Warren Central dominated the game early, building a 13-0 first-quarter lead. The Warriors scored on a 55-yard touchdown run by Shaquille Breeding, and Ronnie Alexander’s 5-yard scoring pass from quarterback Kyle Faunce.
But North Central battled back. Ben Stoller nailed a 35-yard field goal with 3:56 left in the second quarter. After Stoller’s successful pooch kick recovered by the Panthers, NC’s running back, Kevin Davis, raced up the middle for a 37-yard score, pulling NC within three points at 13-10.
After Davis’ touchdown, time and Warren Central’s strong special teams play put North Central away. North Central was forced to punt from its own 21-yard line, but Warren Central’s strong rush resulted in a 3-yard punt, putting the Warriors 24 yards away from another score with under 2 minutes left in the half. The Warriors’ drive was started with a holding penalty and ended with 1-yard run by McFarland Dominique with only 10 seconds left on the clock. Warren led 20-10 at the half.
Warren Central’s special teams continued to impact the game. North Central was forced to punt from its own 23-yard-line. But the Warriors nearly blocked another punt, resulting in a negative 2-yard punt, putting WC at NC’s 21. The Warriors took advantage again, getting a 5-yard run from Faunce. The Warriors led 27-10.
When North Central punted successfully In the third quarter, Warren Central’s Karn Utter returned the punt 62-yards for a touchdown, making the score 34-10.
By the time North Central scored on a 45-yard touchdown from Gavin Alexander to Krayshawn Brewer, the game was over. The TD made the score 34-16. Alexander finished the game 10-of-23 passing for 159 yards. North Central Jordan Williams had five catches for 39 yards and Matt Hicks added three catches for 57 yards.
