Walsh Jesuit Dominates Nordonia 49-18 in Division II Playoff Opener
Walsh Jesuit secured a decisive 49-18 victory over Nordonia in the Division II, Region 5 quarterfinal on Friday, Nov. 7, marking the first clash between the two high school football programs this century. The win propels Walsh Jesuit into the regional semifinal, while ending Nordonia’s playoff run.
A Historic Matchup and Playoff Path
For the first time in 21 years, Walsh Jesuit and Nordonia faced off on the football field, with the stakes heightened by a playoff berth. Walsh, the second seed with a 9-1 record, entered the game with a first-round bye. Nordonia, seeded seventh at 8-4, advanced to the quarterfinal after a hard-fought 27-24 win against Twinsburg. The winner of this contest will now face the victor of the No. 3 Austintown Fitch versus No. 11 Green matchup.
Walsh Jesuit Seizes Control Early
Walsh Jesuit wasted no time establishing dominance. On the very first play from scrimmage, senior running back Marty Tobin exploded for an 80-yard touchdown run, giving Walsh a quick 7-0 lead. The Warriors continued to build momentum throughout the first quarter, culminating in a 24-yard touchdown pass from junior quarterback David Ternosky to senior wide receiver Milan Parris as time expired, extending their lead to 14-8.
Nordonia Responds with Trickery
Nordonia briefly seized the lead in the first quarter with a clever trick play. After moving the ball downfield, senior running back Connor Whapham scored a 4-yard touchdown. Instead of attempting an extra point, the Knights successfully converted a two-point attempt when quarterback Steven Fakult connected with junior wide receiver Collin Atha in a swinging-gate formation, taking an 8-7 advantage.
Ternosky Injury Shifts Momentum, Biel Steps Up
The game took a turn late in the second quarter when Walsh Jesuit’s starting quarterback, David Ternosky, was injured during an 8-yard run. He was able to walk off the field, but was sidelined for the remainder of the game. Junior quarterback Ben Biel stepped in as his replacement and immediately made an impact, connecting with junior wide receiver Cambell Lann for a 13-yard touchdown on his first pass, restoring Walsh’s lead to 28-8.
Walsh Pulls Away in the Second Half
Walsh Jesuit continued to extend its lead after halftime. A 14-point third quarter, fueled by a strong running game and opportunistic defense, pushed the score to 42-15. Tobin continued to be a force, scoring both a 25-yard receiving touchdown and a 29-yard rushing touchdown during the quarter. A fumble recovery by senior defensive lineman Cade Romanini set up one of Tobin’s scores.
Running Clock and Final Score
With 7:15 remaining in the fourth quarter, Tobin broke free for a 48-yard touchdown run, triggering a running clock due to the 30-point deficit. A subsequent extra point by senior Freddie Marcell extended the lead to 49-18, effectively sealing the victory for Walsh Jesuit. Nordonia managed a late 30-yard field goal by senior Riley Edgehouse, but it proved insufficient to mount a comeback.
Key Performers and Next Steps
Marty Tobin proved to be a dominant force for Walsh Jesuit, showcasing his versatility with both rushing and receiving touchdowns. For Nordonia, Connor Whapham and Riley Edgehouse demonstrated their capabilities, but ultimately couldn’t overcome Walsh’s offensive firepower. Walsh Jesuit will now prepare to face either Austintown Fitch or Green in the regional semifinal, continuing their pursuit of a state championship.
