakes. Camden produced two turnovers, including a safety that not only put two points on the board but also set up Riddick’s electric kick return to extend the lead heading into halftime.
In addition to the safety, Camden forced a fumble that gave the Bruins a surge of confidence — knowing that if the defense could produce takeaways, it would ease the pressure on the offense to chase big plays.
West Columbus finished the night with 190 passing yards, 108 rushing yards, and just 44 total special teams yards.
Postgame: Coach Evans Reflects
Camden County head coach Jakori Evans was calm and composed after what may have been his team’s most complete performance of the year. He emphasized the growth of his younger players and the resilience of the program.
“It feels great — definitely a full-circle moment,” Evans said. “First home playoff win since 2015, when I was a senior in high school. It’s definitely something to enjoy.”
Evans also spoke on what this year’s senior class has meant to the program:
“These guys who have been in this program the past 3–4 years have dealt with a lot of adversity. It feels great for them to win this, for them to experience this.”
Now, Camden turns its focus to next Friday night, where they’ll face a bigger, faster, stronger, and highly experienced Tarboro squad. It’s a true David vs. Goliath matchup — and Camden will have a chance to show just how far the program has come in terms of competitiveness and culture.