Bob Jones Knocks off Oak Mountain 42-0 in Season Opening Jamboree
Birmingham, AL — The 2023 high school football season roared to life on Friday night as the Bob Jones Patriots showcased a commanding performance, securing a 42-0 victory over the Oak Mountain Eagles. The action-packed jamboree unfolded under the bright lights and new artificial turf playing surface at Heardmont Park Stadium, treating fans to a preview of what’s in store for the upcoming season.
Both Bob Jones and Oak Mountain came into the matchup with high hopes, unleashing their varsity squads in a highly anticipated showdown during the first half. The Patriots made a statement from the outset, surging to a commanding 28-0 halftime lead, before shifting gears and giving their JV and freshman players a chance to shine in the second half.
The Patriots wasted no time establishing their dominance, with senior Tyren Washington finding the end zone on a 1-yard touchdown run with 6:39 remaining in the opening quarter. Washington’s touchdown provided an early 7-0 lead and set the tone for the rest of the game. The offensive line’s exceptional performance during the drive created the ideal platform for Washington’s short-yardage touchdown plunge.
Junior running back Caleb Sanders showcased his speed and agility, electrifying the crowd with an 80-yard touchdown dash around the left end. This remarkable play, coming with just 1:42 left in the first quarter, extended Bob Jones’ lead to 14-0. The Patriots’ cohesive offensive unit opened up a colossal gap in the defense, allowing Sanders to outpace the Oak Mountain defenders en route to the end zone.
The Bob Jones offensive continued to shine in the second period, as quarterback Dylan Willingham demonstrated his versatility by orchestrating a 7:38 touchdown drive that culminated in his own 21-yard scoring run, extending the visitors lead to three touchdowns.
Just before the break, Willingham and Webster combined for a 25-yard scoring strike, showcasing Bob Jones’ potent offensive arsenal. As the clock read 00:25, the Patriots surged to a commanding 28-0 halftime advantage, leaving Oak Mountain and first year head coach Shane McComb with an uphill battle heading into the second half.
Oak Mountain’s new look offense struggled during the first half but a bright spot for the Eagles was a precision pass from Will O’Dell to Jayden Aparicio. The long bomb down the left sideline showcased O’Dell’s arm and Aparicio’s athleticism and potential for the 2023 season.
As the game concluded, thoughts turned to the upcoming week’s matchups. Bob Jones officially kicks off Kelvis White’s fourth season at the helm with a road trip to Muscle Shoals’ J.F. Moore Stadium. Oak Mountain travels to Tuscaloosa to take on the Class 6A Northridge Jaguars.
