Jacksonville Fl- The Bishop Kenny Crusaders delivered an electrifying performance against the Baker County Wildcats in the first round of the 3A playoffs, securing a 42-21 victory that showcased their offensive firepower and defensive prowess.
The Wildcats struck first with a determined five-yard touchdown run by Ke’nais Williams, taking an early 7-0 lead. However, it didn’t take long for the Crusaders to respond and set the tone for the rest of the game.
Baker County scores first with a 5 yard run by Ke’nais Williams. 6:24 left in the 1st quarter @DuvalSports
— Asia 📸✨ (@amaye_) November 16, 2024
Baker County: 7
Bishop Kenny: 0 pic.twitter.com/gS4qMbXKEF
Quarterback Derek Heidman spearheaded Bishop Kenny’s offense, finding Payton Burnett on a 15-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 7. Burnett’s first score of the night was just the beginning of a standout performance for both him and his teammates.
Bishop Kenny Payton Burnett ties the game at 7 with a 15 yard TD catch with pass coming from QB Derek Heidman @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/7DIij5jJ0J
— Asia 📸✨ (@amaye_) November 16, 2024
On their very next drive, the Crusaders took control as Burnett snagged his second touchdown, giving Bishop Kenny a 14-7 lead. It’s as if the Crusaders were awaken by the early score from the Wildcats, because Bishop Kenny’s playmakers completely took over the contest.
TD #2 for Payton Burnett so far tonight! The Crusaders takes the lead!
— Asia 📸✨ (@amaye_) November 16, 2024
Bishop Kenny: 14
Baker County: 7
7 mins left in the 2nd quarter @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/NOtcWQCT7Y
The Crusaders’ offense continued to hum, with wide receiver JP Donovan joining the action. Heidman connected with Donovan for a touchdown that extended the lead to 21-7. With time winding down in the second quarter, Burnett struck again, hauling in his third touchdown reception of the game. The Crusaders entered halftime firmly in control with a 28-7 lead, leaving Baker County struggling to find answers.
Coming out of the break, Bishop Kenny showed no signs of slowing down. Heidman and Donovan teamed up for another highlight play, this time a 45-yard touchdown that further demoralized the Wildcats. Donovan, like Burnett, finished the game with three touchdowns, cementing the Crusaders’ dominance. Heidman’s accuracy and decision-making were flawless, as he ended the night with an astonishing six passing touchdowns.
JP Donovan does it again for the Crusaders! The duo JP and Burnett both have 3 TDS each of the night!! @DuvalSports
— Asia 📸✨ (@amaye_) November 16, 2024
Bishop Kenny: 42
Baker County: 7
9:00 mins left into the 4th quarter pic.twitter.com/AVZSXoZsju
While the Crusaders’ offense stole the show, their defense played a crucial role in securing the win. Gunnar Rogers made two key fumble recoveries, preventing Baker County from gaining any momentum. The Wildcats struggled to generate consistent offensive production, with their second and final touchdown of the night coming late in the fourth quarter. Chase Phillips ran into the end zone to make the score 42-21, but by then, it was too late for a comeback.
Baker County finally scores since the first quarter. The Wildcats Chase Phillips with an easy run in the end zone. Bishop Kenny still lead 42-14 with 5 mins left in the 4th quarter @DuvalSports pic.twitter.com/QpFvMEIZqW
— Asia 📸✨ (@amaye_) November 16, 2024
Bishop Kenny’s ability to execute on both sides of the ball proved to be the difference-maker. Their balanced attack, led by Heidman’s precision passing and the dynamic duo of Burnett and Donovan, overwhelmed Baker County at every turn. The Wildcats finished their season with a 5-5 record, reflecting a season of highs and lows.
As for the Crusaders, the win pushes their record to 8-3 and sets up an exciting second-round playoff matchup against the Godby Cougars (7-3). Bishop Kenny will need to carry the same level of intensity and focus into the next round if they hope to continue their playoff run. With their offense firing on all cylinders and a defense that capitalizes on turnovers, the Crusaders look like a formidable contender.
The first-round victory was a testament to Bishop Kenny’s preparation, talent, and determination. Head Coach Tim Krause and company know how to prepare for opponents, and they had their team ready for Baker County, a very familiar foe. As the playoffs progress, the Crusaders aim to build on this momentum and keep their championship dreams alive.
