Wayne State University, September 2, 2025
News Summary
In a thrilling season opener, Northville narrowly defeated Lake Orion 14-13 at the Prep Kickoff Classic held at Wayne State University. The match showcased strong performances, particularly from senior running back Max DeFore, who rushed for 125 yards and scored a touchdown. The game saw a balanced first half, ending in a 7-7 tie, but Northville took control in the second half. Both teams are set to face new opponents soon, with Northville looking to build on this victory as the season progresses.
Northville Tops Lake Orion 14-13 in Season Opener During the 20th Annual Prep Kickoff Classic
Northville secured a narrow victory over Lake Orion, finishing the season opener with a score of 14-13 at Wayne State University on August 28, 2025. This closely contested match was part of the 20th Annual Prep Kickoff Classic.
The first half concluded in a stalemate, with both teams scoring once, leaving the score at 7-7 at halftime. However, Northville took charge in the second half, utilizing strong performances from their standout players.
Senior running back Max DeFore led Northville with an impressive 125 rushing yards and a touchdown. Another senior, Cooper Derkach, also made significant contributions, rushing for 88 yards and adding another touchdown to Northville’s tally. Despite Lake Orion’s efforts, they were unable to leverage their home-field advantage effectively to seal a win.
Lake Orion will look to rebound in their next game against Stoney Creek, scheduled for September 5 at 7:00 p.m. Similarly, Northville will face Plymouth the same day at 7:00 p.m., marking their first game at home this season.
This matchup was viewed as a critical benchmark for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming season. Northville’s head coach, Brent Luplow, has emphasized the need to build a tougher and more physically imposing squad. On the other side, Lake Orion’s coach Chris Bell sees the game as a key test to gauge both teams’ readiness for the challenges ahead.
The Prep Kickoff Classic featured four games, showcasing top-level football with teams that have historically strong rivalries and championship backgrounds. Last year, Lake Orion bested Northville by just one touchdown in a similar season opener.
Brent Luplow, prior to his current position at Northville, served as an assistant at Brighton. Meanwhile, Coach Chris Bell has built a legacy at Lake Orion, having won six league titles and a state championship during his first tenure and contributing to the team’s history of playoff successes.
The outcome of this game carries significant implications for the aspirations of both Northville and Lake Orion as they look to make a mark in their respective divisions this season.
FAQ
What was the final score of the Northville vs Lake Orion game?
Northville won the game with a final score of 14-13.
When do Northville and Lake Orion play their next games?
Both teams are scheduled to play on September 5 at 7:00 p.m. Northville will face Plymouth, while Lake Orion will play against Stoney Creek.
Who were the key players in the Northville vs Lake Orion game?
Max DeFore led Northville with 125 rushing yards and one touchdown, while Cooper Derkach contributed with 88 rushing yards and another touchdown.
Game Summary Chart
| Team | Score | Key Players | Next Game | Date of Next Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northville | 14 | Max DeFore (125 yards, 1 TD), Cooper Derkach (88 yards, 1 TD) | Plymouth | September 5, 2025 |
| Lake Orion | 13 | Not specified | Stoney Creek | September 5, 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- Click On Detroit: Live Stream Northville vs Lake Orion High School Football Game
- Wikipedia: High School Football
- Detroit Free Press: Northville vs Lake Orion Michigan High School Football
- Google Search: Northville Lake Orion High School Football
- MaxPreps: Football Recap Lake Orion vs Northville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- MLive: Live High School Football Updates
- Google News: Michigan High School Football
- Hometown Life: Northville Lake Orion Football
- Google Scholar: Northville Lake Orion Football
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