By Kiara Doyal, The Seattle Medium
The Roosevelt Roughriders advanced to the quarterfinals of the 3A state playoffs with a dominant 40-0 victory over the Federal Way Eagles in the round of 16 of the state 3A football playoffs. Both teams entered the field with high energy, but Roosevelt’s relentless defense and explosive offense proved too much for Federal Way.
The game began with both teams showcasing high energy and determination. Federal Way opened on offense but struggled to make headway, quickly punting the ball to Roosevelt. On their first possession, the Roughriders fumbled, and the Eagles recovered, briefly shifting momentum to Federal Way. However, the Eagles failed to capitalize as Roosevelt’s defense held firm, forcing another punt. Roosevelt’s special teams then made a statement when Nolan McWilliams returned a punt 23 yards for the opening touchdown. Zach Miller’s extra point made it 7-0.
The Eagles’ offense attempted to respond behind the running efforts of Zamarie Tellez, but Roosevelt’s defense tightened, with Jubilee Siitia-Tasi Utu-Galeai recording a sack on Eagles quarterback Andy Cortez. Late in the first quarter, Roosevelt struck again as Kash Lexing broke free for a 20-yard touchdown run. The score capped a dominant quarter for Roosevelt, giving them a 14-0 lead heading into the second.
Led by key tackles from Chris Ah-Loe, Roosevelt’s defense dominated the second quarter. Federal Way managed a 26-yard reception by Tellez to secure a rare first down, but their progress was short-lived. Roosevelt’s Leo Maiava intercepted a pass, only to fumble it back to the Eagles. Despite the turnover, Roosevelt’s defense continued to apply pressure, limiting Federal Way’s opportunities. On the Roughriders’ next possession, Dalton Anderson powered into the end zone for a touchdown, though the extra point was blocked, extending the lead to 20-0.
The Roughriders carried their momentum into the second half, opening the third quarter with McWilliams’ second touchdown of the game to push the score to 27-0. Federal Way’s offense tried to rally, but a critical interception by Lexing turned the tide once more. Lexing returned the interception 50 yards for another Roosevelt touchdown, widening the gap to 34-0.
Federal Way’s defense showed resilience, with Maurice Fuavai and Sadrack Jean-Pierre making key stops to slow Roosevelt’s offense. However, the Roughriders remained relentless, and Jojo Paaga scored late in the third quarter to give Roosevelt a commanding 40-0 lead heading into the final frame.
In the fourth quarter, the Roughriders managed the clock effectively, despite a pair of penalties for a delay of game and a false start. Federal Way continued to fight, but incomplete passes and turnovers hindered their chances of mounting a comeback. Late in the game, Jason Page sealed Roosevelt’s shutout victory with an interception on the Eagles’ final drive.
With the win, the Roughriders continue on their journey to the 3A State Championship game. Roosevelt’s Head Coach Sam Adams was proud of his team for fighting hard until the end.
“Federal Way was a tough team to play against,” Adams said. “Tonight was a tough, hard-fought game for us.”
With this victory, the Roughriders advance to the quarterfinals of the state playoffs, where they will face Metro League foe Seattle Prep next Saturday at Memorial Stadium.