West Lafayette Jr-Sr High School

In a matchup on Friday, September 26, the West Lafayette Red Devils fell short against the Western Panthers, losing 34-20. Neither team relied heavily on the passing game, resulting in a strong focus on the ground game for both sides. In a game where both offenses struggled to find their rhythm against two solid defenses, the contest began with a turnover on downs, followed by two additional turnovers. As a result, West Lafayette handled the ball with 1:31 left in the first quarter, but the quarter ended with no score. Shortly into the second quarter, the Devils scored with an 11-yard touchdown pass from Blake Biddle to Fielder Melchi, making the score 7-0 with 11:23 left in the half. The game continued with both defenses effectively stopping drives until the final minutes of the half. With the score tied at 7-7 and just over two minutes remaining, West Lafayette executed a quick two-play, 30-second drive, culminating in a run by Kojo Steffey to take the lead at 13-7. Western responded with the same urgency, scoring a touchdown before the end of the half to tie the game at 13. The third quarter began again with stout defensive play, including West Lafayette forcing a three-and-out on Western’s first possession. Midway through the quarter, Western took a 20-13 lead, but the Red Devils answered back. On third and seven from the 11- yard line, Melchi caught a pass from Blake Biddle, advancing to the one-yard line. Steffey punched it in for the touchdown, tying the game at 20-20 to end the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, Western’s strong ground game controlled the clock. An early touchdown and a lengthy final drive secured their 34-20 victory over West Lafayette. Key Performers The defense was led by Dylan Salazar with 20 total tackles, JJ Weida added 16, and Cade Kitchell with 14. The offense was led on the ground by Kojo Steffey 123 yards and 2 touchdowns. Biddle threw for 120 yards and a touchdown, with Melchi adding 3 receptions for 35 yards and a score.