Quite a different game in rematch, but Bradley pulls away vs. Bearden
CLEVELAND — Three times Bearden’s defense turned back the state’s top-ranked Class 6A Bradley Central Bears inside the BHS 10, forcing a lost fumble, a loss of possession on downs and a missed field goal.
Erasing all memories of a 46-14 setback on this same field at BCHS less than three weeks prior, Josh Jones’ Bulldogs built a 14-7 lead midway into the second quarter of this state playoff quarterfinal game, were tied at halftime and were on their way to another tie until the Bears got their own fourth-down stop in BCHS territory midway into the third quarter. Things then changed back to Black and Gold dominance with the likes of UT signee “Boo” Carter, speedy running back/receiver, plus elusive and strong-armed quarterback Kaleb Martin.
Still unbeaten at 13-0, Bradley won a hard fought 35-14 game by, perhaps, taking adavantage of a tiring BHS defense in the game’s final 18 minutes Friday, Nov. 17.
Verses the first meeting, “I thought we blocked a lot better up front; we were able to run the ball a little bit tonight,” coach Jones said.
Actually punishing Bradley with its running game early on, getting a 27-yard touchdown up the middle from junior running back Torian Riggins and a 3-yard scoring run from sophomore Jayzon Thompson, Bearden’s season ends 9-4.
Riggins, also a linebacker, recovered Bradley’s fumble at the Bulldogs’ goal line late in the first quarter, while senior linebacker Ross Elder deflected a fourth-down Bears pass at the BHS 1 midway into the final 12 minutes.
“We had a really good season; this is the fourth time Bearden has ever made it to the quarterfinals,” senior defensive back Kai Young said.
“Our senior class was dedicated and committed,” senior defensive back Nic Hodge said.
“I’m so proud of our kids,” Jones said.
