For the first time since 2019, the Whitney Wildcats got the best of their district nemesis — and they did it in convincing fashion. Behind a lights-out defense and an all-star performance from Kobe Haynes at quarterback, the Wildcats rolled past the perennial powerhouse Grandview Zebras, 34-7, Friday night, October 10, at Wildcat Stadium.
The victory marked a major statement for Whitney (4-2, 1-0 in District 5-3A Division I), which entered district play looking to turn the page after an up-and-down non-district schedule.
The Wildcat offense has been lethal, while the defense had been allowing nearly 40 points per game through their first five contests. Against Grandview, the Wildcats flipped the script.
The Zebras (4-2, 0-1) have been the district’s standard-bearer for years — a playoff fixture. But on this night, the Wildcats seized control early and never looked back.
Grandview came in averaging 37 points per game and had just scored 63. Yet Whitney’s defense was relentless, flying to the ball and shutting down every attempt the Zebras made to find their rhythm. The Wildcats held Grandview to a single touchdown, easily their most complete defensive effort of the year.
On offense, Haynes was dynamic in his first full game as the team’s primary quarterback. Known for his athleticism and versatility, the junior showed poise under pressure and explosiveness in the open field. He completed 9 of 23 passes for 158 yards and added 135 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries. Time and again, he made defenders miss and extended drives with his legs, keeping the Zebras’ defense guessing.
Senior running back Jontae Johnson continued his dominant season with 174 rushing yards and a touchdown. He also provided one of the game’s biggest highlights — a 65-yard kickoff return for a score that ignited the Whitney sideline and swung momentum completely in the Wildcats’ favor.
Through the air, KJ O’Hearne emerged as Haynes’ go-to receiver, hauling in five catches for 120 yards. His speed and sure hands gave Whitney a consistent deep threat, helping open up the ground game for both Haynes and Johnson.
The Wildcats’ offensive balance was matched by the defense’s grit. Whitney pressured the quarterback, clogged running lanes and forced Grandview into long-yardage situations. Every time the Zebras threatened, the Wildcat defense responded.
For the Wildcats, the win was proof of growth, resilience and potential. It also cemented Whitney as a serious contender for the district crown.
The Wildcats (4-2, 1-0) will look to keep their momentum rolling next Friday when they host Maypearl (2-4, 0-1) in another District 5-3A matchup. The Panthers are coming off a 58-7 loss to West.
Player of the Week
Junior KJ O’Hearne put together a complete game Friday, pitching in defensively and then hauling in five catches for 120 yards.
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