BREAKING: Glenville High School’s football team has just secured a thrilling 26-21 victory over defending champions Indian Valley, earning a spot in the OHSAA Division IV state championship. The decisive win took place at Minerva High School’s Dr. Robert Hines Stadium, where Glenville overcame a significant deficit with a late-game touchdown from Da’Von McDougle.
The Tarblooders’ victory was sealed with a crucial fourth-down stop against Indian Valley’s Grady Kinsey, showcasing their tenacity and determination. Glenville now shifts its focus to the upcoming championship game against Shelby, set for 10:30 a.m. this Friday at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.
Glenville, with a strong record of 11-3, faces a formidable opponent in Shelby’s quarterback, Brayden DeVito. DeVito, a finalist for Mr. Football, has led the Whippets to an impressive 14-0 season, including a stunning performance last week where he threw for 69 touchdowns this year alone.
“He’s probably one of the most athletic quarterbacks that we’ve seen this year,” said Glenville coach Ted Ginn Sr. during Tuesday’s OHSAA media teleconference.
In their previous encounter, Glenville triumphed over Shelby with a decisive 50-14 win in the regional semifinals two years ago. However, this rematch promises to be more intense, with Shelby featuring DeVito, who has registered 3,144 yards passing and 41 touchdowns against only three interceptions this season.
Glenville is aiming for its third state championship in four years, bolstered by its own Mr. Football finalist, Cincere Johnson. Johnson has been a defensive powerhouse, recording 17 total tackles in the semifinal game alongside multiple forced fumbles. He is committed to Ohio State and has proven essential in leading the Tarblooders through this playoff run.
“Our community believes and trusts in us to be an example of hope for our children,” Ginn remarked, emphasizing the team’s role in inspiring local youth.
As both teams prepare for this high-stakes showdown, Glenville’s players, including senior safety C.J. Newell and junior running back Romell Phillips, are ready to rise to the challenge. Newell, a Bowling Green recruit, is expected to make significant contributions on both sides of the ball.
For fans eager to catch the action, all state championship games will be broadcast live by Spectrum, with additional viewing details available on the OHSAA’s official website.
This matchup not only represents a chance for Glenville to reclaim its former glory but also illustrates the community’s passion for high school football in Ohio. With the stakes at an all-time high, this championship showdown is set to be a thrilling spectacle.
