The Muskegon Catholic Crusaders and Manistee Chippewas met in the final Lakes 8 game of all-time on Friday night. The Crusaders could wrap up the final championship unanimously, while Manistee was hoping to secure a share. A five-touchdown night by Elliot Riegler proved to be too much, as Muskegon Catholic Central captured a 34-0 victory.
In the first quarter, Riegler used his legs to create separation on the scoreboard. On their first possession, he reeled off a 55-yard sprint to the end zone. Three minutes later, he added a 26-yard carry for a score. The opening frame lead was extended to 20 points when Riegler ran for a 14-yard touchdown.
Over the final three quarters, Muskegon Catholic Central padded their lead with a pair of scores by Riegler. In the second quarter, Riegler used his legs for the fourth time, adding a 9-yard race to pay dirt. After halftime, Riegler found Sam Convertini for a 61-yard touchdown toss, giving MCC a commanding 34-0 lead.
Elliot Riegler finished this game with 11 carries, 130 yards and four rushing touchdown. He completed 4/5 pass attempts, tallying 112 yards and a score. Manistee was held to 106 of total offense, with Connor Beaudrie accounting for 53 yards.
This caps off the sixth Lakes 8 title for Muskegon Catholic since they joined the league in 2014. The Crusaders won the title in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020 and 2021.
Muskegon Catholic Central, now 6-1 on the season, will navigate a difficult non-conference finish in the last two weeks. They will take on Centreville next week and Oakridge in the finale. Manistee, now 4-3, will finish with Hesperia and Tri-County in non-league play.
