Last Friday, Bald Eagle Area football saw its playoff chances take a fatal hit in heartbreaking fashion, as it fell at Central, 26-25, behind a last-second touchdown from the Dragons. The loss stings, but the Eagles still have a chance to finish their 2025 campaign on a high note at Alumni Stadum, hosting Central Cambria (4-5) in a Laurel Highlands crossover affair.

The Red Devils had a tumultuous start to the season, beginning 2-2 with close losses to Richland and Bedford before dropping three in a row while scoring a combined seven points. However, it’s bounced back since then with back-to-back wins over Central and Somerset.

They’re led by junior running back Ryan Chappell, who has averaged 140 rushing yards and over a touchdown per game and more than surpassed 1,000 yards on the season. Chappell has carried it over 20 times per game this season but has still managed to average just under seven yards per carry.

Central Cambria’s pass game has been up-and-down, with sophomore quarterback Mason Pittsinger tossing more interceptions (8) than touchdowns (6) while completing under 50 percent of his passes. He’s had more success on the ground, so if the Eagles can limit the Red Devils rushing wise, they could be in for a bounce-back performance after giving up their second highest point total of the season in Week 9.

For the Eagles, a plethora of seniors will be looking to close out their careers on a high note.

Quarterback Grady Fisher is coming off another strong rushing outing, now leading Bald Eagle rushing wise with 633 yards on seven touchdowns. Jackson Millward is coming off his best receiving performance of the season, posting three receptions for 91 yards and a TD against Central. Kollin Cunningham completed two deep passes, and Gage Gardner leads the team in tackles for loss with 19 and has remained a staple on the offensive line.

After starting 1-3, the Eagles could finish the season right at .500 with four wins through their last six with a win on Friday. Friday’s game at Alumni Stadium starts at 7 p.m.