Moeller Football kicked off the 2025 postseason with a gritty win over #7 Lakota West.
BIG MOE looked excellent in the second half after a slow start in the first eventually cruising to a 33-14 victory.
The Crusaders improve to (8-1) all time against the Fire birds advancing to a rematch with #3 St. Xavier.
Final Score:
#7 LAKOTA WEST 14
#2 MOELLER 33
Moeller began their journey back to Canton this past Friday night by knocking off a very talented Lakota West team.
Senior QB #7
Matt Ponatoski was extremity efficient against West, he finished his night 17-25 for 156 yards and 3 touchdowns.
On the ground, The Crusaders were absolutely dominant as they really leaned on senior RB #12
Tyler Josleyn.
Josleyn finished his night carrying the ball a season high 32 times for 166 yards and a touchdown, averaging 5.2 yards per carry.
Through the air, senior WR #1
Landen Adams was Ponatoski's top target finishing with 9 catches for 107 yards and a touchdown.
On defense, Big Moe really woke up in the second half holding Lakota West scoreless after giving up 14 in the first.
The Crusaders were led by junior LB #42
Andrew Stofko, who finished with a team high 7 tackles, 6 solo tackles.
Junior DB #4
Marino Middleton made the play of the game on defense with a BIG interception stalling a Lakota West drive.
Big Moe will need to carry their second half performance over to this Friday night's game against rival St. Xavier.
#2 Moeller vs. #3 St. Xavier is currently scheduled for this Friday, November 14 at Dayton's Welcome Stadium.
Kickoff is at 7:00 PM.
For tickets please visit: https://www.ohsaa.org/tickets
Lakota West Box Score: https://letsgobigmoe.com/sports/football/stats/2025/lakota-west-high-school/boxscore/7015
#LetsGoBigMoe #BigMoeFootball #KeepGoing #BeRemarkable #OnToX #BeatX #11CKU