Lexington, Kentucky, December 6, 2025
The Lexington Christian Academy (LCA) Eagles secured their first Class 2A state football championship since 2009 with a thrilling 33-28 victory over Owensboro Catholic at Kroger Field. Sophomore quarterback Nash Whelan led the Eagles’ offense, contributing multiple rushing and passing touchdowns. Despite a strong performance by Owensboro Catholic, LCA’s defense held strong, and the Eagles finished their season with a remarkable 12-3 record after recovering from a challenging start.
Lexington, Kentucky – The Lexington Christian Academy (LCA) Eagles captured their first Class 2A state football championship since 2009, edging out Owensboro Catholic 33-28 at Kroger Field on Friday night.
Game Highlights
The Eagles’ offense was spearheaded by sophomore quarterback Nash Whelan, who completed 14 of 20 passes for 227 yards and two touchdowns, along with 47 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Junior running back Daven Hood contributed significantly with 99 rushing yards and a touchdown on 22 carries. Senior wide receiver Tyler King recorded six receptions for 91 yards. On defense, Aiden Lyons led with seven total tackles, while Sam Pearson had four tackles, one interception, and one pass breakup. Hood also impressed with six tackles, an interception, and a pass breakup.
Game Summary
LCA started strong, taking an early lead with a 5:15 drive concluded by Hood’s two-yard touchdown run. The Eagles’ defense stifled Owensboro Catholic, forcing three-and-outs on their first two possessions. Whelan added an 18-yard rushing touchdown, pushing the lead to 13-0. Owensboro Catholic narrowed the gap to 13-7 with a touchdown pass from quarterback Dre’Mail Carothers to wide receiver Xavier Maddox. Whelan retaliated with another rushing touchdown, extending LCA’s lead to 20-7 before Owensboro Catholic scored again, ending the half at 20-14 in favor of LCA.
In the second half, LCA’s offense continued to excel, with Whelan throwing a 35-yard touchdown pass to Pearson to extend the lead to 27-14. Although Owensboro Catholic scored another touchdown, LCA responded with a 4-yard touchdown pass from Whelan to tight end Conrad Hart, creating a 33-21 margin. Owensboro Catholic added a late score, making it 33-28, but LCA managed to run out the clock on their final possession to secure the victory.
Owensboro Catholic’s Performance
Even in defeat, Owensboro Catholic’s senior class exits as the winningest in school history, with an impressive 50-9 record and three consecutive Class 2A state championship appearances. The head coach acknowledged the team’s resilience and the legacy established by the seniors.
Season Overview
After a challenging beginning to the season, starting with a 1-3 record, LCA rallied to finish strong, winning 11 consecutive games and wrapping up the season with a record of 12-3 and the state championship title.
Historical Context
The Class 2A state championship has featured intense matchups in recent years. The previous year, Beechwood triumphed over Owensboro Catholic 50-34 for the title, while Mayfield defeated Owensboro Catholic 53-48 in 2023.
Looking Ahead
This victory marks a significant milestone for LCA, underscoring the team’s growth and dedication throughout the season. The Eagles’ achievement reflects their hard work and commitment to excellence.
FAQ
- Who won the Class 2A state football championship?
- The Lexington Christian Academy (LCA) Eagles won the Class 2A state football championship, defeating Owensboro Catholic 33-28 at Kroger Field on Friday night.
- Who led the LCA Eagles’ offense in the championship game?
- Sophomore quarterback Nash Whelan led the offense, completing 14 of 20 passes for 227 yards and two touchdowns, adding 47 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Junior running back Daven Hood contributed 99 rushing yards and a touchdown on 22 carries. Senior wide receiver Tyler King had six receptions for 91 yards.
- What was the final score of the championship game?
- The final score was 33-28 in favor of the LCA Eagles over Owensboro Catholic.
- How did Owensboro Catholic perform in the championship game?
- Despite the loss, Owensboro Catholic’s senior class graduates as the winningest in school history, boasting a 50-9 record and three consecutive Class 2A state championship appearances. Head coach Jason Morris praised the team’s resilience and the legacy left by the seniors.
- What was LCA’s season record before the championship game?
- Before the championship game, LCA had a season record of 12-3, finishing with 11 consecutive wins after starting the season with a 1-3 record.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Champion | Lexington Christian Academy (LCA) Eagles |
| Final Score | 33-28 |
| Location | Kroger Field, Lexington, Kentucky |
| LCA’s Season Record | 12-3 |
| Key Players | Nash Whelan, Daven Hood, Tyler King |
| Owensboro Catholic’s Senior Class Record | 50-9 |
| Consecutive State Championship Appearances | 3 |
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