About Our Ads Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Highland Hornets host the Wadsworth Grizzlies in a Week 9 game in the 2026 high school football season .
Wadsworth (8-0, 5-0) and Highland (7-1, 5-0) are tied for first place in the Suburban League National Conference.
The Grizzlies and the Hornets have both clinched spots in the Division II, Region 5 playoffs. Each team has also clinched a top-eight seed and a home game in the playoffs.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Follow along for live updates from the Wadsworth vs. Highland matchup :
Wadsworth captains Carter Raymond (57), Jude Haller (21), Anderson Tetzel (66), Kyle Schmeltzer (8), Luke Kinser (17) and Brysen Hall (16) line up for the coin toss before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth cheerleaders smile on the sideline before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Members of the Wadsworth band take the field before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth cheerleaders perform on the field before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth band flute players perform before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth cheerleaders lead the team onto the field before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) gets fired up as the team takes the field before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) The Wadsworth student section, dressed in pink, cheers during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson running back Reno Ferri (44) looks for room as Wadsworth defensive lineman Bentley Dantz (50) closes in Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson running back Reno Ferri (44) dives toward the goal line as a Wadsworth defender drags him down Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) cuts upfield with the ball as Wadsworth defensive back Reid Close (2) closes in Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) races along the sideline between Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) and defensive back Reid Close (2) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) looks to pass against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) follows through on a pass as Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) raises his hand on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) waits for the play call against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson receiver Anthony Paolucci reaches for a pass in the end zone over Wadsworth defensive back DJ Thompson (6) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson receiver Anthony Paolucci pulls in a pass in the end zone in front of Wadsworth defensive back DJ Thompson (6) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson kicker Xavier Pallo (7) attempts an extra point from the hold of Hayden Lipinski (6) as Wadsworth's Reid Close (2) tries to block it on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth defensive back Brandon Dishauzi (5) celebrates during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) The Hudson band performs at halftime during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson band saxophone players perform at halftime during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) A Wadsworth band clarinet player performs at halftime during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth band clarinet players march at halftime during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson's Mark Salem gives a thumbs-up during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson lineman Joey Lyons (66) signals to the sideline as Mark Salem (11) looks on against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth's Braydan Todd (3) runs with the ball as Hudson defensive back Evan Wolenski (5) gives chase on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) throws a pass against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson fans cheer during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) carries the ball against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) dives toward the pylon as the ball comes loose and Wadsworth defensive lineman Anderson Tetzel (66) closes in on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) dives toward the pylon against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) hands off to running back Reno Ferri (44) in the end zone against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) The Hudson band plays in the stands during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) hands off to running back Reno Ferri (44) against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson wide receiver Mark Salem (11) reaches for a pass as Wadsworth defensive back DJ Thompson (6) defends on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth wide receiver Reid Close (2) tracks a pass against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth wide receiver Reid Close (2) runs with the ball as Hudson defensive back Keswick Ritley (12) closes in on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth wide receiver Reid Close (2) fights through a tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass as Hudson defensive lineman Ted Pawelec (8) pursues on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) is dragged down by Hudson defenders on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) twists through a tackle attempt by Hudson defenders on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass as Anderson Tetzel (66) blocks Hudson defensive lineman Ted Pawelec (8) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) cuts upfield against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) heads upfield against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth players celebrate after defeating Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth players celebrate on the field after defeating Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth players stand along the sideline with their helmets on the turf after defeating Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Game officials meet with Wadsworth football coach Justin Todd before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth football coach Justin Todd blows a whistle as players warm up before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth football coach Justin Todd looks on as youth players gather along the sideline before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson football coach Jeff Gough talks with players during warmups before a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) hands off to running back Jude Haller (21) against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) runs into a tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) fights through a tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson defensive back Lucas Orr (2) reaches in to defend a pass intended for Wadsworth wide receiver Kolbey Ostervich (4) in the end zone on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth's Carson Glass (56), Crew Eddy (10) and Kolbey Ostervich (4) celebrate during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth wide receiver Reid Close (2) tries to get past a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth wide receiver Kolbey Ostervich (4) fights through a diving tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass as Hudson defensive lineman Finn Thies (51) rushes on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson defensive back Anthony Paolucci (3) defends a pass intended for Wadsworth wide receiver Jay'len King (1) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson