Ishpeming wins MHSAA football title
The Ishpeming Hematites are the MHSAA Division 7 football champions for the second straight season. Ishpeming defeated Detroit Loyola, 22-12 in the state championship game today at Ford Field.
Ishpeming recovered the opening kickoff and turned it into six points, as quarterback Alex Briones connected with Marcus Antilla for a 17-yard touchdown. Adam Prisk ran the two point conversion into the end zone to make it 8-0 Ishpeming.
The Hematites increased their lead to 14-0 in the second quarter, as Briones was able to find Mitch Laurin for a 3-yard touchdown pass. Ishpeming’s defense forced two interceptions in the second quarter. Tyrus Millimaki and Bobby Zhulkie each came up with an interception in the first half.
The Hematites scored their third touchdown of the game in the third quarter, as Briones was able to run it in from 1-yard out for the touchdown. Ishpeming converted on the two point conversion attempt making it 22-0 Hematites.
Detroit Loyola was able to score two touchdowns in the second half, but the Hematites defense kept the Bulldogs offense in check most of the day. Ishpeming defensive back Ozzy Corp had an interception with 1:31 to go in the fourth quarter to secure the victory for the Hematites.
The Hematites won their fourth state championship in school history.