op Rated #1 Highlanders Crash  #3 George Washington’s Homecoming, 30–10, Behind Stout Defense and Weimer’s Leg
10/30/2025by Steve Farley

Top Rated #1 Highlanders Crash  #3 George Washington’s Homecoming, 30–10, Behind Stout Defense and Weimer’s Leg

Charleston, WV — The #1 Huntington Highlanders marched into #3 George Washington’s Homecoming and spoiled the celebration, rolling to a 30–10 victory behind a ferocious defensive performance and the precision leg of kicker Bennett Weimer. From the opening whistle, the Highlanders dominated both sides of the ball, setting the tone for a statement win deep into the 2025 season.

Wilson Leads Efficient Offense

Quarterback Tayveon Wilson once again proved why he’s among West Virginia’s top signal-callers, throwing for 180 yards and 2 Touchdowns. Wilson also showcased his mobility, adding 8 carries for 66 yards, including several key scrambles that kept drives alive. His poise in the pocket and ability to extend plays continually frustrated the Patriots’ defense. Wilson also showed of his defensive skills with his 2nd INT on the season.

Okonkwo Powers the Ground Game

Running back MeShawn Okonkwo was the workhorse for the Highlanders, pounding out 121 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. His 6-yard scoring run in the second quarter broke the game open, putting Huntington ahead 13–0. Okonkwo’s power and vision kept the chains moving all night, wearing down the George Washington front seven.

Newsome and Reese Shine Through the Air

In the passing attack, Wilson’s favorite target Donte Newsome had a monster night, hauling in 6 receptions for 128 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a 35-yard Highlight Reel Diving Catch in the back of the endzone that silenced the home crowd. Adreas Reese added 3 catches for 43 yards, using his crisp route-running to move the sticks on key third downs. Reese also showed his wiggle on the 41 yard return of his 2nd INT of the season.

Defensive Domination Defines the Night

The Highlander defense was nothing short of spectacular. Facing one of the state’s most dynamic young talents in freshman running back Jaden Black, Huntington’s front seven completely shut him down—holding him to just 24 rushing yards rushing. The defensive unit swarmed to the ball, executed gap discipline, and forced the Patriots to abandon the run early.

  • Linebacker Ilias King (13 Tackles/3 TFLs/1 SCK/1 FF) led the charge with relentless pursuit and pinpoint form tackling.

  • Bryce Winkfield (11Tackles/1 TFL) added steady run support and was key in containing the perimeter.

  • Defensive linemen Max Bohren (5 Tackles/1 TFL/1 SCK) and Braxton Mount (3 Tackles/1 TFL/1 SCK) dominated the trenches, combining for multiple sacks and quarterback pressures.

  • Defensive back Dreydon Barber (9Tackles/0.5 TFL)  patrolled the secondary, breaking up passes and preventing any big plays downfield.

For their collective effort, the Entire Highlander Defense was named the MVP of the Game, allowing just 10 points, limiting one of the state’s most explosive offenses, and making a statement to the rest of West Virginia AAAA football.

Weimer’s All-Around Excellence

Sharing co-MVP honors was kicker Bennett Weimer, who delivered a flawless performance. Weimer went 3-for-3 on field goals (30, 32,  32 ), 3-for-3 on extra points, and handled the punting duties with poise — averaging 37.5 yards per punt with a long of 41. Weimer also through in a TD Saving Tackle on his first KO of the game. His accuracy and consistency kept the Highlanders in command throughout, providing points on nearly every drive into Patriot territory.

Looking Ahead: A Smoky Showdown in Tennessee

With the win, the Highlanders improve their record and keep momentum rolling as they prepare for their toughest test yet — a Week 9 road trip to Tennessee to face the Sevier County Smoky Bears. The Smoky Bears boast a very stout defenses (11.8 points/game) and an explosive offense (39.6 points/game), setting up what promises to be a thrilling interstate clash.

For now, though, Huntington’s defense can savor this one — a dominant performance that silenced the homecoming crowd and reminded everyone that the Highlanders are built to contend for a state title.

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