The 2025 Week 1 slate had several notable games, but none was more noteworthy than the battle between Byron Center and Hudsonville, the State Runner-Ups in Division 1 and Division 2 last fall. This year, these teams both replace key players, but they showed on Friday night that they are poised for strong seasons once again.
In the first quarter, Hudsonville got the scoring started. Braden VanLaecke took to the air, connecting with Lawsyn Weber for a 17-yard touchdown strike. The Eagles would hold this lead for a while, as they forced four Byron Center punts to begin the contest.
Late in the second quarter, the Bulldogs finally got their offense going. Easton Wychers tossed it to Chase Swartz on a 6-yard touchdown connection. A failed extra point attempt left Byron Center behind by a point at the half, 7-6.
The third quarter was all Hudsonville, as they padded their lead with a touchdown on both of their drives. On their first possession, VanLaecke used his legs for a short 2-yard plunge. After securing an interception, Owen Haarsma ripped off a 26-yard touchdown run. This put the Eagles ahead 21-6, seeming to grab control.
Byron Center took six plays to start their comeback, covering 80 yards on their way to the end zone. Cam Payne was on the receiving end of a Wychers pass, racing 30 yards for the touchdown. A safety shortly after brought Byron Center back within a score, 21-15.
The Bulldogs made it down to the 33 yard line of Hudsonville on the free possession, but they only picked up seven yards on a 4th and 8. The Eagles capitalized on the momentum of this big stop, marching 74 yards for a pivotal touchdown. VanLaecke and Lawsyn Weber paired up again for a 49-yard touchdown strike, putting Hudsonville ahead 27-15.
Wychers and Payne linked up again for a second touchdown toss, this time a 29-yard strike, but after a failed onside kick attempt, Byron Center came up six points short.
One of the biggest differences in the box score was third down conversion. Byron Center converted just 4 of 11, while Hudsonville picked up 9 of 14. This allowed the Eagles to win despite being outgained 294-246.
In defeat, Easton Wychers was 19/31 passing for 235 yards and three touchdowns. Cam Payne had 34 rushing yards and 118 receiving yards, finishing with two touchdowns on his 19 touches. Next week, Byron Center will remain on the road with another OK Red opponent in East Kentwood.
Hudsonville will also hit the road when they face East Lansing. Braden VanLeacke was 9/11 passing for 138 yards and two scores. He added 45 rushing yards and a third touchdown. Owen Haarsma had 18 carries for 104 yards and a touchdown, while Lawsyn Weber had 100 total yards of offense (six receptions for 97 yards and two touchdowns).
