Hillhouse captured the Class M state title Saturday after a 7-0 victory over New London. It was the fourth state title for the Academics (10-3). Hillhouse, the eighth seed, knocked off No. 1, and defending champion, Berlin in the quarterfinals, and No. 4 Gilbert/NW Regional in the semifinals.

Harold Cooper scored the game's only touchdown on an 8-yard run in the fourth quarter.

Here are some postgame sound bites:

Hillhouse coach Tom Dyer:

"It didn't surprise me how good New London was. We saw them on film and we thought they were a tremendous ball club. But I'm real proud of the way these guys (the Hillhouse players) handled themselves today with class. They played their butts out.

"I can't say how happy I am for the seniors, and how well they prepared to do this.''

Hillhouse suffered a 9-6 loss to Class LL champion Xavier on Oct. 29. Dyer firmly believed the Academics could still might the Class M field despite suffering their third loss of the season that day. The players were just as optimistic.

Said Hillhouse senior Steven Dejournett:

"Yes, we were very confident. The seniors got together and we just told all the younger guys that we can do this and we can make this run and go to the playoffs. Look at us now."

Said Cooper:

"I feel wonderful. It's the best feeling in the world."