Henderson’s overtime touchdown lifts Vicksburg to season-opening win over Natchez

NATCHEZ, Miss. (VDN) — Vicksburg High School started its 2025 football season with grit and determination, grinding out a 14-8 overtime victory over Natchez on Friday night. The win snapped the Gators’ losing streak after going winless in 2024.

Senior running back Jadarius Henderson provided the deciding moment when he powered into the end zone from 10 yards out on the Gators’ first overtime play. His touchdown sealed a hard-fought win that saw both defenses dominate much of the night.

The Gator defense set the tone early, standing strong in the first half and refusing to allow an offensive touchdown. Vicksburg’s defensive front consistently pressured the Bulldogs, finding success out of their cover-one scheme. Even so, VHS stumbled offensively. With 1:37 left in the first quarter, quarterback Jamikal Maxey fumbled in the end zone, and Natchez recovered for a touchdown. After converting the two-point attempt, the Bulldogs led 8-0.

Henderson gave the Gators life in the second half, pounding through defenders to spark the offense. Vicksburg finally broke through and tied the game at 8-8, with defensive leaders Deveyon Beard and Wallys Curry delivering punishing hits to keep momentum on their side. Curry also caught an interception.

The defense came up big again, stopping Natchez on multiple fourth downs. Landon Prentiss delivered one of the biggest plays of the night with a jarring hit to force a turnover, while Deztin Minor added a sack in overtime to keep the Bulldogs scoreless.

From there, Henderson needed just one carry to deliver the win, a breakthrough for a team hungry for a fresh start.

Vicksburg (1-0) will look to build on the momentum when it hosts Forest Hill next Friday.