In the vibrant town of Clayton, North Carolina, Cleveland High School football is more than a sport—it’s a way of life. At 1892 Polenta Road, the Rams charge onto the field at Nixon-Fowler Stadium, where the roar of the crowd and the clash of helmets create an electric atmosphere that unites the community. With a history of playoff dominance, a pipeline of college-bound talent, and a coaching staff that breeds success, Cleveland is a force in North Carolina’s ultra-competitive 4A division. In this 1,600-word deep dive, we’ll explore the Rams’ storied past, break down their 2024 season, spotlight the players and coaches driving the charge, and reveal what makes Cleveland a powerhouse in the Tar Heel State. Ready to feel the pulse of Cleveland football? Let’s dive in.
What Makes Cleveland High School Football Special?
While Texas and Florida may dominate football headlines, North Carolina holds its own, and Cleveland High School stands as a shining example. Since opening its doors in 2010, Cleveland has rapidly built a reputation as a program that punches above its weight. The Rams combine relentless work ethic, strategic coaching, and a passionate fanbase to compete with the state’s best. From thrilling rivalry games to deep playoff runs, Cleveland embodies the spirit of Friday Night Lights with a distinctly Clayton flair.
What sets them apart? It’s the seamless blend of youthful energy, veteran leadership, and a community that rallies behind its team. With a track record of producing Division I talent and a knack for clutch performances, Cleveland is a name that resonates across North Carolina high school football.
Cleveland High School Football: The Essentials
Here’s a snapshot of what defines the Cleveland Rams:
|
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Location |
Clayton, NC, at 1892 Polenta Rd, Johnston County Schools district |
|
School Size |
Large campus with over 1,800 students |
|
State Championships |
None yet, but consistent playoff contender since 2012 |
|
Recent Ranking |
No. 25 in NC (MaxPreps, 2024 season) |
|
Notable Players |
Omarion Hampton (RB, UNC), K.J. Moore (WR, NC State), Trajen Odom (DL) |
|
Head Coach |
Scott Riley, a program founder with over a decade at the helm |
|
Rivalries |
Clayton, Rolesville, Corinth Holders |
|
2024 Record |
11-3, reached NCHSAA 4A playoffs third round, lost to Rolesville 35-14 |
This overview sets the stage—let’s unpack the full story of Cleveland’s gridiron journey.
A Storied Past: The Rise of Cleveland Football
Cleveland High School opened in 2010, starting with just a junior varsity team. Under the guidance of founding head coach Marc Morris, the Rams hit the ground running, posting a 31-10 record in their first three varsity seasons (2011-2013). Scott Riley, who joined as an assistant in 2010, took the reins in 2014 and has since cemented Cleveland as a perennial playoff contender. While a state championship has eluded them, the Rams have never missed the postseason, a testament to their consistency in the tough Greater Neuse River 4A Conference.
Key milestones include:
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2011: First varsity season, finishing 8-4 and earning a playoff berth.
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2018: A 12-2 season with a trip to the 4A quarterfinals, showcasing their growing prowess.
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2022: Running back Omarion Hampton, now a star at UNC, led the Rams to an 11-2 record, cementing their reputation as a talent factory.
Cleveland’s rapid rise from a new school to a respected program reflects their commitment to excellence and community pride.
Breaking Down the 2024 Season
The 2024 season was a masterclass in resilience for Cleveland. Finishing 11-3, the Rams dominated the Greater Neuse River 4A Conference with a 5-1 record, their only conference loss a 28-21 nail-biter to Rolesville. They averaged 38 points per game while holding opponents to 17, thanks to a stingy defense and a high-octane offense. Their playoff run ended in the third round with a 35-14 loss to Rolesville on December 6, 2024, but their No. 25 state ranking underscored their elite status.
2024 Season Match Scores
Here’s a complete look at Cleveland’s 2024 campaign:
|
Date |
Opponent |
Score |
Result |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Aug 23, 2024 |
South Garner |
42-14 |
Win |
|
Aug 30, 2024 |
Fuquay-Varina |
35-10 |
Win |
|
Sep 6, 2024 |
Clayton |
28-21 |
Win |
|
Sep 13, 2024 |
Garner |
49-7 |
Win |
|
Sep 20, 2024 |
Corinth Holders |
38-6 |
Win |
|
Sep 27, 2024 |
Southeast Raleigh |
45-13 |
Win |
|
Oct 4, 2024 |
Rolesville |
21-28 |
Loss |
|
Oct 18, 2024 |
Willow Spring |
35-0 |
Win |
|
Oct 25, 2024 |
South Garner |
49-10 |
Win |
|
Nov 1, 2024 |
Clayton |
31-17 |
Win |
|
Nov 8, 2024 |
Heritage (Playoffs) |
28-14 |
Win |
|
Nov 15, 2024 |
Ashley (Playoffs) |
42-21 |
Win |
|
Nov 29, 2024 |
Jordan (Playoffs) |
48-28 |
Win |
|
Dec 6, 2024 |
Rolesville (Playoffs) |
14-35 |
Loss |
Standout Games of 2024
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Sep 6 vs. Clayton: A 28-21 victory in the rivalry game set the tone for a dominant season.
