The Coopersville Broncos built some momentum at the end of the 2020 campaign, recording three wins in their final five games, including their first playoff victory since 2007. It appears that that momentum has carried into 2021, as they jumped out to a blistering start in their 42-30 win over Big Rapids on Thursday night.
Coopersville started the game with a quick strike, as Colton Bosch connected with Tim Allen for a 20-yard touchdown. Big Rapids responded with a quick touchdown run as Wil Strickler kept the football on a short quarterback keeper. With the score tied, the Broncos’ defense broke the tie with a safety. On the ensuing free kick, Nash Merkins fielded the football and ran unencumbered to the end zone.
Ahead 16-7, the Broncos’ offense continued to thrive in the rest of the first half. By the time the first half was over, it was 42-7 in favor of Coopersville.
Big Rapids scored a trio of touchdowns in the later portion of the second half to trim the final count, but they still fell twelve points shy of the Broncos.
Colton Bosch tossed only seven passes, but he completed four for 145 yards and three of those tosses went for scores. Dylan Merlo paced the Coopersville offense with 16 carries that he turned into 182 yards, and he also hauled in three catches for 85 yards. Merlo scored three touchdowns in the victory. In addition to his punt return, Nash Merkins also recorded an interception.
Next week, Coopersville hits the road to take on the Wayland Wildcats. Big Rapids remains on the road next week, as the Cardinals will visit Fremont in their CSAA-Gold opener.
