The University School football team fell short of the Division III regional final last Saturday in a loss to Toledo Central Catholic, the first ranked team in the state. After this defeat, the Preppers finish the season with a record of 8-4.
It was a tough defeat for the Preppers, who ultimately fell by a score of 56-13. The game depended primarily upon how the Preppers were going to defend the run against a University of Toledo recruited running back. The Preppers had few answers for Toledo Central Catholic’s offense, and the game quickly got out of hand, with the Preppers unable to mount a significant comeback. They fought their hearts out throughout the season, pulling out many tough wins and constantly making big plays.
Junior quarterback and MVP Jayden Cunningham threw for over 2,000 yards, rushed for over 1,000 yards and had 18 total touchdowns over the course of the season. Junior running back Joe Kadlic rushed for over 1,100 yards on the season, and senior Brad Rehak hauled in over 800 yards and 6 touchdowns from the receiver position.
The US defense also had many laudable accomplishments over the season. They constantly made big tackles and wreaked havoc on opponents’ quarterbacks. Junior Lewis Allen lead the team with 118 total tackles. Senior cornerbacks John Dumas and Brandon Scadlock led the secondary and combined for 7 interceptions.
It was a great run for the University School football team. US hadn’t been to the regional final since 2003, such a run was a big statement from the program.
Next season the team looks to get right back into the mix for the state final. With many core players returning, the team should have a good chance to replicate this season’s success.