Seton Hall Prep’s defense delivered an unbelievable nine sacks to secure the Pirates their first shutout in over two years. Seton Hall Prep improved their win streak to two games with this win.

The story of this game was defense. The Pirates’ defensive line dominated the line of scrimmage and were able to have a party in the backfield. With the defense playing aggressively, it gave the Prep’s offense great field position and motivation. The Pirates’ offense struggled to advance the ball early, but the defense was ready to do their job. Jackson Dowd ’22 was a monster against Pope John, getting to the quarterback freely off the right edge and disrupted Pope John’s run game. Dowd finished with seven solo and fifteen total tackles. After another great stop by the defense, the offense led by quarterback Jaden Craig ’22 was able to convert for a touchdown, with running back Jermaine Jackson ’22 scored with a three-yard run.

As Pope John tried to get moment driving down the field, Seton Hall Prep linebackers were able to get in the backfield and force Pope John to throw the ball. The Pirates’ offense was unable to find the endzone, but the defense was not going to be stopped. Seton Hall’s defenders were glued to Pope John receivers as quarterback Peter Delaportas tried to find someone open; it would be too late as the Pirate rushers were already taking him down. As Pope John was reaching the red zone, on a critical third down, Jackson Collins ’22 sacked Delportas for an 8-yard loss pushing them out of field goal range. With 1:15 seconds on the clock, Pope John faced a 4th and 14 near midfield. Dowd got to the quarterback again resulting in a 0-yard gain and victory for the Seton Hall Prep Pirates.