Back at it: Westfield resumes season against Southland

The Westfield Hornets (1-0) returned back to the field on Sept. 26 after abruptly stopping all football activities because of COVID-19 concerns. Westfield looks to continue the introduction of a new era this Friday against Southland Academy (0-3).

Opening week saw Westfield beat Trinity Christian 35-7 where the Hornets had their way on both sides of the ball. The team finished with 382 total yards and allowed 119 yards on defense. The schemes and philosophies Westfield coaches installed over the offseason proved to be a successful recipe.

Westfield’s strict run offense averaged 6.2 yards per carry against Trinity. They spread the ball around by using various running options. Quarterback, Gavin Vining, can run it or any other of the nine potential ball carriers. Coleman Williams, Vining and Porter Faulk were the team’s top three rushers last week as each player finished with over 75 yards rushing. Williams led them all with 96 yards. Despite the 11 penalties for 83 yards against them, Westfield had an all-around good game.

With Southland coming in winless, the Hornets are favorites to win but can’t be complacent. While Westfield couldn’t play games, they couldn’t practice either. Essentially, the Hornets will be back together for six days before Friday. On a positive not, Head Coach Rob Fitzpatrick and his staff had plenty of time to review film and study Southland.

Southland is a run-first team that only throws it every so often. If Southland does plan to drop back, Westfield’s Noah Blackmon already has an interception this season and the team has recorded a couple of sacks. But Westfield’s primary focus will be Southland running back, Owen Exley, who averages 88 yards per game. James Griffin is another running option for Southland to key on; both Griffin and James have had a 100-yard rushing game this season.

Westfield hosts Southland Friday, Oct. 2 and kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

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