Niles claims Wolverine Conference title with eighth straight victory (Full Story)

The Wolverine Conference title was up for grabs Friday with the winner of the spirited Niles versus Paw Paw matchup poised to take the title.

In one of the most intriguing matchups on a night filled with tremendous games, Niles (8-1) shutout previously undefeated Paw Paw (8-1) 21-0 to claim the conference title.

Both teams flexed their defensive muscles in the first quarter. Neither team gained ground, both punting twice in a scoreless first quarter.

Paw Paw turned the ball over twice in the second quarter, leading to a Niles touchdown and a 7-0 halftime lead. Defense continued to win out in the third quarter. Niles held on to a narrow 7-0 advantage with just one quarter remaining.

Niles turned defense to offense in the fourth quarter, making a fourth-down stop on Paw Paw and then added a second touchdown.

Up 14-0, Niles made another fourth-down stop and iced the game with a third touchdown to claim the conference crown.

Niles has not lost since an opening-week matchup at St. Joe. Paw Paw was one win away from an undefeated regular season. Both teams will enter the playoffs as prime candidates for a deep run.