For the first time in nearly three decades, one Florida high school football program is back on top against its longtime rival.
Leon, located in Tallahassee, defeated Lincoln 38-31 in double overtime Friday night, Oct. 16, snapping a 28-game losing streak against the Trojans and earning its first victory in the series since 1998.
The Lions (7-0) secured the historic win in dramatic fashion at Gene Cox Stadium, overcoming a missed potential game-winning field goal in regulation before scoring the decisive touchdown in the second overtime and forcing a fumble at the goal line to seal the victory.
The breakthrough came a year after Lincoln handed Leon a 70-0 shutout, the largest defeat in the rivalry's history. That loss became a source of motivation for the Lions heading into Friday's rematch.
"Free at last, free at last. Thank God Almighty, we're free at last," Leon coach Ricky Bell told the Tallahassee Democrat after the win.
The game was tied 24-24 at the end of regulation after Leon kicker Grayson Meija missed a potential game-winning field goal as time expired.
Lincoln struck first in overtime, with quarterback Thomas Hutchinson throwing an 8-yard touchdown pass to running back Jayden Wells. Leon answered with a 1-yard quarterback sneak from Caleb Knipple to tie the game at 31-31.
In the second overtime, Knipple connected with wide receiver Markeith Buggs for a 10-yard touchdown, giving the Lions a 38-31 lead.
Lincoln had one final chance to respond, but Leon's defense forced a fumble from Wells at the goal line. Defensive back Da'Mon Murray recovered the ball, securing the win and sending the Lions into celebration.
Knipple and Buggs connected for three touchdowns in the victory, helping Leon remain unbeaten through seven games.
The Lions will look to carry that momentum into next week's district matchup against Mosley before closing the regular season with games against Wakulla and Rickards.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Florida high school ends 28-game losing streak against rival in 2-OT thriller