In a very exciting game under the lights at Eagle Stadium on Friday night, GR Christian came out on top against crosstown rival East Grand Rapids. The offense and special teams struggled to find success early, putting the defense in a few difficult situations in the first quarter. With EGR capitalizing on short fields, the Eagles carried a 15-0 deficit into the first quarter break. However, behind strong play from many different players the night belonged to the boys in Blue and Black from that point forward as GR Christian scored 22 unanswered points to secure its second victory in a row.

A stingy defense was paced by junior linebacker CJ Jones who registered 10 tackles, a sack and an interception. Ronin Russell Dixon was all over the field in contributing 7 tackles and senior defenisve lineman Adam Sarjo chipped in a sack that resulted in a safety. Brian Hunter and Amir Nixon kept the defensive secondary on lockdown - each registering an interception. Under the leadership of defensive coordinator Alex Smith, the Eagle defensive unit continues to prove they can battle with anyone and keep GR Christian in the fight!

The offense used opportunistic explosive plays and steady play from senior quarterback Derrek Dykema to secure the come-from-behind victory. Dykema was 10/23 for 204 yards and 3 touchdowns. Junior running backs Buddy Hogan and Ronin Russell-Dixon formed a dynamic combination in leading the rushing attack. Junior Ace Thomas and Senior Brian Hunter each lit up the scoreboard with touchdowns of longer than 60 yards while senior Marcellus VanderKodde had the decisive touchdown catch of 23 yards in the 4th quarter to complete the comeback for the home team. 

The Eagles continue to battle and improve as we move into the last regular season game of the season. Look for GR Christian to keep growing in Pride, Purpose, Love, and Tenacity each day!