For over a century, Jesuit and Holy Cross have battled on the gridiron in one of New Orleans’ oldest and most storied football rivalries. More than just a game, the annual matchup unites two Catholic school communities in a spirited celebration of tradition, sportsmanship, and brotherhood.

Rivalry Week Festivities

In the days leading up to the 107th edition of the rivalry, excitement surged across both campuses. The Great American Rivalry Series hosted a chin-up challenge between the two schools, with Jesuit students taking top honors. The Student Council Executive Board also organized a high-energy pep rally in the Benson Arena, highlighted by the recognition of Marchant Kenney ’93 as the 2025 Legend of the Game. Kenney addressed the football team on Thursday afternoon, sharing his experiences and lessons on perseverance, teamwork, and legacy.

Friday morning began with an inspiring address from Lt. Col. Jared Brupbacher ’97, the 2025 Distinguished Military Alumnus, who rallied the student body with his message to “Take flight, fight, and win. Fight’s on!” Both honorees were recognized by the Great American Rivalry Series and the United States Marine Corps before kickoff.

Tailgate and Game Day Traditions

Before the evening clash, Jesuit’s annual rivalry tailgate brought together alumni, families, and friends under a sea of blue and white tents. The MCJROTC cooked its famed jambalaya alongside burgers and hot dogs, while the Blue Jay Shop offered spirit gear for fans of all ages. The Blue Jay and Holy Cross marching bands performed their fight songs before engaging in a lively drum-off as the mascots—Jayson and Thunder—led the parade of Jayettes, Carmelettes, cheerleaders, and band participants into Tad Gormley Stadium.

Game Recap

As night fell and fans filled the stands, Jesuit seized the moment—literally living out Brupbacher’s call to “carpe noctem.” The Blue Jays set the tone early when senior quarterback Sully Sullivan capped the opening drive with a four-yard rushing touchdown, giving Jesuit a 7–0 lead. Holy Cross answered with a touchdown of its own, but a blocked extra point preserved the Jays’ advantage. Senior kicker Ethan Cabos added a 40-yard field goal to extend the lead to 10–6 at halftime.

Sullivan struck again in the third quarter, scoring his second rushing touchdown to make it 17–6. Holy Cross fought back, cutting the deficit to 17–12 after a failed two-point attempt. Momentum briefly shifted until cornerback sophomore McKinley Perry made a crucial interception deep in Jesuit territory, halting a Tigers drive. Late in the fourth quarter, Cabos drilled another field goal to push the lead to 20–12. A clutch sack by junior Chase Cooper on Holy Cross’s final possession sealed the victory as Jesuit ran out the clock to reclaim the coveted Golden Football trophy.

Halftime Honors

During halftime, principal Jeremy Reuther ’01 accepted the Great American Rivalry Series Student-Athlete Award on behalf of senior William Berry, a standout student with a 4.62 GPA and numerous academic honors. Reuther also received the Royal Honda Community Service Award for senior Coleman Puneky, recognized for his leadership and service. The Blue Jay Marching Band was joined by local middle school musicians for the Blue Jay Band Experience, performing together in a unifying halftime show.

A Community United

When the final whistle blew, Jesuit stood victorious with a 20–12 win—the Blue Jays’ first in several years—improving their all-time record to 62–43–1 against Holy Cross. The Gizzard student section kept the energy alive with horns, noise makers, and unwavering support from start to finish.

The rivalry game was streamed live by Crescent City Sports, and as the night ended, Blue Jays young and old celebrated another chapter in one of Louisiana’s most enduring football traditions.

Next up, Jesuit looks to carry its momentum into district play as the Blue Jays face St. Augustine on October 10 at 7 p.m. at The Shrine on Airline.