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Quarterback Talen Bennett scrambles for yards during the first half of Friday's Division 4 State Championship game. (Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

(Tanya Hagen | Leader Publications)

NILES — The Niles football team is looking to turn things around as it faces a 21-0 halftime deficit to Goodrich in the MHSAA Division 4 State Championship game.

The Vikings got the ball to start the half but were unable to get a first down and was forced to punt. Goodrich capped a 10-play 68 yard drive with a 21-yard touchdown strike from Tanner Mazich to Max Macklem on 4th and 6 to go up 7-0.

After forcing a three-and-out on defense, Goodrich embarked on an 11 play, 74-yard scoring drive – this one capped by a 1-yard Chase Burnett run, to take a 14-0 lead over the Vikings.

The Vikings ensuing drive got off to a good start with Sam Rucker taking an 18-yard pitch to the Niles 44. But a sack on Bennett, a holding penalty and a Bennett interception led to a Burnett touchdown run on the other end to make it 21-0 with 5:09.

Another Vikings drive ended with a 3-and-out, with Goodrich taking over on their 53-yard line. The Martians marched 52 yards on nine plays to the Niles 1-yard-line attempting to score but time expired.

The Vikings were outgained 255-34 in the first half. The Martians will receive the ball to start the second half.

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