Patriots facing off against Bruins in season opener Friday

Jay County Patriots

Portland, 0-0

Coach: Grant Zgunda, fourth year (27th overall)

Conference: Allen County

Last season: The Patriots had their best start since 1985, as they won their first three games against Blackford, Huntington North and Southern Wells. Adams Central halted the run, and Jay County only managed one more win (at Woodlan) to finish off the season 4-6.  Jay County’s season ended against Kokomo in a 21-14 defeat. 

Returning leaders: Passing — Sean Bailey – 57-of-112 for 887 yards, 10 touchdowns and three interceptions. Rushing — A.J. Myers – 203 carries for 939 yards and 11 touchdowns. Receiving — Benson Ward – 13 catches for 212 yards and four touchdowns. Defense — Carter Barton – 81 tackles.

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Blackford Bruins

Hartford City, 0-0

Coach: Randy Sehy, ninth year (20th overall)

Conference: Central Indiana

Last season: The Bruins saw similar offensive numbers but struggled to a 0-10 season. Their closest game was a 22-12 loss to Elwood at Indiana Wesleyan University. Blackford’s season came to an end by the hands of Tipton in a 35-0 loss.

Returning leaders: Passing — Morgan Randall – 8-of-30 for 128 yards, one touchdown and four interceptions. Rushing —  Carter Clouse – 81 carries for 287 yards and three touchdowns. Receiving — Carter Clouse – seven catches for 107 yards. Defense — Daniel Ludwig – 77 tackles.

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Last meeting: Jay County got off to a hot start, scoring 20 points in the first quarter en route to a 47-7 victory. Blackford’s only score came on a 4-yard pass to Carter Clouse with less than a minute left in the game. The Patriots cruised the rest of the way through, scoring three more TDs before the final buzzer.

Game notes: This is the 50th meeting all time  between Jay County and Blackford. The Patriots hold a 35-14 advantage in the series, including victories in each of the last 13 meetings. Blackford’s last win against Jay County came by a 46-41 score in 2008 ... The Patriots are looking to turn the corner this season to reach or exceed the 0.500 mark ... CalPreps.com predicts Jay County to win, 42-3.