linemen prepare for the snap across from Wadsworth defensive end Braden Sterpka (12) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth defensive backs Cogan Wilson (7) and Brandon Dishauzi (5) celebrate during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth defensive backs Cogan Wilson (7) and Brandon Dishauzi (5) leap to celebrate during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) dives forward with the ball as Hudson defender Anthony Paolucci reaches for him on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson players celebrate during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth wide receiver Alex Porter (14) runs after the catch as Hudson linebacker Aiden Rengers (28) pursues on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) The Wadsworth Grizzlies mascot visits fans during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) The Wadsworth mascot and a cheerleader greet a young fan during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) runs behind a block by Kyle Schmeltzer (8) against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass to wide receiver Braydan Todd (3) as Hudson linebacker Trent Smith (15) rushes on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson linebacker Trent Smith (15) leaps to try to block a pass by Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) intended for wide receiver Braydan Todd (3) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth's Braydan Todd (3) looks for room with the ball against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) scrambles away from a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) runs past a diving tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) A Hudson ball carrier is wrapped up by Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson running back Reno Ferri (44) carries the ball against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson running back Reno Ferri (44) looks for running room against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) A Hudson ball carrier dives for extra yardage as Wadsworth defensive back DJ Thompson (6) closes in on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth wide receiver Alex Porter (14) hauls in a pass against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) cuts upfield against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth's Braydan Todd (3) fights through a tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth football coach Justin Todd talks to players on the sideline during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson wide receiver Anthony Paolucci (3) reaches for a pass with a Wadsworth defender in coverage on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) hands off to running back Jude Haller (21) against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) lowers his shoulder into a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) reaches into the end zone for a touchdown as a Hudson defender tries to bring him down on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth's Jay'len King (1) and quarterback Brysen Hall (16) celebrate with teammates during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) A Wadsworth kicker kicks after Kyle Schmeltzer (8) puts the ball down against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Wadsworth students toss pink confetti in the stands during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) throws a pass as Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) rushes on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) Hudson kicker Xavier Pallo (7) kicks after Hayden Lipinski (6) puts the ball down against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 1 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth captains Carter Raymond (57), Jude Haller (21), Anderson Tetzel (66), Kyle Schmeltzer (8), Luke Kinser (17) and Brysen Hall (16) line up for the coin toss before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 1 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth captains Carter Raymond (57), Jude Haller (21), Anderson Tetzel (66), Kyle Schmeltzer (8), Luke Kinser (17) and Brysen Hall (16) line up for the coin toss before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 2 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth cheerleaders smile on the sideline before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 3 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Members of the Wadsworth band take the field before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 4 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth cheerleaders perform on the field before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 5 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth band flute players perform before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 6 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth cheerleaders lead the team onto the field before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 7 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) gets fired up as the team takes the field before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 8 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos The Wadsworth student section, dressed in pink, cheers during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 9 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson running back Reno Ferri (44) looks for room as Wadsworth defensive lineman Bentley Dantz (50) closes in Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 10 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson running back Reno Ferri (44) dives toward the goal line as a Wadsworth defender drags him down Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 11 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) cuts upfield with the ball as Wadsworth defensive back Reid Close (2) closes in Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 12 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) races along the sideline between Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) and defensive back Reid Close (2) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 13 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) looks to pass against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 14 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) follows through on a pass as Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) raises his hand on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 15 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) waits for the play call against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 16 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson receiver Anthony Paolucci reaches for a pass in the end zone over Wadsworth defensive back DJ Thompson (6) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 17 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson receiver Anthony Paolucci pulls in a pass in the end zone in front of Wadsworth defensive back DJ Thompson (6) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 18 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson kicker Xavier Pallo (7) attempts an extra point from the hold of Hayden Lipinski (6) as Wadsworth's Reid Close (2) tries to block it on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 19 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth defensive back Brandon Dishauzi (5) celebrates during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 20 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos The Hudson band performs at halftime during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 