If one ventured to last Friday’s Big Lake football game against Westonka and left early after the home team fell behind big — lesson learned because this Hornet team showed heart and they laid it on the field and almost completed a remarkable comeback, eventually losing, 32-30

It was Big Lake’s annual  Tackle Cancer Game and for the first three quarters, the Hornets struggled with numerous missed opportunities. Westonka built a 32–6 lead heading into the fourth quarter and the  fan base began doubting — but not the Hornet players and coaches. 

The rally began with 10 minutes left when junior running back Abrahm Koop broke free for a six-yard touchdown, cutting the score to 32–14. 

The defense followed with a key stop, giving the offense another chance. QB Dillon Spaeth connected with sophomore Danny Rotz for a 29-yard touchdown with Rotz making an incredible one-handed catch despite heavy coverage. After the 2-point conversion, it was suddenly 32–22.

Momentum kept swinging the Hornets way as the special teams recovered an onside kick (Jackson LaRoche), and the offense quickly struck again with a five-yard touchdown run from senior Carter Stromberg, making it 32–30 with 1:36 left. 

Unfortunately, Westonka recovered the subsequent onside attempt and was able to drain the clock.

“Despite the loss, I couldn’t be prouder of how our guys battled until the end,” said Head Coach Nick Shriver. “In those final 10 minutes, we saw our best in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams.

Big Lake racked up 538 total yards on offense while Caleb Martin had a breakout game with 121 receiving yards and 28 rushing. Dillon Spaeth threw for a season-high 257 yards.

Big Lake’s ground attack added 281 yards, led by seniors Montell Hester (99 yards) and Carter Stromberg (89 yards).

Defensively, Bennett Thieke led with 14 total tackles.

Through five games, Big Lake’s offense ranks #1 in Minnesota’s Class 4A in total yards, #4 in passing, #4 in rushing, and #5 in scoring. 

Up next, the Hornets (2-3) take on the Thunder  (3-2) from Zimmerman at home Friday, Oct. 3.