Jacksonville Fl- In a high-stakes playoff clash, the Bolles Bulldogs embarked on a challenging journey, traveling to face the Raines Vikings, who boasted an impressive 10-1 record, at the renowned “graveyard.” The stage was set for a gridiron battle that would test the resilience and mettle of both teams.
Right from the start, Raines’ defense set a stern tone, making a pivotal stop on a crucial 4th down. However, Bolles swiftly countered, showcasing their defensive prowess with a resounding tackle from Garrison Butler. The first quarter drew to a close with Bolles’ Emmet Grzebin notching a rushing touchdown, propelling the Bulldogs to an early 7-0 lead with just 47 seconds remaining.
Emmet Grzebin gets Bolles on the board first! Score 7-0 with 47 secs left in 1st @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/9wHIpbPh90
— Asia 📸✨ (@amaye_) November 17, 2023
The second quarter saw Raines’ QB Ty Randolph respond with a touchdown pass to Michael Singleton, knotting the score at 7-7. Bolles’ offense, though, found its rhythm, as QB DJ Moore connected with WR Chase Collier for a spectacular over-the-top pass, pushing the Bulldogs ahead 14-7 as halftime beckoned.
Despite inclement weather conditions hampering both teams’ offensive efforts, the third quarter remained scoreless, with the scoreline frozen at 14-7 heading into the decisive fourth quarter.
Bolles WR Chase Collier received an over the top pass from QB DJ Moore to put them back on top! Score 14-7 @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/M687m3PrtA
— Asia 📸✨ (@amaye_) November 18, 2023
The Vikings attempted to bridge the gap with a field goal, but Bolles’ determination shone through as they blocked the punt. Trey Brown seized the opportunity, returning the ball for a few crucial yards, maintaining the Bulldogs’ momentum.
In a last-ditch effort to equalize the score, Raines’ QB Ty Randolph launched a magnificent pass to Davian Lucas, only to witness the ball slip through the receiver’s grasp in the end zone. As the clock wound down, Bolles emerged victorious, clinching a hard-fought win against Raines for the second consecutive year, signaling their progression in the playoffs.
With this pivotal victory, the Bolles Bulldogs now set their sights on a formidable matchup against the Bishop Moore Hornets in Orlando—a clash between the #3 and #4 seeds—a contest that promises to further intensify the playoff journey for both teams. Bolles, who started out 0-3 on the season now find themselves just 3 games away from adding another championship to the prestigious program.
For Raines, it ends another season short of the high expectations that always come with the prominent program. At 10-1 and the #1 seed, many thought Raines was primed to go deeper into the playoffs. Instead, the Vikings must ponder in deep thought at the drawing board of how to return the historic powerhouse to state champions.
