Kroger KSR Game of the Week: South Warren at Bowling Green

Playoff football is a bonus. Playoff football between two programs that both have recently won a state title and are arch-rivals is a double bonus. That’s the case in this edition of the Kroger KSR Game of the Week.

South Warren is the defending 5A state champion. The Spartans defeated Frederick Douglass 38-26 to secure the program’s third title. The Bowling Green Purples last hoisted the championship trophy in 2020. The program has won seven titles. With both schools located in the Bowling Green area, this heavyweight 5A matchup should be spirited and highly competitive.

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South Warren opened its doors in 2010 and is coached by future KHSAA Hall of Famer Brandon Smith. He won three titles as the Boyle County quarterback and has also led South Warren to a trio of championships. The Spartans are 6-5. One of the team’s losses came against Bowling Green in September and two were against out-of-state teams. Coach Smith’s squads are known for their defense which translates to successful playoff runs. Drew Givens paces the team with 77 tackles including a whopping 19 for loss and 9 QB sacks. KJ Hardesty is also a havoc-producing defender with 62 stops, 24 TFLs, and 7 sacks. He’s listed at the top of 5A with 4 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery. Kicker Eli McIntosh ranks second in 5A with 12 made field goals.

Bowling Green enters the contest with a 9-2 record. The Purples’ two losses are to Boyle County and St. X. Mark Spader’s team is coming off a 49-0 win over Ohio County. Quarterback Deuce Bailey has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 22 touchdowns compared to just 5 interceptions. His numbers are good enough for second in 5A. A pair of Purples have over 500 receiving yards (Easton Barlow with 697 and Trevy Barber with 598). The duo combines for 16 touchdowns. Three Bowling Green defenders have registered over 80 tackles: Jake Napier 96, Davis Fant 89, and Grayson Newman 85. Wick Dotson’s 4 interceptions rank tied for first in 5A.

Rivalry, playoff football. Can’t wait.

Kroger is a staple in your hometown community just like high school football. There’s nothing quite like Friday nights in the Bluegrass. We are honored to share this journey with Kroger and you for the third consecutive season.