The Bulldogs had a 20-0 lead in the fourth quarter, but Heritage fought back scoring three touchdowns in the final seven minutes and four seconds of the game to make it 27-21 with 21 seconds left in the game. Rockdale managed to recover the onside kick after whiffing on one earlier in the quarter, and the Bulldogs survived to take the win, 27-21.

The game was sloppy, with each team totaling three or more turnovers, but the difference was in Rockdale's ability to capitalize off those turnovers. Down 7-0 with just over one minute to play Heritage had the ball with the chance to tie the game, but the Patriots fumbled and it was returned for a touchdown, giving Rockdale a 14-0 lead and the edge heading into halftime.

In the second half the Bulldogs pounded the ball down the middle with big back Cedric Clark and he answered the bell, breaking tackles and rushing for first down after first down. Deonta Clark Jr., however was the show, Clark Jr. had two rushes for over 40 yards with both putting Rockdale deep into Heritage territory.

Heritage's Anthony Stanley came on strong late in the fourth, catching two deep passes, both over 45 yards, where one went for a touchdown and the other put Heritage at the two-yard line allowing backup QB Cohen Mcelligott to run for the score, but it was too late and Rockdale pulled out the victory.

Heritage will have a bye week before facing Salem September 4 at home. Rockdale will travel to Salem and play next Friday night at 7:30 p.m.