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By C.Y. Peters

In a spirited road battle, the Unaka Rangers pulled off a well-earned 36-18 victory over Hancock County, with standout performances from Brynin Repass and Connor McKinney. Both players accounted for touchdowns in three different ways, showcasing their versatility and leadership on the field. The Rangers took control of the game early and never looked back, relying on a balanced offensive attack and a stingy defense to secure the win.

From the opening snap, it was clear that Unaka’s offense came to play. Quarterback Brynin Repass got things rolling, completing all five of his passing attempts for 64 yards, including a touchdown. He also contributed on the ground, rushing for 35 yards and another touchdown. Repass proved to be a dual threat, adding 38 receiving yards on three catches, two of which went for touchdowns. His ability to make plays from multiple positions kept Hancock’s defense on their heels all night.

Connor McKinney was equally impressive. The dynamic playmaker threw for 70 yards, completing 8 of 14 passes, including two touchdown strikes. McKinney also found the end zone on the ground, rushing for 72 yards on seven carries and adding a rushing touchdown. Like Repass, McKinney showcased his versatility by hauling in three passes for 43 yards, including a receiving touchdown, and contributing to three successful two-point conversions.

The offensive firepower didn’t stop with Repass and McKinney. Micah Gray had a stellar night, contributing 45 receiving yards on four catches, including several impressive sliding grabs that kept Unaka’s drives alive. Ashton Fuller and Brayden Otey also chipped in with two-point conversions that added to Unaka’s point total. The team displayed excellent depth, with multiple players stepping up to make crucial plays in key moments.

On the defensive side, Unaka’s effort was anchored by a relentless pass rush and timely turnovers. Jake Taylor delivered a dominant performance, recording a sack, a tackle for loss, a forced fumble, and a blocked punt that helped set the tone early for the Rangers’ defense. Taylor’s energy and disruptive play were pivotal in keeping Hancock off balance throughout the game.

Repass also made his presence felt on defense, registering seven tackles, including one for a loss. Nathan Bailey contributed six tackles, while Draedyn Freeman was a force in the trenches with three tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack. Ben Shutko added five tackles, along with a sack and a forced fumble, adding to the defensive pressure Unaka imposed on Hancock.

Hancock fought hard, but Unaka’s defense refused to let up, forcing key turnovers and limiting Hancock’s ability to mount a serious comeback. While the hosts managed to find the end zone three times, Unaka’s defense remained steadfast, ensuring the gap was never closed. Even when Hancock showed flashes of offense, the Rangers’ defense, led by playmakers like Taylor, Freeman, and Shutko, always had an answer.

The game marked a strong team effort, with contributions coming from every facet of the roster. Head coach O’Brien Bennett was pleased with the team’s overall performance, highlighting the importance of getting key reps for multiple players ahead of their next game.

“The tandem of Brynin Repass and Connor McKinney was outstanding Friday,” Bennett remarked after the game. “They each accounted for touchdowns in three different ways. It was good to get a win and get a lot of people some playing experience. That was especially beneficial given the quick turnaround going into Thomas Walker on Tuesday. We had a lot of guys contribute and were able to get some valuable reps in.”

With the victory, Unaka not only boosted their record but also gained valuable momentum heading into a quick turnaround against Thomas Walker. The win allowed several players to step up, building depth and confidence throughout the roster. If the performances of Repass, McKinney, and the rest of the Rangers continue at this level, Unaka looks poised for continued success as the season progresses.