Zach Zubia ’15 and Dwyer Bucey ’15 prepare for the snap against the Rangers’ defensive line. Photo : MAGIS

Scott Luyster ’17 and Jacob Piekielniak ’17

The Jesuit Bowl is a preseason game between Strake Jesuit and Dallas Jesuit for the title of best Jesuit football program in Texas. Strake Jesuit has tried to close the gap between the Dallas Jesuit program who has controlled the rivalry for the past twenty or so years.This year, the game was mostly a battle for whose offense could outlast the other’s defense. Both teams’ offenses came out firing on all cylinders resulting in a score of 28 Dallas Jesuit – 27 Strake Jesuit at halftime.

Dallas Jesuit would pull away for the win in the second half with a final score of 59-35. It is clear Head Coach James Clancy made adjustments on the offensive side of the ball scoring twenty two more points than at last year’s Bowl.

The Crusaders’ offense was well balanced with multiple impact players. Both running backs, Dwyer Bucey  and Kevin Graff, combined for three touchdowns. Andrew Eichelberger found the endzone twice for a touchdown and two point conversion. The two wideouts, Christian McStravick and Jonah Trahan, combined for fourteen receptions and one hundred and sixty nine yards off of QB Zach Zubia.

The defense struggled to hold the Ranger offense led by UCF commit Bo Schneider. Camden Andarsio, Rick Clark, Zach Short, and Chris Stuchly led the team in tackles. Jack Skipper had a sack and Andrew Malekie denied a pass in the endzone.

Blaise Bucey ’15 and Perry Corrigan ’15 get warmed up on the sideline but still have time for MAGIS. Photo: MAGIS

Zach Zubia ’15 and Dwyer Bucey ’15 prepare for the snap against the Rangers’ defensive line. Photo : MAGIS

Dwyer Bucey ’15 hits an open gap for a first down. Photo: MAGIS

Jonah Trahan ’15 maintains the catch for a huge gain that put the Crusaders in Rangers’ territory. Photo: MAGIS

It is clear the Strake Jesuit Football program is improving and has a bright future in the rivalry for years to come.