Overcoming challenging weather conditions always adds an extra layer of resilience to a team’s journey. The Bowling Green Buccaneers persevered and advanced to the MAIS Class 4A State Championship game amid thick humidity and constant rain drizzles. The Buccaneers defeated the Winston Academy Patriots of Louisville, Mississippi, in a 42-13 victory. The achievement of reaching the State Championship is a testament to their skill, determination, and ability to overcome obstacles; one that has not been obtained at Bowling Green in over 26 years. The upcoming State Championship game between Bowling Green School and TriCounty Academy of Flora, Mississippi, on Friday, November 17, 2023, will be played at Jackson Academy in Jackson, Mississippi, at 3:00pm promises to be a climatic showdown.
Fans with umbrellas and raincoats, and some bold enough to just bare the elements of mother nature cheered as the Buccaneers honored American Veterans in their last home game of 2023. The Buccaneers set up the opening drive of the night with a touchdown from Bubby Bryant, and a PAT from Alex Brock to signal the opening score of 7-0, game clock 10:45. The Patriots’ first drive was halted with a quick interception by Preston Jarrell. Kelly Daniels skyrocketed with a 66-yard touchdown run, Brock’s PAT successful, score 14-0. On the Patriots’ second drive, a score and failed PAT closed the gap for a 14-6 score. With quick energy and fast feet, Kelly Daniels added his second touchdown run, PAT good, for a score of 21-6. The Buccaneer defense stopped the Patriots’ next drive, and the Bucs took over on downs on their 30-yard line ending the first quarter.
The Bucs continued to pound the Patriots early in the second quarter with a 3rd touchdown run from Kelly Daniels, Brock booted the extra PAT for a score of 28-6. After the kickoff, a chop block penalty on the Patriots then a personal foul penalty against the Bucs, the Patriots were forced to punt. With the game clock at 8:17, the next Daniels’ touchdown was called back for a Buccaneer holding call; the team preserved with only 3 seconds left in the first half, completed a touchdown pass to Kelly Daniels, Brock succeeded with a PAT, score 35-6 which ended the first half.
The Patriots received the second half kickoff, but the defense held tight and forced a punt. The next Buccaneer drive started at their own 2-yard line, and after 98 yards of forceful rushing, the Buccaneers fumbled in the endzone for a Patriot touchback. The Bucs’ defense once again held the Patriots and forced them to punt. Bubby Bryant had an exceptional night of rushing, and scored the last Buccaneer touchdown, and another successful PAT earned by Alex Brock for a 42-6 score. The game would not close out until the Patriots scored on a run late in the fourth quarter, PAT was good, for a final score of 42-13.
Coach Jason Johnson stated, “This team has a heart of a warrior. They play hard, and they love playing the game of football. They have embraced hard work all year long and have risen to the occasion. We now have ourselves in a position to play for a State Championship. I am just humbled to be part of a such a great school and program. We ask that everyone come out and support us as we represent Washington Parish. It has been 26 years; it is a big deal for the school and Parish!”
Principal Phil Junkins announced a Buccaneer Pep Rally to be held on Thursday night, November 16, 2023, at 6:00pm at the W.E. Buck Hellen Stadium. There will be no school on Friday, however all are invited to form a support line and wish the Bucs onto victory. Supporters should be out by 8:45am, the team will leave campus at 9:00am. Fans are likely brimming with anticipation as the Buccaneers compete for the coveted state title. Congratulations to the team on their advancement, and best of luck in the state championship!!! “Burn the Ship!” and bring home a title to Washington Parish!!
