Bowling Green, Kentucky, August 21, 2025
News Summary
The Bowling Green Purples football team aims for a third consecutive 5A state title this season, navigating significant player changes. With the departure of key seniors, Coach Mark Spader is focusing on new talent, including transfer quarterback Jaxon Strautman. Promising players like Trevy Barber and Jaxen Smith are expected to lead offensively, while the defense integrates new members. The team faces a challenging schedule, eyeing district success and potential championship glory.
Bowling Green, Kentucky
The Bowling Green Purples football team is gearing up for another exciting season, aiming for a third consecutive 5A state title. The Purples have seen considerable success in recent years, clinching back-to-back championships and claiming three titles since 2020. However, the team faces significant changes with the departure of a seasoned senior class, including former quarterback Deuce Bailey, who has transitioned to Missouri State.
Head coach Mark Spader is addressing these challenges head-on, focusing on the future while valuing the experience of new players stepping into key roles. Jaxon Strautman, a transfer from Frederick Douglas, will take on the quarterback position. While expectations are tempered regarding his ability to replicate Bailey’s impressive performance, the coaching staff appreciates his valuable game experience from the previous season.
Senior wide receiver Trevy Barber is poised to be one of the most explosive players in the state. Last season, he recorded 1,327 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns, making him a candidate for the prestigious Mr. Football award. Another promising receiver, Jaxen Smith, is returning from injuries and is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s offensive efforts. Ethan Kirkwood has shown remarkable progression in practice, while Andru Jones transitions to offensive play after spending most of last season as a cornerback. Hudson Nottmeier is also gaining essential practice experience, which will be crucial as the offense develops.
The backfield will feature players Montravion Graham and Nick Graham, both of whom are expected to add depth and strength to the running game. The offensive line, a critical component of any successful football team, includes three-year starter Zach Jordan and two-year starter Caleb Ray, alongside new competitors AJ Johnson and Chris Cohron. Additionally, Mason Dew and Cristian Orellana Hernandez will be vying for playing time to round out the offensive line.
Defensively, Bowling Green faces challenges as only three players who saw significant action return this season: Malik Coburn, Montez Trussell, and Andru Jones. Meanwhile, new faces are integrating into the squad, with safety Embree Dotson showcasing notable improvements during the early part of summer training. Coach Spader expresses optimism about the defensive unit’s potential for cohesion as they continue to blend veteran players with newcomers.
The Purples have a challenging schedule ahead, lined with formidable opponents that include Owensboro Catholic, St. Xavier, South Warren, Scott County, Christian Academy of Louisville, and Franklin County. Within their district, they will compete against teams like Greenwood, Warren Central, Barren County, and Grayson County.
As the season unfolds, Coach Spader emphasizes the importance of senior leadership to guide the team through the competitive landscape. The team is not only focused on excelling in district play but also on positioning themselves for championship glory come December. The Purples understand that they are viewed as a measuring stick by other teams, a role that brings both challenges and the opportunity to rise to the occasion.
Upcoming Bowling Green 2025 Football Schedule
- August 23: Owensboro Catholic
- August 29: St. Xavier
- September 5: at Scott County
- September 12: at South Warren
- September 19: Barren County
- September 26: at Christian Academy of Louisville
- October 2: Warren Central
- October 17: Greenwood
- October 24: at Grayson County
- October 30: at Franklin County
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent titles has the Bowling Green football team won?
The Bowling Green football team has won back-to-back 5A state titles and three titles in total since 2020.
Who is the current head coach of the Bowling Green Purples?
The current head coach of the Bowling Green Purples is Mark Spader.
Who will replace Deuce Bailey as quarterback?
Jaxon Strautman, a transfer from Frederick Douglas, will take over as quarterback for the upcoming season.
Who are some key returning players for this season?
Key returning players include Trevy Barber, Malik Coburn, and Zach Jordan.
Key Features of Bowling Green Football 2025 Season
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recent Titles | Back-to-back 5A state titles, three since 2020 |
| New Quarterback | Jaxon Strautman replaces Deuce Bailey |
| Key Players | Trevy Barber, Malik Coburn, Zach Jordan |
| Challenging Schedule | Includes Owensboro Catholic, St. Xavier, and Christian Academy of Louisville |
| District Competitors | Greenwood, Warren Central, Barren County, Grayson County |
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Additional Resources
- WNKY: 2025 Football Frenzy Preview – Bowling Green Purples
- Wikipedia: Bowling Green, Kentucky
- BG Daily News: 2025 Prep Football
- Google Search: Bowling Green football
- Toledo Blade: 2025 State Position – BGSU Running Backs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football (Sport)
- USF Bulls: USF Football Announces Series with Bowling Green
- Google News: Bowling Green football news
- Fox Sports: 2025 Bowling Green Football Predictions
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
