Owensboro, September 4, 2025
News Summary
In an intense season opener, the Owensboro Catholic football team defeated the Bowling Green Purples 23-17 at the Rafferty’s Bowl. This matchup was historic as it was the first meeting since 2009 between the two competitive teams, both of whom have claimed state championships in previous seasons. Owensboro Catholic demonstrated resilience, showcasing their offensive prowess and winning the game with a late-game touchdown, setting a positive tone for the season ahead.
Owensboro
In a thrilling season opener at the Rafferty’s Bowl on Saturday, August 23, 2025, the Owensboro Catholic football team triumphed over Bowling Green with a score of 23-17. The game marked an intense encounter that showcased both teams’ competitive spirit and historical prestige, having both claimed state championships in previous seasons.
With this victory, Owensboro Catholic starts their season with a record of 1-0, while Bowling Green begins at 0-1. The Aces and the Purples had not met on the field since 2009, making this clash particularly noteworthy in the context of Kentucky high school football.
Game Highlights
The game emerged as a back-and-forth battle, with both teams demonstrating their offensive capabilities. Owensboro Catholic scored first through a 27-yard touchdown pass from Dremail Carothers to Xavier Maddox in the first quarter. However, Bowling Green quickly responded. Following a significant 62-yard kickoff return by Andru Jones, Zyrek Burton rushed for a 9-yard touchdown, giving the Purples their first points.
Bowling Green took control when they blocked a punt, and Logan Johnson recovered it in the end zone, extending their lead to 14-6. Yet, Owensboro Catholic narrowed the gap just before halftime when Andrew Garfield kicked a 46-yard field goal that narrowly cleared the crossbar, bringing the score to 14-9.
The second half saw Bowling Green add a 29-yard field goal by Oliver Gonzales to push their lead to 17-9. However, Owensboro Catholic’s Maddox caught another touchdown pass, this time decreasing Bowling Green’s lead to 17-15. A potential eighth touchdown for Bowling Green was negated due to a penalty after they recovered a muffed punt.
As the clock wound down, with just 1:29 remaining in the fourth quarter, Owensboro Catholic scored the pivotal touchdown when Miles Edge rushed into the end zone. They followed this with a successful two-point conversion pass from Jude Evans to Carothers, providing them a critical 23-17 lead.
Final Moments
Bowling Green’s last chance for a comeback came to an abrupt halt when Jaxon Strautman fumbled the ball on a fourth-and-1 play, sealing the win for Owensboro Catholic. The Aces finished with a considerable offensive advantage, outgaining Bowling Green in total yards, 330 to 153.
Key Players
Nick Graham was noted as Bowling Green’s top rusher, accumulating 47 yards. Montravion Graham also made significant contributions, completing 4 receptions for 46 yards. The performance displayed by both teams emphasized their resilience, setting a competitive tone for the rest of the season.
Looking Ahead
Bowling Green is scheduled to play against St. Xavier at home on Friday, August 29, 2025. Coach Mark Spader remarked on the importance of assessing the team’s health and the need to prepare adequately for this upcoming challenge, as St. Xavier is recognized as a formidable opponent.
Background Context
Last season, Bowling Green was celebrated as the 5A state champion, while Owensboro Catholic was the 2A runner-up. The game on August 23, 2025, rekindled a historic rivalry that had not been played for over a decade. Both schools have a rich tradition of excellence in high school football, underscoring the significance of this matchup for players, coaches, and fans alike.
FAQ
What was the final score of the Owensboro Catholic vs. Bowling Green game?
The final score was Owensboro Catholic 23, Bowling Green 17.
When did the two teams last meet before this game?
The last meeting between Owensboro Catholic and Bowling Green took place in 2009.
What is the significance of this game?
Both teams were state champions last season, making this opening game particularly significant for both programs.
What upcoming game does Bowling Green have?
Bowling Green is scheduled to play against St. Xavier at home on Friday, August 29, 2025.
Who were the standout players in this game?
Nick Graham was the leading rusher for Bowling Green with 47 yards, and Montravion Graham had 4 receptions for 46 yards.
Key Features of the Match
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Owensboro Catholic 23, Bowling Green 17 |
| First Meeting | Since 2009 |
| Owensboro Catholic Record | 1-0 |
| Bowling Green Record | 0-1 |
| Leading Rusher for Bowling Green | Nick Graham, 47 yards |
| Next Game for Bowling Green | vs. St. Xavier on August 29, 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- BG Daily News: Owensboro Catholic Triumphs
- Wikipedia: Kentucky High School Football
- MaxPreps: Owensboro Catholic Recap
- Google Search: Owensboro Catholic Football
- WNKY: Bowling Green Falls to Owensboro
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Owensboro, Kentucky
- Owensboro Times: Football Playoffs Preview
- Google News: Owensboro Football News
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