10/21/2024
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Gameday Preview: Muscogee Tech Tribe vs. Westville Raiders - Conference Opener Showdown
The stage is set for a pivotal conference opener between the Muscogee Tech Tribe and the Westville Raiders. Both teams come into this matchup eager to establish themselves in the competitive Columbus Metro Sun Belt Conference, each with a unique storyline heading into the season.
Muscogee Tech Tribe: Eyes on a Bounce-Back Season
Muscogee Tech is looking to shake off a disappointing 2025 season and open conference play on the right foot. The Tribe have a solid foundation of talent, starting with quarterback Kamryn Griffen, who is under pressure to improve after throwing 15 interceptions to just 6 touchdowns last year. This season, Griffen has shown glimpses of growth, but his ability to limit mistakes will be critical against Westville’s defense.
On the receiving end, Muscogee Tech boasts one of the nation’s most dynamic playmakers in sophomore wide receiver Kofi Lokombo. Lokombo, who led the NCAA in receiving yards last season, continues to be a threat in the passing game, often breaking open big plays downfield. He will be the focal point of the offense, and Westville will need to account for him on every snap.
On defense, Muscogee Tech has been bolstered by a solid front seven, with defensive ends Andrew Landerson and Tysen Randolph creating pressure off the edge. Linebackers Dorian Duncan and Beau Cooley have also been instrumental in stopping the run, and they’ll be tasked with containing Westville’s ground game.
Westville Raiders: Looking to Build on Momentum
The Westville Raiders enter the game looking to continue their upward trajectory. After finishing 6-7 in 2025, including a bowl game appearance, the Raiders are hoping to carry that momentum into the new season. Led by head coach Oliver Folk, the Raiders have emphasized balance on offense and defensive discipline.
Westville’s offense has leaned on its running game, which has proven effective in keeping opponents off balance. The Raiders’ offensive line has shown improvement, allowing the ground attack to control the tempo in their games so far this season. In the passing game, they have relied on short, efficient throws to move the chains, but they will need to find explosive plays to keep pace with Muscogee Tech’s high-powered offense.
Defensively, Westville has been hit-or-miss. They’ve had strong moments, particularly in their pass defense, but stopping the run has been an issue. With Muscogee Tech’s varied offensive approach, the Raiders will need to tighten up in all areas to stay competitive.
Key Matchup: Muscogee Tech’s Passing Game vs. Westville’s Secondary
The key matchup to watch in this game will be how Westville’s secondary handles the aerial assault led by Kamryn Griffen and Kofi Lokombo. Lokombo’s speed and ability to find space could present problems for Westville, whose pass defense has shown vulnerability in past games. Westville will need to find a way to slow down the Tribe’s top target and force Griffen into uncomfortable situations. A key turnover or two could shift momentum in Westville’s favor.
X-Factor: Muscogee Tech’s Defense
While the spotlight might be on the Tribe’s offense, their defense could be the real game-changer. If Muscogee Tech’s front seven can dominate the line of scrimmage and prevent Westville from establishing their running game, the Raiders will be forced to rely on their passing attack—a scenario that could play into Muscogee Tech’s hands. Defensive ends Andrew Landerson and Tysen Randolph, along with linebacker Dorian Duncan, will need to have big games to put the pressure on Westville’s quarterback.
Prediction
This game could come down to how well each team executes their game plan. Muscogee Tech’s offensive firepower, led by Lokombo, might give them the edge, but Westville’s resilience and ability to control the clock with their ground game should keep things close. The Tribe’s defense will be the deciding factor, as their ability to create pressure and force turnovers could swing the game in their favor.
Look for Muscogee Tech to come away with a hard-fought victory in a game that could set the tone for the rest of the conference season.
