Wheeling Park Dominates Musselman in Non-Conference Football Matchup

In a one-sided non-conference matchup on September 13, 2024, the Wheeling Park (Wheeling, WV) varsity football team came out victorious, defeating Musselman (Inwood, WV) by a commanding score of 48-13. The game, played at Musselman’s home field, highlighted the disparity between the two teams’ performances in the 2024 season.

Team Records and Performance Overview

Heading into the contest, Musselman was struggling with a season record of 1-9, with a win percentage of just .100. The team’s challenges were evident both regionally and in non-conference play, where they posted a 1-4 record in each. Their overall scoring and defensive efforts were underwhelming, having scored only 171 points while allowing 416.

On the other hand, Wheeling Park had been performing at a much higher level. With a 7-3 overall record and a perfect 4-0 region record, Wheeling Park entered the game with a solid 0.700 win percentage. Their 294 points scored versus 251 points allowed further illustrated their dominance. The Wheeling Park offense, which averaged 29.4 points per game, was a well-rounded unit, demonstrating a significant edge over Musselman in every aspect of the game.

Key Stats and Team Leaders

Wheeling Park’s offensive power was on full display during their 48-13 victory. The team’s scoring was balanced across the board, with an average of 29.4 points per game, compared to Musselman’s 17.1 points per game. Wheeling Park’s ability to score in each quarter—5.6 in the first, 8.8 in the second, 6.1 in the third, and 4.4 in the fourth—ensured that the game was never in doubt.

Musselman’s offense, by contrast, struggled to gain any momentum, with scoring averages of just 3.5 points in the first quarter, 1.8 in the second, and no points in the third. Their only significant burst came in the fourth quarter, where they added 5.5 points.

Wheeling Park’s team leader, quarterback Jay Bordas, showed his efficiency with 146.3 passing yards per game, while running back Brennan Wack provided a steady ground game, averaging 175.3 rushing yards per game. The defense also contributed, with linebacker Noah Short recording 0.5 sacks per game, making it difficult for Musselman to establish any offensive rhythm.

For Musselman, Brennan Wack’s 190 total yards per game were a bright spot, and Kolin Wiley was a reliable target in the receiving game, averaging 45.6 yards per game. However, these individual performances were not enough to overcome the collective strength of Wheeling Park.

Common Opponents

Both teams faced Spring Mills during the 2024 season, and their performances were similar in that matchup. Musselman lost 62-0 to Spring Mills on September 20, while Wheeling Park fell 27-0 to the same team on September 6. This comparison highlights the gap in overall competitiveness between the two teams.

Record Breakdown

The stark contrast between the teams was reflected not only in the game itself but also in their respective season records. Musselman’s record of 1-9 places them at the bottom of the standings in their region, with a win percentage of just .100. Wheeling Park, on the other hand, boasts a 7-3 record and a perfect 4-0 mark in their region, making them one of the top teams in their conference.

At home, Musselman struggled, posting a 1-4 record, while Wheeling Park enjoyed greater success on the road, with a 4-1 away record. Neither team had a perfect record in neutral-site or playoff games, with both teams yet to play significant postseason games.

Looking Ahead

For Musselman, the loss to Wheeling Park highlights the challenges they have faced throughout the season. With just one win to their name and a difficult road ahead, the team will need to regroup and focus on improving both offensively and defensively to be more competitive in their region.

Wheeling Park, however, continues to build momentum for what could be a strong playoff run. With a balanced offense, solid defense, and a perfect regional record, they are poised for success as they head into the remainder of the season, confident after their dominant performance in Inwood.

As the season continues, both teams will need to learn from their performances. Musselman will look to rebuild for the future, while Wheeling Park eyes deeper playoff runs, hoping to capitalize on their current form.