Friday, August 22, 2025 — Wilmington, OH

The Northwest Knights opened their 2025 football season on the road against Wilmington in a hard-fought defensive contest, ultimately falling 14–10.

First Half: Wilmington Strikes Early

The Hurricanes wasted little time seizing momentum in the second quarter. Eli Stewart intercepted a Northwest pass and returned it 45 yards for the game’s first score. Shortly after, quarterback Carson Brown connected with wide receiver Steven Rickman on a 21-yard touchdown pass to extend Wilmington’s lead to 14–0.

Northwest answered before the half, as kicker Parker Seibel nailed a 23-yard field goal to put the Knights on the board, cutting the deficit to 14–3.

Defensive Spark for Northwest

The Knights’ highlight came in the third quarter when defensive back Jaylen Lilly turned the tide by picking off Brown and racing 52 yards for a touchdown. Seibel’s extra point brought Northwest within four, 14–10, but that proved to be the final score of the night.

Statistical Breakdown

• Total Yards: Wilmington outgained Northwest 288–133.
  
   
• Passing Attack: Brown went 16-for-30 with 191 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Rickman was his top target, hauling in nine catches for 145 yards and a score.
  
   
• Northwest Passing: The Knights struggled through the air, completing just two passes—one a 62-yard strike to Hezikiah Kelley.
  
   
• Rushing Game: Wilmington’s Luke Johnson carried the load with 97 yards on 23 attempts. Northwest managed only 67 rushing yards on 24 carries.
  
   
• Turnovers: Both teams traded interceptions, with Northwest’s Eli Sterling and Jaylen Lilly each recording picks.
  
   

Special Teams Impact

Northwest’s Parker Seibel was nearly flawless, hitting his lone field goal, converting his extra point, and booming seven punts for a 45.9-yard average. His performance kept the Knights within striking distance. Wilmington’s Scotty Hall was steady as well, going 2-for-2 on extra points.

Defensive Standouts

Northwest’s defense was relentless despite the loss. Kaleb Peters led with 11 tackles, while Ethan Dixion and Josh Dixion each added eight. Akemon’s pick-six was the defensive highlight of the game. Wilmington’s defense was anchored by Justin Scarberry, who tallied eight tackles.

Final Thoughts

Although the Knights came up short, their defensive resilience and special teams play kept them competitive in a tough road matchup. Wilmington capitalized on turnovers and leaned on a balanced offensive attack to secure the victory.

Northwest will look to build on its defensive playmaking and seek more consistency on offense as they head into week two.