West Liberty, W.Va. - As West Liberty football approaches its 100th season in 2025, all eyes are on the Hilltoppers' quarterback room. With five capable signal-callers competing for reps, the battle under center promises to set the tone for the season.

West Liberty head coach Roger Waialae enters his 21st season with a good problem at quarterback: depth, talent, and competition.

"This is the deepest group of quarterbacks I've had in my time here with talent," Waialae said. "And I'd feel comfortable playing any of the five." That depth gives the Hilltoppers a range of options as fall camp unfolds, and Waialae says he's not afraid to rotate quarterbacks if that's what it takes to win.

Leading the group is redshirt-junior Levi Gullion, the lone returner with game experience in the Black and Gold. Gullion appeared in four games last season, completing 49 of 99 passes for 715 yards, with seven touchdowns and four interceptions. His familiarity with the offense gives him a head start, but the competition is fierce.

Transfers Kohl Meisman (So.) and Jaren Brickner (R-So.) both made strong impressions during spring ball. Meisman, who arrives from San Bernardino Valley College, threw for 1,399 yards and six touchdowns in 10 games during the 2023 season while completing 53% of his passes. Brickner, a former Fairmont State signal caller, saw limited action but showed promise in spring drills.

Two additional transfers bring even more intrigue to the quarterback room. Antevious Jackson (Jr.), from DeAnza College, put up eye-popping numbers in 2024—3,164 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, just four interceptions, and added 533 rushing yards with nine rushing scores. Dual-threat ability and efficiency make him an immediate candidate—if he can master the playbook quickly. Similarly, Harry Kanu (Jr.) joins the squad after limited time at Peru State and will also need to adapt fast to compete for reps.

With five quarterbacks all bringing something different to the table, Waialae says the battle will come down to one key element: decision-making.

"Our quarterbacks have a lot of freedom. They're expected to get us into the right play before the snap," Waialae explained. "That's where we've struggled the last few years—making the right decisions. It'll come down to who has the knowledge and the guts to make the right call when it matters most."

As the Hilltoppers head toward the season opener, all eyes will be on the quarterback room—loaded, talented, and still very much up for grabs.

The Hilltoppers open the season August 28 at Walsh University, the home opener is September 6th against Seton Hill University at 1 p.m. at West Family Stadium.