21 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson band saxophone players perform at halftime during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 22 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos A Wadsworth band clarinet player performs at halftime during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 23 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth band clarinet players march at halftime during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 24 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson's Mark Salem gives a thumbs-up during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 25 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson lineman Joey Lyons (66) signals to the sideline as Mark Salem (11) looks on against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 26 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth's Braydan Todd (3) runs with the ball as Hudson defensive back Evan Wolenski (5) gives chase on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 27 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) throws a pass against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 28 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson fans cheer during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 29 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) carries the ball against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 30 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) dives toward the pylon as the ball comes loose and Wadsworth defensive lineman Anderson Tetzel (66) closes in on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 31 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson's Anthony Paolucci (3) dives toward the pylon against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 32 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) hands off to running back Reno Ferri (44) in the end zone against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 33 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos The Hudson band plays in the stands during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 34 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) hands off to running back Reno Ferri (44) against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 35 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson wide receiver Mark Salem (11) reaches for a pass as Wadsworth defensive back DJ Thompson (6) defends on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 36 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth wide receiver Reid Close (2) tracks a pass against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 37 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth wide receiver Reid Close (2) runs with the ball as Hudson defensive back Keswick Ritley (12) closes in on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 38 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth wide receiver Reid Close (2) fights through a tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 39 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass as Hudson defensive lineman Ted Pawelec (8) pursues on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 40 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) is dragged down by Hudson defenders on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 41 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) twists through a tackle attempt by Hudson defenders on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 42 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass as Anderson Tetzel (66) blocks Hudson defensive lineman Ted Pawelec (8) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 43 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) cuts upfield against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 44 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) heads upfield against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 45 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth players celebrate after defeating Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 46 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth players celebrate on the field after defeating Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 47 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth players stand along the sideline with their helmets on the turf after defeating Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 48 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Game officials meet with Wadsworth football coach Justin Todd before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 49 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth football coach Justin Todd blows a whistle as players warm up before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 50 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth football coach Justin Todd looks on as youth players gather along the sideline before a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 51 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson football coach Jeff Gough talks with players during warmups before a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 52 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) hands off to running back Jude Haller (21) against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 53 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) runs into a tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 54 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) fights through a tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 55 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson defensive back Lucas Orr (2) reaches in to defend a pass intended for Wadsworth wide receiver Kolbey Ostervich (4) in the end zone on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 56 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth's Carson Glass (56), Crew Eddy (10) and Kolbey Ostervich (4) celebrate during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 57 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth wide receiver Reid Close (2) tries to get past a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 58 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth wide receiver Kolbey Ostervich (4) fights through a diving tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 59 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass as Hudson defensive lineman Finn Thies (51) rushes on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 60 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson defensive back Anthony Paolucci (3) defends a pass intended for Wadsworth wide receiver Jay'len King (1) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 61 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson linemen prepare for the snap across from Wadsworth defensive end Braden Sterpka (12) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 62 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth defensive backs Cogan Wilson (7) and Brandon Dishauzi (5) celebrate during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 63 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth defensive backs Cogan Wilson (7) and Brandon Dishauzi (5) leap to celebrate during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 64 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) dives forward with the ball as Hudson defender Anthony Paolucci reaches for him on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 65 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson players celebrate during