Hilliard Davidson (Ohio) vs. Archbishop Moeller (Cincinnati)
Gus Ragland, Moeller
File photo by Wayne Litmer
Moeller wants back-to-back state championship game appearances for the first time in nearly 35 years, but first it must take down Division I's last unbeaten team in the semifinals. Davidson (13-0) is playing the same tough, physical defense that propelled it to its only state championships in 2006 and '09. The Wildcats have allowed only seven points to each of their last four opponents. Moeller (12-1) earned its spot in Saturday's game by defeating then-nationally ranked Colerain (Cincinnati), 35-26. Senior quarterback
Gus Ragland led the Crusaders with season-highs of 204 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
Just the facts: This will be the 15th time Moeller has played in a state semifinal game since 1973. The Crusaders have won eight championships since 1975. Hilliard Davidson is making its fifth trip to the semifinals. … Although both teams appear in the top 8 of Ohio's dynasty rankings since 2003, their paths have never crossed in the playoffs nor the regular season.
Mitch Stephens: Moeller 28, Hilliard Davidson 21
Kevin Askeland: Moeller 40, Hilliard Davidson 30
Jamie DeMoney: Hilliard Davidson 24, Moeller 21
Stephen Spiewak: Moeller 30, Hilliard Davidson 20
Leland Gordon: Moeller 21, Hilliard Davidson 20
Colin Ward-Henninger: Moeller 28, Hilliard Davidson 21
