Hillcrest Dashes Dutch Fork’s Title Hopes

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — JD Ballenger ran for two touchdowns and Hillcrest overwhelmed defending champion Dutch Fork 47-17 for its first-ever state title Sunday. Ballenger had a 67-yarder and added a 3-yard TD in the second half when the Rams (14-1) outscored Dutch Fork 28-0. Marco Westfield put Hillcrest ahead for good, 19-17, with a 48-yard interception return for a touchdown with 6:17 left in the opening half. Dutch Fork’s offense managed only 38 yards after halftime without quarterback Tate Fant, who left with a concussion. Hillcrest only had two playoff wins in their 56-year history before marching to the title with a 4-0 run through the playoffs. Stephen Davis scored on a 45-yard run and Dominique Benson returned an interception 23 yards for a score for Dutch Fork (12-3), which led 17-6 before Hillcrest took control. Brian Spurgeon returned a punt 45 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter.