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WAAY Big Game Friday Night's Game of the Week for Week 10 is Madison Academy (5-4), 5-2 Region) vs. Westminster Christian (6-3, 5-2 Region).
Both Westminster Christian and Madison Academy have taken winding paths to clinch playoff berths. But both are here, facing off for the third seed in 4A-Region 8.Ìý
“They’re excited about the opportunity to play Madison Academy here," Wildcats head coach Louis LeBlanc said. "Senior Night and a lot to play for, obviously the recognition of finishing third in the region."Ìý
Madison Academy started 2-4, but has since rattled off three wins in a row.Ìý
“One of the biggest challenges you always have here at Madison Academy are the expectations," Mustangs head coach Bob Godsey said. "That can weigh you down, especially if you’re a younger player or a younger team. I think that did a little bit early on and then we found our footing with that. The biggest thing is these guys just kept working.â€
6-3 Westminster has also had its ups and downs after having to replace a senior class that led the program to 11 wins in 2023.Ìý
"Whenever you lose that much talent and leadership, there’s a vacuum," LeBlanc said. "So, you always worry about what’s going to fill the vacuum. So, we spent a lot of time in the offseason of prepping these guys, preparing them for what’s coming, kind of that who’s up next mentality.â€
Evan McClure has been one of those next players up. They moved him from defensive end to running back and he's become a key pillar of the offense. So has Houston Scott, who's steadily improved in his first season as the starting quarterback.Ìý
“Seeing him assume that role has been great," LeBlanc said.Ìý
The Mustangs have also had to develop a new quarterback, with Charleston Owens taking the reins as a freshman.Ìý
“He’s exciting," Godsey said. "Sometimes for the good, sometimes not so good. That’s just the way it is and that’s part of the growth. That’s part of the learning and the understanding. He’s going to make things happen and that’s the way all of our young guys have been. You have to live and learn to fight through the ups and the down and I think that’s been the most rewarding thing for a coach is that these guys have done that.â€
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