Kharim Hughley throws three TDs as Gainesville spoils Westlake’s big night

SOUTH FULTON — The Westlake Lions lost to the Gainesville Red Elephants 41-7, falling to 1-2 on the season.

Friday’s game was a highly anticipated matchup. It also featured the jersey retirement of former Westlake alum and current Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell . turned into a 21 point deficit in the second quarter that the Westlake Lions could not overcome.

The Lions offense managed to get in the red zone twice in the game but came away empty each time.

One key drive came early in the second quarter after Red Elephants running back Carmelo Byrd scored on a 27-yard run to go up 21-0.

Lions quarterback Sean Smith completed an 80 plus yard pass to Deion Thomas who went down the sideline, and was tackled inside the Red Elephants five. After three unsuccessful attempts to get in the endzone, the Lions settled for a field goal. The Lions field goal attempt hit the left post and was no good keeping the score at 21-0, giving momentum back to the Red Elephants.

The Red Elephants looked to capitalize on the ensuing drive moving the ball inside the Lions 40. On a 4th and 5, the Lions defense managed to get their first stop of the game forcing a turnover on downs.

Smith and the Lions offense took advantage of the momentum. This time, Smith connected with Tennessee commit, Travis Smith Jr., for a 22-yard touchdown pass with one minute to play in the first half, cutting the deficit to 14 points at the half.

The Red Elephants passing attack was led by quarterback Kharim Hughley. He wasted no time coming out of halftime. On the opening drive of the second half, Hughley completed a 22-yard touchdown pass to senior receiver Jeremiah Ware, pushing the lead back to 21.

The Red Elephants added two more touchdowns in the game as Hughley finished with three passing touchdowns in the victory.

Westlake will host Therrell next Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Lions Den.

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