Senators win 32-8 at Blankenship Field
The 2025 football season opened on a high note for Norris Middle School last week.
The Senators routed Robertsville 32-8 Thursday night at Blankenship Field in Oak Ridge.
“Cam (Wilcox) scored two times, once on an interception and once on a long 75-yard touchdown run,” Norris Coach Richie Noe said. “But the ability to keep possession of the football was the biggest thing that he brought, grinding out tough first downs against an aggressive Ram front seven.”
The Senators (1-0) also converted a big fourth-down play when Stephen Blakney hauled in a 45-yard pass from quarterback Cooper Downs, a key returning starter from the 2024 squad.
On defense, Blakney recorded two tackles for loss in crucial situations. He also contributed on special teams, recovering an onside kick.
Noe praised the Senators’ offensive line, which helped control the game, and credited Downs for running the offense smoothly.
“Cooper Downs returns as the starter at quarterback,” Noe said.
“And from the moment he got back full time from baseball, the offense just clicked. He gets guys right, keeps us out of silly delay penalties, makes all the throws, protects the football, and is his teammates’ biggest fan.”
Hunter Wade also made key contributions on both sides of the ball, recording double-digit tackles on defense, and helping Norris convert several third downs.
He scored a touchdown and delivered perimeter blocks that, according to Noe, “made kids from the other team make business decisions.”
Lineman Jax Valentyne posted three tackles for loss and a pass deflection, while Skyler Whitson registered four solo tackles. Norris finished with 17 first downs in the win.
