Cleveland Heights Turns the Tide in Thrilling Win Over Hudson
In the heart of Northeast Ohio, two of the region's top high school football teams prepared for a clash that was about more than just a game; it was a statement. Both Hudson and Cleveland Heights had impressive 2022 seasons. Hudson went undefeated in the regular season, only to fall to Hoban in the Regional Finals. Heights had a 9-1 regular-season record but suffered a gut-wrenching 50-49 loss to St. Ignatius in the playoffs. This year, both teams were eager to prove themselves once again.
The Backdrop
Hudson entered the game with a 2-0 record, fresh off a 45-8 win over North Canton Hoover. Ian Ludewig, their star running back, had set a school record with 345 yards in that game. On the other side, Cleveland Heights was 1-1, still smarting from a narrow 43-41 loss to Paramus Catholic from New Jersey. Despite the loss, Marquise Davis had put up an impressive 194 yards and two touchdowns. "The main thing was to get these guys to understand we lost to a very good team last week," said Cleveland Heights' Head Coach Mac Stephens, emphasizing the importance of bouncing back.
A Strong Start for Hudson
The game kicked off with Hudson making an immediate statement. Ludewig led a meticulously executed 3:42-minute drive that culminated in a one-yard touchdown plunge. The crowd erupted, and their enthusiasm reached a fever pitch when Teagan O’Guinn blocked a punt, running it back 45 yards for another touchdown. With a 17-0 lead, Hudson seemed to have the game well in hand.
The Tigers Roar Back
Just when it seemed like Hudson had the game in the bag, Cleveland Heights found a spark that ignited their comeback. Marquise Davis, the versatile running back and linebacker, took matters into his own hands. With his team down 17-0 and their backs against the wall, Davis exploded for a 60-yard touchdown run that electrified the Heights' sideline and fans. Though the extra point was blocked, the energy shift was beginning to be felt.
"We just had to get our kids settled down," said Coach Mac Stephens, acknowledging the early struggles. The touchdown served as a catalyst, not just for Davis, but for the entire Cleveland Heights team. It was a statement run, a clear signal that the Tigers were not going to go down without a fight.
A Tale of Two Quarters
The second quarter was a rollercoaster of emotions. Henry Perryman's interception for Cleveland Heights set the stage for another Davis touchdown, narrowing the gap to 17-14. Then, in a play that left the crowd stunned, Davis sprinted 93 yards for another score, flipping the script and giving Cleveland Heights a 21-17 lead. Hudson's fortunes took a further hit when Ludewig was injured and had to exit the game.
The Final Acts
The third quarter saw Davis find the end zone once more, extending the Tigers' lead. Hudson's Noah Broski responded with a touchdown, but a missed extra point left them trailing. As the clock ticked down, Cleveland Heights' Amaar Lakes connected with Henry Perryman for another touchdown, widening the gap to 34-23. "Our offensive and defensive coordinators did a great job making adjustments at halftime," said Coach Stephens, praising his coaching staff.
The Eleventh-Hour Drama
Hudson wasn't done fighting. Teagan O’Guinn scored from eight yards out, and a successful two-point conversion brought them within striking distance. Despite their best efforts, time was not on their side, and Cleveland Heights held on for a 34-31 victory.
Reflections and Forward-Looking Statements
Marquise Davis, who finished the game with an astounding 333 rushing yards and four touchdowns, was modest in victory. "I feel okay with today's performance, but I'm not satisfied," he said. Coach Mac Stephens praised his team's resilience, stating, "Our kids have been through some real turmoil this week, but they fought through it and played well."
In a game that had it all—dramatic comebacks, standout performances, and last-minute thrills—both teams showed why they are again top programs this season. "We were blessed last year by playing young talent, and it is starting to pay off now," Coach Stephens reflected, looking ahead to the future.