The Don Bosco Prep varsity football team from Ramsey, NJ is facing off against Bergen Catholic from Oradell, NJ in a neutral-site playoff game at MetLife Stadium. This game is part of the 2024 New Jersey High School Football Playoff Brackets for the NJSIAA Non-Public A tournament.
Don Bosco Prep vs Bergen Catholic Game Info:
What: New Jersey High School Football Playoffs
Who: Don Bosco Prep vs Bergen Catholic
When: Friday, November 29, 2024
Bracket: 2024 New Jersey High School Football Playoff Brackets: NJSIAA – Non-Public A
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Don Bosco Prep vs Bergen Catholic
The 2024 high school football season in New Jersey has been marked by impressive performances from both Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep, two of the state’s most storied football programs. The two teams have dominated their respective leagues and are considered top contenders in the state. A recent matchup between these two teams only added to their intense rivalry, with Bergen Catholic edging out Don Bosco Prep 24-20 in a hard-fought game on September 28, 2024.
Team Performance and Record Breakdown
Bergen Catholic enters the season as the top team in New Jersey, ranked #21 nationally and #1 in the state. With an overall record of 10-1, the team has shown tremendous consistency, especially in league play, where they remain undefeated with a perfect 3-0 record. The Crusaders have been dominant offensively, averaging 33 points per game, with strong showings in both the running and passing games. They average 177.4 rushing yards per game and 181.1 passing yards per game, totaling 358.5 yards per contest.
On the defensive side, Bergen Catholic has also excelled, allowing only 139 points all season. They have been led by standout players like Najee Calhoun, who averages 107.4 rushing yards per game, and quarterback Dominic Campanile, who has thrown for 179.3 yards per game.
In contrast, Don Bosco Prep, with an 8-3 overall record, has also proven to be a formidable team. Ranked #3 in the state and #2 in their division, the Ironmen have experienced a solid campaign despite facing tough competition. Don Bosco Prep’s offensive output has been a little more modest, averaging 33.4 points per game. They rely on a balanced attack, with 122.3 rushing yards per game and 140.8 passing yards per game, totaling 263.1 yards per contest.
Defensively, Don Bosco Prep allows just 131 points, giving them a respectable average of 18 points per game allowed. Key players like Deven Sisler, who leads the team with 156.4 passing yards per game, and Isaiah Alvarez, a top receiver, have been crucial to the team’s success.
Head-to-Head Matchup
In their most recent encounter on September 28, 2024, Bergen Catholic triumphed over Don Bosco Prep with a 24-20 victory. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing their offensive and defensive strengths. Bergen Catholic took control early, with a 7-0 lead at the end of the first quarter. However, Don Bosco Prep responded with a 7-point second quarter, while Bergen Catholic struggled to add to their score. Despite being outscored 7-0 in the second quarter, the Crusaders were able to dominate the second half, with 14 points in the third quarter, ultimately sealing the win.
The game was a showcase of Bergen Catholic’s resilience, as they managed to hold off Don Bosco Prep’s offensive surge. Bergen Catholic’s strong defense in the fourth quarter, allowing only 6 points, was pivotal in maintaining their lead.
Common Opponents
Both teams have shared several common opponents this season, and each has fared well in those matchups. Bergen Catholic has gone 5-0 against teams that Don Bosco Prep has also played, including decisive victories over Paramus Catholic, St. Joseph Regional, and Seton Hall Prep. Don Bosco Prep, on the other hand, has been equally dominant against these teams, with a 3-0 record in common games.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, both teams continue to impress in their respective divisions. Bergen Catholic remains a national powerhouse with hopes of advancing deep into the playoffs, while Don Bosco Prep is also poised for a strong playoff run. The head-to-head victory for Bergen Catholic adds another chapter to their rivalry with Don Bosco Prep, and fans can expect more thrilling encounters in the future.
The battle between these two elite programs is a true reflection of the competitive spirit and talent that defines New Jersey high school football. With a mix of power, precision, and grit, both Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep continue to be forces to be reckoned with in the state’s football scene.
