La Salle Football: A Historic Journey to the Regional Final

In 2014, La Salle soared to new heights, showcasing a fierce competitive spirit that set it apart from the pack. Week 12 was a testament to their prowess as the Lancers faced off against Harrison in a Division II regional semifinal. The top-seeded La Salle team (11-1) put on a stunning display of skill and determination, triumphing over the fifth-seeded Harrison with a score of 56-24. This marked a historic moment for the school— their first-ever advance to the regional final.

The running game was nothing short of phenomenal, led by junior running back Jeremy Larkin, who dazzled the crowd with a record-breaking performance. He smashed the single-game school record, scoring five touchdowns and racking up a jaw-dropping 304 yards on just 15 carries. "Offensively, we executed our game plan and ran the ball effectively," said La Salle head coach Nate Moore. "I'm incredibly proud of these young men; their hard work has paid off. However, our focus must now shift back to preparation starting tomorrow."

The excitement kicked off with junior quarterback Nick Watson leading the charge, scoring with a one-yard touchdown run during La Salle's opening drive. Though Harrison tried to shift momentum with a fumble recovery that led to a 25-yard field goal, bringing the score to 7-3, it was clear this would not be their night. After that, they attempted an onside kick, clearly desperate to reclaim control. But La Salle was ready, recovering the ball and quickly extending their lead when Larkin dashed 31 yards for another touchdown, making it 14-3.

By the end of the first quarter, Larkin was already making headlines, amassing 76 yards on just four carries, with sophomore running back Jarell White adding to the offense significantly. "It feels incredible to achieve this victory and take the next step toward round three," Larkin reflected after the game. By halftime, he had racked up 141 yards and three touchdowns, while White added 99 yards and a touchdown, with La Salle averaging over 14 yards per carry.

Just before halftime, Harrison mounted a determined 14-play, 67-yard drive, capped off with a touchdown pass from senior quarterback Jake Weber to Gerald Smith, but the score was still lopsided at 35-10. On the defensive front, La Salle kept a firm grip on Harrison’s offense, forcing them into a passing game that rarely found its rhythm. Weber completed 12 of 19 passes for 112 yards in the first half, but La Salle's defense was relentless.

Having rallied themselves from a staggering 29-point deficit in the previous matchup, Harrison tried to spark another comeback. The second half began with more determination as they scored again, narrowing the gap to 35-17 after Weber connected with Smith for his second touchdown. But like a seasoned athlete responding to a challenge, Larkin swiftly dashed 71 yards untouched, reestablishing the commanding lead.

La Salle's defense kept the pressure on, intercepting Weber and allowing the Lancers to capitalize on their momentum. Watson raced down the field, adding a 15-yard touchdown, pushing the score to 49-17 by the end of the third quarter.

After three quarters, La Salle had built a staggering 456 rushing yards, demonstrating their total dominance on the ground. With a running clock in the fourth quarter and La Salle comfortably ahead, Harrison shifted gears to the air, scoring with a seven-yard touchdown from Weber to Mitchell Hogue, bringing the score to 49-24. They attempted yet another onside kick, their fourth of the game, but once again, La Salle was prepared and snatched the ball, sealing the deal on a spectacular victory.

Next on the horizon for La Salle is a crucial showdown with Mount Healthy, who recently routed Kings with a score of 47-14. The regional final is set for Friday at 7:30 p.m., with the venue yet to be determined. As the Lancers gear up for this next challenge, they aim to make history and elevate their legacy among the best.

As a Client Advocate for Premier-Rx, I strive to bring the same commitment to excellence and success in my professional endeavors, echoing the determination and triumph displayed by La Salle on the field.

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