After trailing 10-0 to start the game, Cornerstone Christian rallied to down Sumter on the road Friday, 27-17.

Sumter jumped out to a 10-0 lead in the first quarter, but J.V. McKinney found the end zone from 20 yards out. Brandon Johnson’s 2-point run brought CCS within two points, 10-8, at the half.

Quarterback Lance Benton, who had 45 yards rushing and 43 yards passing in the game, gave Cornerstone the lead, 14-10, in the second quarter on a 5-yard run.

Sumter answered, but so did Cornerstone on the ensuing kickoff.

Corey Woodall took the kick 65 yards for a touchdown and then rushed it in again on the next possession from 68 yards out to round out the scoring. Woodall, who had 95-yards rushing, also had nine tackles on defense and hooked a 41-yard field goal attempt.

Smith said one of the best things about the season at this point is watching Benton play quarterback.

“It’s been fun watching Lance Benton grow into a quarterback,” Smith said of the pitcher who had never played football before. “I know we didn’t throw for a lot tonight, but Lance not only has been able to throw, but he’s been able to roll out and run.”

The win is the second time this season that Cornerstone has rallied from behind in recent weeks. They also fought from behind in a loss to Chambers Sept. 26.

“We’re not great, but we’re getting better every time we play,” Smith said. “We never quit battling. Hopefully down the line, it will help us in a big game.”

Trey Benson led the defense with 11 tackles, while Patrick Shaw followed with 10 and a sack. Josh Dunnaway added nine tackles.

Smith said another strong point on defense was linemen Seth Woody, Zach Williams and Jordan Barrett.