The Nordonia High School varsity boys’ football team is gearing up for their first round of the OHSAA playoffs in Division 2 Region 5. They’ll be hosting Twinsburg High School on Friday, October 27, at 7 p.m. This game is a part of the “2023 OHSAA High School Football Playoff Brackets (Ohio)—Region 5” tournament.
The Knights head into the playoffs with a two-game winning streak, having secured victories against Brecksville-Broadview Heights and Stow-Munroe Falls in their last two regular-season games. They finished the regular season with an impressive 8-2 overall record and a 4-2 conference record, securing third place in the Suburban League National Division. Their balanced performance is evident, with an average of 27.9 points scored per game and allowing only 17.5 points per game, showcasing their versatility on both offense and defense.
On the other hand, the Tigers are also entering the playoffs with momentum, having won their last four games against Brush, Hudson, Brecksville-Broadview Heights, Stow-Munroe Falls, and North Royalton. They concluded the regular season with a respectable 6-4 overall record and a 3-3 conference record, placing them fourth in the same division as the Knights. Their offensive prowess is evident with an average of 33 points per game, and their defense held opponents to 18.5 points per game.
The Knights and the Tigers met earlier this season in a thrilling conference game on September 22 at Twinsburg High School. The Knights emerged victorious with a narrow 38-31 win after an intense battle that saw both teams exchange leads multiple times. The Knights secured the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter and defended against the Tigers’ final drive to seal the win.
Key performances for the Knights this season included quarterback Ben Chesser, who threw for 175 yards, two rushing touchdowns, and four passing touchdowns. Running back Rocco Delorenzo recorded 109 yards and seven touchdowns. Wide receiver Israel Petite caught three interceptions for 78 yards and ten touchdowns. On the defensive side, linebacker Brendan Hermensky averaged 11 tackles per game, one passing touchdown, and one fumble recovery. Defensive end Asher Wilson added nine tackles per game and one quarterback hurry.
The playoff rematch between the Knights and the Tigers promises to be an exciting and competitive game. The Knights have the advantage of playing on their home turf and the confidence from their previous win over the Tigers. However, the Tigers will be motivated to avenge their loss and potentially upset the higher-seeded Knights as both teams aim to advance to the next round of the tournament.
Brought to you by:
