by OHSAA Division 2 Regional Finals: Avon Eagles vs Highland Hornets. FULL HIGHLIGHT VIDEO!
https://youtu.be/zrQt2peQQUE?si=F6UOLdz-LnVQaFdu
The Avon Eagles have advanced to the Division 2 State Semi-Finals after incredible performances from Jakorion Caffey and Matt Maxey. Caffey led the Eagles on the ground with 106 yards and 3 touchdowns. Maxey was the only receiver to have a catch for Avon, but he did damage. Maxey put up 9 catches for 136 yards and a touchdown.
Much of the 1st quarter was a defensive battle for both teams. Avon’s opening drive lasted 6 plays but ended in a punt. The next 3 drives combined, there was not a single first down earned by either side. Avon finally got the scoring going with a 9-play 73-yard scoring drive late in the 1st. They capped off the drive with a 19-yard touchdown pass from Blake Elder to Matt Maxey.
Avon’s defense made it difficult for the Highland offense to get in any kind of rhythm in the first half. Late in the 2nd quarter, Carson Canning made an incredible play on the ball and intercepted Peyton Janickas to give Avon possession. Just 2 plays later, Jakorion Caffey found the endzone to give Avon a 14-0 lead. On Highland’s ensuing drive, they had the ball deep in Eagles’ territory. With a 4th and short, linebacker Cole Paonessa came screaming off the edge for a sack. Heading into the break, Avon held a 14-0 lead.
Highland got off to a fast start in the 2nd half. On their opening drive, they marched 59 yards in 11 plays. Peyton Janickas finished off the drive with a 1-yard keeper for a touchdown. Highland’s defense stepped up as well forcing a quick 3-and-out to get the ball right back. The Eagles came right back, however, forcing a 3-and-out of their own.
Avon’s offense got right back into rhythm on their next drive. On a 3rd and long, Matt Maxey made an incredible diving catch for 36 yards to keep the drive alive. Moments later, Jakorion Caffey found the endzone for his 2nd time. This time it was from 4 yards out. Heading into the final quarter, the Eagles were up big 21-7.
Just like they did in the 3rd, Highland came out in the 4th in full drive. Peyton Janickas found running back Casey Myser out of the backfield on a screen pass. Myser and the blockers did the rest as he scampered for a 48-yard touchdown. After the PAT, Highland cut the lead to 21-14.
Late in the 4th, the Hornets had a chance to tie the game. However, Avon had other ideas. They forced a turnover on downs and would put the nail in the coffin with Jakorion Caffey’s 3rd touchdown of the game. As time expired, Avon came out on top with a 28-14 victory and advanced to the State Semi-Finals.
Avon will play Akron Archbishop Hoban in the D2 State Semi-Finals. The location is to be determined within the coming days by the OHSAA.
Players of the Game
Avon WR Matt Maxey: 9 catches, 136 yards, 1 TD
Highland RB Casey Myser: 15 carries for 47 yards; 2 catches, 68 yards, 1 TD
