Don Bosco Prep defeats Bergen Catholic in battle of top New Jersey programs

Another edition of a storied New Jersey high school football rivalry is in the books as Don Bosco Prep won a 14-9 slog over Bergen Catholic.

Both of Don Bosco’s touchdowns came in the second quarter via the ground game. Ca’si Thomas punched in the first score of the night early in the period, while Dante DeLuca found pay dirt with goal to go a couple drives later.

Bergen’s lone touchdown also came in the second quarter via an 11-yard touchdown pass from sophomore Trey Tagliaferri to Jamel Hammary. The Crusaders went for two after Don Bosco jumped offside on an extra-point attempt but came up empty. They nailed a field goal late in the third quarter and had an opportunity to tie or take the lead in the fourth.

Senior running back Najee Calhoun got Bergen inside the red zone, but the Ironmen held strong. After a 100-yard pick-six was brought back due to pass interference, Don Bosco managed to intercept Tagliaferri again. It then leaned on its run game to run out the clock and pick up the monumental victory over the defending state champs.

The Ironmen, which entered Friday night as the No. 2 team in New Jersey per the Massey Ratings, snapped Bergen’s 28-game winning streak. The Crusaders entered as the top-ranked team in the state and the No. 21 team nationally.

Don Bosco remains undefeated at 5-0 and improves its all-time series lead over the Crusaders to 43-38-2. Bergen had won each of the last four matchups heading into Friday night.

The Ironmen now have wins over the then-No. 1 team in New Jersey, as well as St. Anthony’s, the No. 3 team in New York. Don Bosco opened its season by going down to Texas and defeating Melissa, a top-50 team in the Lone Star State, 14-10.

Bergen Catholic falls to 4-1. The Crusaders now enter a bye week and will return to action against No. 20 Paramus Catholic on Oct. 10. Don Bosco has another massive matchup on deck next week, this time against No. 6 DePaul Catholic.

How to Follow New Jersey High School Football

For New Jersey high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the nation, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the Garden State, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the high school football excitement across New Jersey.