SAB Stadium was electric on Friday, October 4th, as the Faith Academy Knights squared off against the Valor Prep Knights from Waco in a thrilling contest that ended with a jaw-dropping score of 148-112 in favor of Faith Academy. This monumental game not only showcased the Knights’ offensive prowess but also set two Texas high school football records: the most points scored in a single game (148) and the highest combined score (260), eclipsing the previous record of 246 set in 2017.
Senior Travis Woodley had a night to remember, racking up 13 carries for an astounding 284 yards and a staggering 11 touchdowns. He also made significant contributions in the passing game, catching 3 passes for 89 yards and another touchdown from junior quarterback Christian Pillow. Junior running back Jackson Dunn, who battled a fever leading up to the game, rushed for 196 yards on just 9 carries, scoring 6 touchdowns, primarily in the second half. Junior Josh Stark also delivered a standout performance, notching 162 return yards, one touchdown, and contributing 6 carries for 63 yards and another score.
In a dazzling play just before halftime, Coach Carter called a trick play that featured a reverse pass from senior Cash Eckermann, who found Dunn in the end zone, bringing the halftime score to 70-54.
Despite the offensive fireworks, the Knights’ defense stepped up when it mattered most. Woodley led the charge with 14 tackles, followed by Eckermann with 9. Coach Carter explained the dynamics of the game: Valor Prep focused heavily on passing, throwing the ball 90% of the time, which resulted in numerous clock stoppages. In contrast, Faith Academy executed a predominantly run-based offense, leading to their offensive explosion.
The Knights’ offensive line, featuring sophomore Kayden Marcotte (center), senior Dylan Callihan (tight end), and sophomore Wyatt Davis (tight end), played a crucial role in creating large running lanes. Callihan scored the game’s opening touchdown after Stark returned a kick to the 3-yard line. Sophomore Dyllan Olivares was reliable on extra points, converting 22 of 24 attempts, contributing significantly to the Knights’ victory despite a blocked kick and a bad snap.
The entire roster contributed to this historic win. Sophomores Kelton Galle and Gage Wilson generated substantial pressure on Valor Prep’s quarterback, forcing 3 turnovers. Freshman Michael Satterwhite made 3 tackles in his new defensive role, while sophomore Riley Heyman excelled in kickoffs, consistently pinning Valor deep in their territory. Freshmen Anthony Best, Quinton Moore, and sophomore Ellis Lanham were key players on the field goal block team, helping the Knights block 4 extra points. Sophomore Michael Wilson also made his mark with 4 tackles on kickoffs and solid blocks during field goal attempts.
Junior QB Pillow wrapped up the game with 6 completions on 12 attempts for 116 yards, with his only interception coming on a spectacular catch by a Valor defender. Typically, Pillow averages 25-30 passes per game, but with the Knights’ ground attack thriving, they shifted their strategy to dominate the run.
Faith Academy totaled a staggering 884 yards in the game, including over 530 rushing yards, 132 passing yards, and 211 return yards.
Looking ahead, the Knights will kick off their TAPPS district competition this week, traveling to Kingwood to take on Kingwood Covenant Prep on Friday night at 7:00. Go Knights!
Players of the Week:
Travis Woodley: 13 carries for 284 yards and 11 TDs, plus 3 catches for 89 yards and another TD, leading the Knights with 14 tackles on defense.
Jackson Dunn: 9 carries for 196 yards and 6 TDs, along with 4 catches for 53 yards and another TD.
Dylan Callihan: Provided exceptional leadership on the offensive line, contributing key blocks and scoring the first touchdown of the game.
