DETROIT -- Pontiac Notre Dame’s defense came into the Division 5 state title game with the reputation for strong defense, having allowed 20 points per game and taking away 11 interceptions and 14 fumbles in the 13 games leading up to the trip to Ford Field.

But on Sunday, it was Grand Rapids West Catholic’s defense making a statement.

Notre Dame had a stretch of three possessions in the first half going three-and-out each time, picking up a total of 12 yards. The first five Irish drives yielded four punts and a fumble, which Connor Olszewski picked up for the Falcons.

That defense, and a pair of interceptions early in the second half, helped the Falcons build a 35-point lead. They cruised to a 42-14 win.

“We’ve been preaching physicality all year, bend-don’t-break defense, it’s on the

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