Buckeyes bash Vinton County to set up anticipated matchup

MCARTHUR - Throughout the year, Nelsonville-York head coach Rusty Richards has stayed rather consistent on what he expects this season from his program. A Tri-Valley Conference championship.

Now with just one week left in the regular season, Richards and his Buckeyes (7-2, 5-0 TVC-Ohio) have set themselves up to try and cement yet another divisional title at Nelsonville-York. To do so, the team had to exercise a couple of demons along the way. The Buckeyes took that first step on Friday night.

Taking down the reigning TVC-Ohio champs and grabbing redemption for a tight six-point loss a year ago, Nelsonville-York continued its torrent streak with a 39-12 victory over Vinton County (3-6, 3-2 TVC-Ohio) on the road. The Buckeyes held a 19-6 lead at the halftime break before streaking away late.

Continuing his development in his first season running the offense, sophomore Cam Sullivan had another impressive outing in the passing game. He finished the night 8-14 passing for 182 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. Dakota Cunningham and Logan Meek each caught receiving scores in the win.

The multi-use tool, Landen Inman breached the 100-yard mark with 111 yards receiving on just two catches. The senior also carried the ball seven times for 33 yards and a rushing touchdown.

Austin Gautier led the rushing attack with 163 yards and three touchdowns on 21 carries. Walker Stone also rushed for 55 yards to help supplement the offense.

Defensively, it was really a 12-hat effort with eight different players recording at least seven tackles on the night. Noah Loge and Cunningham led the charge with 10 each.

Caeleb Layton tallied nine while Inman, Stone and Jaron Layton ended up with eight. Holden Hodgson and Brennon Tomlin finished with seven respectively. Coltin Bookman also recorded an interception out of the secondary.

The win now sets up a Week 10 rivalry matchup for all the glory. Both entering the final week of play undefeated in divisional play, Nelsonville-York and Athens will compete for the divisional title this Friday.

Athens won the matchup last year, this time it’s at Dave Boston Field. The Buckeyes knew this was most likely coming, now it’s time to take care of business one last time.