PORTLAND -- The Portland Raiders kicked off their conference play in impressive fashion, defeating the Lansing Sexton J-Dubbs 28-13. This victory marks a significant start to the season for Portland as they aim to maintain their winning streak in the CAAC White division.
One of the standout performers of the game was senior running back Carson Spenski, who played a crucial role in energizing the Raiders' offense. Spenski made his presence felt late in the first quarter, breaking free for a remarkable 52-yard run down the left sideline. This explosive play set up his teammate, senior Alex Atwell, for a 2-yard touchdown, giving Portland an early advantage.
Spenski continued to dominate throughout the game, finishing with over 100 rushing yards. His performance was capped off by a 12-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, which extended Portland's lead to 28-7 and effectively sealed the victory for the Raiders.
A key moment in the match occurred at the start of the second quarter when Portland found themselves trailing 7-6. As they drove deep into Sexton territory, a bobbled exchange between junior quarterback Carson Simon and his center threatened to derail their momentum. Fortunately for the Raiders, offensive lineman Tristian Pohl was quick to react. Instead of simply falling on the loose ball, Pohl scooped it up and charged downfield for a 14-yard touchdown, putting Portland ahead 14-7 with just under 12 minutes left in the second quarter.
Defensively, Portland's squad stepped up significantly after a shaky start. The J-Dubbs began the game with a lengthy drive that ended in a turnover on downs deep in Raiders territory. However, Portland's defense quickly regrouped, forcing a three-and-out and then responding with a touchdown drive of their own. The pressure from the Raiders' defense was relentless, with seniors Evan Pung and Liam Wolfe each recording two sacks. Senior Tayin Curtis also made a pivotal play with an interception in the end zone, preventing Sexton from scoring as the first half came to a close.
Despite a late-game touchdown from Sexton receiver Willie Brown, who caught a 16-yard pass from quarterback Abdual Carter-Foreman, the J-Dubbs struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match. Portland's defense effectively stifled Sexton's offensive efforts, ensuring that their lead remained intact.
This victory keeps Portland's CAAC White winning streak alive, and they will face another challenge next week against Olivet, who also secured a win in their league opener against Lansing Catholic. Portland coach John Novara expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, stating, "We’re a run-first football team, and the kids did a good job of that tonight against a very talented Sexton team. We played great defense, and I think that group really set the tone for us, and that’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to live and die by our identity."
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