Crusader Football Marches into Playoff Round Two with Confidence

After a fantastic regular season ending with a record of 9-1, the only loss being to the defending state champions of St. Edward’s High School, the Crusaders head into the playoffs with heads held high.

The first game of the playoffs took place last Friday, October 28th, ending with a comfortable win over Hamilton (39-14). Coming off this win, players' and coaches’ expectations are high as they head into round two. Later tonight, the Moeller Crusaders will take on the St. Xavier Bombers for the second time this season. The first meeting between these two Ohio powerhouses ended in a nail-biting finish with a final score of 20-17 and a win for the Crusaders.

Moeller and St. Xavier have had a long history of rivalry with each other, and this season is no different for either team. Unlike most years, in 2021 the Crusaders did not have the chance to rematch the Bombers in the playoffs because of St. Xavier’s unfortunate loss to the Lakota West Firebirds in round two.

The Crusader had a chance to talk with a few players to get some insight on the mindset of the team headed into week two. Ryan Mechley, one of the team’s starting receivers, said he was "very excited about the opportunity to play the Bombers once again this season. It’s a great opportunity for us so early in the playoffs to play a team of this caliber. All we need to do to come away with a win is stay focused this week and just play our game."

Good luck to the Crusaders tonight!

The Crusaders singing the fight song after becoming GCL champions. Photo Creds: Chris Malone