Benny Monroe Stadium is buzzing with anticipation as the Cleveland Blue Raiders gear up to face off against the Bradley Central Bears in a highly anticipated football showdown on October 20, 2023. This monumental game, steeped in tradition and intensity, holds even greater significance as it is part of the 20th season of the renowned Great American Rivalry Series.

Rick Ford, founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, spoke of the excitement surrounding this riveting matchup, saying, “The Bradley Central vs. Cleveland rivalry embodies the essence of high school football. The passion, history, and competitive spirit displayed by both teams are what make this game truly special.”

With a crowd size of 5,000 expected to fill the stands, Benny Monroe Stadium will be electrified with the energy of fervent fans. In their previous meeting, the Bradley Central Bears emerged victorious in a hard-fought defensive battle, holding off a late surge from the Cleveland Blue Raiders. The rushing attacks took center stage for both offenses, amassing over 350 yards combined. Turnovers played a crucial role, with both teams showcasing their defensive prowess.

As the Cleveland Blue Raiders and the Bradley Central Bears step onto the field, the rivalry between these two powerhouses will be reignited. Meanwhile, the Bears, with their indomitable spirit, look to continue their recent success in the rivalry. Meanwhile, the Blue Raiders, embodying the spirit of their proud mascot, are determined to reclaim their superiority in the series and extend their lead in this historic rivalry.

The all-time series currently stands at 27-21 in favor of the Cleveland Blue Raiders, highlighting the closely contested nature of this matchup. Each meeting adds another chapter to the storied history between these two teams, showcasing the raw talent and determination that fuel their fierce competition.

Mark your calendars and prepare for a thrilling showdown between the Cleveland Blue Raiders and the Bradley Central Bears. The 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series has handpicked this game to celebrate the essence of Friday night lights. Get ready for a football spectacle that will captivate fans and leave an indelible mark on the community.

We Know Friday Nights.

 

MVP

Caleb Martin
Bradley Central

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Camden Lockerby

Cleveland

Presenting an accomplished multi-sport athlete, actively engaged in both wrestling and football. They are a valued member of the National Honor Society and actively contribute to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, also known as “FCA”. Excelling academically, Camden is enrolled in challenging AP courses and Dual Enrollment, maintaining a distinguished 4.0 GPA. Their future endeavors lie in the field of engineering, with a focus on Construction Management within Civil Engineering.
Luke Keith

Bradley Central

Luke epitomizes the quintessential student-athlete, embodying a comprehensive set of qualities essential both on and off the field. With an impressive 3.8 GPA, Luke demonstrates unwavering commitment to academic excellence while excelling in both Baseball and football, earning varsity letters in both sports. His election as team captain for the current season attests to the high regard in which he is held by his peers, a testament to his exceptional leadership skills. Additionally, Luke actively contributes to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). While his collegiate aspirations remain undecided at this juncture, Luke undoubtedly possesses a promising future.

GAME SUMMARY

Tonight in Tennessee, Micah Jordan carried it in to open the scoring for Cleveland 7-0. Bradley answers and runs one in and after a faked punt, takes it in for a 2-pt conversion. A huge 50 yd recepetion with a good extra point extends Bradley’s lead 15-7 going into halftime. Cleveland puts another TD on the board in the 3rd quarter and closed the gap to 15-13 after a conversion attempt comes up no good. Bradley and Cleveland vollied the score in the second half bringing the score to 22-20 with Bradley on top. It was a close game! QB scrambled in for a touchdown extending Bradley’s lead 29-20. Some Iron Curtain defense saw Cleveland Raiders with an interception! Cleveland punched it in to make it a 1 possession game, but miss the field goal! Another TD from Bradley brings the final score to 36-26 Bradley Central.