Friday, September 3rd was a thrilling day for the Paint Branch community. From the exciting pep rally during 7th period to the first varsity football game against the Einstein Titans, if you were a PB Panther it was your day.   

Before the game, Panther senior quarterback Octavian Smith Jr. and junior lineman Jordan Bennet were “Feeling great” about the upcoming battle versus the Titans. “I’m ready to go out here and beat Einstein. Just have to do the best we can,” noted Bennet. 

Smith added, “I’m feeling confident. I feel like my team can get the job done. We have the potential to blow the team out as long as we don’t shoot ourselves in the foot, get off to a slow start, or give them any chance.” 

Bennet and Smith’s teammates lived up to what they had hoped as they dominated Einstein 44-7. Smith made sure that his comment about avoiding a slow start wouldn’t be an issue as he led the offense to an impressive 36 points during the first half that saw them score 5 touchdowns and 2 two-point conversions. 

In the second half, the Panthers took their foot off the gas on offense, adding just one touchdown and two-point conversion to finish their scoring. The defense handled the Titans all game, allowing just one touchdown and extra point. 

The Panthers travel to Gaithersburg on Friday to take on Quince Orchard in a battle of two of the teams in the county.

Gallery • 4 Photos

Amina Hall

The Panthers get ready to take the field.