The Frankenmuth Eagles and Freeland Falcons have been two of the mid-state’s best programs in the past decade. These conference foes have played several thrilling battles in that stretch, however Frankenmuth entered Friday winners of four straight in the series. This contest between the rivals saw both teams ranked #2 in their respective Divisions, and the game lived up to its billing. In the end, an extra point proved to be the difference, as Frankenmuth extended its winning streak with a 21-20 victory, securing the TVC crown in the process.
On the opening drive of the contest, Freeland drove the length of the field, covering sixty-five yards. They were unable to cross the goal line before facing a pivotal 4th down at the 1-yard line. Frankenmuth’s defensive front, anchored by Michigan State commit Derrick Simmons stonewalled the Falcons’ attack.
This defensive charge was for naught, as Freeland’s defense forced a fumble on the ensuing exchange for the Frankenmuth offense. Since the Eagles took over at their own 1-yard line, the exchange was in the end zone, where Garrett Kain was able to pounce on it for a Freeland touchdown. A successful PAT gave the Falcons an early 7-0 edge.
Frankenmuth would answer, compiling a lengthy 8-play, 80-yard touchdown drive. Aiden Labissoniere delivered the final punch, scoring from five yards out. They converted the extra point, leveling the score at seven.
Another lengthy Eagles drive would give them the 14-7 advantage during the second quarter. This march took 15 plays to cover 50 yards, but in the end, a Logan Diener touchdown run gave Frankenmuth their first lead of the evening.
Freeland would respond later in the half, using a dynamic passing play. Jake Metiva took to the air, pairing up with Wilson Huckeby on a 37-yard touchdown strike. The teams would enter the locker room deadlocked at 14.
In the third quarter, Freeland faced some resistance. It took them eleven plays to go 57 yards, and they were standing at the Frankenmuth 1 yard line. They had already attempted to bully their way across the goal line, but on the twelfth play of the series, it finally worked. Keenan Cooper put the Falcons back ahead by six, but the conversion attempt failed, leaving the door open for Frankenmuth.
In the fourth quarter, with time dwindling, Frankenmuth was able to find their equalizer. They again relied on Diener to put points on the board, though this time his power came from a yard out. The Eagles sent out their kicker for the go-ahead PAT attempt, and it soared through the uprights. This heartbreak would send Freeland to its first loss in 2024, while Frankenmuth celebrated a league title in front of a road atmosphere.
The Eagles were able to win this game despite attempting just one pass. Frankenmuth rushed for 218 yards as a team in this victory. Jake Metiva passed for 194 yards in defeat for Freeland, with 117 going to Wilson Huckeby.
Freeland will conclude their 2024 regular season next week against Cadillac, while Frankenmuth is set to face Gladwin. Both Frankenmuth and Freeland are going to play the following week in the postseason, so these games serve as a great tune-up for that purpose against quality opponents.
