Jordan Washington leads Helena to 58-28 Round One Victory Over Wetumpka
Helena, AL – In the first round of the AHSAA Class 6A playoffs, the Helena Huskies rebounded from a two-game losing streak to demonstrate their prowess reminiscent of the team that was undefeated just weeks ago. On Thursday night, senior running back Jordan Washington led the charge with a spectacular seven-touchdown performance, amassing over 400 all-purpose yards and propelling the Huskies to a resounding 58-28 round one victory over the Wetumpka Indians. This marked Helena’s first trip to the second round of the postseason since 2020.
Facing an aggressive Wetumpka offensive early in the game, the Huskies’ defense stood tall. When the visitors threatened with a third-and-8 pass deep into Helena territory, Brock Wise snagged an interception, preventing an early setback for the Huskies and setting up an 87-yard scoring drive.
With the ball in their hands, Helena capitalized. Washington broke away for a 45-yard touchdown run on third-and-1, giving the Huskies an early lead that they would not relinquish. Following a poor punt by Wetumpka, Helena’s offense took control, culminating in another touchdown run by Washington. A successful 2-point conversion pass from Carson Acker to Nate Jones extended the lead to 14-0 at the end of the first quarter.
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The Huskies continued to dominate, adding a 28-yard field goal by Austin Lewis and another touchdown by Washington, extending their lead to 24-0. Despite a 90-yard kickoff return by Wetumpka making it 24-7, Helena finished the half strong with a 13-yard touchdown pass from Acker to Hunter Hale, going into the locker room with a commanding 31-7 lead at the break.
The Huskies maintained their momentum in the second half, with Washington scoring a 71-yard touchdown on the first play. While Wetumpka found some offensive rhythm, scoring 21 points, they couldn’t contain Washington. He added his fifth rushing touchdown, a 23-yard touchdown pass to Hale, and his sixth rushing touchdown to finalize the score at 58-28.
Washington finished the night with 34 carries for 347 yards, two receptions for 60 yards, and one pass for 23 yards and a touchdown, totaling 430 yards of offense. Acker contributed significantly as well, with 201 passing yards and a touchdown while completing 10-of-17 passes. Jones led the Husky receiving corps with 86 yards on four receptions, and Hale finished with 68 yards and two scores on three receptions.
Wetumpka closed out head coach Bear Woods’ second season at the helm of the Indians program at 5-6. Helena awaits the outcome of the Friday night matchup between 3rd ranked and undefeated Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa (10-0) and St. Paul’s Episcopal (7-3). Depending on the outcome, Richie Busby’s Huskies will travel to either Tuscaloosa or Mobile as their trek to Bryant-Denny Stadium continues.
