Cincinnati - The Elder High School football team delivered one of the most unforgettable comebacks in the rich history of "The Pit," rallying from a 23-point third-quarter deficit to stun Princeton 32-30 Friday night in the Division I, Region 4 semifinals. For a program that has made tradition an art form, this one felt written straight into Elder folklore. A cold November playoff night turned into pure chaos, joy, and disbelief as the Panthers erased what once looked like an insurmountable hole, thanks largely to junior quarterback Kaden Estep's late-game heroics. A Night That Began All Wrong The game began about as poorly as anyone on the purple side of Price Hill could have imagined. Princeton came in 9-2 and athletically loaded, their defense built on speed and physicality, and in the early going, every bounce seemed to tilt red. Elder's opening series ended in a sack, and Princeton struck quickly. The Vikings' Andrew Wells returned a first-quarter punt deep into Elder territory, setting up an early touchdown. An additional field goal by kicker Nate Messer and an 11-yard run by Zion Satterwhite had the visitors up 17-0 at halftime. When Princeton's Antonio Thomas opened the third quarter with a stunning 73-yard kickoff return touchdown, stretching the lead to 23-0 only 11 seconds into the half, an uneasy hush fell over the home stands that minutes earlier had been deafening. The Panthers - a perfect 11-0 to that point - had not experienced a moment like this all season. Suddenly, they trailed by three scores with their entire season unraveling. The Spark That Changed Everything Elder head coach Doug Ramsey, now with more than two decades of purple-and-white playoff adrenaline in his veins, didn't panic. He leaned on his offensive line - Tyrell Scott, Caleb Broxterman, Nick Cassaro, Carson Kafel, and Aedan McKenna - and especially on his junior quarterback. With 7:53 left in the third quarter, Estep finally broke free. Just when Elder needed a reason to believe, he sprinted 44 yards for Elder's first touchdown. Senior tailback Tommy Becker powered through for a two-point conversion to make it 23-8. At last, the crowd had life. Momentum is a fickle thing, and on this chilly Cincinnati night, it changed sidelines violently. Late in the third, Estep engineered another drive, finishing it himself with an 11-yard scoring dash. Kicker Adam Re chipped in the extra point. What once looked hopeless was now a one-possession contest, 23-15, and the decibel level in the Pit rivaled any in recent memory. The Defense Finds Its Backbone While Estep grabbed the headlines, Elder's defense wrote its own redemption arc. Senior linebacker Derek Uran played everywhere - rushing, covering, even limping through cramps - to spark a group that had been gashed early. Sophomore linebacker Pete Fortkamp recovered a vital fumble to halt another Princeton drive, while Max Doogan and Jayven Hutchinson commanded the interior. They held Princeton to negative net yardage through much of the fourth quarter and completely erased the Vikings' ground game after halftime. Estep Puts on a Show Early in the fourth, trailing by eight, Elder marched 80 yards in blistering rhythm. Every snap featured Estep or Becker: the quarterback gliding on quarterback draws, the senior back hammering between the tackles. With 6:31 remaining, Estep made his third house call of the night, cutting left and diving into the end zone from nine yards out. Becker again converted the two-point run - his second of the game - knotting the score at 23-23. The improbable comeback felt complete. Yet, as Elder fans would quickly learn, the roller coaster wasn't done. The Gut-Punch and the Miracle Moments later, Princeton blocked a potential Elder field goal and returned it 71 yards for a touchdown. Wells, who had terrorized the Panthers all evening on kick returns, sprinted the other way to put the Vikings back ahead 30-23 with just over a minute remaining. The Pit fell silent again - temporarily. One play. That's all Estep needed to vaporize despair. On Elder's next snap from its own 25, Estep dropped back, saw senior receiver Jackson Ruth streaking downfield, and rifled a perfect spiral into stride. Ruth caught it at midfield and outraced everyone - a 75-yard lightning bolt that tied the game with 61 seconds left. Ruth later described the moment as surreal, noting that once he looked back and saw no defenders behind him, he just focused on reaching the end zone. Coach Ramsey, ever the gambler, opted for the go-ahead two-point conversion instead of the extra point. Becker appeared close, but Princeton's defensive front stuffed the try inches short, leaving Elder down 30-29 with barely a minute remaining. Special Teams, Redemption Edition Ramsey kept the hands team on the field, and what happened next belongs in Elder lore. Re's onside kick was perfectly executed: a skidding low liner that hopped off Princeton's front line and soared straight up into the air. Senior defensive back Jared Lammers - the emergency long snapper pressed into duty after senior captain Kenny Baker left with a shoulder injury - leapt and secured the ball amid the pile. The Pit exploded. Lammers said afterward that the successful onside kick was the result of constant practice and preparation, adding that the atmosphere was so loud he could barely think once he came down with it. Re's Redemption Elder drove inside the Princeton red zone and worked the clock to the final seconds. Out trotted kicker Adam Re, who earlier had endured the agony of seeing his 38-yard attempt blocked and returned for a Viking touchdown. This time, from 22 yards out, the senior calmly drilled it through the uprights as time expired. Elder 32, Princeton 30. The stands erupted in pandemonium: students pouring toward the fence, alumni dancing on the terraces, and a grinning Coach Ramsey hoisted by his players near midfield. Ramsey reflected afterward that this group displayed remarkable toughness and focus, noting how they ignored the scoreboard and kept playing true Elder football until the very end. The Numbers Behind the Epic Estep finished with 20 carries for 149 yards and three rushing touchdowns, plus 24-of-47 passing for 315 yards and a touchdown. Ruth was nearly unstoppable, catching 12 passes for 180 yards, including