Norton vs. Tallmadge high school football live scores, highlights

NORTON — As OHSAA high school football season hits the halfway point, a new league matchup opens in the Metro Athletic Conference.

Norton (3-1, 0-1) will host Tallmadge (3-1, 1-0) Friday, Sept. 18, at Norton Community Stadium. This will be the schools' first game as MAC opponents.

Both teams are coming off close games in Week 4. Tallmadge rallied to beat Kent Roosevelt 31-21, while Norton suffered its first loss of the season, 42-35 to Streetsboro.

Check here for live updates from Norton Community Stadium.

Watch Ohio High School Football Live on NFHS Network all year

Key players for Norton football

Norton has one of the best backfield combinations in Greater Akron in QB Trey Kersten and RB Jason Beverly. The duo is a big reason why Norton is scoring 40 points a game. Kersten scored all five TDs for Norton in its Week 4 loss to Streetsboro, while Beverly has been the workhorse. Alex Meinen is Norton's top receiver and has also been a ballhawk on defense.

Key players for Tallmadge football

Angelo Gotto's return to Tallmadge has solidified the Blue Devils' running back situation. He is running for 7 yards per carry and scored one TD rushing and one receiving vs. Kent Roosevelt in Week 4. QB Chase Waller has been solid in the first half of the season, benefiting from a veteran offensive line that includes Jake Blatt, Gage Herston, Jackson Clapper and Ty Albertson. Tallmadge's defense is anchored by Al-Ohio linebacker James Robinson.

Who are the head coaches for Norton-Tallmadge football?

Glen Kruger is in his sixth year at Norton head coach. The Panthers are 48-37 during his tenure.

Tallmadge coach Mike Hay is in his seventh year leading the Blue Devils. His record is 39-38.

Michael Leonard can be reached at mleonard@recordpub.com.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Norton vs. Tallmadge high school football live scores, highlights

Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.