Norton’s late pick ices win for Wolves

DeKALB — Prairie Ridge’s amazing two- year undefeated run came down to one final drive in the Class 6A title game Saturday. The Wolves’ defense needed a stop, and senior Drew Norton delivered.

“A minute to win state, we have to make a play,” coach Chris Schremp said. “And Drew stepped up and made the best play of his life.”

The Wolves led by seven, but Nazareth’s dynamic offense was rolling down the field in the final minute. The Roadrunners made it to the Prairie Ridge 13. But Norton intercepted Bobby Grimes’ pass in the end zone to seal a 28- 21 victory.

“They kept hitting us with really similar routes,” Norton said. “I just got into my drop and read the quarterback’s eyes. Luckily I was in the position to make a big play like that. Just everything flashed before my eyes, this whole season. I’m really blessed to make such a big play.”

The Wolves ( 14- 0) took the lead for good with 1: 01 left to play. A nine- play, 65- yard drive was capped off by a four- yard touchdown run from Sun- Times player of the year Samson Evans. The Prairie Ridge quarterback rushed 35 times for 158 yards and two touchdowns.

“We knew we had some unbelievable athletes on Nazareth we had to stop,” Schremp said. “They played a phenomenal game. Our 11 guys just playing their hearts out.”

Zach Gulbransen ( 10 carries, 62 yards) and Jackson Willis ( 10 carries, 45 yards, one touchdown) were the other ground threats for the Wolves, who attempted one pass in the game.

Prairie Ridge led 14- 7 at the half. Nazareth ( 12- 2) tied it on a sevenyard run by Grimes with 5: 03 to play. Grimes was 22- for- 32 for 296 yards with one touchdown.