that unforgettable 75-yard score. Becker ran 16 times for 65 yards and added two successful two-point conversions. On defense, seniors Mason Chumbley and Uran combined for double-digit tackles, while Fortkamp's fumble recovery and multiple stops by Brody Turner and Major Kittles helped seal the second-half shutout of the Princeton offense. For Princeton, Satterwhite and Wells each scored on the ground, and Thomas's kickoff return felt like the dagger that never was. Yet the Vikings, plagued by penalties and cramping in the fourth, failed to protect what had once been a commanding lead. The Cooper Electric Star of the Game Friday's Cooper Electric Star of the Game is unquestionably Kaden Estep. The junior quarterback accounted for over 460 total yards and four touchdowns. When the season hung in the balance, Estep willed his team downfield again and again. His creativity under pressure - especially behind a reshuffled line losing veterans Alex Dugan and Baker - proved the difference. A Night for the Ages Halftime at The Pit carried a tense, uneasy quiet, with Elder trailing 17-0 and needing something - anything - to shift the momentum. What came next reverberated through Price Hill as the Panthers mounted one of the most electric surges the stadium has ever seen. From students shirtless in celebration to broadcast alumnus Bill Hemmer cheering from the stands on his birthday, the night transformed into something that felt equal parts miracle and movie script. By the final whistle, the atmosphere inside the Pit had reached a level rarely matched - a roaring, unforgettable chaos that left the entire place buzzing long after the lights began to dim. Up Next: A Familiar Foe The reward for Elder's impossible comeback is a rematch with rival St. Xavier in next week's Regional Final. The Bombers defeated Moeller 17-13 on Friday at Welcome Stadium, setting up a titanic showdown between two Greater Catholic League heavyweights. Elder defeated St. Xavier 23-13 in week 6 of the regular season, but none of that matters now. Everything resets, and both teams are 12 minutes of game film away from a trip to the state semifinals. Kickoff is set for Friday at 7 p.m. at a site to be announced by the OHSAA. The Legacy Grows From the long history of Elder Football, one night now joins the pantheon of memorable matchups - the Miracle at Middletown against Centerville in 1999, the Colerain thriller of 2003, and now whatever name this one ultimately earns: Pandemonium in Price Hill? Perseverance in Price Hill? Or something still waiting to be written. Elder's win didn't need explanations or speeches - the performance spoke for itself. On a night when nearly everything had to fall perfectly into place, the Panthers fought, clawed, and refused to break, turning every improbable moment into one of the most unforgettable victories The Pit has ever seen. Final Score at The Pit: Elder Panthers 32, Princeton Vikings 30. Next stop: the Regional Final.  [Read More]

CINCINNATI - The lights of The Pit snapped on for November football, and Elder High School's postseason journey picked up exactly where its regular season left off - pounding the ball, controlling the tempo, and letting its defense smother another opponent. Behind a record night from senior running back Tommy Becker, the Panthers defeated the Fairfield Indians 27-7 in Friday's Division I, Region 4 quarterfinal at Elder's historic stadium. Senior night energy mixed with playoff intensity, but once the first few exchanges were finished, it looked like the same formula that carried Elder to a perfect 10-0 regular season. Becker scored four touchdowns - the third time this year he has hit that mark - and churned out 150 yards on 32 carries, earning him the Cooper Electric Star of the Game honor. His steady runs were all the Elder offense needed to keep Fairfield trailing and chasing. Elder's physical rhythm returns quickly Questions were asked in the pre-game: how would Elder react to a first-round bye? Would an undefeated team come out sharp or sluggish? In the opening series, Fairfield moved the ball, but when senior linebacker Derek Uran knifed through for an early stop and blocked a punt, the offense inherited the ball on midfield, and the tone was set. Quarterback Kaden Estep - the Greater Catholic League's Offensive Player of the Year - handed off early and often. Behind an offensive line anchored by seniors Tyrell Scott, Aedan McKenna, Caleb Broxterman, and Nick Cassaro, Elder's first drive chewed nearly six minutes off the clock. Becker finished it from two yards out, pushing through two tacklers to give the Panthers a 7-0 lead. The first drive showed Elder's trademark style - a blue-collar, physical possession built on disciplined line play, patience from the backfield, and complete control of the tempo. Fairfield, the region's No. 8 seed, entered fresh from a 46-41 shootout win over Mason and brought a dynamic rushing attack featuring senior tailback Gabe Ross. Elder's defense, however, allowed only brief flashes: every time Ross looked ready to pop a long one, someone in purple filled the lane. Senior linemen Alex Dugan and Jayven Hutchinson were relentless, and sophomore linebacker Pete Fortkamp delivered another signature outing, intercepting a pass and recovering a fumble on consecutive Fairfield possessions. Becker keeps answering The Panthers' second major march began late in the first quarter and carried into the second. Alternating direct snaps to Becker and quarterback keepers from Estep, Elder advanced 13 plays in six minutes. Becker dove over the goal line again from a yard out to double the lead, 14-0. Fairfield finally responded just before halftime. Quarterback Dominic Back threaded a nine-yard touchdown to John Abramson with 14 seconds left to make it 14-7, handing Elder its first moment of discomfort in weeks. The Pit crowd quieted, but the halftime locker room did not. Observers on the broadcast noted that the halftime discussion must have been a spirited one that refocused the players. Whatever Elder head coach Doug Ramsey said worked. The Panthers re-emerged focused on their identity: run behind the line, mix in high-percentage throws, and let conditioning take over. Second-half control Elder opened the third quarter with another long possession - 10 