The (3-0) Corrigan-Camden Bulldogs will host the (3-0) Leon Cougars in a high-stakes district match this Friday.
With the unbeaten Cougars pulling off an upset over the defending district champ Centerville Tigers a couple of weeks ago, a win for undefeated Corrigan this Friday would lead to a guaranteed share of this season’s district title.
This is the best position at this point for the Bulldogs since their memorable 2022 season when they shared the district title with Centerville.
This season’s tough journey for Corrigan has been a challenge the players and coaching staff have conquered.
“The resilience we have had overcoming adverse situations, continuing to work hard and enjoy the game of football through the tragedies, it speaks volumes to our players’ character,” said Bulldog head coach Brett Ratliff. “Being in this position has been our goal all year long. We accomplished getting into the playoffs. Now our goal this week is that share of the district title, and God-willing, trying to win it outright next week.”
The Cougars, led by fourth-year head coach Derek Thomas, earned a 28-14 victory at Centerville two weeks ago to help put Leon in first place. A clutch long touchdown catch by Cougar senior receiver and key weapon Cooper Stevens helped swing momentum, while a key fumble recovery by the defense set up another score.
This was also a revenge game for Leon, as Centerville won last year’s match and district title, only to get bounced by top-state competitor Joaquin early in the playoffs.
In Corrigan’s last game versus the Cougars, the Bulldogs dominated in a 33-0 shutout. Corrigan had an explosive start, scoring 27 first-half points and controlling the remainder of the match.
During district play so far, Leon has scored an average 38 points while allowing under seven points on average per game. Corrigan has averaged 38 points and allowed just over 10 during that time.
Along with Stevens at receiver, the Cougar offense also features senior quarterback Landon Thomas and junior running back Parker Thomas.
“Leon is now a really senior-heavy team, and you can tell that just by the way they play football. They are confident and aggressive. There are a lot of the same players as last year,” Ratliff said. “Offensively, they still run the spread and utilize Stevens a lot. Thomas is also really talented. Landon Thomas is a good quarterback that can keep the system running.”
Kickoff for Friday’s crucial district match is set for 7 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium.
