Nathan Samuels Ignites Mount Carmel Comeback Against St. Joseph Regional

Nathan Samuels from Mount Carmel felt embarrassed as the team struggled initially, broadcasted nationally on ESPN. Determined to change the narrative, Samuels, the senior running back, initiated a turning point with a 47-yard fake punt. At that moment, the sideline was deflated, having allowed two special teams touchdowns and a safety. Samuels recounted how the coaches emphasized enduring adversity during the game.

Mount Carmel, trailing by 30-0 in Chicago, staged a stunning rally to win 48-44 over St. Joseph Regional of New Jersey. Quarterback Brady Cloherty’s outstanding performance—throwing seven touchdown passes—was pivotal in overcoming the deficit. He completed 26 of 41 passes, accumulating 309 yards. Immediately after Samuels’ fake punt, Cloherty’s 27-yard touchdown pass to Marshaun Thornton signaled the shift in momentum. Thornton racked up two touchdown catches, as Mount Carmel outdid St. Joseph 48 to 14 over a 29-minute period.

According to Cloherty, Samuels’ fake punt provided the necessary momentum. Praising Samuels’ versatility, Cloherty noted his athleticism and capacity for big plays, both catching and rushing the ball. A decisive contribution came from senior receiver Quentin Burrell, who caught his third touchdown pass of the game—a 35-yarder, securing the win with 5:03 left on the clock.

Samuels contributed significantly with 102 yards on 12 carries and 45 yards on two receptions. His fake punt proved pivotal after Mount Carmel was thwarted on a fourth-and-short early in the game. Coach Jordan Lynch highlighted their aggression on fourth downs, emphasizing Samuels’ playmaking abilities.

Samuels, bound for Lindenwood, demonstrated his capabilities with another major run—a 29-yarder—late in the fourth quarter. Having scored 10 touchdowns and led the rushing stats with 719 yards last season, Samuels reflected on his versatility and the effectiveness of the fake punt call. He attributed much of his dedication to his late maternal grandfather, who introduced him to football at five.

Recalling how his grandfather’s encouragement at a young age shaped his path, Samuels expressed gratitude daily to his grandfather’s memory. Samuels’ family background reflects athleticism; his father excelled in four sports during high school, while an uncle played college football. Additionally, Samuels is a notable sprinter, showcasing impressive speed.

Samuels recalled his freshman year as pivotal, especially a standout game against Brother Rice last year, marking his progress. Mentioning his outgoing nature, Samuels credited his older brother Ethan, a freshman guard in junior college basketball, for helping him develop personally.

This memorable night, according to Samuels, ranks among his top experiences, despite not scoring directly. Yet, providing vital support to his teammates in various ways contributed to their victory. Having witnessed multiple state championship wins, this victory remains among Samuels’ cherished memories.