In a game that will be remembered for years to come, the Racine Raiders (12-0) captured the Gridiron Bowl XV National Championship in a nail-biting 7-6 victory over the Upstate (NY) Predators (9-2). This win not only gave the Raiders the National Championship, it also extended their winning streak to 27 games which puts them one game behind the 1992-1993 Raiders with 28 wins. The Raiders will look to make history early next season by extending their winning streak to 29 games and put themselves in sole possession of the longest winning streak in team history.
From the opening kickoff, it was clear that both the Raiders and the Predators were locked in for a fierce defensive battle that would last all game. The Gridiron Bowl, which was held at Historic Horlick Athletic Field in Racine, was a showcase of defensive prowess with either team holding the opposing offense scoreless until the final moments. The atmosphere was electric throughout the night, with fans at the edge of their seats all the way until the clock hit zero.
While the game lacked scoring from both offenses, the hero of the night was Raiders wide receiver Joe Garcia III who showcased his talent on special teams. Less than five minutes into the first quarter, the Raiders defense held their own forcing the Predators to punt after a quick drive. This led to Garcia gaining possession on the return at his own 47-yard line. It was only a matter of time before he showcased his return talents. Garcia sprinted down the sideline, breaking tackles, and coasting his way into the endzone for a 53-yard punt return touchdown that sent the hometown fans into a roar of cheers. Alex Gonzalez would come on for the extra point and made it 7-0 Raiders less than five minutes into the game.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Raiders continued the dominance they’ve shown all year. The defense held the Predators scoreless until the start of the fourth quarter, but they held their own on the two-point conversion forcing an incompletion and keeping the lead at 7-6. The score ended a streak of 30 quarters dating back to June 8 where the Raiders defense hadn’t allowed a touchdown.
The Raiders defense forced pressure on Predators quarterback Billy Joiner all night with key performances from Gary Young, Jr. who tallied 12 tackles and two sacks on the night and Jake Mittelstaedt who added two sacks on the night. Leading the secondary for the Raiders was Corey Dalton who totaled six tackles and five pass break ups on the night and J.D. Hardy who put up eight tackles and multiple pass break ups.
Andre Locke, Jr. completed 12-of-20 attempts for 91 yards and one interception. Rashawn Herron led the way in rushing with nine attempts for 29 yards on the night. Jordan Payne was the leading receiver with three catches for 34 yards and right behind him was Sean White who added three catches for 21 yards.
With this championship win, the Raiders not only bring home the Gridiron Bowl XV trophy but also solidify their reputation as a dominant force in the Gridiron Developmental Football League (GDFL) with back-to-back championships. As celebrations continue, the Raiders will soon turn their focus into maintaining their rank as the top team in the GDFL and potentially becoming only the second team in GDFL history to three-peat as Gridiron Bowl champions.
The Raiders will be at the annual Party on the Pavement to be held in downtown Racine from noon-7 pm on September 21st. Fans will be able to buy championship t-shirts while supplies last and take pictures with the national championship trophy.
