In overtime, Lakeville North’s Wade Sullivan scored on a 3-yard run and the Panthers converted the point after. On the next play, East Ridge quarterback Ty Okada responded on a read-option keeper for a 10-yard score. The Raptors, playing at home, tried to use their momentum in attempting a two-point conversion, but Panthers linebacker Reid Saarela intercepted the pass in the end zone.

Key of the game: His team trailing 17-0, Lakeville North receiver Trevor Schermann sparked a second-half rally by catching two TD passes. The first came on a 23-yard slant route, the second on a 15-yard jump ball in the end zone. He finished with four catches for 85 yards.

Quote: “We knew it was an empty backfield. [Zach Bennett] had been making big plays all game. So I kept an eye on him, and that is who they went to. I saw the quarterback and picked it off.” — Saarela on his game-clinching interception

Worth noting: East Ridge running back Dominik London had 26 carries for 153 yards and one TD.

ELLIS L. WILLIAMS

Lakeville North linebacker Reid Saarela intercepted an East Ridge attempt at a game-winning two-point conversion attempt in overtime to win the teams' season-opener 24-23.

With Lakeville North trailing 17-0 starting the second half, wide receiver Trevor Schermann caught two touchdowns to spark the Panthers' late rally.

East Ridge running back Dominick London, last year’s Class 6A leading rusher, carried 26 times for 153 yards and one touchdown.

The Panthers scored first in the overtime and converted the extra point. East Ridge answered with its own touchdown, setting up the final try for the victory.

Check back later for more on the game.