plays, 79 yards, essentially perfect execution. Estep's passing touch returned; he hit Brady Andriacco and Chase Walpole on crisp routes to offset Fairfield's loaded box. Becker punctuated the drive with a five-yard score. A mishandled extra-point snap kept the advantage at 20-7, but the drive itself deflated the visitors. Moments later, Fortkamp's family produced their second turnover of the night when defensive end Henry Fortkamp pounced on a Fairfield fumble at the Elder 32. Four minutes later, Becker sprinted left and crossed the stripe again, his fourth touchdown giving Elder all the cushion it needed, 27-7, with just over ten minutes left. From there, the Panthers simply strangled the game. Estep (six carries, 45 yards) used safe read-options to milk the clock, Walpole added two drive-extending catches, and Elder's defense slammed the door. Fairfield's final three possessions ended in a fumble, a sack, and a four-and-out. Defensive dominance The numbers told the story. Fairfield managed 197 total yards, only 54 on the ground. Elder's defense collected three takeaways and four sacks, living up to its season average of allowing barely 12 points per game. Seniors Andrew Paff, Uran, and Dugan combined for 21 tackles. Sophomore linebackers Pete and Brody Turner filled lanes like veterans, while defensive backs Aidan Sullivan and Jared Lammers limited yards after catch - Lammers added six tackles of his own. The coaching staff emphasized that the players' trust in one another and fast, disciplined execution exemplified what playoff-level defense looks like. Elder offense: patience and precision Elder ran 55 offensive plays for 288 yards. The split was almost textbook balanced: 180 rushing, 108 passing. Estep finished 12-of-18 for 108 yards without a turnover after the halftime reset. Walpole caught six for 48, Ruth added three receptions for 34 yards, and Andriacco's 22-yard grab on the opening second-half drive was a catalyst. Still, it was Becker who drew all eyes. His 18 touchdowns this fall trail only a handful of single-season marks in Elder history. Friday he became the first Panther back since Ryan Brass to post three separate four-TD games. Becker explained after the game that his focus was simply on following the blocking of his linemen and maintaining the team's physical identity after the bye week, and he felt they achieved that goal. Legacy of balance Offensive coordinator Peyton Ramsey - former All-Big Ten quarterback at Indiana - has shaped Estep's growth with an offense that can morph from smash-mouth GCL style to spread tempo without blinking. Friday's plan blended both beautifully. According to the coaching staff, Estep now demonstrates full command of the offense; with a strong offensive line and a productive back like Becker, he can make smart decisions without forcing plays. Rob Florian, observing from the broadcast booth, described it as a classic Elder blueprint: staying composed, relying on leadership, and finishing with all eleven players working together. Around Region 4 and what's next While Elder was finishing up early, other regional games were still grinding into the fourth quarter. On the other side of the bracket, St. Xavier rolled past Lakota East 35-7, while at the Mount St. Joseph complex Moeller edged Lakota West 19-14. The game with direct implications for Elder came in Sharonville, where Winton Woods and Princeton were locked in a 16-10 struggle at last report. The Panthers will host the winner of that contest next Friday in a regional semifinal back at The Pit. If Winton Woods advances, it will bring an athletic defense led by University-bound playmakers; if Princeton rallies, it sets up a rematch of contrasting styles - Princeton's speed versus Elder's discipline and depth. Either way, Elder remains the region's top seed and the only unbeaten Division I program in Southwest Ohio. Keys moving forward Ramsey's postgame checklist emphasized the same fundamentals as always: stay healthy, avoid penalties, win the turnover battle, and trust the process. His team did all four Friday. Elder committed only three infractions for 25 yards and zero turnovers in the second half. The Panthers also enjoyed more than 30 minutes of possession, compared with Fairfield's 18, illustrating total domination of tempo. Final Book Scoring Summary Elder - Becker 2 yd run (Ray kick) Elder - Becker 1 yd run (Ray kick) Fairfield - Abramson 9 yd pass from Back (Gagan kick) Elder - Becker 5 yd run (kick failed) Elder - Becker 3 yd run (Ray kick) Totals - Elder 27, Fairfield 7 Team statistics Elder 288 yards offense (180 rush / 108 pass) Fairfield 197 yards offense (54 rush / 143 pass) Turnovers - Fairfield 3, Elder 1 Time of possession - Elder 30:02, Fairfield 17:58 Individual leaders Rushing: Becker 32 att 150 yds 4 TD; Estep 6 att 45 yds Passing: Estep 12-18 108 yds Receiving: Walpole 6 rec 48 yds; Ruth 3 for 34; Andriacco 1 for 22 Tackles: Uran 7; Paff 7; A. Dugan 7; Lammers 6 Turnovers forced: P. Fortkamp INT + FR; H. Fortkamp FR Final: Elder 27, Fairfield 7. Record 11-0. Next game - Regional Semifinal vs Princeton, Friday, November 14 at The Pit. (Game time 7 p.m) Tickets will go on sale on Monday. Byline: Prep Sports Radio Network - Elder Game Report   [Read More]

Congrats to our student athletes who were named to the All-GCL Football Teams! FIRST TEAM OFFENSE Tommy Becker, Elder, RB, Senior, 5-11, 180 Kaden Estep, Elder, QB, Junior, 6-0, 170 Jackson Ruth, Elder, WR, Senior, 5-10, 170 Tyrell Scott, Elder, OL, Senior, 6-4, 300 FIRST TEAM DEFENSE Mason Chumbley, Elder, DB, Senior, 5-11, 165 Alex Dugan, Elder, LB, Senior, 6-4, 200 Kaden Estep, Elder, P, Junior, 609m 170 Pete Fortkamp, Elder, LB, Sophomore, 6-2, 205 Jayven Hutchinson, Elder, DL, Senior, 6-0, 250 Derek Uran, Elder, LB, Senior,6-2, 200 SECOND TEAM OFFENSE Nick Cassaro, Elder, OL, Junior, 6-1, 290 Seb Hignite, Elder, OL, Senior, 6-3, 240 Chase Walpole, Elder, WR, Junior, 6-1, 185 Max Doogan, Elder, DL, Junior, 6-0, 220 Henry Fortkamp, Elder, DL, Senior, 6-0, 210 Jared Lammers, Elder, DB, Senior, 6-2, 180 Brody Turner, Elder, LB, Sophomore, 6-2, 220 OFFENSIVE PLAYERS OF THE YEAR Kaden Estep, Elder DEFENSIVE PLAYERS OF THE YEAR Derek Uran, Elder COACH OF THE YEAR Doug Ramsey, Elder OFFENSIVE LINEMAN OF THE YEAR Tyrell Scott, Elder PUNTER OF THE YEAR Kaden Estep, Elder   [Read More]

