TOLEDO, Ohio — The Central Catholic football team is on top for the second straight year. The Fighting Irish are dominating opposing teams, winning 31 straight contests and a lot of the credit goes to their rushing attack led by Marquan Braswell.
"It feels great right now," Braswell said at the team's victory celebration. "Winning two state championships back-to-back, it's a blessing."
In the state championship game, the senior captain rushed for 169 yards on 22 carries for a 7.7-yard average, as well as two touchdowns. He recorded no negative plays on the ground.
Braswell gave credit to his offensive line, the only group that returned everyone from the 2022 state championship team.
"Having my back when I'm down," Braswell said. "Having the courage in me. Believing in me."
Braswell quickly earned the respect of his team in the offseason, going from non-starter last season to captain in 2023.
"I have a great relationship with my team," Braswell said. "They mean a lot to me. Just keep working hard, keep winning games with him. It showed that we were the best team in Ohio."
Head coach Greg Dempsey said it's no surprise Braswell had the success he did this year. He called the running back one of the nicest and most beloved guys on the team.
"Marquan Braswell is a great player," Dempsey said. "That's obvious by watching him play and reading his stats, but I think people realize what a great kid he is. He's an outstanding young man."
Marquan Braswell is WTOL 11's Athlete of the Week brought to you by Dave's Running.
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