Under the Friday night lights of Greenbrier West High School in Charmco, West Virginia, the Greenbrier West Cavaliers and the Wahama Falcons engaged in an epic showdown for a berth in the 2023 WVSSAC Class A Football Championships quarterfinals. Both teams entered the second round of the playoffs with impressive 11-0 records, setting the stage for a thrilling matchup that would be etched in the annals of West Virginia high school football history.
What it is: West Virginia High School Football
Matchup: Greenbrier West Cavaliers vs. Wahama Falcons
Time: Friday Nov 17, 2023, 7:30pm ET
Game Type: Playoffs
Bracket: 2023 WVSSAC Class A Football Championships
Round: Second Round
Locations: Greenbrier West High School
Live Stream: Watch here
The Cavaliers, led by their explosive offense that averaged a staggering 48.5 points per game throughout the season, were determined to showcase their dominance. The Falcons, renowned for their high-powered offense that averaged 55.7 points per game, were prepared to make the Cavaliers earn their victory.
From the opening kickoff, the tension was palpable as both teams traded blows, neither willing to cede an inch of ground. The Cavaliers’ offense, spearheaded by their dynamic quarterback Jake Pate, who anchored the ground attack, and their senior wide receiver Cole Vandall, who took the snaps in an offense that threw a lot of screen passes to draw a defense then, but then unleashed a lot of deep balls in response, kept the Falcons’ defense on their heels.
The Falcons’ offense, led by their versatile quarterback Sawyer Vanmatre, who averaged 141.3 rushing yards and 99.8 passing yards per game, sought to exploit the Cavaliers’ defense with their dual-threat attack. However, the Cavaliers’ defense, anchored by their unwavering determination, responded with unwavering determination, disrupting the Falcons’ rhythm and forcing turnovers.
The first half ended with a close score of 21-14, reflecting the intensity and parity of the matchup. The Cavaliers held a slight edge, but the Falcons were poised to strike back in the second half.
As the second half unfolded, the Cavaliers’ offense continued to fire on all cylinders, as Pate and Vandall showcased their versatility, eluding defenders, and extending plays with their athleticism. The Falcons’ defense, despite their valiant efforts, struggled to contain Pate and Vandall’s electrifying presence.
The Cavaliers’ offensive dominance eventually took its toll, as they extended their lead to 28-21. The Falcons, refusing to surrender, mounted a late surge, driving deep into Cavaliers’ territory. However, the Cavaliers’ defense, led by their unwavering focus, stood firm, making a crucial goal-line stop to secure the victory.
In the end, the Greenbrier West Cavaliers emerged victorious, claiming a hard-fought 28-21 victory over the Wahama Falcons and advancing to the quarterfinals of the 2023 WVSSAC Class A Football Championships. Their impressive performance throughout the season culminated in this momentous triumph, cementing their place among the top teams in West Virginia high school football.
This playoff game epitomized the spirit of West Virginia high school football, showcasing the dedication, passion, and athleticism of these young athletes. The Greenbrier West Cavaliers’ victory was a testament to their unwavering determination, their ability to execute under pressure, and their unwavering belief in one another. As they celebrated their well-deserved victory, the Cavaliers etched their names in the annals of West Virginia high school football history, leaving an indelible mark on the sport they love.
