The Chapin Eagles football team secured its first victory since 2024, defeating Brookland-Cayce 45-22 on Friday night. This win marks a significant moment for new head coach Cory Helms, as it is his first at the school.
Chapin dominated the game from the outset, establishing a 35-0 lead in the first half. The team’s last win before this matchup was against Goose Creek in the first round of the 2024 playoffs. The Eagles experienced a challenging 2025 season, finishing 0-10 and missing the playoffs entirely. Following that season, head coach Rylan Cole transitioned to an administrative position, leading to Helms taking the helm.
After an initial season loss to Lugoff-Elgin, the Eagles demonstrated strong offensive play against the Bearcats. Harper Ellerbee initiated the scoring with a 10-yard rush less than four minutes into the game, concluding with 15 carries for 66 yards. Charlie Howell contributed two touchdowns, leading all rushers with 104 yards on 14 carries. Quarterback Tyler Black connected with receiver Ny’Shawn Palmore for two touchdown passes, including a 54-yard score in the third quarter. Palmore had an explosive performance, catching five passes for 146 yards.
Brookland-Cayce struggled offensively in the first half, failing to reach the red zone in five drives. Despite some second-half scoring, including a four-yard run by Avery King and a defensive scoop and score from Evan Simmons, the lead established by Chapin proved insurmountable. Kicker Beckham Diimmler was perfect for Chapin, making his only field goal attempt and all six extra-point tries.
With this victory, Chapin now holds a 1-1 season record. The Eagles are scheduled to play Aiken on the road this week, with kickoff at 7:30 p.m. Brookland-Cayce, now 0-2, will host South Aiken at the same time.
