In a thrilling showdown that marked the first top-10 matchup of the 2026 Michigan high school football season, Detroit King managed to secure a narrow 44-42 victory over Orchard Lake St. Mary's. This game not only showcased the resilience of King but also highlighted the remarkable performance of senior receiver Darryl Flemister, who stepped back into the quarterback role to lead his team to victory.
With King trailing by ten points early in the second half, head coach Terel Patrick made a bold decision to bench promising sophomore quarterback Amir Forris. Flemister, who had previously played quarterback before transitioning to receiver, was called upon to ignite the offense. "We wanted a spark," Patrick explained. "The young boy (Forris) is going to be good, but this is a tough environment for a 14-year-old to come in for his second start."
Flemister's leadership proved crucial as King, ranked No. 7, quickly turned the tide, scoring two touchdowns on their first two possessions with him under center. St. Mary's, ranked No. 3, responded with a touchdown pass from Jabin Gonzales to Chad Willis, but the Eaglets' two-point conversion attempt failed, keeping the score close. St. Mary's opted for two-point conversions throughout the game due to an injury to their kicker.
The intensity of the match escalated as both teams exchanged possessions, ultimately leading to a tie at 22 by the end of regulation. In overtime, both teams scored, but King had a potential game-winning extra point blocked. The second overtime saw both teams again find the end zone and successfully convert two-point attempts, setting the stage for a dramatic third overtime.
In the third overtime, running back Jamari Givhan scored a 2-yard touchdown for King, but the two-point conversion attempt was thwarted. On the ensuing drive, Flemister connected with Don Spillers for a touchdown, tying the game once more. The decisive moment came when Flemister rolled out and found Willie Walker in the end zone for the game-winning two-point conversion. "I’m Mr. Football," Flemister proclaimed after the game, reflecting on his pivotal role in the victory.
Spillers, who had three touchdowns in the game, expressed confidence in Flemister's ability to lead the team. "We’ve been here for four years, so that switch was nothing," he said, emphasizing the strong bond between the players. The chemistry between Flemister, Spillers, and Walker was evident throughout the game as they executed key plays under pressure.
Despite a strong start from St. Mary's, which included two rushing touchdowns from Givhan and D.J. Taylor, King's defense tightened in the second half, forcing turnovers that allowed Flemister and his teammates to capitalize. The Eaglets struggled to contain King's explosive offense, particularly in the latter stages of the game.
Both teams showcased their talent, with King leaning on Flemister, Spillers, and Walker as key contributors on both sides of the ball. St. Mary's, the two-time defending Division 2 state champions, will look to rebound from this early-season setback, while King aims to build on this momentum as they strive for a successful season after past disappointments.
As the 2026 season unfolds, this electrifying matchup between Detroit King and Orchard Lake St. Mary's will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the highlights of the early campaign, showcasing the skill, determination, and heart of high school football.
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