URGENT UPDATE: Highland Park football has made headlines with a thrilling 26-14 victory over the Dayton Bulldogs on September 12, 2025. This win marks the Owls’ second consecutive victory to start the season, a significant achievement for a program that recently endured a staggering 51-game losing streak.
The game, held at Highland Park’s home field, showcased a dominant second half from the Owls, particularly on defense. After a tight first half that ended 14-13 in favor of Dayton, the Highland Park defense shut out the Bulldogs, allowing them to rally for the win. Coach Shawn Harrison, a proud Highland Park graduate, expressed his elation, stating, “It’s amazing. The community and the school have our back. It makes these kids want it.”
The first half was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging turnovers on their opening drives. Highland Park quickly capitalized, with junior quarterback Marcus Smith connecting with Kosta Hantsoulis for a crucial 47-yard gain, leading to a 6-yard touchdown run by senior Kaseem Qualls. Dayton responded with a 45-yard touchdown pass from Adrian Bernknopf to Aiden Delpeche, who showcased impressive yards after the catch.
After halftime, the momentum shifted dramatically. Highland Park’s defense, led by sophomore linebacker Leo Dirks Amodeo, intercepted Bernknopf multiple times, stifling the Bulldogs’ attempts to regain control. The Owls took the lead for good after Smith’s 8-yard scoring run, pushing the score to 20-14. Smith, who finished the game with two rushing touchdowns, remarked, “The offensive line did its thing. We did what we had to do and handled business.”
The scoring capped off with a 20-yard rushing touchdown from Highland Park’s Jacob Quiros, sealing the win at 26-14. The victory not only boosts team morale but also reflects the hard work put in during practice, as Coach Harrison highlighted the significant adjustments made at halftime by his assistant coaches.
Despite the loss, Dayton’s head coach Nick Iannacone acknowledged his team’s effort, stating, “I think our kids played hard. But we didn’t take care of the things we focused on.” The Bulldogs struggled with penalties and turnovers, which ultimately cost them the game.
As the Highland Park Owls celebrate this pivotal win, the community’s pride is palpable. Coach Harrison, who has dedicated over two decades to the program, emphasized the emotional connection he feels toward his players and the history of the team. “Football is special to me. It’s special to see the kids see what I went through at their age,” he said.
Looking ahead, Highland Park aims to maintain this winning momentum as they prepare for their next challenge. Both teams will need to regroup quickly, as the season continues to unfold with high stakes and fierce competition.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Highland Park Owls strive for continued success in the 2025 season!