Week 3 Highlights and Turning Points
Stark County’s high school football scene saw dramatic shifts in Week 3, as the once‑dominant Federal League lost all three of its unbeaten squads, leaving only Massillon, West Branch and Northwest still perfect.
Shad Davis of Canton McKinley turned two punt returns into touchdowns, racing 28 and 42 yards to spark his team’s offense, while Green’s Chase Herbert erupted for five scores—four through the air and one on the ground—in a 42‑14 victory over North Olmsted.
Grady Hirst of West Branch showcased a rare dual‑threat display, rushing for 155 yards and four touchdowns and adding 312 passing yards and four more scores in a 34‑8 win over Struthers, underscoring his role in the team’s third straight triumph.
Massillon edged the NFL Academy team from London 21‑16, with Michigan State commit Savior Owens and Oregon commit Brayton Feister each contributing a touchdown, while Canton McKinley crushed Sandusky 53‑7, a margin highlighted by the return of injured Kyelin West, who added his own scores.
Louisville rallied late to beat Dover 15‑14, the victory sealed by Parker Daum’s 26‑yard field goal, and Lake fell 16‑20 to Rocky River despite a late fourth‑quarter touchdown. The power poll reflects these outcomes: Massillon climbs to No. 1 in Ohio’s overall rankings, Canton McKinley sits second in the Stark County poll, and West Branch holds the top spot among small‑school divisions (OHSAA Divisions III‑VII) with a flawless 3‑0 record. Northwest, also 3‑0, is ranked second among small schools, its success bolstered by linebackers Conner Stephenson and Jakob Garber. With only three undefeated teams remaining across the region, Week 4 looms as a decisive stretch; the upcoming matchups will determine whether the current leaders can maintain their perfect records or be challenged by rising contenders.