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Nov 29 vs. Jordan: A 48-28 playoff win showcased Cleveland’s offensive firepower.
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Dec 6 vs. Rolesville: The season-ending loss highlighted areas for growth, particularly in stopping big plays.
Cleveland’s ability to bounce back from their mid-season loss to Rolesville and make a deep playoff run speaks to their mental toughness and preparation.
Meet the Stars of Cleveland Football
Cleveland’s roster is packed with talent, producing players who shine on the field and attract college recruiters.
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Trajen Odom – Defensive Lineman (Class of 2025)
2024 Stats: 10 sacks, 15 tackles for loss.
Impact: A disruptive force, Odom’s speed off the edge terrorized quarterbacks. Committed to NC State. -
J.J. Cowan – Quarterback (Class of 2026)
2024 Stats: 2,300 passing yards, 25 TDs, 65% completion rate.
Future: A rising junior with poise and arm strength, drawing interest from Power Five programs. -
Jayden Lewis – Wide Receiver (Class of 2025)
2024 Stats: 45 receptions, 700 yards, 8 TDs.
Legacy: A clutch playmaker who stretched defenses, now headed to East Carolina.
These athletes, backed by a deep supporting cast, keep Cleveland in the conversation as a talent pipeline.
Practice Like a Ram: Cleveland’s Training Regimen
Cleveland’s success is built on a rigorous, disciplined approach to preparation. Here’s their typical weekly schedule:
|
Day |
Activity |
Time |
|---|---|---|
|
Monday |
Film study, conditioning |
3:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
|
Tuesday |
Full pads, offensive focus |
3:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
|
Wednesday |
Full pads, defensive drills |
3:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
|
Thursday |
Walkthrough, special teams |
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM |
|
Friday |
Game day – pre-game warm-up |
Varies by kickoff |
|
Summer (June) |
Weight training, 7-on-7 tournaments |
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
Offseason workouts emphasize strength and speed, with players hitting the weight room four days a week and competing in regional 7-on-7 events to hone skills. In-season, the focus shifts to film analysis and situational football, ensuring the Rams are ready for any challenge.
The Formula for Cleveland’s Success
Cleveland’s rise isn’t accidental—it’s the result of a winning formula:
-
Coaching Mastery: Head coach Scott Riley, a Clayton native, brings continuity and tactical brilliance. Assistants like former players Austin Jacobs and Brandon Hughes add relatability and local pride.
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Relentless Training: From June’s grueling Ironman camps to daily in-season practices, Cleveland builds physical and mental toughness.
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Community Passion: Nixon-Fowler Stadium packs in 4,000+ fans per game, with tailgates and student sections creating an unmatched atmosphere. The Clayton community rallies around its Rams, from youth leagues to local businesses.
Rivalries That Ignite the Season
Cleveland’s rivalries fuel their fire, with every matchup carrying extra weight.
-
Cleveland vs. Clayton
2024 Result: 31-17 win in the regular season, 28-21 earlier in the year.
Why It Matters: The “Battle of Clayton” divides the town, with bragging rights and conference supremacy on the line. -
Cleveland vs. Rolesville
History: The 2024 playoff loss (35-14) added fuel to this growing rivalry.
Edge: Rolesville’s explosive offense has been a challenge, but Cleveland’s defense keeps it close.
These games draw massive crowds and elevate the Rams’ intensity, making each clash a must-watch.
How Fans Can Follow the Rams
Stay connected with Cleveland football through these channels:
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Live Streams: Watch games on the NFHS Network or Hudl Fan.
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Scores and Updates: MaxPreps and the News & Observer provide real-time stats.
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Social Media: Follow @ClevelandRamsFB on X for highlights and fan buzz.
Tips for Aspiring Cleveland Players
Dreaming of wearing the blue and orange? Here’s your roadmap:
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Start Early: Play for middle schools like Riverwood or Cleveland Middle to build skills.
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Stay Eligible: Maintain a 2.0 GPA to meet NCHSAA requirements.
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Show Grit: Attend summer camps and showcase your work ethic to coaches.
Why Cleveland Football Matters
Cleveland High School football is more than a game—it’s a cornerstone of Clayton’s identity. The program inspires young athletes, unites families, and fuels community pride. Players like Omarion Hampton and K.J. Moore have shown that Clayton kids can compete at the highest levels, while the Rams’ consistent excellence keeps the town buzzing every fall.
Fun Fact: Cleveland has made the playoffs every year since their first varsity season in 2011—a streak unmatched by most programs their age.
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The 2024 season may have ended without a state title, but Cleveland High School football’s legacy grows stronger each year. With a dynamic roster, a coaching staff rooted in the community, and a fanbase that never quits, the Rams are poised for future glory. Whether it’s a rivalry showdown or a playoff push, Cleveland brings heart and hustle to every snap. Want to join the ride? Grab a ticket to Nixon-Fowler Stadium, follow the journey online, and cheer for the Rams as they chase greatness. Go Rams!
