HUXLEY – In a high-scoring showdown to close out the 2025 season, the Ballard Bombers went toe-to-toe with Carlisle on Friday night but came up just short, falling 42–35 in front of their home crowd.

Junior quarterback Bryce Miller led the Ballard offense with one of his best performances of the season, completing 17 of 23 passes for 238 yards and four touchdowns, while senior Brady Hillebrand added a 23-yard touchdown pass of his own. The Bombers' passing attack clicked all night, posting an impressive 75% completion rate and five total touchdown passes.

Senior receiver Easton Ersland was nearly unstoppable, hauling in six catches for 114 yards and three touchdowns to pace the offense. Sophomore Kanen DeYoung added a 35-yard touchdown reception, and sophomore Jake Clement caught another score, finishing with 21 yards receiving.

On the ground, Ballard ran for 145 yards on 26 carries, led by junior Jack Plucar with 39 yards and junior Bryce Miller adding 38. Junior Grayson Hedrick chipped in 28 yards on limited touches, while senior Dillon Shoen contributed 22 yards.

Defensively, the Bombers battled against a powerful Carlisle offense. Senior Dillon Shoen anchored the defense with 11 total tackles (9 solo), while sophomore Jake Clement and junior Aidan Wilson each added five or more stops. DeYoung also made an impact on both sides of the ball, recording an interception returned 11 yards.

Sophomore Bowen Benedict was perfect on special teams, going 5-for-5 on PATs and adding a 34-yard punt.

Despite the loss, the Bombers showed grit and offensive firepower in their final outing, finishing the season 2–7 overall (2–3 in district play). 

Photo Credit: Davidson Photography