High school football: Hillcrest bounces back behind K’von Houston’s 6 touchdown passes

Last week, Hillcrest Huskies suffered a loss to West High and were determined to bounce back in their next game. Returning to their home field, they took immediate action to prove their worth. K’Von Houston led the charge, throwing for 312 yards and six touchdowns, while Hillcrest dominated their opponents, West Jordan, with a 48-8 victory. Coach Robby Kaelin's team improved to a 5-2 record overall and maintained their second-place standing in Region 4, potentially leading to their first winning season since 2003.

Kaelin was pleased with the team's recovery, stating that they seized every opportunity during the game. Senior quarterback K’Von Houston, a key player in Hillcrest's system throughout Kaelin's four-year tenure, had a breakout performance. Houston completed 24 of 36 passes that day, and he led the Huskies in throwing a whopping 22 touchdowns already this season.

Huskies' offensive game plan focused on passing, with an 85% focus on throwing the ball. The Huskies scored quickly, getting on the board in just two plays after Houston connected with Keli’i Batimana on a 31-yard pass. They led 21-0 after the first quarter and 40-8 by halftime. The Huskies maintained this lead, stretching it to 44 points and sending fans home early due to the UHSAA’s “mercy rule.”

West Jordan, despite coming into the game with a strong record, couldn't match the Huskies' performance, managing to score just once before halftime. Hillcrest ultimately secured the win, thanks to impressive plays from Levi Lavaka, Alani Latu, Collin Ence, and a late goal-line stand by the Jaguars.