Harding has relied on a stalwart defense averaging 15 points allowed per game, but that average took a hit on Saturday. They took a 32-22 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Catholic Central Crusaders. The result was an unpleasant reminder to the Skippers of the 15-9 loss they experienced in the pair's previous head-to-head fixture back in September of 2023.
Despite the defeat, Harding saw an underclassman step up: Yomar Castellano picked up 115 receiving yards and a touchdown, and also rushed for 42 yards. Castellano didn't just play on offense: he also made six total tackles and defended a pass. Another player making a difference was Brady Lawson, who threw for 241 yards and two touchdowns.
Harding wouldn't let Catholic Central keep a hold of the ball as they managed to force two fumbles. Harding can thank Elijah Harless and Eli Padula for forcing both of them.
This one was won in the trenches and the lion's share of the credit has to go to Jimmy Hernon and he. Hernon rushed for 129 yards and two touchdowns while he rushed for 129 yards and two touchdowns. What's more, Tommy Pergi also racked up 102 rushing yards, the mosthe's had since back in October of 2023.
Harding's loss dropped their record down to 2-2. As for Catholic Central, they pushed their record up to 4-1 with the victory, which was their seventh straight at home dating back to last season.
Harding didn't take long to hit the field again: they've already played their next matchup, a 43-14 win vs. Grand Valley on the 27th. Catholic Central has also already played their next match, a 48-0 victory against Madonna on the 28th.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
