Starkville MS, September 24, 2025
News Summary
Starkville secured a decisive 36-16 win against Louisville, showcasing a strong defensive performance. Linebacker Kaesen McQuiller earned Player of the Week accolades, recording 12 tackles and scoring a defensive touchdown. This win marks a significant turnaround for the team, as they limit their opponents to their fewest points of the season. Coach John Carr praises McQuiller’s ongoing improvements as the team looks forward to continuing this momentum in the upcoming games.
Starkville Linebacker Kaesen McQuiller Earns Player of the Week Honors After Key Performance Against Louisville
Starkville emerged victorious in a crucial game against Louisville, winning 36-16 and marking a significant turnaround after a rocky start to the season. The team, which had previously struggled defensively by conceding over 40 points in each of their first two games, limited the reigning back-to-back 4A state champions to only two touchdowns, showcasing a marked improvement in their defensive capabilities.
Key to this victory was Kaesen McQuiller, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound senior linebacker, who played a pivotal role in the team’s performance. His efforts on the field earned him the title of Dispatch’s Player of the Week. During the game, McQuiller recorded 12 total tackles, which included one tackle for loss. Notably, he also scored a defensive touchdown by recovering a fumble and returning it 23 yards for a score, a play that significantly shifted momentum and pushed Starkville into a commanding 29-8 lead.
Starkville’s defensive performance was especially impressive, as they held Louisville to their fewest points since the team faced a 9-7 loss to West Point in their season opener. This performance is indicative of Starkville’s growing defensive strength; in their past two games combined, they have allowed only 22 points.
Head coach John Carr acknowledged McQuiller’s continuous improvement throughout the season, highlighting the linebacker’s enhanced physical activity and increasing comfort on the field. This boost in performance by McQuiller is seen as promising for Starkville’s prospects as they move forward in the season.
In addition to McQuiller’s standout performance, Starkville defensive lineman Tylan Paty led the team with 13 tackles, contributing significantly to the defensive unit, while Graham Hancock added seven tackles, which included a sack and a forced fumble. The team’s strong defense is viewed as a critical asset crucial for their upcoming games.
Elsewhere in high school football, notable performances included Jamarious Little of Noxubee County, who recorded two interceptions, one pass deflection, and six tackles during their 28-6 win over Shannon. Columbus Christian Academy’s Matthew Benge excelled with four touchdowns in a remarkable 200-yard rushing game, and Oak Hill running back Boston Cunningham rushed for 213 yards despite a loss to Rossville.
Looking Ahead
With a current record of 3-1, Starkville remains optimistic about the latter part of the season. Coach Carr has expressed confidence that McQuiller’s improved contributions could bode well for the team’s performance in future outings, especially as they aim to build upon their recent defensive resurgence.
FAQ
What significant achievement did Kaesen McQuiller earn?
Kaesen McQuiller was named the Dispatch’s Player of the Week for his performance against Louisville.
How many tackles did McQuiller record during the game?
McQuiller recorded 12 total tackles during the game, including one tackle for loss.
What was the outcome of the Starkville vs. Louisville game?
Starkville won the game 36-16, limiting Louisville to only two touchdowns.
Performance Summary
| Player | Team | Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Kaesen McQuiller | Starkville | 12 total tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 1 defensive touchdown |
| Tylan Paty | Starkville | 13 tackles |
| Graham Hancock | Starkville | 7 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble |
| Jamarious Little | Noxubee County | 2 interceptions, 1 pass deflection, 6 tackles |
| Matthew Benge | Columbus Christian Academy | 200 rushing yards, 4 touchdowns, 1 passing touchdown |
| Boston Cunningham | Oak Hill | 213 rushing yards |
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Additional Resources
- CDispatch: Starkville’s McQuiller Helps Stifle Louisville Offense
- Wikipedia: Linebacker
- CDispatch: Carr Era at Starkville Being Built on Tempo and Competition
- Google Search: High School Football Performance
- CDispatch: Starkville Football Recap
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Football
- CDispatch: Current High School Football Players Stats
- Google News: High School Football News
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
