Friday, October 4, 2024
In a closely contested KLAA West matchup, the Novi Wildcats overcame the Plymouth Wildcats 21-20 at PCEP JV/West Field. Both teams showcased their strengths throughout the game, with the result determined by a dramatic final quarter.
The Novi Wildcats (5-1, 5-0 in conference) started strong, opening the scoring with a 60-yard drive late in the first quarter. Senior running back Logan Ellison powered his way into the end zone from four yards out to give Novi a 6-0 lead, though a missed extra point by David Galligan left the score unchanged. The Wildcats extended their advantage in the second quarter as quarterback Johnny Aurilia capped an 80-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. Galligan converted the PAT this time, pushing Novi’s lead to 13-0.
Plymouth (1-5, 1-4 in conference) found a rhythm just before halftime. The Plymouth offense methodically moved downfield, and kicker Daniel Vigo put the home team on the board with a 33-yard field goal as the first half ended, cutting Novi’s lead to 13-3.
The third quarter saw Plymouth narrow the margin further. Quarterback Logan Pheiffer connected with receiver Jimmy Cleveland on a 30-yard touchdown pass. Vigo’s extra point brought Plymouth within three points, making it 13-10. Early in the fourth quarter, Plymouth capitalized again. Vigo nailed a 31-yard field goal following a 54-yard drive to tie the game at 13-13, setting the stage for an intense finish.
With under three minutes to play, Plymouth’s offense struck again. Pheiffer broke free for a 22-yard rushing touchdown, giving Plymouth a 20-13 lead. Vigo added the PAT to solidify the advantage, leaving Novi with limited time to respond.
Novi answered immediately. On the very next possession, Aurilia orchestrated a quick, three-play, 80-yard drive. He delivered a 71-yard touchdown pass to senior receiver Jaden Vondrasek, who broke free of the Plymouth secondary to find the end zone. On the two-point conversion attempt, Aurilia found Reece Pippin, who secured the catch to give Novi a 21-20 lead with just over two minutes remaining.
Plymouth had one last opportunity, but the Novi defense held firm. Key tackles from Pippin and the defensive line stalled Plymouth’s final drive, preserving Novi’s one-point advantage. Pippin’s performance on defense stood out, as he recorded an astonishing 22 tackles, including one for a loss. Ethan Young also made a critical impact, recovering a fumble in the first quarter to set up Novi’s opening touchdown.
Aurilia was effective throughout the game, completing 13 of 19 passes for 177 yards and one touchdown. He also contributed on the ground with 26 rushing yards and a score. Vondrasek was Aurilia’s top target, hauling in six receptions for 137 yards and the pivotal touchdown. Ellison contributed 43 rushing yards and a touchdown, adding balance to Novi’s offensive attack.
Plymouth was led by Pheiffer, who threw for 108 yards and rushed for 157 yards, including a touchdown. Cleveland added four catches for 61 yards and a score. Despite their efforts, Plymouth’s penalties (12 for 75 yards) hindered their ability to maintain momentum in key moments.
With this victory, Novi remains unbeaten in conference play and continues to strengthen its position atop the KLAA West standings.