In a clash between top-ranked Class AA teams, No. 2 Independence secured a 31-10 victory over No. 3 Bluefield thanks to a fast start and a dominant red zone defense. The Patriots established early momentum by scoring 14 points in the first four minutes, led by running back Sylas Nelson, who finished the game with three touchdowns. After Independence built a 17-0 lead, Bluefield rallied to cut the deficit to 17-10 with a touchdown before halftime and a field goal in the third quarter. However, the Patriots' defense stiffened when it mattered most, allowing just three points on four of Bluefield's possessions inside the red zone. Independence then pulled away with two more touchdowns to seal the win, improving their undefeated record to 5-0 while Bluefield fell to 3-2 on the season.