In an epic clash on the gridiron, the Oak Park High School Northmen went head-to-head with the Grain Valley Eagles in a thrilling Friday night football match that kept fans on the edge of their seats. While we aim to provide an unbiased account of the game, it's hard not to applaud the remarkable performance of the Oak Park Northmen in this heart-pounding contest.

First Quarter

The game kicked off with the Grain Valley Eagles striking first with a 48-yard run by #1 Noah Olah for a touchdown, coupled with a successful kick by #95 Ben Drinkwater, giving them an early 7-0 lead. But the Oak Park Northmen responded with flair as #2 ‘24 Aiden Hinkle executed a dazzling 5-yard run, followed by a pinpoint extra point by #81 ‘25  Zander Culp, leveling the score at 7-. Both teams' defenses had to find their footing in this first half, with multiple flags thrown against the teams, including horse-collar tackles, offsides, and pass interference. 

Second Quarter

The second quarter witnessed an intense exchange of blows between the two teams. Grain Valley managed to gain a narrow advantage with a 21-yard field goal by #95 Drinkwater, taking the score to 7-10. However, the Oak Park Northmen threw the Grain Valley defense with a trick play by #14 ‘25 Drew Clemens and #7 ‘24 Evan Braxton, resulting in a 33-yard touchdown pass, alongside another flawless extra point, bringing the score to 14-10 Oak Park. Grain Valley, not to be outdone, responded with a 32-yard run from #12 Ty Williams, retaking the lead at 14-17. Still, the Northmen's resilience shone through as #1 ‘25 Travon Pankey scored a 1-yard run, even though the extra point was missed, resulting in a 20-17 lead for Oak Park. The Grain Valley Eagles had the last say, leaving the half with a 21-yard touchdown run from #12 Williams and an excellent kick by #95 Drinkwater. The score at the half was 20-24 Grain Valley. 

Third Quarter

The third quarter presented its share of challenges for Oak Park as Grain Valley surged forward with #3 Sal Caldarella throwing a 18-yard touchdown pass to #10 Jacob Moore. Drinkwaters kick was good, and The Northmen fought valiantly, with #2 ‘24 Aiden Hinkle adding another touchdown with an impressive 6-yard run, although the two-point conversion fell short, making it 26-31.

Fourth Quarter

In a heart-pounding fourth quarter, the Oak Park Northmen exhibited their unwavering determination. With 19 seconds left #2 Aiden Hinkle, who had been a standout performer throughout the game, sealed the deal with a crucial 2-yard touchdown. Although the two-point conversion attempts were unsuccessful, the Northmen's defense held strong, with #3 ‘25 Donovan Ross intercepting the final throw of the game, securing a thrilling 32-31 victory.

In the end, the Oak Park High School Northmen emerged as the triumphant victors in a game that will be remembered for years to come. Their unwavering spirit, exceptional plays, and dedication to the game were truly commendable. Congratulations to the Oak Park Northmen for their hard-fought and well-deserved win, and kudos to both teams for providing fans with an incredible display of high school football talent and sportsmanship.

Oak Park invites The Truman Patriots to a long-awaited match up. This will be Oak Park's homecoming game, so tensions will be high for the Northmen. Kick off is at 7 p.m. on September 15th, show out and be loud! #ForTheFamily.