Rebels Advance to Playoff Semifinals

For the first time since their State Championship season of 2014, the West Rebels are in the playoff quarterfinals.

Utilizing a big-play approach to offense, West (11-1) blew past Oak Ridge 34-14 Friday night at home in the second round of the playoffs.

That sets up a rematch with Region 3-5A rival Powell this Friday at 7 PM at Powell. The Panthers were the only team to beat West this season, besting the Rebels 21-20 in overtime.

Friday, the Rebels looked for a while like they were going to run away with the game. West scored first on a 50-yard TD pass from quarterback Baker Dance to wide receiver Omarian Wright, then scored again on an 86-yard pass from Dance to wide receiver Elijah Rogers. Tyson Siebe hit both PATs.

But Oak Ridge scored twice in the third quarter to tie the game. Just when it looked like the Wildcats were back in it, West slammed the door shut. Tailback Jai Hundley scored on a 29-yard run to start the fourth quarter, then scored again when, after an interception, Dance hit Wright with a 10-yard scoring throw. The Rebels added one more touchdown on a 20-yard run by Isaiah Mattress with 7:47 to go.

REGION 3-5A 2nd ROUND PLAYOFF RESULTS

West 34, Oak Ridge 14

Powell 34, Rhea County 16

REGION 1&2-5A 2nd ROUND PLAYOFF RESULTS

Central 49, Gibbs 7

South-Doyle 28, Daniel Boone 12