Nine Different Players Score as Hornets Seek Redemption in Upcoming Belton Matchup
HUNTSVILLE, Texas — The Huntsville Hornets came roaring back to life, capturing a decisive 61-27 victory against the Bryan Vikings on September 2, 2023. A game that started with a 14-14 deadlock at the end of the first quarter turned into a showcase of Huntsville’s offensive prowess, with the Hornets dropping 34 points in the second quarter alone to build an insurmountable lead.
The Hornets’ win featured nine different players crossing the end zone, including KeDarian Easley who returned an interception for a defensive touchdown. Jeremiah Winfrey chipped in, running back a kickoff for another score. The win marked the Hornets’ highest-scoring game since 2019.
This victory carries added weight for Huntsville, which had stumbled in their season opener but now mirrors last year’s season trajectory with a win against Bryan. Looking ahead, the Hornets will have an opportunity for redemption against Belton, a team that bested them 41-28 last season in a struggle across all three phases of the game.
While the Hornets faced penalty issues against Bryan, being flagged 12 times for 110 yards, the performance marked an improvement from their season opener, which saw 14 penalties. On the defensive end, the team contained the Vikings to just 249 total yards, including a mere 92 on the ground, and secured two interceptions.
Next up, Huntsville faces a significant challenge against a Belton team equipped with move-in quarterback Reese Rumfield from Temple, who tossed for 2,235 yards and 20 touchdowns in 6A competition. This test is compounded by the fact that the Hornets lost to Belton last year in what was described as a “physically whipped” performance.
However, Huntsville brings a newfound strength to the rematch. The team has covered 726 yards in two games with a balanced approach and an improving O-line, providing a platform for quarterback rotation between junior Austin Taylor and sophomore Markcus Lewis. Taylor has been strong in the pocket, completing 17 of his 25 pass attempts for 294 yards and three touchdowns, all against Bryan. Meanwhile, Lewis offers a dual-threat, capable of taking off and running when needed.
On the defensive side, Huntsville’s front line has shown more physicality than anticipated, pressuring opposing quarterbacks effectively. The linebacker corps, featuring seniors Jawann Giddens and juniors Shiloh Jones and Mu’Koryc Norman, has been particularly impressive in reading plays and making tackles.
As they look ahead to their matchup against Belton, Huntsville is focused on overcoming last year’s shortcomings, fortified by a team that appears to be hitting its stride. With the newly-built Huntsville ISD Stadium nearing completion, the team hopes to make a memorable debut on their home turf and alter the script for the rest of the season.
