Utica Starts Off Season Strong With Impressive Win Over Sterling

won its season opener Thursday evening with a 14-6 victory over Sterling Heights High.

Even on Sterling's home turf, Utica was able to take advantage of opportunities that resulted in long touchdown strikes.

The game was highlighted by a strong passing attack led by sophomore quarterback Tyler Crowell, who consistently hooked up on long pass plays to his favorite target, senior wide receiver Curtis Murphy. The duo opened up the game's first score with a 30-yard touchdown pass to take a 7-0 lead. 

Sterling Heights attempted to even the score in the second quarter when senior quarterback Joshua Heines broke a long run for a touchdown, but they weren't able to convert the extra point, resulting in a 7-6 Chieftains lead.

The second half scoring opened up with a 70-yard run and touchdown when Utica's Jacob Roberts blasted through the heart of the Sterling Heights defense and sprinted to a 14-6 third-quarter lead.

The fourth quarter was a scoreless seesaw battle.

"Our kids stood the test and our defense did a nice job," said Utica coach Tony Smith.

Although the team has some work to do on its passing game, Smith was pleased with team's performance.

"I am happy with the win. A win is a win and the team is much improved over last year," he said.