The Big Rapids Cardinals and Coopersville Broncos squared off in a non-league battle that spotlighted a pair of teams with postseason aspirations. Big Rapids, seeking to build off their District Championship in 2023, took down Coopersville 24-7.
After a scoreless first quarter, Big Rapids found the end zone first. Cole Haist took to the air, connecting with Garrett Foster on a 26-yard touchdown play. A successful extra point kick by Taavi Toivanen gave the Cardinals a 7-0 advantage.
On the ensuing Coopersville drive, the Broncos found their footing. Their 12-play, 75-yard touchdown drive took up about five minutes of game clock and resulted in an Isaac Lemieux touchdown run from 3 yards out. Sam Kelly booted the extra point to even the score at seven.
Big Rapids would methodically march down the field for the remaining five minutes of the half. As time expired, Taavi Toivanen converted a 30-yard field goal to give the Cardinals a 10-7 lead entering the locker room.
As the second half began, Big Rapids forced Coopersville into a three-and-out. Big Rapids would keep their momentum rolling with a quick 8-play touchdown drive. Cole Haist found Max Bollman on a 25-yard touchdown pass to extend their lead to ten points.
The Broncos looked to press the ball downfield, but they again were unsuccessful. Beau Harris’ pass downfield was intercepted by Caiden Schuberg. Once again, the Cardinals capitalized on their strong field position. They took ten plays to cover the final 33 yards that stood in front of the end zone. Jack Bollman capped off the scoring drive with a 1-yard touchdown plunge, giving them a 24-7 lead.
Big Rapids’ defense was great in this contest, holding Coopersville to 259 yards of total offense, 3/10 on third down, 1/5 on fourth down and forcing two interceptions. This is the second time this season (Chippewa Hills) that Big Rapids held an opponent to single digits.
Cole Haist finished 10/14 passing for the victors, covering 152 yards and two scores. Garrett Foster led the rushing attack with 85 yards.
At 7-1, Big Rapids has one final tune-up before their playoff journey begins. The Cardinals will face Alma next week. Coopersville (5-3) will have a shot at the River Cities title next week against Cedar Springs.
