Westside High School- The home team was pumped to get back on the field for their season opener. Not only were the Wolverines getting back on the field, but they were getting back on the field when it counted. The Westside Wolverines went against their rivals the Ed White Commanders on Friday night. The Wolverines came in expecting to play hard, tough, and physical. They were ready to punch someone in the mouth. But their efforts fell short as the Commanders came in hitting the ground hard and taking control of the field from beginning to end. Ed White has won 17 of the last 18 matchups against Westside including a streak that now hits nine after tonight’s 31-2 win.
Westside started with promise as they ran the ball well, making some sizeable gains. But the Commanders defense showed good cover skills as they took away the pass with great pressure and coverage in the secondary. The Wolverines offensive line was not able to hold up to the stout Commanders defensive front. The quarterback for Westside showed some good escapability from the pocket after the blitz, but he wasn’t able to make many of his reads with time, getting hit early and often.
Westside made costly mistakes in all 3 phases of the game Whether it was muffed punts, fumbles, or turnover on downs, the mistakes plied up for the Wolverines. There were some bright spots however, as the defense had some moments where they needed a stop and were able to get them. Nelson Pagan was the spark the Wolverines needed as he returned long punts time and time again, but the offense was not able to take advantage of good field position.
The Commanders were aggressive on both sides of the field tonight as the offense was able to get the running game going early and often. Caleb Stewart, at no surprise, made his statement with the first touchdown of the game as he ran sideline to sideline, beating men to the edge, and shedding tacklers all night. His vision continued to be elite as he racked up an 100+ yard night and two touchdowns. The Virginia Tech commit will be welcomed at the next level. Isaiah Flowers is another name to watch for White, as he also made some explosive plays for the Commanders.
The White defense rose to the occasion when needed to get the stop. They were fortunate to capitalize on turnovers and mistakes made by the Wolverines. The Commanders defense blitzed time and time again and Westside just had no answer for the pass rush. A statement by Coach Sullivan that defense will be a staple this season.
Up next, the Ed White Commanders will take on the Baker County Wildcats on September 1st at 7:00 at Baker County High School. Baker fell tonight on the road against St. Augustine. The Westside Wolverines look to avenge their loss against the Lee Generals at 7:00 at Lee High School on September 1st as well.
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