by Cover photo credit goes to Irene Hatziantoniou
Each week High School football sees some tremendous performances. This past weekend was no different as there were several. One of which came from North Olmsted wide receiver and defensive back Collin Willard. The young man stepped up huge for the Eagles in the 49-7 route of GLC Rival Bay Village.
Collin Willard got it going early and often with quarterback Xavier Balson. After a 16-yard touchdown pass from Balson to Willard got things going, it was on the next drive that speedy wideout really put on a show. Already up 7-0, he took a one yard dump off from Balson, 35 yards to the house. Most impressive on this play was his ability to streak along the sidelines while dodging tacklers. He used some fancy footwork to get in and increase the lead to 14-0 before Bay Village fans could blink.
Late second quarter, up 21-7, Willard would strike again, but this time on defense. He picked off a Tony Buttari pass and sped down the field for a pick six touchdown! We were amazed by his speed as he looked like a track star out there, flying all over the field to the ball.
This is big for the Eagles because it gives Balson a solid second threat behind Jared Kelley. Defenses can no longer focus in on double teaming Kelley because now they have Willard to worry about Willard as well. Not to mention Brady Haug.
The Eagles are looking dangerous at the exact right time. North Olmsted is currently riding a 5-game winning streak headed into their massive home game this Friday Night against Elyria Catholic.
This effort makes Collin Willard a Week Seven Kee On Sports Shining Star!
Great read!
Great game proud EAGLE.