Tonight, as the cool winter air settles over New Jersey, the sky above is graced with an extraordinary natural spectacle—the northern lights. While the aurora borealis is typically seen in more northern latitudes, recent solar activity has led to an unusual display that stretches far south, reaching the Garden State. The green and purple hues shimmer across the night sky, a mesmerizing backdrop for an already electric evening in East Rutherford. As the northern lights dance overhead, down below, one of New Jersey’s most fierce and storied high school football rivalries is unfolding at MetLife Stadium.
Bergen Catholic vs. Don Bosco: A Championship Showdown
On this remarkable evening, MetLife Stadium becomes the stage for the Non-Public A state championship game between two of New Jersey’s most successful football programs—Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco Prep. This matchup is more than just a football game; it’s the latest chapter in a fierce rivalry that has captivated high school football fans across the state for decades. With 14,886 fans in the stands, the atmosphere is charged with excitement as the Bergen Catholic Crusaders look to complete a championship four-peat and cement their dominance in New Jersey’s football landscape.
First Half: A Tight Battle
The game kicked off in front of a packed crowd, with the Crusaders and Ironmen both eager to add another chapter to this historic rivalry. Bergen Catholic struck first with a 5-yard touchdown run by Dominic Campanile, capping a drive that mixed precision passing and hard running. However, Don Bosco quickly answered with a 20-yard touchdown run by Dante DeLuca, tying the game at 7-7 after the first quarter.
The second quarter saw a series of back-and-forth moments. Bergen Catholic capitalized on a series of turnovers, with Naiim Parrish grabbing an interception to set up crucial opportunities. But the Don Bosco defense remained stout, forcing several three-and-outs. The game’s pivotal moment came late in the second quarter when a blocked punt by Ethan Cohall set up a safety for Bergen Catholic, putting them ahead 9-7.
With the score close, the first half ended with both teams trying to gain an edge before the break.
Second Half: Bergen Catholic Pulls Away
The game truly turned in the third quarter, with Bergen Catholic making crucial stops on defense and forcing Don Bosco to turn the ball over on downs. The Crusaders’ defense, led by key plays from Delaney Fludd and Brandon Wilson, shut down Don Bosco’s attempts to drive the ball, including stopping a fourth-down conversion attempt inside Bergen Catholic territory.
With the game still hanging in the balance, Bryan Porter broke free for a spectacular 48-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter, extending the lead to 18-7. The Ironmen attempted to answer, but their efforts were thwarted by a relentless Bergen Catholic defense. With 3:51 left in the game, Porter sealed the victory with another 26-yard touchdown run on a jet sweep, making it 25-7.
The win secured Bergen Catholic’s fourth consecutive Non-Public A state title, a program record, and their third victory in four years against their rivals, Don Bosco. It was a statement performance from the Crusaders, who proved once again that they are the team to beat in New Jersey high school football.
The Rivalry’s Legacy
This victory marks another milestone in one of the most intense rivalries in high school sports. While Don Bosco’s last win in the series came in the 2022 regular season, Bergen Catholic has won the last three encounters, including two decisive victories in state championship games. The intensity and tradition of this rivalry have made it a must-watch event in New Jersey football, with fans from both schools turning out year after year to witness the drama unfold.
MetLife Stadium: The Perfect Stage
MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants and Jets, has become the unofficial home for New Jersey high school football championship games. The stadium’s massive size and state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect stage for such a monumental game, drawing thousands of fans from all over the state. The experience of watching a game here—amid the roaring crowd, the massive scoreboards, and the professional atmosphere—adds a layer of excitement that few other high school sports events can match.
This year’s Non-Public A state final was the fourth game of a busy championship day at MetLife, but it stood out for the palpable tension between the two teams and the history behind every play. The championship games are a true showcase of the talent, heart, and dedication that defines New Jersey high school sports, and MetLife Stadium provides the perfect venue to highlight that talent.
A Night to Remember
As the game concluded and the Bergen Catholic Crusaders hoisted the trophy, the northern lights continued to light up the New Jersey sky, adding a surreal and unforgettable visual element to an already unforgettable night. The mix of football glory and natural wonder made for an evening that will be remembered for years to come. With their four-peat secured, the Crusaders have once again proven that their legacy in New Jersey high school football is far from over. As for Don Bosco, they will undoubtedly be back, ready to challenge for another title in the years to come.
In the end, the rivalry between Bergen Catholic and Don Bosco is not just about winning or losing; it’s about pride, tradition, and the love of the game. And tonight, under the glow of the northern lights and the lights of MetLife Stadium, Bergen Catholic reigns supreme once again.
