Choctaw football blanked in 2nd half, drops season opener at Mosley

Mosley, a three-time defending champion, proved to be an insurmountable foe for the Big Green in their season opener on Thursday. The home team's defense stifled the non-district visitors, allowing only a single touchdown in a 15-13 defeat. However, the loss wasn't simply a reflection of Mosley's superior performance; the Big Green themselves committed numerous self-inflicted errors, resulting in 23-or-so penalties and two critical turnovers in the Dolphins' territory.

Choctaw's offensive output was limited to a 1-yard keeper by Carter Marracco in the first quarter and a 37-yard touchdown pass from IMG transfer Baker Giles to Rives Brown. Unfortunately, Brown was ejected for two unsportsmanlike penalties after spiking the ball in the end zone. With just minutes left in the game, the Big Green managed to score another touchdown, but the subsequent two-point conversion attempt fell short, leaving the score at 15-13.

Despite the self-destructive tendencies, the Big Green still had an opportunity to turn the tide. With 1:26 remaining in the fourth quarter, the team was at their own 24-yard line. Baker Giles connected with Keller for a 10-yard gain, but Mosley's defense intercepted a crucial down, thwarting any hope of a comeback. Mosley, a powerhouse with four consecutive region championships and a Final 4 appearance in 2025, demonstrated once again why they are the team to beat in the Emerald Coast high school football scene.

The Big Green will have a chance to regroup and respond next Friday against Auburn at Joe Etheredge Stadium.