Bergen Catholic Handles Business vs. Winslow in Clash of No. 1s

There’s always something different in the air when North Jersey meets South Jersey — especially when it’s No. 1 vs. No. 1. But in this battle between the state’s top-ranked Bergen Catholic and top public school Winslow, it was clear from the opening drive that the Crusaders came down I-295 on a mission.

The defending Non-Public A champions looked every bit like the powerhouse they’ve become, rolling past Winslow 41-14 in front of a packed crowd in Camden County. Bergen Catholic didn’t just win — they dominated all three phases of the game.

The game opened with Bergen Catholic putting together an 11-play, clock-eating drive, capped off by a 3-yard touchdown run by Dante Kain. The Crusaders’ offensive line immediately set the tone, creating lanes and protecting QB Trey Tagliaferri, who played with confidence all night.

On the second play of the second quarter, Najee Calhoun punched in a 1-yard score, extending the lead to 14-0. Calhoun was untouchable — finishing with 157 yards on 18 carries and controlling the tempo from start to finish.

Just minutes later, Tagliaferri found Austin Busso on a 21-yard dart to make it 21-0. That was followed by a 52-yard strike to Bryan Porter, and a quick red zone toss to Jamel Hammary to blow the game wide open, 35-0 by halftime.

"We just wanted to take care of business in all three phases," Calhoun said. "Offense was firing on all cylinders, defense had three interceptions and a shutout before garbage time, and special teams executed. This is our brand of football."

As much as the offense impressed, the Bergen Catholic defense may have been the most dominant unit on the field. With three interceptions — including two by Amare Newell — and a relentless pass rush, the Crusaders smothered Winslow’s attack.

Even when Jalen Parker, Winslow’s All-State QB, managed to connect on a few deep balls in the second half — including touchdowns to Nyqir Helton (49 yards) and Jayion Moss (30 yards) — Bergen Catholic already had the game in hand. Parker finished with 228 yards and 2 TDs, but was also picked off three times, pressured constantly, and held to just 18 yards rushing.

Bergen Catholic finished with 257 rushing yards, 159 through the air, and held Winslow to just 23 rushing yards. On a night where all eyes were on them, the Crusaders didn’t blink. They were fast, physical, and disciplined — a combination Winslow couldn’t match. And most importantly, they proved that the dynasty isn’t slowing down.