The Portal Panthers began their 2025 season with big expectations and put on a show for more than a half as they took on the defending state champs of Bulloch Academy Aug. 16 in the Erk Russell Classic at Paulson Stadium.

The Panthers faded after halftime en route to a 49-20 loss, but with a bye week under their belt and a home date with Twiggs County slated for Friday, the morale is still running high.

“We definitely had some letdowns and didn’t play as well as we could have, but we can’t let one bad quarter define us with so much of the season left to play,” Portal head coach Jason McEachin said. “There are places where we need to improve, but it’s not like we’re hitting a panic button or searching for a new identity.”

Despite the opening loss, the resolve of McEachin and his team sho

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