Late Touchdown by Brandon Johnson Jr. Secures St. Rita’s Victory

St. Rita secured a thrilling 28-21 victory over Marist on September 8, 2023, thanks to a late touchdown run by running back Brandon Johnson Jr.. With just 18 seconds left in the game, Johnson broke through for a decisive 4-yard score, capping off a contest that saw both teams exchange leads and play a tightly contested match throughout.

The game, part of the Chicago Catholic League football season, showcased a standout performance from St. Rita quarterback Steven Armbruster, who set a new school record for career passing touchdowns. He threw for 153 yards and two touchdowns, making history with a 26-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Donovan Evans on the Mustangs’ opening drive. This achievement places Armbruster atop St. Rita’s all-time passing touchdown list.

Reflecting on the victory, Johnson expressed his satisfaction, saying, “It feels good to come away with a win. This rivalry has been going on for ages, and I’m happy I was able to help us win. I don’t play for myself; I play for my team.” Johnson led the Mustangs in rushing with 86 yards on the night.

The first half demonstrated contrasting offensive strategies. St. Rita relied on aerial attacks, while Marist employed a powerful ground game led by senior running back Kevin Bartolotta. Bartolotta responded swiftly, scoring a 23-yard touchdown to bring the RedHawks back into contention after St. Rita’s initial score. He concluded the night with an impressive total of 180 yards and three touchdowns.

Despite a missed extra point attempt from Marist, St. Rita maintained a narrow 7-6 lead into the second quarter. Armbruster connected with Evans again for a 22-yard touchdown, extending the lead to eight points. Marist capitalized on mistakes by St. Rita to close the gap, with Bartolotta scoring again on a 6-yard run.

St. Rita’s head coach Martin Hopkins praised Armbruster’s maturity, noting, “Not many times can you say you have a three-year starter at quarterback. It goes a long way in terms of maturity in our offense.”

As the game progressed, both teams continued to battle fiercely. St. Rita had a chance to extend its lead before halftime, but a missed 22-yard field goal allowed Marist to remain within striking distance. Midway through the third quarter, Bartolotta broke free for a 67-yard touchdown run, marking the largest offensive play of the night and putting Marist ahead 21-14 after a successful two-point conversion.

St. Rita responded with grit, tying the game late in the third quarter as Armbruster scrambled to score on a fourth-and-goal situation, showcasing the resolve of the Mustangs. As the game entered the final minutes, St. Rita orchestrated a crucial drive that included a key fourth-down conversion by wide receiver Walter Jones.

Johnson’s late-game performance, including a series of powerful runs totaling 30 yards, culminated in his game-winning touchdown. “It’s very big for our confidence,” Johnson remarked after the game, emphasizing the importance of the victory as they prepare to face Mount Carmel in the coming week.

With this win, St. Rita not only maintains its ranking as No. 3 in 6A but also sets a positive tone for the rest of the season, showcasing the potential of both their offense and defense as they aim for further success in the Chicago Catholic League.