West Muskingum secured a 35-14 victory over Philo in a Division IV, Region 15 first-round playoff matchup at West M Athletic Booster Stadium. After a wild 14-14 tie at halftime, the host Tornadoes dominated the second half with 21 unanswered points to advance.
West Muskingum held a 341-217 advantage in total yards, outgassing Philo 174-16 through the air. Quarterback Jake Welch completed 13-of-26 passes for 162 yards and a touchdown, while Carter Smith provided a crucial 75-yard kickoff return touchdown in the first quarter. A botched punt return in the third quarter resulted in a defensive touchdown that sealed the momentum for the Tornadoes.
With the win, West Muskingum improves to 9-2 on the season and advances to a quarterfinal road matchup against two-time defending regional champion Indian Valley.