WEST LIBERTY, WV: The Walsh University Football team opened the 2026 season on the road Thursday night, earning a 30-27 victory over the West Liberty University Hilltoppers. The Maroon and Gold built a 17-point lead before holding on late to secure the season opening win.
Walsh wasted no time getting the offense going as the Cavs marched 87 yards on their opening drive. Jake Gill capped off the drive with a 19 yard touchdown run to put the Cavs on top early. The Walsh defense then came up with a big stop as Donovan Daetwyler secured an interception, setting up a 34 yard field goal from Andrew Caranna with 2:15 left in the first quarter to take a 10-0 advantage.
West Liberty got on the board with a field goal in the second quarter, but Walsh answered right before the half. Brendan Zurbrugg led the offense down the field and found Gill for a 14 yard touchdown pass with just 35 seconds remaining, giving the Cavs a 16-3 lead heading into the break.
The third quarter featured plenty of offense from both sides. After West Liberty added another field goal, Hayden Wickard connected with Brady Gooding on a 62 yard touchdown pass. The Hilltoppers answered with a touchdown of their own, but the Cavs put together one of their longest drives of the night to close out the quarter. Walsh went 85 yards in 14 plays as Gill found the end zone for the third time on a one yard run to give the Maroon and Gold a 30-13 lead.
West Liberty made things interesting in the fourth quarter, scoring two touchdowns to pull within three points. The Cav defense stepped up when it mattered most, however, holding off the late Hilltopper comeback attempt and securing the 30-27 victory.
Walsh opens the season 1-0 and will look to carry the momentum into their home opener vs Wheeling University next Saturday.Â
LOCATION: Russek Field
SCORE: Walsh 30 - West Liberty 27
RECORDS: Walsh 1-0, West Liberty 0-1
FOR THE CAVS
- Jake Gill had a big night for the Walsh offense, accounting for three touchdowns. He rushed for 83 yards and two touchdowns while adding two receptions for 19 yards and another score.
- Hayden Wickard threw for 223 yards on 12 of 18 passing. He also rushed for 47 yards while connecting with Brady Gooding for the 62 yard touchdown.
- Gooding totaled 110 receiving yards on just two catches, including the 62 yard touchdown reception.Â
- The Walsh defense was led by Eddie Nichols, who totaled 10 tackles. Michael Howman Williams added six tackles and two tackles for loss.
- Donovan Daetwyler came up with the Cavs lone interception of the night while Luke Dobbins recorded a sack.
- Walsh totaled 428 yards of offense and picked up 24 first downs in the victory.
