Game at a glance

The Spring Lake Park offense found almost no production passing the ball in its season opener, but came out on top behind a grind-it-out running game. Senior quarterback Zachary Ojile executed the read option early and often, running hard inside and finding rushers Nick Robinson and Anthony Fleischfresser for pitches to the outside.

Key of the game: Trailing late in the third quarter, Spring Lake Park needed and got a momentum-shifting play when Ojile burst through the line and powered his way to a 28-yard touchdown run.

Quote: “We just had to get [a touchdown] one way or another and that was the play. We just went out and scored.” — Ojile on his 28-yard touchdown rush.

Worth noting: The Chaska offense was multidimensional. Senior quarterback Alex Strazzanti found success rushing, running back Will Olson bounced outside for a 12-yard touchdown run and Strazzanti showed off his chemistry with wide receiver Connor Souba. Strazzanti targeted Souba heavily in the first half, completing four passes to him on one drive.

JACK SATZINGER

First report

Spring Lake Park erased a seven-point second half deficit to start its season with a 21-14 victory. The Panthers trailed 14-7 in the third quarter when Zachary Ojile took control.

The senior quarterback burst through the middle, broke several tackles, and ran 28 yards for a touchdown. A few minutes later, he capped another drive with a strong rushing touchdown.

Spring Lake Park's offense relied heavily on the run, while the Hawks featured a balanced offense. Alex Strazzanti, quarterback, and running back Will Olson combined for steady run production and wide receiver Connor Souba provided a heavy dose of receptions. That versatility wasn't enough in the end, though, as the Panthers came out on top.

Check back later for more on the game.


Zachary Ojile