North Canton Hoover High School opened its 2026 football campaign on August 21 with a 35-8 triumph over Akron Buchtel, a performance that left little doubt about the Vikings’ intentions for the season.
A Dominant Start
From the opening drive, Hoover controlled the tempo, never relinquishing the lead and methodically draining the clock. The Vikings’ offense moved the ball efficiently, while the defense imposed its will, forcing three turnovers and preserving a clean sheet.
Head coach Brian Baum, in his 12th season with the program, praised the team’s execution, noting that the victory built upon a five‑year streak of playoff appearances that began in 2020. Across the sideline, Bryan Williams of Buchtel, now in his sixth year, watched his squad struggle to find rhythm against a disciplined opponent.
Key moments came early when Brady Hassen recovered a fumble in the end zone, instantly extending Hoover’s advantage. Joey Riedinger added a 28‑yard field goal, and Nolan Bonner capped the first half with a 43‑yard touchdown run that showcased his breakaway speed.
The second half saw further scoring as Bonner plunged into the end zone on a short rush, while Riedinger’s leg accounted for additional points. Buchtel’s Trayvion Jones provided a spark with a 56‑yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter, but the lead was already well established.
Injuries marred the night for the visiting team; Leon Cross was stretchered off after a lower‑leg setback, and Tramir Jones left the game with limited offensive impact, further narrowing Buchtel’s options.
Despite the setbacks, Hoover’s historical pedigree loomed large. The Vikings had previously posted a 50‑6 playoff win over Columbus Northland before falling in the Division II semifinals, a trajectory they hope to repeat this year. Their opponent, Buchtel, saw a three‑year postseason streak snapped, and now faces a Division III, Region 10 assignment.
With the season still young, the Vikings aim to translate this opening dominance into a sustained run toward the playoffs, hoping to add another chapter to a program that has become a fixture in regional championship conversations.