VERMILLION, S.D. (KELO) — A defensive classic came down to the final minute, as a failed two point conversion sealed a 14-13 win for Watertown in the 11AA state championship.
The win snapped a state record, seven straight state championships for Pierre. It marks Watertown’s first state title since 2001. It’s the Arrows’ third overall title.
Watertown’s Marcus Fossum was named the game’s Outstanding Back and Joe Robbie MVP. Micah Hach earned the game’s Outstanding Lineman award.
THE GAME
Scoring was limited on Friday night as there were just four total touchdowns in the game and just one in the first half.
Treyton Himmerich threw a 28 yard touchdown to Fossum to give the Arrows a 7-0 lead.
The third quarter finally saw some offense for Pierre. Kaleb Lounsbury found George Stalley for a 28 yard touchdown to tie the game at seven.
The game got tight in the fourth quarter. Facing fourth and one, Watertown opted to go for it and they pulled out the Statue of Liberty play which led to a 24 yard touchdown for Spencer Wientjes.
Pierre tried to answer, but an offensive pass interference stalled the drive and led to a punt.
The Governors defense got a three and out and got the ball back with 1:43 to play.
Pierre would get a big pass completion to Stalley, setting them up in prime position. A few plays later, Elijah Boutchee ran in a six yard touchdown.
The Governors rolled the dice and went for the two point conversion. The Arrows turned it away and sealed a win in the 11AA state championship.
THE NUMBERS
Pierre outgained Watertown 278 to 255. The Govs threw for 291 yards, but rushed for -13 yards. The Arrows rushed for 134 and threw for 121.
Fossum rushed for 82 yards. He also caught two catches for 27 and a touchdown.
Kaleb Lounsbury was 23-35 for 291 yards and a touchdown. Stalley caught eight balls for 147 yards and score. Cooper Terwilliger added eight catches for 92 yards.
