The 2026 Ken Lantzy All-Star Classic unfolded under the lights of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, where the final minutes turned a back‑and‑forth contest into a memorable showdown. With the score knotted at 14‑14, Team South’s late touchdown and a goal‑line stand secured a 20‑14 victory over Team North, delivering a finish that will be talked about for weeks.
A Game That Went Down to the Wire
The opening quarter saw Team South strike first, as Colt Hagen connected with Xander Richardson on a 14‑yard touchdown pass that put the South ahead early. The lead was short‑lived, however, as Noah Lucko’s 12‑yard rushing score in the second quarter tied the game at halftime, setting the stage for a seesaw battle.
In the third quarter, Jacobi Harman broke loose for a 29‑yard touchdown run, giving Team South a 14‑7 edge. The momentum shifted again when Lance Jones answered with a six‑yard rushing touchdown, knotting the score at 14‑14 and forcing both sides to dig deeper.
The fourth quarter delivered the game‑winning moment: Cam Rising launched a 50‑yard strike to Logan Lichtenfels, a play that swung the lead back to Team South. The defense then held firm, orchestrating a goal‑line stand that denied Team North any final comeback.
Both coaches praised the effort and spirit displayed by their squads. Team South head coach Brandon Bailey highlighted his players’ resilience and the competitive fire that defined the week, while Team North’s Jason Grassi lauded his team’s hard work and the joy of participating in such a high‑stakes event.
Beyond the final score, the Classic underscored the importance of fun and sportsmanship in youth athletics. The electric atmosphere in Johnstown reflected a community’s shared pride, and the performances will serve as a rallying point for the next generation of players looking to emulate the excitement they witnessed.