Toms river north captures third straight state title with decisive victory over union city — Photo by Toms River Regional Schools

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Toms River High School North secured its third consecutive state championship on Saturday, defeating Union City 41-14 in a dominant performance at SHI Stadium. Quarterback TJ Valerio and wide receiver Mordecai Ford led the way for the Mariners with a potent aerial attack that proved too much for Union City to handle.

Toms River North opened the scoring in the first quarter with a one-yard touchdown run by Cole Garrison, followed by a 5-yard touchdown reception by Ford in the second quarter. Valerio connected with Nasir Jackson for a 25-yard score, giving the Mariners a 20-0 lead by halftime.

Union City struck back early in the third quarter with an 11-yard rushing touchdown from Mark Boyd, but Toms River North quickly responded with another Ford touchdown reception. Union City’s Khalil Sutton caught a 22-yard touchdown pass from Xavien Rodriguez in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to stem the tide. Garrison sealed the win with a game-breaking 57-yard touchdown run late in the game.

Valerio finished with 159 passing yards and four touchdown passes, three of which went to Ford, who also tallied a game-high 79 receiving yards. Garrison led all rushers with 83 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. On defense, Jack Baker was a standout for Toms River North with 11 tackles.

Union City struggled to keep pace, despite a strong effort from Rodriguez, who contributed 59 passing yards and a late touchdown, and Boyd, who led his team with 60 rushing yards. Jeremiah Hayes anchored the Union City defense with a game-high 10 tackles.

With the victory, Toms River North capped another stellar season, cementing their place as a dynasty in New Jersey high school football.

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