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After 30 years as the Auburn head coach, and five semifinals that all ended in losses, Dave Bates can finally add the state championship game to his resume. The Trojans defeated Nashville 22-6 in Saturday's 2A semifinal in Auburn. They advance to Friday's 2A state championship.
Auburn jumped out to a 14-0 first quarter lead after scoring on each of their first two possessions. They took that two score lead to the half, only to watch Nashville march down the field on their first possession of the third quarter. Hanging on to a 14-6 advantage, the Trojans responded immediately, marching down the field on the ensuing possession. Ryan McLaughlin capped the drive for his second score of the day. Drew Chance hit Drew Points for the two point conversion and with a 22-6 lead, the Trojans leaned on their defense to seal the deal.
Auburn will play the No. 1 seed from the 2A North Bracket, Downs (Tri-Valley), who defeated Kewanee (Wethersfield) 20-12 on Saturday.
