North Eugene waltzed into their game on Friday with two straight wins... but they left with three. They walked away with a 27-20 win over the Springfield Millers. For the Highlanders, this counts as revenge for the 33-11 loss the Millers walked away with the last time they faced one another back in October of 2023.
North Eugene found their leader in underclassman D'Mariyae Ireland, who rushed for 176 yards and a touchdown while picking up 7.7 yards per carry. Those 176 rushing yards set a new season-high mark for Ireland.
North Eugene was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 266 rushing yards. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Springfield only rushed for 143.
Despite the loss, Springfield still got an impressive performance from Noah Solo, who rushed for 132 yards and two touchdowns while picking up 7.3 yards per carry. The bulk of those rushing yards came from one huge play: a run that gained an incredible 75 yards. Clay Rhoades got in on the action as well, returning a kick for a touchdown.
North Eugene now has a winning record of 3-2. As for Springfield, they are on a six-game losing streak (dating back to last season) that has dropped them down to 0-5.
North Eugene will be playing in front of their home fans against Roseburg at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. As for Springfield, they are taking a road trip to square off against Willamette at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Willamette will roll in looking for their fifth straight victory, something Springfield surely won't give up without a fight.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
