Lemmon McIntosh controlled the clock and capitalized on North Central mistakes in a 20-7 win, limiting the Thunder to just over seven minutes of possession in the first half while recovering two fumbles and an onside kick.
The Cowboys finished with 259 total yards — 169 through the air and 84 on the ground. Quarterback Maxwell Anderson completed passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Jaxon Dirk earned Venture Communications Player of the Game honors after a versatile performance: 18 carries for 80 yards, four receptions for 72 yards, and three total touchdowns.
North Central managed 249 yards of offense (152 passing, 97 rushing) but was undermined by two turnovers and more than 65 yards in penalties. Quarterback Kobe Wherry went 15-of-27 for 146 yards and one touchdown while also leading the Thunder on the ground with 10 carries for 66 yards. Michael Opp added 18 rushing yards. Aiden Goings caught passes for 63 yards and a touchdown, and Jared Wherry hauled in 85 receiving yards.
North Central’s offensive line provided solid protection and helped restrict Lemmon McIntosh’s typically strong ground attack to under 90 yards. Still, the Cowboys’ ability to force turnovers, recover the onside kick, and dominate time of possession proved decisive in securing the 20-7 victory.
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