NATCHEZ — Blake LePrairie led the Adams County Christian Rebels defense with six tackles and sack, but the Rebels’ offensive efforts were not enough to propel the team to victory in the MidSouth Association of Independent Schools Class 5A semi-final game on Friday night.

Behind two running touchdowns and 229-rushing yards, C.J. Jackson led the No. 10 seed Starkville Academy Volunteers for a 20-15 upset over the No. 6 Rebels.

Both ACCS and Starkville Academy defense played an important role in the first quarter. Neither team could score points.

Corey Sewell was second on the Rebels defense with five tackles and a fumble recovery. Garren Patt obtained four tackles and a sack as well in the game.

After a scoreless first quarter, Knight ran for a 30-yard touchdown with 10:24 in the second quarter.

Starkville Academy was held scoreless in the first and second quarter. Jackson ran for a 42-yard touchdown which made the game just a one point difference, 7-6.

In the fourth quarter, Randall Futral ran for a 7-yard touchdown for the Volunteers.

Jackson ran for his second touchdown for 22-yards. Futral threw the two-point conversion to Dylan Starke. Volunteers were up 20-7 with 3:14 left in the fourth quarter.

The Rebels tried to come back in the fourth quarter. Knight threw a 7-yard pass to LePrairie and Knight ran for the 2-point conversion.

A failed onside kick would end the Rebels’ season.

Friday’s game was the third game the Volunteers have comeback and won in the MAIS playoffs this season.

Volunteers Head Coach Chase Nicholson said the Volunteers continue to show grit and determination to win games.

“Our comeback effort is crazy,” Jackson said. “Nobody thought we could be this far. It’s amazing.”

The Volunteers advance to their second ever MAIS championship game.

“I love my guys and they fight hard in all four quarters,” Nicholson said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

Starkville Academy will face Heritage Academy in the MAIS Class 5A championship game at 7 p.m. Friday at Jackson Academy.