The second week of the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) football season saw some standout performances, particularly from the Okemos Wolves and the Ithaca Yellowjackets, both of whom improved their records to 2-0. This week’s games showcased a mix of dominant victories and thrilling finishes across various matchups.
In Grand Rapids, the Okemos Wolves faced off against Grand Rapids Union and emerged victorious with a convincing 21-0 win. Quarterback Blake Burke had a stellar game, passing for 167 yards and throwing two touchdown passes. His targets, Brett Burak and Andy Peng, each contributed with touchdown receptions. Additionally, Jalen Mitchell-Castilla added a rushing touchdown, while Rylan Rapson made his mark on defense with an interception, helping Okemos achieve its first 2-0 start since 2017.
Meanwhile, the Olivet Eagles dominated Lansing Catholic with a score of 54-12. Kellen Rabakon was the star of the game, rushing for 161 yards and scoring four touchdowns. His teammates also contributed significantly, with Caleb Waffle adding 63 rushing yards and a touchdown, and Aaron Golomski chipping in with another rushing score. For Lansing Catholic, Emmett Eyde managed to throw for 75 yards and two touchdowns, but it was not enough to turn the tide.
In a closely contested matchup, Saranac edged out Maple Valley with a narrow 15-14 victory. Gabe Webb was instrumental for the Red Hawks, rushing for a game-high 70 yards and scoring two touchdowns in the second half, including a crucial 2-point conversion that secured the win. Maple Valley's Darren Carpenter threw for 72 yards and a touchdown, but ultimately fell short.
St. Johns showcased their offensive prowess with a 35-6 win over Ionia. Archer Gurski led the charge with 113 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Connor Kurncz also had a productive day, throwing for 112 yards and two touchdown passes. The Redwings' balanced attack proved too much for Ionia, who struggled to keep pace.
Perry continued its strong start to the season by defeating Detroit Osborn 38-6. Tyger Whitbeck had an impressive outing, completing 14 of 19 passes for 261 yards and three touchdowns. His standout receiver, Alex Rockafellow, made seven catches for 161 yards and a touchdown while also contributing defensively with seven tackles and an interception.
Ithaca delivered an impressive performance against Allen Park Cabrini, winning decisively with a score of 54-0. Quarterback Gibson Rondy was perfect on the day, completing all 13 of his passes for 274 yards and four touchdowns, along with a rushing score. His top targets included Connor McMurphy and Michael Sheler, who each caught touchdown passes, showcasing the Yellowjackets' explosive offense.
Other notable games included Hastings defeating Williamston 50-21, Fenton edging Haslett 27-20, and Birch Run overcoming Ovid-Elsie 31-21. In a thrilling triple overtime contest, Jonesville narrowly defeated Leslie 64-62, with Joel Cranmore accounting for seven touchdowns in a remarkable individual performance.
As the MHSAA season progresses, teams are beginning to establish their identities, and the early results indicate a competitive landscape ahead. With several teams already showing promise, fans can look forward to more exciting matchups in the weeks to come.
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