Week One Drama: Three Top 5 Teams Suffer Early Defeats

no.4 Westfield 34, no.2 Center Grove 28

In a thrilling Week 1 matchup, three top-five teams were upset, with No. 4 Westfield delivering a significant blow to No. 2 Center Grove, winning 34-28. Westfield’s Gabe Aramboles was a standout performer, contributing two touchdowns—one receiving and one passing. The Shamrocks’ quarterback Carsen Melvin had an efficient night, completing 12 of 15 passes for 178 yards with no interceptions. Aramboles was his favorite target, hauling in 7 catches for 138 yards.

Despite the loss, Center Grove’s offense was potent, led by their new quarterback, Gabe McWilliams, who threw for 328 yards, completing 23 of 33 attempts. The Trojans also had strong performances on the ground from Nolan Rees, who rushed for 108 yards, and Brevin Holubar, who added 116 receiving yards. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome Westfield’s balanced attack.

Columbus North 41, no.5 Decatur Central 15

Up the road, No. 5 Decatur Central suffered a tough loss, falling to Columbus North 41-15. The Bull Dogs came out strong and maintained their momentum throughout the game. Senior running back Gino Prescott was the driving force behind the upset, scoring three rushing touchdowns. Quarterback Asher Ratliff also had a standout performance, throwing for three touchdowns to help seal the victory for Columbus North.

no.11 Cathedral 24, no.1 Ben Davis 6

In perhaps the biggest upset of the night, No. 11 Cathedral dominated the defending 6A champion Ben Davis, securing a stunning 24-6 victory. The Irish imposed their will on the ground, rushing for 268 yards, with standout Jalen Bonds leading the charge. New quarterback Cameron Koers managed the game efficiently, completing 9 of his 17 pass attempts for 79 yards.

Ben Davis struggled mightily on offense, unable to generate any significant momentum. Their only points came from a defensive highlight—a tipped pass that Notre Dame recruit Mark Zackery intercepted and returned 100 yards for a touchdown. Despite that spectacular play, the Giants couldn’t overcome Cathedral’s relentless attack.