Charles City fails to muster points as Middlesex spoils homecoming contest

By Robb Johnson | October 18, 2026 12:17 am

Charles City quarterback Joseph Simms (11) tries to break free from a tackle attempt by a Middlesex defender.

Robb Johnson photo

Charles City’s Panthers have been looking for solutions to turn around their football program over the past several years. And while the effort continues to remain there, the team continues to struggle putting points on the scoreboard.

The visiting Middlesex Chargers had no problem disposing of the Panthers 63-0, dampening Friday night homecoming festivities for Charles City.

Charles City squandered an early opportunity as a bobble of the ball resulted in the Panthers being forced to punt. Middlesex wasted little time getting on the scoreboard, as quarterback Davonte Griffin called his own number, toting the ball 50 yards for a score barely over the two-minute mark in the game.

The Panthers best scoring opportunity came after Middlesex’s Bryson Bulgin muffed the punt, which was recovered by Charles City’s Kadan Norfleet. However, Panther quarterback Joseph Simms threw an interception in the end zone, which was returned 43 yards by Dereon Cooke. Middlesex drove down the field, with Griffin scoring on a 10-yard run with 2:20 remaining in the first to up the visitors advantage to 14-0.

Charles City’s next possession resulted in a blocked punt, recovered by Middlesex. Cooke would be rewarded for his earlier defensive prowess, carrying the ball three yards out to increase the visitors’ lead. The Panthers received a little bit of energy after Lamir Veney’s 50-yard kickoff return, but another Charles City fumble resulted in Griffin picking it up and returning it 80 yards for a score, providing Middlesex a 28-0 lead with 9:45 in the second quarter.

Two more scores by the visitors before the intermission break provided a 42-0 lead for the Chargers. Emerging from halftime, Charles City could not get the goose egg off the scoreboard. Meanwhile, Middlesex added three more scores, leading to the final count.

Charles City falls to 0-6 on the year.