BIRMINGHAM – David Sanford wasted little time in setting the tone for the Gaylesville Trojans on Friday.

He returned the opening kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown, which led to a 47-0 thrashing of Jefferson Christian in the regular-season finale.

Gaylesville improved to 6-4 with the win and will travel to Appalachian (8-2) in the first round of the Class 1A state playoffs on Friday. Jefferson Christian’s season ends at 1-9.

Sanford did more than just return the opening kickoff for a score. He also rushed for 79 yards on just six carries and scored two more touchdowns for the Trojans.

Justin Jennings added 62 yards and two touchdowns on five carries. Luke Murphy completed 5-of-7 passes for 101 yards and two scores. Levi Morgan had two catches for 39 yards and a touchdown. Clay Joseph had a 36-yard touchdown reception.

As a team, the Trojans accumulated 377 total yards of offense. They lead 28-0 at the end of the first quarter and held a 40-0 lead at halftime.

Leading the Trojan defense was Dekota Higgins, who had six tackles. A.J. Dean added five stops and Travis Stancil had a fumble recovery. Cole Murphy, Paul VanPelt and Dylan Mitchell each had an interception.