a game against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 66 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth wide receiver Alex Porter (14) runs after the catch as Hudson linebacker Aiden Rengers (28) pursues on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 67 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos The Wadsworth Grizzlies mascot visits fans during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 68 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos The Wadsworth mascot and a cheerleader greet a young fan during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 69 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) runs behind a block by Kyle Schmeltzer (8) against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 70 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass to wide receiver Braydan Todd (3) as Hudson linebacker Trent Smith (15) rushes on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 71 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson linebacker Trent Smith (15) leaps to try to block a pass by Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) intended for wide receiver Braydan Todd (3) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 72 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth's Braydan Todd (3) looks for room with the ball against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 73 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) scrambles away from a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 74 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) runs past a diving tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 75 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos A Hudson ball carrier is wrapped up by Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 76 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson running back Reno Ferri (44) carries the ball against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 77 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson running back Reno Ferri (44) looks for running room against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 78 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos A Hudson ball carrier dives for extra yardage as Wadsworth defensive back DJ Thompson (6) closes in on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 79 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth wide receiver Alex Porter (14) hauls in a pass against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 80 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) cuts upfield against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 81 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth's Braydan Todd (3) fights through a tackle attempt by a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 82 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) throws a pass against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 83 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth football coach Justin Todd talks to players on the sideline during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 84 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson wide receiver Anthony Paolucci (3) reaches for a pass with a Wadsworth defender in coverage on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 85 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) hands off to running back Jude Haller (21) against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 86 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) lowers his shoulder into a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 87 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth running back Jude Haller (21) reaches into the end zone for a touchdown as a Hudson defender tries to bring him down on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 88 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth's Jay'len King (1) and quarterback Brysen Hall (16) celebrate with teammates during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 89 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos A Wadsworth kicker kicks after Kyle Schmeltzer (8) puts the ball down against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 90 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Wadsworth students toss pink confetti in the stands during a game against Hudson on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 91 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson quarterback Hayden Lipinski (6) throws a pass as Wadsworth linebacker Luke Kinser (17) rushes on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) 92 / 92 Hudson vs. Wadsworth, OHSAA high school football photos Hudson kicker Xavier Pallo (7) kicks after Hayden Lipinski (6) puts the ball down against Wadsworth on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. (Anthony Mohler, Special to the Beacon Journal) What to know about the Wadsworth football team Undefeated Wadsworth topped Hudson 24-22 last week. Wadsworth was led by Brysen Hall (26-of-38 passing, 228 yards, two TDs), Kolbey Ostervich (seven catches, 90 yards, two TDs) and Jude Haller (22 carries, 80 yards, TD). Braxton Wagner made a 25-yard field goal and all three of his PATs. Karim Alnajar and Brandon Dishauzi each recovered a fumble and Brayden Todd recorded an interception.
The win extended Wadsworth's regular-season winning streak to 18 games.
"Offensively, we have been really efficient in the throw game," Wadsworth coach Justin Todd said. "[Junior quarterback] Brysen Hall is completing nearly 70% of his passes. We have a number of guys who catch the ball. Obviously, everything starts with Jay'len King, but the amount of guys who have caught the football in meaningful games this year is more than any I have had in my career. I was just looking at the stats today and I didn't even realize that we have double-digit guys that have caught the football, which is wild. … We have very versatile players."
Wadsworth’s Jay'len King (1) makes what would have been a touchdown reception, but was called back due to a flag for an ineligible man down field, in a week 7 game against Stow, Oct. 2, 2026, at Bulldog Stadium in Stow, Ohio. Jay'len King, Kolbey Ostervich, Kyle Schmeltzer, Alex Porter, Jude Haller, Braydan Todd, Noah Nixon, Donny Bettis and Reid Close are key receivers. Haller and Todd are also the primary running backs. Aiden Meisterics, Carter Raymond and Anderson Tetzel lead Wadsworth's offensive line. Braydan Todd is Justin Todd's son.
"Defensively, this is probably the most tenacious group that we have had," Justin Todd said. "We are undersized. We are not overly big. Nathan Shipley is our biggest defensive lineman, and he is 270 pounds at nose guard. We have smaller defensive ends that are really tough. We put Carter and Anderson in the game for more of a big package. We are all underclassmen in the secondary. We have got a sophomore [Bryson Bupp] and a senior [Luke Kinser] starting at linebacker. Luke Kinser has really come on strong. He moved into our district over the summer [from Orrville]. He is playing really high-level football. … We are very scrappy."
Wadsworth's leading tacklers are Braydan Todd at safety, Haller at safety-linebacker and Kinser at linebacker. Braden Sterpka is the Grizzlies leader in sacks.
"I have been so impressed with how sound they are," Justin Todd said of Highland . "You can tell that they are clearly well coached. They do a great job program-wide with their system. They are really sound in what they do. It is fun to watch. If you are a football purist, you like watching them because they don't make mistakes."
