We have reached an endpoint to our 2021 IHSAA football season, and with that comes a weekend full of football ranging from 1A-6A state championships. 1A’s Adams Central vs. Indianapolis Lutheran kicked our weekend off, and it was certainly no disappointment!

   Adams Central drove down the field on their first possession in what was a textbook-perfect drive. Jets RB Blake Heyerly finished the drive pushing the ball into the end zone from 2 yards out. It was not long until ACHS put more points on the board as Nick Neunschwander returned a punt 59 yards and to the end zone breaking a record for the longest punt return touchdown in the 1A State Finals history. Lutheran had an answer of their own as junior Micah Mackay caught a screen pass and brought it over 30 yards for the Saints’ first points of the night. 

   Adams Central managed to use half of the clock in the second quarter and capped off with a touchdown from star running back Blake Heyerly once again. Once Lutheran’s offense failed to convert on 4th and 12, a fumble recovered by the Saints Will Hall put the ball right back in their hands and into scoring position. Lutheran managed to end the half off with a sweep to Jake Pasch for 6 more points. Adams Central led 21-14 at halftime. 

   Lutheran was set to receive the ball to start the second half. They certainly did not disappoint as Jake Pasch caught a deep ball to tie the game up. Lutheran continued their momentum throughout the third quarter. Montasi Clay connected to Micah Mackay for a +70 yard touchdown. 

After multiple failed 4th down conversions, Nick Neunschwander came up big for the second time and returned an interception 60 yards to set the Jets up in scoring position. Yet after failing to convert on 4th and goal at the 20, Adams Central came up with another big play as Ryan Tester committed a perfect strip to force a fumble. This time, the Jets offense took advantage as Blake Heyerly got into the end zone for the third time tonight. Adam Central’s luck ran out as Montasi Clay orchestrated a beautiful drive that ended with Clay running 11 yards and into the end zone to put Lutheran up with just a minute left. The extra point was missed but became a non-factor as Cur’Brian Shelby picked off Ryan Blacks pass to seal the game in Lutheran’s favor.

Indianapolis Lutheran capped off an undefeated season with a 34 to 28 win over Adam Central and became the 1A State Champions!