Hononegah Handles Freeport in NIC‑10 Action, Extending Momentum Behind a Balanced, Physical Effort
Hononegah walked into Friday night’s NIC‑10 matchup against the Freeport Pretzels with confidence, rhythm, and a defense that has been tightening the screws week after week. They walked out with another convincing victory a performance that showcased discipline, physicality, and the kind of identity every contender wants to build.
The offensive narrative was written on the ground, but not before Dominic Cacciatore delivered an aerial showcase. Cacciatore was surgically precise, completing 11 of 16 attempts for 178 yards and two crucial scores, all without a single turnover. He connected with explosive force, finding Giovanni Zepeda on a picture-perfect 53-yard bomb touchdown and Ben Shockley on a beautiful 42-yard scoring strike.
But the Indians’ real engine was a multi-headed rushing beast. The ground attack was relentless, accumulating rushing touchdowns in a masterful exhibition. Jacob Duval led the points parade with two scores on four carries (72 yards, long of 33), while Marice Szarzynski mirrored that with two touchdowns of his own on six carries (58 yards, long of 34). Silas Gibson demonstrated pure speed with a devastating 54-yard touchdown burst as part of his five-carry, 81-yard night. Your editor can confirm that Cacciatore (3 carries) and Bertrand (1 carry) also added scores, capping a truly comprehensive team effort. A singular lost fumble by Gibson was a tiny blip on a massive offensive highlight reel. The special teams also played their part flawlessly, with Nolan Meadors converting a perfect seven out of seven extra-point attempts. Gavin Herron controlled field position with a 43.5-yard punting average over two kicks.
While the offense was running wild, the Hononegah defense was building an impenetrable wall. They not only held the Pretzels scoreless but also forced multiple turnovers. Levi Sanders was a standout, coming up with a critical interception and two pass deflections. The defense swarmed, with Derrick Capitosti and Tristen Ginn combining for a sack and consistent disruption. Richard Gambini capped the defensive dominance with a fumble recovery. Every player seemed to be contributing, a testament to the comprehensive preparation that has defined this team all season.
NIC-10 Standing Shakedown: Indians Alone in Second
As thrilling as the game was, the real drama might have happened elsewhere, drastically altering the playoff landscape. And the plot thickens. With a stunning 31-7 loss to Harlem on Friday night, the Guilford Vikings have taken their second loss. Your editor can now officially report that this seismic result leaves the Hononegah Indians, fresh off their obliteration of Freeport, sitting alone in second place in the NIC-10 title race with just three games remaining. The conference crown is not yet settled, but the path for the Indians is now clearer.
With three games remaining, the road to the NIC-10 crown is filled with possibilities.
Hononegah is playing its best football of the season, tightening up defensively, expanding offensively, and showing the kind of depth that becomes crucial as the calendar turns toward playoff positioning.
The Indians didn’t just beat Freeport — they controlled the game, dictated the terms, and walked off the field looking like a team ready for the stretch run.
This wasn't just a win; it was a statement of dominance in all phases.
