Football Game Preview: Hillman Tigers vs. Onekama Portagers + How To Watch

The Hillman Tigers will challenge the Onekama Portagers at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Both come into the game bolstered by wins in their previous matches.

On Friday, Hillman didn't have too much breathing room in their matchup against Rogers City, but they still walked away with a 28-24 win.

Xavier Nichols

Passer Rating

08/28/25 vs Alcona	152.3
10/03/25 vs Atlanta	145.8
09/20/25 @ Baldwin	135.4
09/05/25 @ Mio-Au Sable	119.3
10/24/25 @ Rogers City	118.4
+ 4 more games

Hillman's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Xavier Nichols led the charge by throwing for 230 yards and two TDs, while also punching in one touchdown on the ground. Nichols' passing game has become a key predictor of the Tigers' success: the team is undefeated when his passer rating is 100 or higher, but only 0-3 otherwise. Hillman's leading receiver Evan Crane was Nichols' top target yet again, picking up 124 receiving yards and one score.

Hillman didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off two passes before the game was over. The picks came courtesy of Eddie Prue and Ethan Deville. Hillman received some extra help from Chris Shiffer, whose fumble return for a touchdown made for one of the most unforgettable moments.

Meanwhile, Onekama put another one in the bag on Friday to keep their perfect season alive. They enjoyed a cozy 27-8 victory over Bellaire. The 27-point effort marked the Portagers' lowest-scoring contest of the season, but in the end it didn't matter.

Hillman's record now sits at 6-3. As for Onekama, their record is now 9-0.

Hillman lost to Onekama on the road by a decisive 18-0 margin when the teams last played back in August of 2016. Can the Tigers avenge their defeat or is history doomed to repeat itself? We'll find out soon enough.