PORTAGE — Host Portage Central scored the game’s first 21 points and the Mustangs went on to defeat Niles 35-14 in a SMAC West Division contest Friday night.

Portage Central (7-2) advances to the state playoffs, while the Vikings (3-6) conclude their 2018 season.

Niles has not had a winning season since 2014 and has not reached the MHSAA playoffs since 2003.

Portage Central outgained the Vikings 346-214 and ran 67 offensive plays to Niles’ 42.

The Vikings ran for 187 yards, including 127 by Javond Ball on 20 carries. Ball scored on runs of eight and five yards.

Drew Gourlay and Cade Vota kicked the extra points.

Niles was just 1-of-8 throwing the football for 27 yards. Dylan Caniff caught the lone pass.

Terris Frick led Niles with 14.5 tackles, while Dawson Bruckner had 10 tackles and Cole Simpson 9.5.

Niles did not force a sack or a fumble.