LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Shawnee quarterback JJ Spyker put on a show Friday night, leading the Indians to a 45-24 win over Van Wert and securing the program’s first winning season since 2021.

Spyker accounted for three touchdowns — two through the air and one on the ground — as Shawnee (6-3) pulled away in the second half to clinch a home playoff game.

Leading 17-10 coming out of halftime, Spyker faked out the defense — and just about everyone else — before breaking free for a long touchdown run that extended the lead to 24-10.

Van Wert (4-5) responded quickly, capping a methodical drive with a touchdown run by Xavier Kelly to cut the deficit to 24-17. But the Cougars had no answer for Shawnee’s offense down the stretch.

Spyker connected with Chase DePalma for a touchdown that gave the Indians a 34-17 lead, and later muscled into the end zone himself to help seal the victory.

Shawnee’s offense controlled the tempo throughout, and the win marked a major milestone for the program, which is now guaranteed its first winning season in four years.

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