CARTERVILLE — Jonathan Miller and Andrew Johnson combined for just shy of 300 yards rushing and five touchdowns to lead Carterville to a thrilling 35-34 win over Marion in the 2025 season opener.
Miller rushed for 186 yards. His third touchdown in the second half put the Lions up 35-20 with 4:18 to play, but Callahan Roper did not let the Wilcats go quietly.
Roper connected with Junious Thomas for a 55-yard touchdown. The two-point conversion was no good, so it was 35-26. After recovering an onside kick, Roper and Thomas connected again, this time for a 23-yard TD pass. The point conversion was good this time, cutting Carterville’s lead to 35-34.
Marion got the ball back one more time, but Aidan Swallers sealed the deal with four seconds left for the Lions with an interception.
Johnson finished with 106 yards rushing and a pair of first half touchdowns for the Lions. Roper wound up 20-34 for 361 yards with five touchdowns and three interceptions. Thomas tallied seven catches for 151 yards and two scores.
Carterville will be home again next week when former conference foe Nashville pays a visit. Marion will try to bounce back next week with the home opener against Granite City.