Walsh Jesuit Mason Rodgers (42) runs for a gain against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit quarterback David Ternosky (12) looks for a receiver against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit Dom Courtad (32) dives into the end zone for a touchdown against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit’s Xavier Steele (7) dives to stop Highland's Ben Radigan (1) after a catch during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit’s Xavier Steele (7) gets a hand to the face as Highland's Ben Radigan (1) fends him off during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit’s Xavier Steele (7) returns a Highland punt during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's Ben Radigan (1) looks to pick up yardage after a catch as Walsh Jesuit’s Ben Biel (15) dives at him during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit’s Oliver Nonno (30) watches his field goal as it goes through the uprights to score against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit Cameron Brunson (80) runs after a catch against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit Dom Courtad (32) jumps through a hole for a gain against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) A Highland defender pressures Walsh Jesuit’s quarterback David Ternosky (12) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's quarterback Jonathan Prucha (2) looks for room to run during the game against Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's quarterback Jonathan Prucha (2) fires off a pass against Walsh Jesuit during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's Ben Radigan (1) closes in on Walsh Jesuit’s Cameron Brunson (80) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit Mason Rodgers (42) runs for 33 yard gain against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's Colton Winston (29) look to pick up yardage during the game against Walt Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Walsh Jesuit’s Will Montalto (33) grabs on to Highland's quartback Jonathan Prucha (2) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's quarterback Jonathan Prucha (2) is sacked by Walsh Jesuit’s Will Montalto (33) Emmett Tobin (0) and Caleb Buckner (90) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) A Highland defender knock the ball away from Walsh Jesuit’s Dom Courtad (32) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. Walsh recovered the ball on the play. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's Athony DePompei (3) looks to run against Walsh Jesuit during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's head coach Mike Gibbons talks to his players during the game Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland's head coach Mike Gibbons leads his team unto the field for the game against Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland cheerleaders pose for a videographer before the the game against Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Members of the Highland marching band perform the pre game show at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) Highland fans watch their team take on Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 1 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit Mason Rodgers (42) runs for a gain against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 1 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit Mason Rodgers (42) runs for a gain against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 2 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit quarterback David Ternosky (12) looks for a receiver against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 3 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit Dom Courtad (32) dives into the end zone for a touchdown against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 4 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit’s Xavier Steele (7) dives to stop Highland's Ben Radigan (1) after a catch during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 5 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit’s Xavier Steele (7) gets a hand to the face as Highland's Ben Radigan (1) fends him off during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 6 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit’s Xavier Steele (7) returns a Highland punt during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 7 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland's Ben Radigan (1) looks to pick up yardage after a catch as Walsh Jesuit’s Ben Biel (15) dives at him during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 8 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit’s Oliver Nonno (30) watches his field goal as it goes through the uprights to score against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 9 / 25 Walsh Jesuit twins Cam and Calvin Brunson excel on the football field Walsh Jesuit Cameron Brunson (80) runs after a catch against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 10 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit Dom Courtad (32) jumps through a hole for a gain against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 11 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland A Highland defender pressures Walsh Jesuit’s quarterback David Ternosky (12) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 12 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland's quarterback Jonathan Prucha (2) looks for room to run during the game against Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 13 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland's quarterback Jonathan Prucha (2) fires off a pass against Walsh Jesuit during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 14 / 25 Walsh Jesuit twins Cam and Calvin Brunson excel on the football field Highland's Ben Radigan (1) closes in on Walsh Jesuit’s Cameron Brunson (80) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 15 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit Mason Rodgers (42) runs for 33 yard gain against Highland during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 16 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland's Colton Winston (29) look to pick up yardage during the game against Walt Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 17 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Walsh Jesuit’s Will Montalto (33) grabs on to Highland's quartback Jonathan Prucha (2) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 18 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland's quarterback Jonathan Prucha (2) is sacked by Walsh Jesuit’s Will Montalto (33) Emmett Tobin (0) and Caleb Buckner (90) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 19 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland A Highland defender knock the ball away from Walsh Jesuit’s Dom Courtad (32) during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. Walsh recovered the ball on the play. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 20 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland's Athony DePompei (3) looks to run against Walsh Jesuit during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 21 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland's head coach Mike Gibbons talks to his players during the game Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 22 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland's head coach Mike Gibbons leads his team unto the field for the game against Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 23 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland cheerleaders pose for a videographer before the the game against Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 24 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Members of the Highland marching band perform the pre game show at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) 25 / 25 Week 1 High School football Walsh Jesuit vs Highland Highland fans watch their team take on Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. (Mike Cardew, Akron Beacon Journal) What to know about the Highland football team Highland beat Solon 51-7 last week for its seventh win in a row. Anthony DePompei ran for two TDs and Colton Winston, Evan Foust and Joey Oriti added scores on the ground. Jake Weber had a punt return for a touchdown, Ben Radigan added a pick six and Jonah Kowza booted a 32-yard field goal.
"We continue to get better every single week," Highland coach Mike Gibbons said. "That is always positive to see. Obviously, we have a huge test with Wadsworth this week. They are a very well-coached team and they play hard. I think this is going to be a great game. I am happy with the progress we have made.
