In a stunning display of resilience and determination, the Arlington High School Eagles defied the odds and emerged victorious over the reigning WIAA champion Lake Stevens Vikings in a 4A Wesco clash. Led by the heroics of quarterback Leyton Martin and a stifling defensive effort, the 10th-ranked Eagles delivered a decisive 28-14 victory, leaving the fifth-ranked Vikings and their star quarterback Kolton Matson stunned.

Upstart Eagles Topple Titans in Wesco Thriller

Defensive Dominance Propels Arlington to Upset Victory

The Arlington Eagles' defense was the driving force behind their stunning upset of the Lake Stevens Vikings. Defensive coordinator Greg Dailer had his unit laser-focused and prepared for the challenge of containing the reigning Gatorade state player of the year, Kolton Matson. The Eagles' defense was disciplined and executed their game plan to perfection, with linebacker Jace Graham making the game-changing play with a 29-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Dailer praised his team's preparation, saying, "We had great (preparation) and a lot of film work. Our defense was really ready to go." The defense's ability to disrupt the Vikings' offensive rhythm and force turnovers proved to be the decisive factor in the outcome.

Leyton Martin Leads the Way for Arlington

Quarterback Leyton Martin was the catalyst for the Arlington Eagles' offensive success. The senior signal-caller threw for 195 yards and three touchdowns, including the go-ahead score to Mateo Molina late in the third quarter. Martin's poise and decision-making under pressure were instrumental in the Eagles' ability to overcome the Vikings' stifling defense. Running back Caleb Reed also played a crucial role, rushing for a game-high 116 yards on 20 carries. The balanced offensive attack and Martin's leadership were key factors in the Eagles' ability to pull off the upset.

Monroe Edges Oak Harbor in Overtime Thriller to Claim 3A Wesco Title

In another thrilling Wesco matchup, the Monroe Bearcats edged the Oak Harbor Wildcats 49-48 in overtime to claim the 3A Wesco title. The game came down to a crucial two-point conversion attempt by Oak Harbor, with the Bearcats' defense making the decisive stop to preserve the victory. Monroe head coach Scott Darrow praised his team's resilience, saying, "It was just a battle. We had the right call to (stop them). To be honest, we kind of got lucky." The Bearcats' power running game, led by Brennan Sheppard's four touchdowns, proved to be the difference in the hard-fought contest.

Mount Tahoma Overcomes Adversity to Defeat Lakes in Overtime Thriller

The Mount Tahoma Thunderbirds showcased their resilience and determination in a thrilling 40-37 overtime victory over the fourth-ranked Lakes Lancers. After leading by 21 points in the first half, the Thunderbirds found themselves trailing in the final moments of regulation. However, they refused to fold, with Elijah Durr catching the game-winning touchdown pass from Mikkah Cordero in overtime. Head coach Keith Terry praised his team's perseverance, saying, "This was huge for us. More than anything, we showed we could persevere. We had some things that did not go our way in the second half, but we did not tap out."

Seton Catholic Captures First League Championship in Dramatic Fashion

In a wild 1A Trico showdown, the second-ranked Seton Catholic Cougars overcame a 14-0 deficit to defeat the third-ranked La Center Wildcats 29-21 and claim their first league championship in school history. Despite facing early adversity, the Cougars rallied behind the efforts of Joe Callerame, who scored three touchdowns, and Kolton Gesser's late first-half touchdown pass to Ryker Ruelas. Head coach Dan Chase praised his team's ability to overcome challenges, stating, "We've overcome adversity in the past. This was just a larger scale."