The game did not start favorably for the Wildcats, as they trailed 14-7 at halftime. The Cardinals showcased their strength early on with a solid 65-yard drive resulting in the first touchdown of the game. However, Saint Ignatius slowly shifted the momentum in their favor, marked by a spectacular 45-yard touchdown run by #3 Teague Deinhart. Defensive lineman #55 Luke Spinos' critical pass deflection was a key moment that precluded two massive defensive stands by the Wildcat defense.

The second half was dominated by the Wildcats' defense, led by Matthias Michalek’s outstanding play, including a pivotal strip sack that led to a 75-yard

"scoop and score"

by safety Jayden Jordan. Jordan continued his impressive performance with a pick-six shortly after, bringing the score to 21-14. Despite a strong effort from Mentor, Saint Ignatius maintained control, further secured by another 75-yard touchdown from Deinhart.

Offensively, Teague Deinhart was a standout, accumulating 142 yards on just five carries. The Wildcats' defense also saw significant contributions, with Michalek finishing the game with four sacks and a forced fumble, while safety #9 Carter Wick added an interception. Special teams played a pivotal role as well, with Kyle Ritt flawlessly executing all four extra-point attempts.

Reflecting on the game, Jayden Jordan noted,

"The energy started slow for us as a team. Once Mathias was able to knock the ball out, allowing me to scoop and score, the intensity really picked up for us as a team and we started playing harder which allowed me to make a play on that pick six. After we started making some plays, all I could smell was straight dog food."

Defensive Coordinator Pat Barrett expressed pride, saying,

"That was a fun one! Super proud of our guys effort once we put that first defensive drive behind us. The energy our guys were playing with in the second half was unmatched, and a lot of credit goes to our sideline for bringing the noise. That energy and momentum allowed us to continually stack great plays on top of each other and I'm just super happy for the boys to come from behind on the road and secure the victory."

The Wildcats turn their attention to their next challenge, the first blue game of the season against Benedictine at Benedictine High School on September 7.