Bishop Watterson Wins 2024 Division III State Championship in 19-14 Comeback Against Toledo Central Catholic
In a rematch of last year’s championship, the Bishop Watterson Eagles avenged their 2023 loss with a 19-14 comeback victory over Toledo Central Catholic at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton. The win gave the Eagles their third state championship, capping off an undefeated 16-0 season.
For head coach Brian Kennedy, the win was a testament to the team’s leadership and determination. “What you saw out there in the second half is indicative of the seniors... their dedication, perseverance, and love for one another. It was incredible. That was a team win,” Kennedy said.
First Half: Central Catholic Controls the Tempo
Toledo Central Catholic took control early, opening the scoring late in the first quarter with quarterback Ali Beydoun’s four-yard touchdown scramble on fourth down. The Irish controlled possession, holding the ball for over 14 minutes in the first half, and outgained the Eagles 162-44. Watterson’s offense struggled, failing to record a single passing yard in the half.
A critical turning point came late in the second quarter when Watterson forced a punt deep in Central Catholic territory, only to fumble on the return, allowing the Irish to extend their drive. While Central Catholic missed a field goal before halftime, they entered the break with a 7-0 lead.
“Last year was a disappointment,” Kennedy admitted. “This year, our goal was to get back and win it—whether it was Toledo Central Catholic or someone else. There’s no revenge, just respect for a great football team. Our goal was to win a state championship, and we did that.”
Second Half: Watterson’s Revival
Watterson emerged from halftime with renewed energy. On their first possession of the third quarter, they marched 90 yards in 10 plays, capped by a 28-yard touchdown run from Zack Weber to tie the game at 7-7.
However, Central Catholic responded immediately as Jeremiah Fuller returned the ensuing kickoff 86 yards for a touchdown, putting the Irish back in front, 14-7.
The Eagles answered early in the fourth quarter with a clutch play by quarterback Drew Bellisari, who found Dominic Theado for a 52-yard touchdown pass on fourth-and-one. While the extra point was blocked, the momentum had clearly shifted.
Bellisari’s growth throughout the season proved vital in the biggest moments. “Drew has done a tremendous job for us this year,” Kennedy said. “He started at free safety last year and didn’t play quarterback. To see his growth from Week 1 to Week 16—he’s cool, calm, and collected, and he made plays when it mattered most.”
The Game-Winning Drive
With 6:30 remaining, Watterson started on a 15-play, 80-yard drive. Facing fourth-and-13, Bellisari connected with Theado for an 18-yard completion to keep the drive alive.
Moments later, a 20-yard pass to Tommy Haley set up Bellisari’s game-winning nine-yard touchdown run with just 1:29 left to play.
The Eagles’ defense sealed the victory by stopping Central Catholic on their final possession, highlighted by a crucial sack from Michael Boyle and CJ Youell. A last-ditch hook-and-ladder attempt by the Irish fell short, securing Watterson’s 19-14 victory.
Key Stats
The Eagles dominated the second half, outscoring Central Catholic 19-7 and more than doubling their offensive output, 236-102.
For Kennedy, the victory was the culmination of years of progress. After inheriting a struggling program, Kennedy has steadily turned the Eagles into contenders, leading them to a regional runner-up finish in 2022, a state runner-up finish in 2023, and now, a state championship. “This win is for the seniors, the program, and everyone who believed in what we’re building,” Kennedy said.
Bellisari finished with 88 passing yards, 63 rushing yards, and two total touchdowns, while Weber led the ground attack with 134 yards on 28 carries and a touchdown. Theado added two receptions for 70 yards and a score.