Columbia Falls pulled off one of the most thrilling comebacks in Cat-Dog rivalry history. After trailing 18-0 heading into the fourth quarter, the Wildcats exploded for 19 unanswered points to defeat the Whitefish Bulldogs 19-18. 

Host Luke Schmit recaps the stunning finish with postgame reactions from head coach Kelly Houle, quarterback Banyan Johnston, and wide receiver Easton Brooks, who reflect on the brotherhood, belief, and grit that powered their win.

Banyan Johnston threw three touchdowns in the fourth quarter to rally the Columbia Falls Wildcats to a 19-18 victory over the Whitefish Bulldogs in the annual Cat-Dog game Friday.  

Whitefish (4-2 overall, 2-1 in the Northwest A) entered the fourth quarter with a promising 18-0 lead, but Easton Brooks and Jory Hill each scored lengthy touchdowns to turn the game around for Columbia Falls (3-3, 3-0 in league). The duo combined for 172 receiving yards. 

Head coach of the Wildcats, Kelly Houle, was thrilled to see his team finish with an 18-0 comeback in the fourth quarter. He explains that every day is a new opportunity for this team to improve. They started the season 0-3 but have willed their way back to 3-3 by playing for one another and not losing confidence in their teammates. Houle explains that this win will likely mean the Wildcats will win the conference.  

Wide receiver Easton Brooks was a major key to the win for Columbia Falls. Brooks intercepted the ball late in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. He also scored a 44-yard touchdown to propel the momentum to the Wildcats sideline. The senior reflects on how much he appreciates this moment and how grateful he is to be apart of such a special win. Brooks explains the brotherhood between the teams and how they hold each other accountable, thanks to their head coach.  

Without the stellar play of quarterback Banyan Johnston, the Wildcats could have been in serious trouble. Johnston held his composure during the uphill mountain the team had to climb late in the game. In the fourth quarter, Johnston showed why he is one of the best quarterbacks in the Northwest A. He made accurate throws to slowly cut into the deficit and even made key tackles on defense, which he normally doesn’t play. 

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C-Falls scores 19 unanswered points, defeat Whitefish

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