WEST LIBERTY, Ohio — An unexpected week away from the football field did little to slow down the West Liberty-Salem Tigers.
After a game cancellation forced the Tigers into an impromptu bye week, West Liberty-Salem returned to action Friday night looking as sharp as ever, dismantling the visiting Greenon Knights 47-13 at Tiger Stadium.
The Tigers' performance was one of their most complete of the season, as all three phases — offense, defense and special teams — played a role in the decisive victory.
West Liberty-Salem entered the game looking to build on its first win of the season, a victory over Cedarville that followed a difficult 0-2 start.
The Tigers did more than simply avoid rust.
They put together a performance that showed just how much the extra week of preparation may have benefited the team.
Special teams spark Tigers
If there was one area that immediately set the tone, it was special teams.
West Liberty-Salem's return game provided three touchdowns, turning field position into points and repeatedly putting the Tigers in control.
Sam Kidd delivered two kickoff returns for touchdowns, while Brandel Sullivan added another, giving the Tigers an explosive edge every time Greenon sent the ball downfield.
The trio of return touchdowns helped West Liberty-Salem build momentum while putting the Knights in an increasingly difficult position as the game progressed.
Offense finds its rhythm
The Tigers' offense was equally productive, combining a balanced rushing attack with timely passing from quarterback Beckett Sullivan.
Sullivan completed 9 of 15 passes for 95 yards and a touchdown while also finding the end zone on the ground.
On the ground, Silas Krabill led the way with 123 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Zade Bieleski came just shy of the century mark with 99 yards and another rushing touchdown.
The production from Krabill and Bieleski gave the Tigers a steady presence in the running game, while Sullivan's ability to contribute both through the air and on the ground kept Greenon's defense from settling into one look.
By the time the night was over, West Liberty-Salem had put 47 points on the scoreboard and controlled the game from beginning to end.
Tigers trending upward
The victory marks the second straight win for West Liberty-Salem after the Tigers opened the season with consecutive losses.
At 2-2, the Tigers have worked their way back to .500 and appear to be finding their footing as the season reaches its midpoint.
Friday's performance was particularly encouraging because of the contributions from all three phases of the game.
The Tigers didn't simply rely on one offensive player or one big play. They repeatedly found ways to create momentum, whether it was Kidd and Sullivan breaking loose on kickoff returns, Krabill and Bieleski moving the ball on the ground or Beckett Sullivan making plays with his arm and legs.
After an unexpected week off, West Liberty-Salem showed no signs of rust.
Instead, the Tigers looked refreshed — and ready to make a push through the second half of the season.
Looking ahead
West Liberty-Salem will hit the road in Week 6 when it travels to Fairbanks.
The Tigers will look to carry the momentum from consecutive victories into the matchup as they continue their climb back from their early-season struggles.
After starting 0-2, West Liberty-Salem has now evened its record at 2-2.
The Tigers will have a chance to move above .500 for the first time this season when they take on Fairbanks next week.
