Mountain Ridge High School’s football team opened the season with a 41-26 victory over Skyridge, a 15-point margin that represents a 60-point swing from their previous year’s 45-point loss.
Coach Nick Robins said the early adversity was intentional, a way to test the squad and build resilience that paid off in the playoffs last season, when the team posted a ten-game winning streak.
Turning Point in the Second Half
After trailing 20-13 at halftime, the team erupted following a muffed punt by Skyridge, capitalizing on the mistake to outscore their opponents 28-6 after the break.
Junior running back Bradley Foster led the charge with 216 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a decisive 17-yard run that sealed the win, while backup Taniela Kinikini left the game early with a broken collarbone, opening the door for Foster’s expanded role.
Quarterback Jaxon Hunt was equally impressive, throwing for 269 yards and four touchdowns, spreading the ball to multiple receivers and keeping the defense off balance.
The defense also forced an interception in the final seconds of the first half, but it was the second-half adjustments that turned the tide, highlighting the importance of red-zone work in practice.
The win not only showcases improved offensive and special teams capabilities but also sets a positive tone for a season that could see Mountain Ridge contend for a playoff berth.