West Bloomfield, MI — This part week the West Bloomfield Laker Defense met its toughest challenge to date in the Highlanders from Rochester Adams High School. Both teams entered the game undefeated but defense and special teams helped propel the Lakers to a 12-6 win in what was a classic OAA Red Battle. Senior defensive linemen Kamari Pittman, Joel Evans, and Jeremiah Benson set the tone early, rising to the occasion with a goal line stand after a botched punt snap. Will Espy and Jamal Shakespear helped support the line along with linebackers Ezekiel Davis and Kyren Merriwether. Espy and Shakespear also teamed up with Obi Duru to spearhead the Laker rushing attack on offense, combining for 155 yards on 34 carries and a touchdown. Shakespear also blocked a punt in the 3rd quarter in what was a pivotal play in the game. The win makes the team 3-0 on the season and 1-0 in the always competitive OAA Red Division. West Bloomfield hits the road next week for the first time in 2025, traveling to fellow OAA Red member Lake Orion.