The DeWitt Panthers captured the Division 3 State Championship a season ago. In the regional final round, they advanced past Stevensville-Lakeshore as a result of a COVID forfeit. These two teams got a chance to battle on the field in Week 9 of the 2021 season, and the defending State Champions showed why many believe they can repeat their title. DeWitt cruised to a 50-14 victory against the Lancers.
Bryce Debri got DeWitt started with an 8-yard carry, finishing a twelve-play touchdown march. Lakeshore responded with a touchdown drive of their own, as Ryan Korfmacher aired it out, finding his favorite target Cage Davison on a 59-yard toss. Before the quarter ended, DeWitt returned to the end zone. The Panthers’ star quarterback, Ty Holtz, found Nicholas Flegler for a 35-yard score that gave the team a 15-7 lead.
Lakeshore would strike first in the second quarter, as Korfmacher and Trevor Griffiths paired up on an explosive 81-yard touchdown. Tyler Gates‘ extra point trimmed the deficit to one, 15-14. This would be the final points scored by the Lancers in the game. DeWitt would add a quarterback keeper by Holtz in the closing minute of the half to take a 22-14 lead at the break.
The second half was all DeWitt, as they outscored Lakeshore 28-0. Holtz rushed for the opening score of the half, a 7-yard carry that was the only score in the third quarter. Flegler added an 11-yard score in the opening plays of the final frame. Holtz would score twice more, once through the air and the other on the ground. Jonathan Warner was on the receiving end of Holtz’ pass, an 81-yard scoring play.
Tyler Holtz finished 15/22 passing for 223 yards and two touchdowns. He also added 119 yards rushing on 16 carries. Nicholas Fleger added 79 rushing yards for DeWitt to go along with 50 receiving yards.
Lakeshore saw Korfmacher complete just 9/24 passes for 191 yards and two scores. Turnovers were a problem, with Korfmacher tossing four interceptions. Andrew Lies was the Lancers’ leading rusher with 32 yards.
Both teams are headed to the playoffs in Division 3. DeWitt will enter with an 8-1 record, while Stevensville Lakeshore is 6-3. Their postseason paths will be revealed on Sunday.
