With their third consecutive state championship, the Bowling Green Purples have built a dynasty. With a 49-14 win over undefeated Pulaski County in the 5A State Championship, BGHS wrapped up their third straight undefeated season. The game was not as easy as some of the past wins for the Purples, but they managed to find a way to pull away in the second half.
The Purples did not get off on the right foot against Pulaski County. Down 14-0 in the first half, BGHS had their work cut out for them. Bowling Green could not find a way to contain Pulaski County’s quarterback, Riley Hall. The inability to contain the quick Hall lead to the Maroons jumping out to an early lead. Like always, BGHS found a way to respond. Quarterback Devin Hayes found Nacarius Fant for a 25-yard touchdown to get the Purples on the board. Bowling Green’s defense contained Hall through the remainder of the second quarter, which gave Bowling Green another chance to strike. Senior running back Blake Pillow scored on a 79-yard run to tie the game at 14 going into the half. Pillow would not be finished, though.
In the second half, the BGHS running attack took over. Blue Tisdale scored twice to begin the third quarter, and to give BGHS a 28-14 lead. After a big interception by Hunter Rogers, the Purples began the fourth quarter with a 41-yard run by Pillow. Tisdale also caught a 33-yard touchdown from Hayes to put the nail in the coffin, and put the Purples’ lead at 28 points with just over six minutes to play.
This game was the last for 27 Bowling Green seniors. Hayes, Pillow, Tisdale, and Fant all left the field together with under four minutes to play after the last offensive play by one of the most impressive groups BGHS has ever seen. “It’s been a heck of a ride,” said Pillow. “I’d rather win my senior year than any other year.” After one final score by Jacob Yates, BGHS was able to celebrate their 44th consecutive win, and their third straight state championship. “This definitely feels great, winning three state championships, and not losing a game,” said Hayes. “I’m going to miss it.”
Check out next month’s Sporting Times to see full coverage of the Purples’ memorable run.