Cincinnati, Ohio - The Elder High School football team made history Friday evening at The Pit, closing out a perfect regular season and sending their seniors off in style. Quarterback Kaden Estep accounted for a touchdown through the air, and senior running back Tommy Becker put the game on ice with four scores on the ground as Elder rolled past De La Salle Collegiate (MI), 35-7, to finish its regular season 10-0 for the first time since 1991. It was Senior Night in Price Hill, and the Panthers rewarded the home fans with a complete, business-like performance that reflected the disciplined, well-rounded team Head Coach Doug Ramsey and his staff have molded over the two-plus months of a demanding schedule. Elder has weathered trips to Louisville, Indianapolis, and GCL heavyweights to reach this moment, outscoring foes 265-114 over the regular campaign. A slow start turns into a familiar rhythm The Pit crowd arrived early for a rare 6:30 p.m. kickoff and watched the teams trade early defensive stops. De La Salle, nicknamed the Pilots, showed flashes of athleticism behind sophomore quarterback Grayson Thurston and running back Micah Walker. But the Pilots' promising opening possession ended when linebacker Derek Uran stripped a ball carrier and pounced on the fumble at midfield. That takeaway set the tone. Elder's offense, which had put up back-to-back 200-plus-yard rushing weeks, went right to the ground game. Behind seniors Carson Kafel, Tyrell Scott, and Caleb Broxterman on the left side of the line, Becker and Estep mashed out yardage until Becker darted seven yards for the opening score late in the first quarter. Although De La Salle's front held firm early, the Pilots' four-and-a-half-hour bus trip began to show, and Elder's balance took control. By halftime, the Panthers had racked up nearly 200 total yards and every phase-offense, defense, and special teams-had contributed directly to the scoreboard. Second-quarter surge Once the rhythm developed, the game unfolded like so many Elder wins this fall: a defensive stop, a patient drive, and a dagger from Estep. With 7:29 remaining before the break, the junior quarterback looked off coverage and lofted a perfect fade to senior receiver Jackson Ruth for a 15-yard touchdown and a 14-0 lead. Ruth, who entered the night leading the GCL South in receptions and touchdowns, added 77 yards on four catches in the half and kept De La Salle's secondary scrambling all night. Moments later, another Pilots mistake gave Elder a short field, and Becker made them pay. He powered through the interior for a three-yard score at 2:28 of the second quarter, then plunged in from the one with 1:10 left in the half. In less than seven minutes, the senior tailback had registered his third touchdown and delivered Elder a commanding 28-0 halftime cushion. While the offense grabbed headlines, Elder's defense quietly strangled De La Salle's attack. Uran logged six tackles and a half sack; junior tackle Max Doogan added three tackles for loss; and sophomore linebackers Brody Turner (10 tackles) and Pete Fortkamp (5) showcased how bright the unit's future will be. De La Salle's only big play of the half was a 43-yard pass to receiver Gavin Bach, but that drive ended with consecutive sacks from Doogan, Uran, and Fortkamp that pushed the Pilots into a fourth-and-48-an almost comical snapshot of Elder's defensive control. Becker closes the door Any lingering doubt vanished on the Panthers' first march after intermission. Estep and Becker alternated carries, chewing up 61 yards in six plays. On his eighth touch of the drive, Becker bounced off left tackle, cut to daylight, and rumbled 16 yards for his fourth touchdown of the evening. With senior Adam Re drilling the extra point, Elder led 35-0 less than four minutes into the third quarter. Under Ohio's point-spread rule, the running clock kicked in, and Ramsey began substituting liberally. Long-snapper-turned-quarterback Kenny Baker, tailbacks Andrew Tallen and Gaveay Craig, and defensive reserves such as AJ Meyer and Patrick Spinney all saw extended snaps. The coaches made sure every available senior appeared under the Friday-night lights one last regular-season time; it was that kind of celebratory night at the corner of Vincent and Regina. De La Salle finally avoided the shutout with 1:28 to play when backup quarterback Jake Jablonski connected on an 18-yard touchdown pass to receiver Art Mosheris, setting the final count at 35-7, but by then the milestones were already secured. The numbers behind 10-0 Elder finished with 306 total yards (174 rushing, 132 passing) despite playing most of the second half with reserves. Becker's 17 carries yielded 131 yards (7.7 avg.) and the four touchdowns-to date, 14 for the season. Estep completed 8-of-13 throws for 132 yards and a touchdown while adding 45 rushing yards of his own. Ruth caught four balls for 77 yards and the score. Defensively, Turner's 10 tackles led the effort, while Uran reached 18 tackles-for-loss on the season-an astonishing pace. Freshman-turned-sophomore contributors such as Fortkamp and Turner are already household names to GCL followers. The four-touchdown outing marked Becker's second such performance this month; he now leads all GCL South rushers in scoring while ranking among the top yard-producers in Southwest Ohio. His punishing style and patience behind an ever-improving offensive line have offered the perfect complement to Estep's dual-threat wizardry. What's next: a well-earned breather For the Panthers, the regular-season story ends but the journey extends into November. Under the OHSAA's updated format, Elder-ranked first in Division I, Region 4-earns a first-round bye next week. The time off provides a rare chance for recovery from the grind of ten consecutive Fridays. Earlier in the week, Ramsey mentioned that while he initially wasn't excited about the bye, the timing ultimately proved beneficial. The staff views it as a chance to recover, reset, and prepare for the postseason with renewed focus. Elder will host a regional quarterfinal on Friday, November 7 at 7 p.m. at the Pit against an opponent to be determined after next week's opening playoff round. The Panthers will enter the bracket as the overall No. 1 seed, ensuring home-field advantage through at least two playoff rounds. Final Score: Elder 35, De La Salle ( MI ) 7 Record: Elder 10-0 ( GCL South Champions ) Next Game: Friday, November 7 - OHSAA Division I Region 4 Quarterfinal, Opponent TBD, at The Pit, 7 p.m. Byline: Prep Sports Radio Network - Elder Game Report  [Read More]

