Crown Point Triumphs Over Merrillville as Jaden Saddler Shines

On a hot Friday night, Crown Point’s senior cornerback Jaden Saddler stepped up during crucial moments. In a match against Merrillville, he recovered a muffed punt in the third quarter and intercepted a pass in the final seconds of the fourth. This showdown featured the top two teams of the Duneland Athletic Conference, both regarded among the state’s best.

Saddler credited his teammates for his performance, stating, It felt great, but I know I couldn’t do it alone because my teammates were there. After struggling earlier in the game, Saddler acknowledged their support when he needed it most.

Crown Point’s collective effort paid off, containing Merrillville’s potent offense, led by quarterback Michael Hill Jr., resulting in a 23-14 victory. Head coach Craig Buzea praised the defensive team, saying, It took a little bit of time, and we can’t simulate what they do… they’re very tough to defend. He highlighted the skill of their defensive coordinator John Snyder and the team’s execution.

Saddler’s contribution came after a challenge from Buzea. Saddler got a little talking to at halftime, and he responded, Buzea said. Recognizing the challenge, Saddler focused on playing through his early mistakes, striving to play as if the game were still tied.

Despite limited playtime last year, Saddler has progressed significantly. He recorded an interception against Indianapolis Pike and made three tackles in the season opener. Reflecting on his journey, Saddler shared, Football started in December. I trained all summer. I worked my butt off. His efforts earned the respect of fellow players, including sophomore linebacker AJ Summers who called him a great leader.

The game turned dramatic in the final quarter. With the score tied at 14-14, Hill left the field due to an injury. Merrillville’s backup quarterback stepped in but a safety was called for intentional grounding, giving Crown Point a decisive lead. Crown Point further extended this lead with Ethan Ziolkowski’s 46-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Tyce Custy, leaving them ahead at 23-14.

As the game wound down, sophomore linebacker Brody Hood forced a fumble recovered by senior Ben Clark. Although Hill returned briefly, his efforts were not enough. He completed the game with 217 passing yards and two touchdowns, both to Curtis Walker, who made nine catches for 164 yards.

Crown Point’s Custy connected with Kingston Connelly for a 21-yard touchdown, and Brayden Schutt contributed 103 rushing yards, including a 70-yard touchdown. Saddler summarized the team’s spirit, saying, We were going to play for each other, and we were going to fight for each other.

The victory extended Crown Point’s regular-season winning streak to 39 games and marked their fifth consecutive win against Merrillville. As Merrillville returns to 6A, a potential sectional rematch looms. Coach Buzea remains optimistic about his team’s growth, saying, This is not the best version of Crown Point football right now… we’re going to see them again.