Grand Rapids West Catholic was 0-3 at one stage of the season and 1-4. The Falcons won their last four games including a 21-20 squeaker over Forest Hills Eastern to end the regular season and sneak into the playoffs with a 5-4 record.
Five weeks later, West Catholic is the Division 5 state champs.
The Falcons ended a stunning 5-0 run in the playoffs with a 27-14 victory over previously undefeated Menominee to take the Division 5 crown with a 10-4 record.
The West Catholic defense was very impressive, led by Jason McDonough with seven solo tackles and two assists.
Travis Russell threw passes of 24 and 45 yards to David Bancuk and Drake Wooten for touchdowns while also running 25 yards for a score. Travis Hoving passed 30 yards to Bryce Witham for another TD.