Cincinnati, Ohio - The Panthers kept their perfect season rolling and looked every bit like Ohio's top-ranked Division I team Friday night, powering past northern Kentucky powerhouse Highlands 40-16 at the Pit. The victory pushed Elder to 8-0 overall and extended an already memorable October homestand, one week removed from clinching the Greater Catholic League South title against Moeller. In nearly every phase-on the ground, on defense, and in discipline-the Panthers asserted why their train continues to thunder down the tracks at full speed. A focused response after the week-seven high The week's storyline had centered on avoiding a trap game. Both teams were coming off emotional classics against their archrivals-Elder's 24-16 triumph over Moeller for the GCL crown and Highlands' last-second win 31-28 over Covington Catholic. In Tuesday's Dad's Club meeting, head coach Doug Ramsey emphasized perspective and maturity: no letdowns, no distractions, just sustained excellence. From the opening drive, the message held true. Though an early turnover briefly gave Highlands a 3-0 edge after Mikhal Anderson's 35-yard field goal, Elder steadied itself behind senior running back Tommy Becker, the night's unquestioned star. Becker erased the deficit moments later with a 1-yard plunge and never looked back. Becker leads a relentless ground game By night's end, Becker had churned out 102 yards on 14 carries with four touchdowns, earning the Cooper Electric Star of the Game distinction. His rushing explosion embodied an offensive line that dominated the line of scrimmage. Seniors Aedan McKenna, Tyrell Scott, Seb Hignite, Caleb Broxterman, and junior Nick Cassaro paved lanes between the tackles all evening, consistently pushing Highlands' two-way linemen backward. Add quarterback Kaden Estep's burst (12 carries, 125 yards) and junior Andrew Tallen's sharp relief work (seven for 60 and a late score), and Elder stormed for 306 yards on the ground, its highest single-game rushing total in years. The Panthers averaged 9 yards a rush and scored six total touchdowns-five rushing and one defensive. Defensive dominance turns the tide The game's turning point arrived midway through the second quarter. Holding a 13-3 lead but defending in their own territory, Elder watched cornerback Mason Chumbley read Rio Littmer's eyes perfectly and jump an out route for an 83-yard interception return. The Pick Six not only ignited the home crowd of more than 8,000, it flipped momentum for good. Chumbley's sprint to the north end zone was Elder's longest scoring play of the season and stretched the margin to 20-3. Moments later, a composed 80-yard march capped by Becker's third score made it 27-3 at halftime. Elder's defense, anchored by senior disruptor Derek Uran (10 tackles, 1 sack) and the hard-hitting duo of Alex Dugan and Brody Turner, consistently collapsed Highlands' pocket. Three different Bluebird drives inside Panther territory ended with either a turnover or a push-back sack. Senior safety Jared Lammers continued his spectacular campaign with two interceptions-his third and fourth of the year to lead the GCL. Highlands hangs around early Credit to coach Bob Sphire's Highlands team: the Bluebirds were prepared, balancing jet-sweep misdirection with tight end formations that showcased sophomore standout Tayden Lorenzen, son of former Kentucky and Giants quarterback Jared Lorenzen. Quarterback Rio Littmer (27 of 41, 269 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs) operated efficiently through two quarters, keeping drives alive on third down and finding John Feldbruegge eight times for 101 yards and a late touchdown reception. Running back Colt Kremer provided balance with 95 yards rushing. But depth told the story. Highlands' two-way starters faded in the second half, hands on hips as Elder's offensive front continued its punishing rhythm. Once the Bluebirds yielded Becker's fourth touchdown early in the fourth quarter, the game clock moved relentlessly under the mercy-rule margin. Drive-by-drive: how the 40 points unfolded 1Q 5:15 - Becker 1-yd run (kick good): 68-yard drive gave Elder a 7-3 edge. 2Q 3:51 - Becker 38-yd burst (kick missed): 13-3 Panthers. 2Q 0:47 - Chumbley 83-yd INT return (kick good): defensive dagger, 20-3. 3Q 6:59 - Becker 1-yd run (kick good): 27-3. 4Q 10:29 - Becker 2-yd run (kick failed): Becker's fourth of night, 33-9. 4Q 3:30 - Tallen 11-yd run (kick good): capped game-sealing 86-yard march, 40-9. Elder defense: unsung heroes of the unbeaten run Through eight games the Panthers' defense continues to post elite numbers-just 12 points allowed per game and opponents averaging under 70 rushing yards. Uran, Dugan, and Turner headline a front seven that rarely yields creases, while Lammers and Chumbley clean up everything airborne. In the Moeller showdown the week prior, this unit produced two safeties; against Highlands they generated a touchdown outright. The bigger picture - 8-0 for the first time since 2001 Statisticians confirmed Elder is now 8-0 for the first time since the 1991 season. They have already secured the GCL South outright for the first time since 2008 and are positioned for Region 4's No. 1 playoff seed, which carries a first-round bye and potential home-field advantage through the regional semi-finals. Looking ahead: a road trip to Indianapolis Bishop Chatard Week nine sends the Panthers north across state lines to face 4A powerhouse Bishop Chatard, another program renowned for discipline and fundamentals. Chatard, 7-1 after its narrow loss to Cathedral, mirrors Elder's balanced, trench-focused philosophy. