The West Liberty University football team began their season on March 13 against Notre Dame College (Ohio). Although it was certainly not the result the Hilltoppers had hoped for, the team is excited for what is to come within these next few games. As a result of COVID-19, West Liberty saw a halt to the 2020 season, leaving much to be desired for the 2021 campaign.

A 70-7 loss to Notre Dame College was definitely not what the Hilltoppers had anticipated to open the season. Regardless of that outcome, there is much to look forward to as the season progresses. Even with the postponement of the contest against Fairmont State University, which was set to take place on March 20, West Liberty is gearing up for a few more in-conference matchups. Among these matchups include Frostburg State University, Alderson Broaddus University, Wheeling University, and of course the make up game against Fairmont State.

There were certainly great individual successes the Hilltoppers can build off of for the weeks to come. WLU defensive back Jason Mitchell recorded nine total tackles, including seven solo tackles. Alongside him, fellow defensive back Kody Hudson recorded eight total tackles, along with seven solo tackles. Defensive back Shyoun Petteway recorded a sack alongside his six solo tackles, which also included a forced fumble.

Once settled in, West Liberty’s secondary tried all they could to build off their comfortability and look forward to next week. On the offensive side, Jack Allsion, a quarterback transfer from WVU began his campaign with the Hilltoppers. Although the outcome was certainly not as great as he hoped, he made some plays against Notre Dame that turned the heads of fans watching.

Notre Dame College was certainly no easy opponent to open a season with. After winning the Mountain East Championship in 2019, they continually improved on their skillset and look to repeat as champions once again in 2021. For West Liberty, an easier schedule is ahead, which brings an opportunity to bounce back and show the rest of the Mountain East Conference what West Liberty football is all about.