By JOSH FRYE
News Sportswriter
Northview’s Chiefs fell short in a close contest for the second consecutive week, coming out on the short end of a 14-12 decision against the Baker Gators last Friday, September 13, bringing Northview’s season record to 1-2.
Baker extended its regular season win streak to 32 games with the victory over the Chiefs. The Gators, who took advantage of five NHS turnovers, have not lost a regular season game since 2015. Northview has not secured a victory over BHS since the 2012 championship season.
Quarterback Ben Wilson led the Chiefs offense onto the field for the start of the game. NHS started out with confidence but lost the ball after two consecutive bad-snap fumbles. Baker was not able to convert either of the miscues into points.
With only 19 seconds left to play in the first quarter, the Gators punted the ball away for the first time this season. Boston College recruit Jaylen Jackson snatched the ball for the Chiefs and exploded downfield, drawing first blood with a 55-yard touchdown. Damerion Findley attempted a two-point conversion run but was stopped short.
The 6-0 NHS lead marked the first time the Gators have trailed this season.
The Chiefs continued strong defensive play against BHS, starting the second quarter by recovering a Gators fumble from deep inside the NHS zone with 6:45 left to play in the half.
With 13 seconds left, BHS launched a 26-yard touchdown pass, followed up by an extra-point kick, taking a 7-6 lead at the half.
The Gators struck the Chiefs defense again with 1:18 left to go in the third period after taking advantage of an unsportsmanlike penalty on NHS. The penalty gave Baker excellent field position, and BHS took advantage, scoring on a 3-yard run, followed by an extra point that extending the Gators lead to 14-6.
The Chiefs answered back on the very next drive with another burst of speed from Jackson that covered 61 yards. NHS attempted another two-point conversion but again came up short, and neither team could get on the board again in the final period.
Jackson also had a good night on defense, coming up with an interception and a fumble recovery, while Trent Peebles led the defensive charge with 8 tackles, including two big hits.
Individual offensive stats were not available by Tuesday’s press deadline.
Northview will travel to play Holmes County this Friday, September 20.