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. next Friday in Indianapolis, with live coverage on Sacred Heart Radio and Prep Sports Radio Network beginning at 6:30. The Panthers then return home October 24 for senior night against Detroit De La Salle. A complete team hits stride Quarterback efficiency: Estep, a junior, now owns a 74 percent completion rate on the season with 14 total touchdowns. Ground identity: Becker's nine rushing scores lead the GCL, and Tallen adds fresh depth. Defensive takeaways: Five over the past two games, turning close halves into comfortable wins. Discipline: Only four penalties for 25 yards Friday-vital in postseason football. For longtime Elder supporters packed into the Pit on grade-school band night, it was a satisfying autumn tableau: cool air, brass echoes from the stands, and a signature victory by a program reconnecting to championship form. Final Score: Elder 40, Highlands 16 Records: Elder 8-0 (5-0 GCL South) • Highlands 6-2 Next Game: Elder at Indianapolis Bishop Chatard - Friday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. Statistical summary Category Highlands Elder First Downs 22 16 Total Yards 394 427 Rushing (Att-Yds-TD) 27-125-1 34-306-5 Passing (Comp-Att-Yds-INT) 27-42-269-3 6-9-121-1 Time of Possession 28:07 19:53 Turnovers 3 INT 1 INT Sacks Allowed 1 0 Red Zone Efficiency 2 of 3 4 of 4 Article generated by Prep Connect AI Live, based on the live game broadcast from Prep Sports Radio Network. WCPO game highlights Fox 19 game highlights I hope Tommy Becker likes Tommy Boy. Elder is 8-0 for the first time since 1991.@ehsports @estep_2027 @taydenlorenzen2 #FOX19FinalQuarter pic.twitter.com/ercmTScOZM - Joe Danneman (@FOX19Joe) October 11, 2025 WLWT game highlights In a top-five matchup, the number one team proved why its number one. Elder flexes its muscles over Highlands to remain undefeated.@WLWT ' @ehsports @estep_2027 @taydenlorenzen2 pic.twitter.com/W4t9D6d2Mg - Jaron May (@jaron_may) October 11, 2025  [Read More]

Cincinnati, OH - Under the golden lights of The Pit, Elder High School's football team accomplished something that has felt a long time coming. On Friday night, before a sellout crowd of 10,169 fans squeezed into Elder's historic stadium, the Panthers dethroned the Moeller Crusaders 24-16 to capture their first outright GCL South championship since 2008. It was a night of emotional swings, gutty defense, and a second-half stand that reflected everything that has become the identity of this year's undefeated 7-0 Elder squad. Junior quarterback Kaden Estep etched his name deeper into Elder lore with another mature, clutch performance, throwing for nearly 300 yards and three touchdowns while balancing the poise of a veteran with a touch of youthful swagger. Senior wide receiver Jackson Ruth, who has been Estep's go-to target all season, turned in one of the most courageous performances of his career, hauling in nine receptions for 139 yards and two touchdowns despite leaving the field briefly with a shoulder injury before returning to close out the game. The victory was not only about numbers or highlights. It was about finally exorcising the Crusader-shaped shadow that had loomed over Elder Football for several years. Moeller had dominated the GCL South since 2021, at times routing Elder by lopsided margins. But on this October night, the Panthers' discipline, defensive grit, and unwavering belief reshaped the script. A perfect stage From the moment the gates opened nearly two hours before kickoff, it was apparent this would not be an ordinary Friday night in Price Hill. The smell of grill smoke drifted over rows of purple-clad fans. The setting sun flooded The Pit with that autumn "golden hour" glow, bathing the crowd in violet edges and anticipation. By kickoff, every bleacher was filled, standing space vanished, and only the echo of the marching band could be heard above the roar. What an atmosphere it was-reminiscent of the fabled Elder-Colerain ESPN broadcast of 2009. The call for fans to pack The Pit was answered, and they came in full force. Temperatures hung around 79 degrees-an unusually warm October evening-adding an extra bit of electricity to what was already the biggest regular-season matchup in Ohio high school football. Early adversity The Crusaders, ranked near the top of the state polls, opened like the heavyweight they are. Senior quarterback Matt Ponatoski guided Moeller on a 13-play, 82-yard drive, eventually finding star tight end Cooper McCutcheon for a six-yard touchdown. Moeller led 7-0 midway through the first quarter, chewing up six minutes and threatening to seize control. Elder's first drive went nowhere, and as the Crusader offense lined up again near midfield, old memories began to stir-the kind of first quarters Elder teams had suffered recently against Moeller. But defensive coordinator Gary Gaston's unit did not flinch. Senior linebacker Derek Uran, bound for Virginia next fall, began wreaking havoc in the trenches. Fellow seniors Alex Dugan and Henry Fortkamp crashed the pocket, forcing hurried throws. The Panthers stiffened, forcing punts and earning their footing. Late in the first quarter, Estep found his rhythm. Elder marched 80 yards in just over three minutes, capped by an 18-yard strike to Ruth on third-and-long. Place-kicker Adam Re's extra point evened the score at 7-7, and the roar that followed felt different-not temporary, but defiant. Turning the tide Momentum fully swung in the second quarter. Elder's defense pinned Moeller deep following a booming Estep punt, and miscommunication along the Crusader offensive line opened a lane for Fortkamp. The senior lineman slanted through, wrapping up the Moeller ball carrier in the end zone for a safety. Two points for Elder, a 9-7 lead, and The Pit was deafening. As the Crusaders tried to regroup, Estep and the offense engineered perhaps their most balanced drive of the season. Senior Tommy Becker ground out tough yards behind a stable offensive line anchored by seniors Tyrell Scott and Caleb Broxterman. Then came another flash of purple brilliance: on second-and-goal from the seven, Estep zipped a strike to Ruth running a crisp post toward the right pylon. Touchdown number two for Ruth, and Elder led 15-7 after the missed extra point. Moeller, though, needed only 15 seconds to remind everyone why they are never out of a game. On the first play of the ensuing drive, Poniatowski unloaded a perfect deep ball down the left sideline to Reggie Watson for a 58-yard touchdown. The two-point conversion failed-Uran blowing up the backfield-leaving the halftime score at Elder 15, Moeller 13. At the break, Elder