Spencer, Ia (Northwest Iowa Now) – The Spencer Tigers looked strong in their season opener against Humboldt on Friday. It was scoreless through the first quarter, but Spencer went on a marathon, 17 play drive toward the end, and punched in a 1-yard Touchdown run with Temi Otanyiyi early in the 2nd, going up 7-0 after a successful 2-point conversion.

The Tigers extended that lead after an 8-play drive mid-way through the 2nd, capped off by Sophomore tailback Dylan Harris scoring a 3-yard Touchdown run. Spencer would miss the extra point and led 13-0.

On Humboldt’s next drive, Sophomore Cornerback Landon Muhlbauer picked off a pass from Wildcat Quarterback Caden Fredin, giving Spencer excellent field position with just under two minutes to play in the half.

Spencer capitalized on the turnover when Quarterback Larson Vulk connected with Hunter Pearson on a swing pass.

The Tigers failed a 2-point conversion attempt, and took a 19-0 lead into the half.

The Tigers extended their lead after another strong drive in the 3rd quarter. Larson Vulk danced and flew over defenders for a 6-yard Touchdown run.

Humboldt would get on the board late in the 4th quarter. Caden Fredin, who led the Wildcats in rushing with 76 yards on 10 carris, scored on a 7-yard Touchdown run, making the game 26-7 with just over 30 seconds to play. Spencer would run out the clock, and the Tigers picked up the season opening win, their first since beating Emmetsburg to begin the season in 2017 19-14.

As a team, Spencer ran the ball 53 times for 239 yards. Temi Otanyiyi had 29 rushes for 108 yards and a touchdown. Larson Vulk ended up with over 100 yards of total offense and a pair of Touchdowns.

Humboldt drops to 0-1 and will be back on the road next week in Clear Lake. Spencer will host 3A #6 Carroll for Week 2.