COON RAPIDS – Offensively, the Crusaders couldn’t be stopped on Friday night as they defeated the English Valley Bears in the first round of the playoffs by a score of 74-32.

It didn’t take long for the scoring to get started, as the game was tied 24-24 after the first quarter. Coon Rapids-Bayard took over in the second quarter, however, scoring an impressive 38 points while holding the Bears to just six. The huge second frame gave the Crusaders a 62-30 halftime lead.

Tucker Lewis was stellar, completing 12 of his 14 passing attempts for 284 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception. Caden Oswald was the main recipient of his big game, catching seven passes for 155 yards and three touchdowns. Oswald also added 68 yards and two more touchdowns on the ground while carrying the ball just three times. Bryce Lewis had four receptions for 92 yards and a touchdown, while Bennett Heiderscheit added one catch for a 37-yard touchdown. Andrew McAlister rushed 12 times for 80 yards and two touchdowns.

Defensively, the Crusaders forced five turnovers. Oswald and Sam Hoffman each both recovered a fumble and picked off the Bears for an interception. Oswald returned his interception 67 yards for a touchdown. Eli McAlister recovered a fumble, as well.

Coon Rapids-Bayard will go on the road to face off against Bedford in the next round of the playoffs. The game will take place at Bedford High School Football Field at 7:00 Friday night.