HOBAN IMPRESSES AT THE HOF
CANTON, OH- Archbishop Hoban was on a mission in their 2023 season opener against Frederick Douglass, the reigning Class 5A high school state champion from Kentucky. The Knights demonstrated their mettle with a commanding 45-6 victory, leaving no doubt about their capabilities.
Even without star running back Lamar Sperling, who earned the prestigious title of Ohio Mr. Football as a senior and has since moved on to play for the University at Buffalo, the Hoban offense proved its explosiveness. This victory highlighted several key aspects for the Knights.
The Knights’ resilience was evident as they triumphed at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, a venue that had posed challenges for them in the past. However, the Knights seemed to have exorcized those demons this year. Their dominant performance silenced doubts, especially since this stadium had been the site of their previous Division II state championship losses in 2022 and 2021.
Hoban’s talent level was on full display, reaffirming their potential to contend for their sixth state title under the guidance of their 11th-year head coach, Tim Tyrrell.
Early in the game, Hoban seized control, establishing a 21-0 lead in the first quarter and further extending it to 38-0 by halftime.
Junior Tylan Boykin, making his debut as the starting varsity quarterback, wasted no time in making an impact. On Hoban’s first offensive play, Boykin connected with senior wideout Parker Falkenstein for a 46-yard touchdown pass, setting the tone for their commanding display. The Hoban passing game would account for 84 yards through the air and 155 yards on the ground attack while racking up a total of 13 first-downs along the way.
Caleb Jones led the offensive charge with 93 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 15 carries. He also exhibited his versatility by catching two passes for 35 yards, including a remarkable one-handed reception. Stepping into Sperling’s role, Jones showcased his readiness and skill. Jones would finish the game with 16 carries for 82 yards and three scores.
Hoban’s defense was equally potent, starting with a three-and-out and culminating in a key interception by senior safety Ty Campbell. The turnover provided excellent field position, enabling Hoban’s offensive onslaught. Hoban’s tenacious defense continued to shine, recovering a fumble and creating scoring opportunities. Feister capitalized on this turnover with a 3-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, further solidifying Hoban’s dominance.
Jones’ multi-dimensional performance included a trio of first-half touchdown runs (6, 3, and 14 yards), with a 40-yard rush that set up freshman running back Brayton Feister’s 11-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.
While Frederick Douglass managed to break Hoban’s shutout with a late rushing touchdown, the Knights had already demonstrated their superiority in a resounding 45-6 victory.
