Bowling Green shuts out South Warren; advances to regional championship in Kroger KSR Game of the Week

This article was submitted to KSR by freelance writer and WKU student reporter, Piper McCoun. You can follow Piper on Twitter @piper_mccoun.

---

The No. 12 ranked Bowling Green Purples (10-2) had their way against the South Warren Spartans (6-6) on Friday night in the second round of the KHSAA regional playoffs. Bowling Green sought revenge after last season’s loss to the Spartans ended their state championship run, and found just that. The Purples shut out the defending 5A state champions 34-0 in adamant fashion. 

“It was the best week of practice we’ve had all year,” said Bowling Green head coach Mark Spader. “As coaches, we know that’s so important, and we’re coming in tonight wondering if that’s gonna pay off.” 

Cristian Conyer.

Offensive Dominance from the Purples

That practice definitely paid off as Bowling Green absolutely dominated on the offensive end by not only showcasing their run game but allowing QB1 Deuce Bailey to let it fly. After a few traded three-and-outs from both teams, junior Javen Huddleston ran for a touchdown to put the Purples on the board first.

The Purples are the first to put point up on the board as they lead the Spartans 7-0 with 5:05 left in the first quarter. pic.twitter.com/UwWnVQCjkg

— Piper McCoun (@piper_mccoun) November 12, 2022

The Purples continued their push to victory when Bailey connected with junior receiver Easton Barlow late in the first quarter.

Another one. Bowling Green gets their first pass completion for a TD in the #KrogerKSRGameoftheWeek. pic.twitter.com/SBVaJlFQIA

— Piper McCoun (@piper_mccoun) November 12, 2022

The pair connected again before the end of the half for a 60-yard touchdown reception, allowing the Purples to close the first half up 21-0.

The run game was big for Bowling Green coming out of halftime. Huddleston showcased his extensive athleticism and ran for a 69-yard touchdown in the third quarter, increasing the score gap between the teams to 27-0. Sophomore Jayden Axson came in clutch during the fourth quarter and barreled into the end zone to put the Purples up 34-0, and the score remained the same as the clock hit 0:00.

Sophomore RB Jayden Axson barrels into the end zone for a TD. No lights this time, though.

The Purples lead the Spartans 34-0 with 7:48 left in the game. pic.twitter.com/2SQ9KGJkHT

— Piper McCoun (@piper_mccoun) November 12, 2022

The Spartans’ offense had no answer for Bowling Green’s defensive strategies, either. Despite the jam-packed visitor section in enemy territory, South Warren was rarely able to convert on third downs or capitalize on the strengths of their young quarterback Bryce Button. 

Bowling Green allowed 24 points in their previous matchup with the Spartans back in September. Coach Spader said this year’s schedule helped evolve their defense and propelled them forward to shutout success in Friday’s game.

“We fed off that [idea of], ‘here’s what we need to do to execute,’ and they hung in this region and did what they were supposed to do,” said Spader. 

Bowling Green QB Bailey is ranked #3 in the 5A class for passing, averaging 209 passing yards per game and totaling 2,294 on the season so far. Let’s not forget about the front line, though. These guys are a big reason why Bowling Green’s offensive weapons are able to shine. 

“Our offense has been fun to watch all year,” Spader added. “… [our offensive line] has been a plus all year. I know everyone is signing their praises to Deuce and the gang, but it starts up front, and they’ve beat the drum all year.” 

More than just another win

Every single school has its rival. This is one of those classic, in-county, renowned program rivalries that result not only in entertaining football, but an emotional element in the game. 

“I think our kids did a great job. We talked to them all week about being confident and intense in the game, but at the same time relaxing,” Spader said. “We were really tight when we played them in the regular season and we didn’t play well, you know. I think they listened to us. We were relaxed, confident and focused, and we went out and executed in all phases.” 

The Bowling Green Purples will host the regional championship game next Friday against South Oldham in an attempt to continue their state championship campaign.