The Faith Academy Knights kicked off their first district game in three years with a resounding victory, defeating Covenant Prep 65-20 in Kingwood. As members of TAPPS, the Knights were favored by 36 points but exceeded expectations, winning by a 45-point margin and moving to 1-0 in district play. The Knights took control early, setting the tone with a powerful running game that racked up over 350 yards on the ground and eight touchdowns. Key to their success was the standout performance of their offensive line, featuring sophomores Kayden Marcotte and Wyatt Davis, alongside senior Dylan Callihan.
This trio opened up gaps in the defense all night, giving junior running back Jackson Dunn space to shine. Dunn delivered a stellar performance, rushing for 238 yards on just 13 carries and scoring four touchdowns. Senior Travis Woodley added three more touchdowns to his impressive season total of 38. His touchdowns came from 26 and 28-yard passes, along with a 14-yard run. Woodley was also a force on defense, leading the Knights with 13 tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble. Junior quarterback Christian Pillow led the offense throughout the game before a rib injury sidelined him in the fourth quarter. Pillow orchestrated a smooth offensive attack, and when sophomore QB Dyllan Olivares stepped in, he continued the momentum, completing 2/3 passes for 59 yards, including a 26-yard touchdown pass to Woodley. Olivares also contributed 12 points with extra-point kicks, going 6 for 9.
On defense, the Knights delivered what may have been their best performance under Head Coach Trey Carter. Despite giving up 20 points, the defense made Covenant Prep fight for every yard. Standout performances came from sophomore Kelton Galle, who notched seven tackles, a sack, and an interception, and senior Cash Eckermann, who was all over the field with 11 tackles. The defensive player of the game was junior Gage Wilson, who stepped up at defensive end, making 11 tackles and recording his first interception of the season in a brilliant play to bait Covenant’s quarterback. With this victory, the Knights celebrated their first district win in over three years and are poised for a strong run in TAPPS competition. They’ll face Founders Christian this Friday at 7:00 p.m. in Bellville for their homecoming game as they push toward a playoff berth. Come out and support the Knights!