"… Offensively, we have been able to spread the ball around to a lot of different guys. Unfortunately, our senior quarterback [Johnny Prucha] got hurt in the Strongsville game in Week 2. Then we had sophomore Colton Wadle come in. He is 6-foot-5 and 210 pounds. He has got a 77% completion percentage and he has thrown for over 1,000 yards in about six games that he has really played. That jumps out at you right away."
Highland's Ben Radigan (1) looks to pick up yardage after a catch as Walsh Jesuit’s Ben Biel (15) dives at him during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. Highland's offense also features linemen Spencer Marquis and Wyatt Sitz, running backs Evan Foust, Colton Winston and Levi Clark and receivers Jake Weber, Anthony DePompei and Ben Radigan.
"Evan Foust led the team in tackles as a sophomore and junior, and then again as a senior right now," Gibbons said. "The kid is all over the place. He is a tremendous linebacker. He is the heartbeat of our team this year. Jake Weber at corner is doing an excellent job for us. Lukas Grillis at defensive end, he has got 15 sacks this season. He is playing at a very, very high level. Nathan Capotosto at will linebacker and Nate Painter at rover/safety are also playing really well. Jonah Kowza is awesome. Jonah is rated as one of the top kickers in the state of Ohio and in the country. I have never had a kicker like this. He is good from all over the place."
Wadsworth quarterback Brysen Hall (16) scrambles away from a Hudson defender on Oct. 9, 2026, in Wadsworth. Wadsworth football's returning lettermen (24) Donny Bettis, WR-DB, 6-2, 180, Sr.
Highland's Athony DePompei (3) looks to run against Walsh Jesuit during the game at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. Highland football's returning lettermen (14) Nathan Capotosto, DE-TE, 6-2, 215, Jr.
Wadsworth High School football coach Justin Todd meets with game officials before a week 7 game against Stow, Oct. 2, 2026, at Bulldog Stadium in Stow, Ohio. Wadsworth impact players Power Four recruit Brysen Hall returns for his junior season as a three-year starter at quarterback. Last season, he was first-team Division II All-Ohio adter he completed 139 of 215 passes for 2,490 yards and 29 touchdowns with just four interceptions. The standout has offers from Pittsburgh, Kent State, Toledo, Miami (Ohio), UConn, USF, Buffalo and Syracuse. ... Calix Lemp (46 receptions, 999 yards, 15 TDs) is catching passes at Air Force but the Grizzlies have a burner in Jay'len King. Add Kyle Schmeltzer, Donny Bettis and Kolbey Ostervich to the mix and the passing attack is amazing. "I think we've got big bodies that are possession based," Todd said. "We've got shifty dudes on the inside that are a matchup nightmare. In the pass game, we present more problems than we have since 2017." ... That 2017 team was led by Mr. Football Joey Baughman, who rushed 154 times for 1,533 yards and 20 touchdowns and was 219-for-326 passing (.672) for 3,060 yards, 36 touchdowns and three interceptions through the air in 12 games.
Highland's head coach Mike Gibbons leads his team unto the field for the game against Walsh Jesuit at North Gateway Tire Field at Highland High School on August 21, 2026. Highland impact players It's a three-headed monster between tight end/H-back/linebacker Evan Foust, lineman Spencer Marquis and kicker Johnah Kowza. ... Foust returns was the Suburban League American Conference Co-Defensive Player of the Year and Division II second-team all-state in 2025. He led the team in tackles (73), tackles for loss (14) and forced fumbles (five). At H-back, he caught 14 passes for 255 yards and four touchdowns. ... Marquis powered an offense that averaged 238.8 yards on the ground. ... Kowza is the secret weapon at kicker. ... Of his four field goals, the SL Specialist of the Year had two of more than 40 yards and logged 43 touchbacks on 63 kickoffs. Kowza is a five-star recruit who is ranked fifth in the nation and No. 1 in Ohio.
Akron Beacon Journal sports writer Michael Beaven can be reached by email at mbeaven@thebeaconjournal and is on Twitter at @MBeavenABJ . Akron Beacon Journal sports writer Brad Bournival contributed to this article .
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Wadsworth football score vs. Highland High School live updates, highlights
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