Martin County had lost all four previous games with Shelby Valley prior to the 2021 season.
The Cardinals used a rock-solid ground attack to outlast the pass-happy Wildcats, winning 53-41, in the opening round of the Class 2A playoffs at The Rock on Friday night.
Running back Kolby Sparks ran for 235 yards on 25 carries and scored five touchdowns as the Cardinals, now 8-4, advance to the district finals against West Carter on the road on Nov. 12. Kickoff is set for 7 pm.
Dawson Mills had another big game, rushing for 159 yards and two scores on 15 rushing attempts. Branson Smith added 80 yards and one score on 12 carries.
Shelby Valley quarterback Russ Osborne passed for 408 yards and five touchdowns as the Wildcats finished the season at 5-6. He also ran for a score.
Jon Fields and Brady Bentley each caught a pair of touchdown passes. Fields hauled in four passes for 167 yards and Brad Bentley four for 129 yards.
Ethan Bentley added a TD reception. He had two catches for 68 yards.
The two teams combined for nearly 1,000 total yards in offense.