Muskegon – Reeths-Puffer knew they were going to be tested early in this 2024 season. Last week, on the road facing the defending Division 3 state champions, and this week having Caledonia in town. The Fighting Scots finished 8-3 last season and were Division 2 runner-up in 2022. In a game that started slow but quickly shifted momentum, Caledonia’s dominant performance highlighted their efficiency on both sides of the ball in a decisive 35-7 victory.
The first quarter saw no scoring from either side, as both teams struggled to find their rhythm. However, Caledonia soon found its stride, while Reeths-Puffer’s efforts were plagued by penalties and turnovers. The turning point came in the second quarter when Caledonia quarterback Brody Betser connected for two passing touchdowns. Reeths-Puffer’s only scoring on the night came on a 65-yard kick return for a touchdown by Lukas Johnson just before the end of the first half to make it a 12-7 game.
Reeths-Puffer’s offense faced further challenges in the second half while Caledonia continued to build on their lead. Betser threw another touchdown in the third quarter, followed by a successful two-point conversion, increasing the score to 20-7. Caledonia sealed Reeths-Puffer’s fate in the fourth quarter, with two more touchdowns. Caledonia’s offense was unstoppable, tallying 395 total yards—180 through the air and 182 on the ground.
Reeths-Puffer Quarterback Mason Darke managed just 97 yards passing while running back Bryce Muskovin contributed 65 rushing yards, and wide receiver Guage Ream added 42 yards receiving. The Rockets totaled only 166 yards of offense and had three turnovers. On defense, the Rockets were led by Cal Millis with nine tackles. The Rockets also hurt themselves with nine penalties for 95 yards.
Photos by Tanya Burel / CatchMark
“The offensive staff has to get together and figure out an identity for the squad,” said Coach Cody Kater following the game. “We need to figure out an identity for this squad, right now we are really struggling with moving the ball down the field consistently.”
Even when a team doesn’t come away with the win, the performance of a couple of players did stand out. “I thought Lukas (Johnson) did a great job all night offensively and defensively. He was all over the field and then he has that kick return and he really shows who he is as an athlete.” explained Coach Kater. “I thought he was a little spark that we needed and I think Bryce (Muskovin) ran hard when he had his opportunities and created a spark there on the offensive side.”
The Rockets (0-2) will now focus on preparing for Spring Lake (1-1). The Lakers opened their season with a 40-7 victory over Fruitport before falling to Belding 47-22 in week 2. This game will take place at Rocket City on Friday at 7 pm.
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