Led by senior quarterback Laki Wallwork and a dynamic supporting cast, the Crusaders controlled the tempo from start to finish, answering every Paradise Honors push with precision execution and explosive plays.
Early Game Momentum (1st Half Breakdown)
Northwest Christian came out firing behind Laki Wallwork, who displayed veteran poise both through the air and on the ground. The senior quarterback threw for 268 yards and three touchdowns while also adding 94 rushing yards and two more scores, accounting for five total touchdowns on senior night. The Crusaders established the run early with Nathan Johannes (Sr.), who powered through the defense for 97 yards on 19 carries and a rushing touchdown. His physicality set the tone in the trenches, helping the offense open up play-action looks downfield.
Paradise Honors struck back with a few big plays of their own, but Northwest Christian’s receivers, led by Landon Beckman (Jr.), kept the chains moving. Beckman finished with 10 catches for 156 yards and a touchdown, continually finding space against the secondary. The Crusaders carried a 21–14 lead into halftime, riding the momentum of a balanced offensive attack.
Turning Point & Mid-Game Storyline (3rd Quarter)
As the second half unfolded, the Crusaders’ offensive rhythm reached another gear. Laki Wallwork connected with Zayne Wallwork (Jr.) and Conner Main (Jr.) for key scores that stretched the lead. Zayne hauled in 4 receptions for 31 yards and a touchdown, while Main added 48 receiving yards, 28 rushing yards, and a score of his own, capping off one of his most versatile performances of the season. Defensively, Nathan Johannes anchored the effort with physical play and leadership, even while recording one of the game’s few fumbles. The Crusaders’ front seven tightened in crucial moments, forcing Paradise Honors into long drives and limiting their explosive potential. By the end of the third quarter, Northwest Christian held a commanding lead, fueled by smart play calling and relentless execution.
Closing Sequence (4th Quarter / Final Stretch)
In the final frame, Northwest Christian turned to clock control, mixing power runs with short completions to drain time and protect the lead. The Crusaders’ discipline and composure sealed the outcome, as Paradise Honors struggled to mount a late comeback. With every snap, the Crusaders demonstrated a team built on balance, power in the run game, and precision and unity on both sides of the ball. When the final whistle sounded, Northwest Christian walked off the field with a defining 42–21 victory and clear momentum heading into the playoffs.
Standout Performers & Statistical Impact
Laki Wallwork (Sr., QB): 23/30 passing, 268 yards, 3 TDs, plus 94 rushing yards and 2 TDs — 5 total touchdowns.
Nathan Johannes (Sr., RB): 19 carries, 97 yards, 1 TD, plus 30 receiving yards.
Landon Beckman (Jr., WR): 10 receptions, 156 yards, 1 TD — a constant downfield threat.
Zayne Wallwork (Jr., WR): 4 receptions, 31 yards, 1 TD; also efficient as a secondary quarterback option.
Conner Main (Jr., ATH): 76 total yards (48 receiving, 28 rushing) and 1 TD; key playmaker in red-zone moments.
Context & Implications
With the win, Northwest Christian continued to assert itself as one of the most complete teams in the state capable of winning through air, ground, and discipline. The chemistry between the Wallwork brothers, the emergence of Beckman as a top receiving threat, and the steady leadership of seniors like Johannes give the Crusaders a balanced identity heading into November.
