East Kentwood Routs Brighton 49-21 in Playoffs
East Kentwood advanced in the MHSAA Division 1 district semifinal with a dominant offensive performance against Brighton.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Football
East Kentwood defeated Brighton 49-21 in an MHSAA Division 1 district semifinal, improving its record to 10-0. The team next plays undefeated Grand Ledge in the district final.
Why it matters
The win keeps East Kentwood on track for a deep postseason run in Kentwood and across Michigan, where the team is ranked No. 2 in the state. Advancing to the district final positions the squad for another playoff push.
Colin O'Connor completed 20 of 24 passes for 257 yards and five touchdowns, while Steph Jones caught eight passes for 137 yards and four touchdowns. East Kentwood scored on all but one offensive possession.
The players
Colin O'Connor
East Kentwood quarterback who threw five touchdown passes in the semifinal win.
Steph Jones
East Kentwood receiver and Grand Valley State commit who caught four touchdowns against Brighton.
The details
Quarterback Colin O'Connor connected with Steph Jones on a 6-yard pivot route touchdown to cap a 16-play drive, and later hit Jones for a 31-yard touchdown behind the safeties in the second half. Austin Nelson recorded his fifth interception in 10 games, and Alijah Bondon added a sack and multiple pressures.
Timeline
October 31, 2026: East Kentwood defeats Brighton 49-21 in the district semifinal.
Next weekend: East Kentwood faces Grand Ledge in the district final.
Seasonal Patterns
East Kentwood's 49-21 win extends its recent postseason success, following its appearance in the 2025 state semifinals. The program's deep playoff runs have made it a consistent contender in Michigan's high school football landscape.
The district final next weekend determines whether East Kentwood advances further in the state playoffs. Fans and fantasy managers tracking Colin O'Connor and Steph Jones should monitor the matchup against Grand Ledge.
The takeaway
A strong defensive effort and balanced passing attack carried East Kentwood through the semifinal. Watching how the team handles an undefeated opponent next week will show whether this form holds into the district final.
What happens next
East Kentwood plays undefeated Grand Ledge in next weekend's district final.
Further reading
For more playoff coverage, see Kentwood Football on the local sports desk.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Detroit Free Press.
