Ryle High School achieved a dramatic comeback victory in overtime, defeating Frederick Douglass 28-27, and securing a place in the state semifinals. The Raiders” success came without their star player, Jacob Savage, who was unavailable due to injury. Nathan Verax delivered the decisive moment by scoring a walk-off two-point conversion, propelling Ryle to its second consecutive Class 6A region title.
“Whether it was right there for me or not, I was getting in that end zone no matter what,” Verax stated after the game. “I felt the whole city of Union, all of Northern Kentucky behind my back. There was no way I was letting anything stop me.”
The game turned intense as Ryle found itself trailing late. Following a swift touchdown from Douglass” Dakari Talbert, Ryle faced a crucial decision while down 27-26 in overtime. Prior to that, they had completed a 64-yard drive, capped by a 1-yard touchdown run from Dameyn Anness as time expired in regulation. The extra point attempt from Gavin Moses, however, hit the upright, raising concerns for the coaching staff.
Head coach Mike Engler admitted, “I didn”t want to put that on his shoulders. If we didn”t make the conversion, I would”ve looked like the idiot.” The timeout allowed the coaching staff to devise a quarterback sweep play, which ultimately caught Douglass off guard.
Throughout the game, Ryle demonstrated resilience. Verax contributed significantly with 78 rushing yards and a touchdown, marking the first score after both teams struggled early on. The Raiders benefited from a missed catch by a Douglass receiver on a critical 4th-and-7 play, which could have shifted momentum.
Verax later connected with Dylan Lee for an impressive 84-yard run, showcasing the Raiders” potential. However, Douglass responded effectively, with Talbert making an impact by scoring multiple touchdowns, including a pivotal one that put Douglass ahead late in the game.
Despite the absence of key players like Savage, who had been a leading scorer and defensive force for Ryle, the team”s depth and determination shone through. Senior defensive lineman Bo Gay reflected, “We had guys step up and that”s just heart. We don”t give up. We don”t stop. We keep going no matter what.”
As the match concluded, Savage was seen with ice on his ankle but remains hopeful for the next game against South Warren. “It was super hard not being able to play… but it just goes to show, we have so many great athletes and coaches,” he commented.
With this victory, Ryle will prepare to face South Warren, who is coming off a strong season with an undefeated record. The matchup is set to be a significant challenge for the Raiders as they aim to continue their playoff run.
