Game recap provided by KWC Director of Strategic Communications, Trey Curry.
Kentucky Wesleyan showed grit in a 28-7 loss to sixth-ranked West Florida on Saturday at Steele Stadium.
The Panthers (0-1) fell behind early after the Argonauts (2-0) connected on a 75-yard touchdown pass on the first play of the game, followed by a 21-yard scoring pass minutes later.
Wesleyan’s defense kept the Argos in check the rest of the half, highlighted by interceptions from Nehemiah Askew, Dre Raven and Brayden Matherson. The Panthers trailed just 14-0 at the break.
West Florida extended its lead with a 12-play, 85-yard drive to open the second half. Kentucky Wesleyan responded in the fourth when true freshman quarterback Justus Wertzler, on his only throw of the day, hit Camron Brogan for a 41-yard touchdown. It was the first career touchdown for both players.
The Argos capped the scoring with a 13-play drive in the fourth quarter.
“We talk about dig in mentality and understanding what that means to our program,” head coach Tyrone Young said. “Today, we were able to put four years of culture building on display. I’m proud of the focus, intent, and the brotherhood that was on display today.”
Brogan finished with five catches for 90 yards and a score, while Will Ray added eight receptions for 72 yards. Defensively, Jalon Baker led Wesleyan with 10 tackles, and Askew, Raven and Matherson each picked off the first passes of their careers.
The Panthers travel to Liberty, Missouri, next Saturday to face William Jewell. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. on the GLVC Sports Network.
