Grand Rapids Catholic Central and South Christian played countless classics as members of the OK Gold over the past two decades. Although realignment has taken them to different divisions (GRCC in the Black), it has been encouraging to see these two continue to compete in non-league contests. This Friday, it was another epic chapter that saw two teams competing hard the entire night. In the end, GRCC was able to complete a perfect regular season with a 24-17 victory.
After a scoreless first quarter, the Cougars took a 7-0 lead when Odin Spencer found Nick Schaab for a 6-yard touchdown toss. South Christian would respond with their own touchdown pass, as Austin Burgess found Owen Burgess, and the “law firm” had an explosive 53-yard equalizer.
Just seventeen seconds of gametime later, GRCC regained the lead. Spencer and Schaab were again a successful tandem, as their 30-yard pass gave them a 14-7 lead into the locker room, with Noah Zainea booting two successful extra points.
Midway through the third quarter, Spencer used his legs to pad the Cougars’ lead. The sophomore signal caller eluded tacklers for a 4-yard touchdown pass, giving GRCC a 21-7 edge. South Christian would respond with a 1-yard touchdown plunge from Owen Burgess, bringing the Sailors back within seven.
In the final quarter, both teams exchanged field goals to keep the ultimate margin at seven points. Noah Zainea’s kick was 23 yards, while Hudson Kerstetter converted a 20-yard field goal try.
South Christian actually outgained GRCC in defeat, 304-243. The Sailors won the aerial attack (216-69), while the Cougars dominated on the ground (174-88). This is the first undefeated regular season for GRCC since their 14-0 State Championship season in 2021. South Christian finishes at 4-5, their lowest regular season win total since 2015 (2-7), but the Sailors will be qualifying for the postseason in Division 4.
