By Logan Andrew | FreeWire — Your News, Your Voice
The Colonel Crawford Eagles’ historic season just keeps soaring. On Friday night, the Eagles dominated West Jefferson 35–7 in the Division VI Region 23 championship, earning the program’s first-ever trip to the state Final Four.
The win improved Colonel Crawford to 13–1 on the season — their sixth straight victory — while West Jefferson fell to 11–2.
Early Dominance Sets the Tone
Running back Connor McMichael put on a performance for the ages, rushing for 214 yards and four touchdowns, all in the first half. He found the end zone on runs of 13, 2, 7, and 3 yards, staking the Eagles to a commanding 28–0 halftime lead.
West Jefferson finally broke through early in the fourth quarter with an 8-yard touchdown pass, but Colonel Crawford’s answer was swift. Quarterback Peyton Baker capped the night with an 11-yard touchdown run to seal the 35–7 victory and send the Eagles to uncharted territory — the state semifinals.
Balanced Attack, Relentless Defense
Quarterback Brayden Holt was sharp and efficient, completing 13 of 16 passes for 140 yards, while senior receiver Parker Weithman hauled in eight receptions for 94 yards.
The ground game powered the offense once again, with McMichael’s 214 yards leading the way and Baker adding 53 yards on nine carries. Overall, Colonel Crawford rolled up 421 total yards of offense — 281 on the ground and 140 through the air — while holding West Jefferson to just 177 yards (including only 54 rushing).
The Eagles’ dominance extended to every phase of the game. They finished with a 19–9 advantage in first downs, controlled time of possession, and continued their streak of smothering defensive performances.
Coach’s Corner and What’s Next
Head coach Jake Bruner praised his team’s unity and discipline following the win.
“I could go on for an hour about all the kids who have sacrificed for the team,” Bruner said. “It shows our team effort, and I’m really proud of our kids.”
With the victory, No. 5 Colonel Crawford (13–1) advances to the Division VI state semifinals — the first in school history — where they will face top-seeded Kirtland (13–0) next week.
The matchup will test the Eagles against one of Ohio’s premier small-school programs, but with momentum, confidence, and balance on both sides of the ball, Colonel Crawford has never looked more ready for the challenge.
📸 Photo Gallery: Regional Championship Highlights
All photos courtesy of Danielle Starr Photos
From pregame energy to postgame celebration, local photographer Danielle Starr captured every defining moment of Colonel Crawford’s regional championship win over West Jefferson — the intensity, the grit, and the joy of a team making school history.
View the full gallery on Danielle Starr Photos’ Facebook page for exclusive shots from the Eagles’ sideline.
Editor’s Note:
FreeWire obtains game information from multiple verified sources, including official stat reports and coverage from Richland Source and MaxPreps, along with coach statements and postgame interviews. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please contact freewiremag@gmail.com for corrections or additions.
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