---
title: "Strom Thurmond Rebels defeat N. Augusta 21-7"
url: https://www.hereaiken.com/2026/08/31/strom-thurmond-north-augusta-football/
date: 2026-08-31T05:23:59-04:00
modified: 2026-08-31T05:23:59-04:00
author: "Marigold Whitcomb"
categories: ["High School Sports"]
site: "HERE Aiken"
attribution: "HERE Aiken"
---

# Strom Thurmond Rebels defeat N. Augusta 21-7

*Source: [HERE Aiken](https://www.hereaiken.com/2026/08/31/strom-thurmond-north-augusta-football/) — August 31, 2026 by Marigold Whitcomb*

The Strom Thurmond High School Rebels secured a 21-7 victory over the North Augusta High School Yellow Jackets in their season-opening football game on Friday, August 28, 2026. The contest, held at Strom Thurmond High School Stadium, drew an unofficial attendance of over 5,000 spectators, highlighting the rivalry between the two teams.

Junior safety Zy Rouse was a key player for the Rebels, intercepting a pass and returning it 74 yards. He also contributed two short rushes for a touchdown and gained 68 rushing yards on offense. The Rebels established an early lead with Rouse’s interception return and subsequent touchdown.

Both offenses faced strong defensive play through the remainder of the second quarter and the entire third quarter. In the fourth quarter, a North Augusta player identified as ZAY caught a 34-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the Rebels’ lead. However, Strom Thurmond quickly responded when Preston Holmes received the ensuing kickoff and returned it 91 yards for a touchdown, sealing the win.

This victory marks a strong start for the Rebels, who were defeated by North Augusta High School last season during their State Championship run. The Strom Thurmond Rebels are scheduled to play Abbeville next week, a team that won its season opener by two points against Saluda.