By Chloe Spradley

In a remarkable display of team effort and skill, the Riverdale Rebels triumphed over Trinity Christian last Friday night during the highly-anticipated homecoming game. Their relentless offense and impenetrable defense crushed any hopes their opponents held, leading to a final score of 38-6 in favor of the home team.

Star quarterback Ryder Huddleston was 4 for 5 with a total of 52 passing yards, two of those connecting with wide receiver, Ashton Almond, for 41 receiving yards resulting in one touchdown pass. Landen Barrett and Kaidyn Williams also had receiving yards for the Rebels. In rushing yards, however, Kyle Guillory holds the record for the night carrying the ball for a 43-yard touchdown. Landen Barrett also had 4 carries for a total of 15 yards resulting in a touchdown. Almond, Williams, Zane Givens, Caleb Dabbs, Jax Hearold, and Kane Dortlon also had carries. Receiving offensive MVP for the night was quarterback Ryder Huddleston.

Riverdale’s defense proved nothing short of impressive. Williams with 5 solo tackles and 4 assists; Tanner Carlisle with 5 solo tackles and 2 assists (1 TFL); and Almond with 4 solo tackles, 1 assist, and 1 sack (4 TFL) made it nearly impossible for their opponents to break through. Also playing a remarkable defensive game was 8th grader Jax Hearold, with 1 solo tackle, 3 assists, and 1 sack (1 TFL). John Windham with 1 solo tackle and 2 assists ( 1 TFL) and Hayden Hillman with 1 solo tackle (1 TFL) along with Dortlon and Dabbs also had defensive stops. The Rebels played a strong defensive game as they shut down play after play. Williams received defensive MVP for his outstanding efforts throughout the night.

On defense, Guillory had an interception which he ran back for a 37-yard touchdown; and on special teams, he had 4 punt returns, 178 yards, and 1 touchdown, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with and resulted in him receiving the game ball for the night.

Undoubtedly, the Rebels’ success would not have been possible without coaches Denver Williams, Nathan Edie, and Brennan Edie as well as the unwavering support of their dedicated fans. As they continue their relentless pursuit of that state title, their homecoming game will be remembered as a defining moment in their extraordinary journey. This week they will take on Tensas Academy in what is hopefully another resounding victory and one step closer to their goal.

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