Kroger KSR Game of the Week: Male at Ballard

This season’s final Kroger KSR Game of the Week features two Louisville programs that are vying for a trip to Kroger Field and the state championship game. Male will make the short trip to Ballard to take on the host Bruins on Friday night.

9-4 Male lost to Ballard 12-7 in late August. The Bulldogs went on to register quality wins over Trinity, Manual, and St. X. They are averaging 27 points per game and giving up 13. Coach Wolf’s teams have been consistent participants in the 6A playoffs. This year is no different. After knocking St. X off the top-ranked pedestal, Male defeated Henderson County 23-10 to secure its spot in the Final Four. The traditional powerhouse has won eight state championships including its last title in 2018. Kevin Wilson leads the Bulldogs’ defense with 132 tackles.

The Ballard offense is averaging nearly 30 points per game. Journey Wyche paces the offense with 899 rush yards and nine touchdowns. Coach Adrian Morton’s squad sports the top-ranked defense in 6A. The Bruins have been dominant on that side of the football after allowing a mere 9.5 points per game. Ballard also leads the state in pass defense (55 yards per game), recovered fumbles (17), and QB sacks (41). Gavin Willis ranks first in 6A with an amazing 170 tackles including 11 for loss. Jamarques Frank has also been forceful for the Bruins’ defense after posting 130 stops and 7 quarterback sacks. 11-2 Ballard has also played a challenging schedule and is fresh off an impressive 43-7 win over Madison Central.

Should be a fun night in Louisville.

Kroger is a staple in your hometown community just like high school football. There’s nothing quite like Friday nights in the Bluegrass. We are honored to share this journey with Kroger and you for the third consecutive season.