On June 20, Muskingum Valley coach Cameron West made a bold decision on his team’s opening drive in the All-Star game at Licking Heights High School.
Faced with a crucial fourth-and-8 on the 45-yard line, West chose to trust his star quarterback, Max Lyall, instead of relying on a punt. The decision paid off, leading to a 34-15 victory over Licking County.
Hanson’s Heroic Performance
New Lexington’s Bentley Hanson was the standout player of the game, earning Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors. Hanson was already well-known for his versatility as a wide receiver, cornerback, and basketball player.
On this night, he showcased his skills with four catches for 93 yards, two of which went for touchdowns.
The first touchdown came early when Lyall connected with Hanson on a 43-yard pass, setting up Jayden Wallace’s 1-yard touchdown run.
Later in the game, Hanson caught a 25-yard touchdown pass, taking advantage of a perfect throw from his former teammate, Isaiah Stephens.
But his most memorable moment came with a spectacular catch on a third-and-16 from the Licking 25-yard line.
As the ball sailed toward the left corner, Hanson leapt high above the defense, making a catch that reminded many of NFL legend Randy Moss.
Hanson also played a critical role on defense, helping Muskingum hold Licking County scoreless until late in the third quarter.
His all-around performance impressed coaches and players alike, with Philo coach Dirk Lincicome calling him “a very complete player.”
A Dominant Defense
Muskingum’s defense played an equally crucial role in the victory. The defense shut down Licking County for most of the game, forcing four punts and two interceptions in the first six possessions. The defense’s physicality was evident, with standout performances from players like Evan Anderson, who intercepted a pass, and Canon Mercer, who sacked the opposing quarterback.
Licking County struggled offensively, managing only 47 total yards in the first half. Their lone touchdowns came in the third quarter, with a 46-yard catch from Kevin Dunlap and a 23-yard catch-and-run from Connor Corbett. Despite a late interception return for a touchdown by Licking’s Joe Day, Muskingum sealed the victory with a strong offensive drive, culminating in a touchdown by Jayden Wallace.
Physicality Takes Over
Muskingum’s offensive line dominated the game, with players like Gavin Spiker and Jack Robinette leading the charge. Their size and strength wore down Licking County, especially in the second half.
Muskingum’s offensive line controlled the game, helping the team score 34 points.
The physicality was also displayed on defense, with big hits throughout the game, including one by Talon Preston of Philo, who delivered a crushing blow to Licking Valley’s Trent Marcus on a screen pass in the fourth quarter.
Coach West was proud of his team’s performance, especially considering the physical style of play. He noted, “We wore them down,” and it was clear throughout the game that Muskingum’s strength and discipline played a key role in their dominance.
West’s Perfect Farewell
For coach Cameron West, this game marked the end of his coaching career as he is set to become the new principal at Tri-Valley. West leaves with an undefeated record in Muskingum-Licking games, a fitting conclusion to his coaching tenure.
He reflected on his final game, saying, “Being my last game ever as a head coach and going out a winner, I can’t ask for much more than that.”
The win marked a strong and memorable end to West’s time as a head coach, leaving fans and players with a lasting impression of his leadership and Muskingum’s dominance on the field.
Muskingum Valley’s 34-15 victory over Licking County was a complete team effort, highlighted by Bentley Hanson’s outstanding individual performance and a dominant defense.
The victory not only served as a fitting send-off for coach Cameron West but also showcased the physicality and skill of the Muskingum Valley athletes. With West’s departure, the team’s legacy of success continues to shine brightly.
