COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The frigid November night brought with it yet another week of competitive central Ohio football between the Panthers and the Lions, yet only one feline would prevail in the end.
Pickerington North defeated Gahanna Lincoln at Gahanna Lincoln Stadium on Friday to secure its spot in the regional semifinal.
The only score between the teams was a fourth-quarter jump-pass from receiver Eli Coppess to running back Dawaun Green.
Pickerington North coach Nathan Hillerich said that he expected this game to be close, and his players were prepared for it.
"We knew that was going to be a game that came down to the fourth quarter," Hillerich said. "We expected it. We knew just have to keep fighting."
Running back Preston Bowman runs past Gahanna Lincoln defenders on his way to a big gain.
The Panthers started with a bang recovering an onside kick on the opening kickoff. This led to a 35-yard touchdown pass to junior running back Dawaun Green.
Hillerich said that he wanted to pull out all the stops in Friday's postseason game, and with the onside kick, he accomplished just that.
"It's the regional quarterfinals, we're pulling out everything," Hillerich said. "We knew we're gonna have to make some things happen and do whatever it takes."
The Lions responded in the second with a 30-yard passing touchdown of their own from freshman quarterback Brennen Ward to receiver Tristin Cook-Fisher.
Pickerington North began the second half by intercepting a pass by Gahanna Lincoln quarterback Brennen Ward and returning it for a touchdown.
The Lions battled back with a touchdown, yet a go-ahead touchdown from Coppess to Green would give the Panthers the winning edge.
Coppess ended the night with two passing touchdowns after scoring two touchdowns last week against Groveport Madison.
Hillerich said Coppess is a remarkable player and one that pushes the team forward to victory.
"I truly think he's the best football player in Ohio," Hillerich said. "He's doing whatever it takes for the team to win."
Next up for the Panthers is No. 2 seed and cross-town rival Pickerington Central.
Hillerich said his team will be prepared for what is sure to be a tough game.
"They're gonna be ready. That's always gonna be a dog fight," Hillerich said. "We're very excited."
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