The Golden Rule

Mr. Mike Kessler (Newspaper Advisor)

As Christians, we are called to treat everyone with kindness and charity. Even between Catholics and Lutherans, this bond is true.

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

On Friday night, Nouvel Catholic Central did what they have been doing to Valley Lutheran for 8 consecutive times: beat them in football. This time by a score of 35-6.

Friday’s game came in with much anticipation. 2-0 Valley Lutheran, coming off two straight shut-outs was aiming to start the season 3-0 for the first time in school history. Nouvel Catholic Central, a school with 3 State Championships, 3 State Runners-Up, and 20 of their 39 prior seasons starting 3-0, was also coming in 2-0 with a new look offense.

Coming into the season, the Panthers were looking to replace firepower with the loss of star QB Preston Otter (Brown University commit) and dynamic WR Tristen Elizalde (SVSU). The coaching staff worked hard in the offseason to revamp the offense going with a more conservative approach on the season, which has paid off. “Going to the huddle has improved communication. Everyone is on the same page,” Junior QB Ian Ziegelmann said.

The Panthers outgained the Chargers 425 to 78 yards, with 346 yards coming on the ground. The stout Panthers defense also set their offense up with 4 Interceptions on the night.

Ziegelmann led the Panthers with 13 rushes for 154 yards, scoring on touchdown runs of 1 and 20 yards. Ziegelmann also tossed a 46-yard touchdown pass to Sophomore Parker Kingsbury. Sophomore Owen Vance had 16 carries for 145 and an 18-yard touchdown run. John Carlson capped the scoring with a 2-yard touchdown run.

“We are a lot more focused on running the ball this year, which opens up the pass. We have simplified stuff, which allows us to play faster and more free,” said Ziegelmann.

With another crosstown rivalry this week against a different Lutheran school, Michigan Lutheran Seminary, Nouvel Catholic Central is looking to stay “golden” and move to 4-0.