Despite taking a second-half lead after a furious rally, Mt. Vernon (0-1) was unable to hold on during a 31-27 season-opening loss at Marion Harding (1-0). 

Senior quarterback Jake Taylor started his season in fine fashion, completing 13 passes on 24 attempts with a touchdown and an interception. Taylor also ran for two scores in defeat. 

Senior defenders Hayden Higgins and Gavin Thomas came away with interceptions to help rally the Jackets from a slow start. Mt. Vernon capitalized on both turnovers, scoring 21 unanswered points. 

It was a short-lived, however. 

The Presidents scored less than a minute later on a 78-yard catch and run by senior receiver Parker Davis. 

Sophomore running back Dakota Stafford led the rushing attack with 72 yards on 12 carries.