By: Richard L. Smith
In a hard-fought championship battle under the New Jersey lights last night, Camden High School powered its way to a 27–8 victory over Malcolm X Shabazz High School to secure an impressive state title down in New Brunswick at Rutgers University. 
According to information released by Camden High School officials and reporting from MaxPreps, the Panthers delivered a complete performance that capped off their dominant season.
But while Camden celebrated a well-earned championship, the story of the night and the season, also belongs to Shabazz.
Coming into 2025 with something to prove, the Bulldogs fought their way through the year with a level of heart and resilience that turned heads across the state. 
Shabazz stacked strong wins, upset higher-ranked programs, and rebuilt its identity week after week, transforming the squad into one of North Jersey’s most inspiring comeback stories.
In the title matchup, Shabazz battled with grit, creating opportunities and refusing to back down despite Camden’s momentum.
Quarter-by-Quarter Summary with Scorers:
1st Quarter:
Both defenses controlled the early pace. Shabazz crossed midfield, but Camden stopped the drive with an interception. No scoring in the opening quarter.
2nd Quarter:
Camden struck first when Talib Shakir returned an interception for a touchdown. Late in the half, QB Ahmad Jones connected with Ibn Muhammad for a 21-yard score to stretch the lead.
Halftime: Camden 14–0
3rd Quarter:
Camden added to the lead as Roman Duckett powered in a short rushing touchdown. Shabazz tried to respond but was stopped on downs.
End of 3rd: Camden 20–0
4th Quarter:
Ahmad Jones found Wasi Muhammed for another Camden touchdown to make it 27–0. Shabazz answered late when Karriem Costom hit Rayquan Clark for a touchdown, and Costom ran in the 2-point conversion.
Final: Camden 27–8
Camden’s victory deserves full praise, a well-coached, disciplined program that executed when it mattered most.
Shabazz’s lone touchdown late in the game was a reminder of the fight that carried them through the season, a season defined not by last night’s scoreboard, but by growth, toughness, and a return to championship-level football.