fans could finally exhale but not relax. They'd seen enough of the Crusaders' explosiveness to know the fight was far from over. A defensive masterpiece The third quarter began with Elder receiving the ball, and under the gleam of stadium lights, Coach Doug Ramsey leaned on what he trusts most-his defense and his discipline. Estep opened with a 38-yard scramble that ignited the sideline, but the Moeller secondary held firm, forcing a punt that Fortkamp downed inside the five. Moments later, chaos erupted again from Elder's defensive front. On first down from the four-yard line, Fortkamp blew through the right guard, launching another tackle in the end zone for Elder's second safety of the night. In decades of Elder football, few fans could recall a game where the Panthers scored two safeties. The 17-13 advantage was symbolic-defense defining destiny. Any residual frustration from earlier series disappeared when, seconds later, Becker fumbled, giving Moeller a glimmer of life. Yet Elder's resiliency surfaced again. Linebacker Andrew Paff pounced on a Moeller fumble the very next play, restoring both possession and confidence. That sequence seemed to define Elder's night: a mistake followed by an immediate response. The Panthers never dwelled on setbacks, instead turning each one into fuel for their momentum. By late third quarter, Estep had regained complete control. He showed flashes of improvisational magic, firing across his body to Chase Walpole for a 17-yard touchdown to extend the lead to 24-13. When Ruth exited briefly afterward clutching his shoulder, the crowd held its collective breath. Moments later, he returned to the huddle, earning a wave of admiration from the purple-clad faithful. The final stand In the fourth quarter, with Moeller within striking distance after a 30-yard field goal trimmed the margin to 24-16, the Panthers' defense faced its defining test. Poniatowski, standing tall in the pocket, pushed the Crusaders across midfield as the clock dipped under two minutes. Then the wall of purple helmets closed in. Junior linebacker Brody Turner chased Poniatowski down for a loss of nearly 15 yards. On the next snap, facing fourth and 36 from his own 35, the Moeller quarterback dropped back one last time-only for Jayden Hutchinson and Alex Dugan to bury him under a wave of celebration. When Estep kneeled the ball moments later, more than 10,000 voices exploded. Confetti wasn't necessary. The blinking scoreboard-24-16-said enough. As the final horn echoed through Price Hill, players leapt into the stands, seniors embracing classmates, families forming a sea of tears and high-fives. Doug Ramsey, entering his 27th season, hugged Estep near midfield-a snapshot of faith rewarded. Stats and stars - Kaden Estep: 21-for-29 passing, 286 yards, 3 TDs - Jackson Ruth: 9 receptions, 139 yards, 2 TDs - Chase Walpole: 5 receptions, 60 yards, 1 TD - Tommy Becker: 80 yards rushing on 15 carries - Defense: 5 sacks, 2 safeties, 1 forced fumble, 1 recovery It was a complete team effort, but the entire Elder front seven-Fortkamp, Uran, Dugan, Hutchinson, Turner, and company-earned the Cooper Electric Star of the Game for generating unrelenting pressure that held a top-ranked Moeller offense to only 13 offensive points. Significance beyond one night The historic win solidified Elder's first outright GCL South championship in 17 years. More than that, it proved that hard-nosed, disciplined football can still outduel flash and speed. The Panthers limited penalties in the second half and answered each time momentum threatened to swing toward Moeller. For Coach Doug Ramsey and his program, the evening carried a sense of completion. It marked the first time Elder had beaten Moeller at The Pit since 2021, and it was the culmination of years of building a roster capable of meeting the Crusaders head-on. For veterans like senior linebacker Derek Uran, the moment underscored the investment of four years of preparation and belief. The title represented not just a victory, but the payoff for a class that had been working toward this goal since their freshman season. Next up: Highlands, then the road ahead Elder's relentless October continues next week when they host Highlands (KY), fresh off its own dramatic 31-28 win over Covington Catholic. The matchup reunites two programs steeped in tradition and will once again spotlight some of the region's best prep talent. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Friday, October 10, at The Pit. After Highlands, the Panthers travel to Indianapolis to face perennial powerhouse Bishop Chatard before concluding the regular season at home against De La Salle (MI) on October 24. With a 7-0 start-their best since the 2001 season-Elder has already made program history. Now discussion around Price Hill has shifted from "Can we win conference?" to "Can we contend for state?" If Friday night was any indication, the answer lies in the proving ground of The Pit, where toughness, tradition, and heart remain the enduring formula. Final Score Elder Panthers 24, Moeller Crusaders 16 (Elder improves to 7-0, clinching the 2025 GCL South title; Moeller falls to 5-2.) Next Game: Highlands (KY) at Elder, Friday Oct 10, 7:00 p.m. at The Pit. In a season filled with promise, the Panthers just took their biggest step yet-one forged in the echoing roar of a packed Pit and the unyielding will of a team that simply refuses to lose. Article generated by Prep Connect AI Live, based on the live game broadcast from Prep Sports Radio Network.  [Read More]

