In an electrifying season opener, the Central Catholic Vikings triumphed over the Bergen Catholic Crusaders with a score of 45-30 during the KDKA Kickoff Classic at the Wolvarena on August 28, 2026.
Why it matters: This victory marks a strong start for Central Catholic, improving their record to 1-0, and highlights their resilience after previous season-opening losses. Bergen Catholic, ranked No. 3 in New Jersey, falls to 0-1, suffering their first defeat against an out-of-state team since the 2024 season.
- Central Catholic's win showcases their strength as a contender in Pennsylvania high school football, especially after finishing as the runner-up in last year's PIAA Class 6A championship.
- The match featured a clash between two teams with numerous future Division-I players, emphasizing the talent present on both sides.
- This game sets the tone for Central Catholic's aspirations this season, as they aim for a championship run.
Driving the news: The Vikings, led by junior running back Chrys Black, displayed a commanding performance, particularly in the second half. Black rushed for 153 yards and scored three touchdowns after halftime, contributing significantly to the team's scoring surge.
- Initially, Bergen Catholic took an early lead with an 84-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Trey Tagliaferri to receiver Austin Busso.
- Central Catholic responded with a 29-yard field goal and a 3-yard touchdown run by Roman Thompson, securing a 10-7 lead that they never relinquished.
- By halftime, Central Catholic had extended their lead to 24-7, scoring 24 unanswered points.
State of play: The game was marked by offensive fireworks and defensive resilience, with Central Catholic's offensive line allowing zero sacks, providing ample protection for quarterback Owen Herrick.
- Central Catholic's offensive strategy was bolstered by the performance of their star-studded offensive line, featuring four-star recruits Jimmy Kalis (Ohio State) and James Halter (Notre Dame).
- Chrys Black's all-purpose yardage totaled 270, including rushing, receiving, and punt returns, underscoring his versatility and impact on the game.
- Bergen Catholic's Tagliaferri completed 31-of-52 passes for 363 yards, demonstrating his skill but falling short in the face of Central's defense.
The big picture: Central Catholic's victory sends a clear message to the rest of the WPIAL and beyond: they are a force to be reckoned with this season.
- The win boosts Central's confidence and positions them favorably as they prepare for upcoming games, including a non-conference matchup against Woodland Hills next week.
- Bergen Catholic, on the other hand, will look to regroup as they face another out-of-state challenge against Maryland's Our Lady of Good Counsel.
- With three consecutive out-of-state opponents to start the season, Bergen Catholic's schedule is a tough test that could shape their path moving forward.
What they're saying: Following the game, Central Catholic coach Ryan Lehmeier praised his team's resilience and character in overcoming early adversity.
- “We talked about it — we were going to have to be resilient. We knew we were going to face adversity,” Lehmeier said. “I just really love the way my team responded.”
- Chrys Black expressed confidence in his team’s capabilities, stating, “We came in with a chip on our shoulder. We knew what we had to do... We’re going all the way this year, 100%.”
- Bergen Catholic coach Vito Campanile acknowledged the challenge posed by Central Catholic, noting, “They are an awesome football program... My hat’s off to them.”
By the numbers: The game featured impressive individual performances and notable statistics that highlight the intensity of the matchup.
- Chrys Black's 270 all-purpose yards included 153 rushing yards, 37 receiving yards, and 80 yards on punt returns.
- Trey Tagliaferri threw for 363 yards, connecting on three touchdowns but also faced pressure leading to a late-game interception.
- Central Catholic’s offensive line did not allow any sacks, a key factor in their offensive success.
What's next: Looking ahead, Central Catholic aims to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next game.
- The Vikings will host Woodland Hills next week, where they will seek to continue their winning streak.
- Bergen Catholic will face Our Lady of Good Counsel in Maryland on September 8, followed by a home opener against St. Joseph’s Prep on September 12.
- Both teams will use these early-season matchups to refine their strategies and solidify their positions in their respective conferences.