Cincinnati, OH - On a clear 74-degree September night at St. Xavier's Balaban Field, the Elder Panthers showed grit, resilience, and big-play ability as they knocked off the host Bombers 23-13 in a physical Greater Catholic League South clash. With the victory, Elder improves to 6-0 for the first time since 2001, remaining undefeated heading into a massive showdown next week against Moeller at the Pit. A rivalry renewed For the 109th meeting between two of the GCL South's most storied programs, Elder and St. Xavier once again did not disappoint. Longtime Bombers head coach Steve Specht entered with a reputation for stingy defenses, while Elder's veteran head coach Doug Ramsey emphasized discipline and execution in the buildup to this game. Both sides know each other inside and out, which made it a contest of who could establish their style - and who could limit costly mistakes. By halftime, Elder had already built a 13-0 lead, capitalizing on multiple Bomber miscues, while their defensive front harassed St. Xavier quarterback Jackson Fry all night long. First half: Elder capitalizes on miscues St. Xavier showed early jitters that foreshadowed much of the first half. The Bombers fumbled five times in the game, two of which were recovered by Elder defenders, and added in a missed 25-yard field goal blocked by senior linebacker Derek Uran. Elder, meanwhile, turned opportunities into points. The Panthers struck first late in the opening quarter when quarterback Caden Estep (Jr., #10) rolled left and fired an 18-yard strike in the back of the end zone to senior receiver Jackson Ruth (#4). Ruth, Elder's top receiving target this season, broke free in coverage and secured the touchdown to put Elder ahead 7-0. Ramsey's team added two second-quarter field goals by senior kicker Adam Re (#84). Re connected from 20 and then a season-long 33 yards, extending the lead to 13-0 going into the locker room. Though the Panther offense moved the ball inconsistently, their defense completely bottled up St. Xavier's rushing attack, limiting them to just 10 rushing yards by halftime. Elder defense controls the trenches The Panthers' defensive front was ferocious in the first half and set the tone for the night. Senior Jayven Hutchinson (#51) clogged up the middle, while senior linebacker Pete Fortkamp (#11) and junior lineman Max Doogan (#33) pushed the St. Xavier offensive line backward repeatedly. Perhaps the breakout star on defense was senior Alex Dugan (#2), who came alive in the third quarter with back-to-back sacks. Alongside Uran, Doogan, and Hutchinson, Elder's front seven swarmed Fry, forcing hurried throws and broken plays. Senior defensive back Jared Lammers (#23) also added a key first-half fumble recovery that helped set up an early scoring drive. Against a St. X team that prides itself on running the ball and grinding out drives, Elder's relentless defensive effort held the Bombers to short gains, putting them in long third downs throughout the contest. Third quarter: Panthers go up three scores After halftime, Elder continued to maintain control. Though their offense was slowed by penalties - including a negated 1st down QB run by Estep that drew fire from Ramsey on the sideline - they engineered another scoring march midway through the third quarter. Re calmly drilled a 21-yard field goal, his third of the game, to push Elder's lead to 16-0. At that moment, the visiting Panthers looked poised to cruise. But rivalry games are never that simple. Fourth quarter: Bombers rally back With less than eight minutes to play, St. Xavier finally broke through. Head coach Steve Specht inserted versatile senior Daniel Vollmer more heavily on offense, and the move sparked energy. From midfield, Vollmer dropped back on a trick play and lofted a perfect deep ball to receiver Christian McDonald, who hauled in the 64-yard touchdown. Though the two-point conversion failed, suddenly the deficit shrunk to 16-6. The Bombers gained even more life a few minutes later. Fry scrambled away from Elder's rush and darted 13 yards into the end zone to make it 16-13 with just over four minutes to play. With momentum squarely on the home sideline, Elder's offense needed one final answer. Becker's defining moment Facing a 3rd-and-1 near midfield, the Panthers lined up needing desperately to keep the drive alive. The Bombers' defense was selling out to stop Estep's keeps. Instead, senior running back Tommy Becker (#21) took a handoff, broke through a crease behind linemen Tyrell Scott (#77) and Seb Hignite (#64), and sprinted down the sideline for a 41-yard gain before dragging multiple tacklers to the St. X 2-yard line. One play later, Becker pounded into the end zone for the clinching touchdown. Re's extra point made it 23-13, sealing Elder's first road win at St. Xavier since 2019. Becker was named the Cooper Electric Player of the Game, a fitting honor after his late heroics ensured Elder stayed undefeated. Stat leaders Elder QB Caden Estep: 18 of 21 passing, 205 yards, 1 TD; added 61 rushing yards. WR Jackson Ruth: 5 receptions, 107 yards, 1 TD. RB Tommy Becker: Key 41-yard run plus the 2-yard TD late; steady presence throughout. Kicker Adam Re: 3-for-3 on FGs (20, 33, 21 yards). Defense: Lammers and Fortkamp fumble recoveries; sacks by Alex Dugan; vital blocked FG by Derek Uran. For St. Xavier: QB Jackson Fry: 12/20 passing, 176 yards; 1 rushing TD. WR Alex McClatchy: 2 receptions, 92 yards. ATH Daniel Vollmer: Passing TD, multiple offensive touches, but costly fumbles. Turning point While Becker's late run closed it, the game's pivotal sequence came early in the second quarter when St. Xavier's 25-yard field goal attempt was blocked by Uran. Instead of cutting into Elder's lead, the miss preserved the shutout and allowed Elder to extend to a two-score halftime advantage. The Bombers never fully recovered. Looking ahead The victory pushes Elder to 6-0 (2-0 GCL South). They now return to the friendly confines of The Pit to host the Moeller Crusaders on Friday, October 3rd. The Crusaders toppled La Salle 42-7 this week and, along with Elder, are near the top of Region 4 Division I rankings. That matchup will likely decide the GCL South title. For St. Xavier (4-2, 0-2 GCL South), consecutive league losses to Moeller and Elder have the Bombers reeling. They'll need to regroup quickly to stay in playoff contention. Final thoughts Friday's win at St. Xavier will be remembered not only for the big plays but also for Elder's collective toughness. The defense kept the Bombers in check when momentum was shaky, Ruth and Estep's connection delivered through the air, and Becker's late burst provided the exclamation point. Final Score: Elder 23, St. Xavier 13 The Panthers remain unbeaten, and as the crowd roared along the visitor sideline, there was a feeling that perhaps something special is brewing again on the West Side. Next stop: Moeller, at The Pit, for the GCL South crown. Article generated by Prep Connect AI Live, based on the live game broadcast from Prep Sports Radio Network.  [Read More]