Bryce Braden, Stratford football Jr.
On the field: Braden put on a performance that won’t be forgotten for a longtime during a 38-7 rout of Farwell in the District 1-2A Division I opener last Friday.
Let’s start with the offensive side of the ball. The dual-threat quarterback stacked up 113 yards rushing on 18 carries with two touchdowns. Braden was then efficient through the air going 12-of-16 for 168 yards with three more scores.
However, the defensive side of the ball is where the 6-foot-3, 215-pound physical linebacker made his mark. Braden made a season-high 20 tackles with two sacks and a quarterback hurry.
On the season, Braden leads the Elks with 82 tackles and four sacks through six for a Stratford team that’s 6-0. On offense, Braden has trucked over opponents for 560 yards rushing with eight touchdowns and has gone 52-of-87 passing for 890 yards with 11 more TDs.
Coach Jonathan Murphy: “I think that game was a message. We wanted people to know what we’re about and how physical we are on both sides. Bryce help in sending that message. Getting 20 tackles in a game is huge. He is just so strong and so good at having a nose for the football. On offense, he is getting better at throwing the ball and that makes him more dangerous as a player. We watched film of him from last year, and he’s just more in control and in charge this year. He’s a great leader and continues to come into his own.”
Braden: “I think I’ve come a long way at quarterback and I’m a lot more comfortable in the pocket and moving around. I feel like I’m more of a leader and my confidence is growing by the game. I love the way we’re playing right now and the best part we’re not playing our best football yet. We’re still getting better. We just want to continue to improve and make another deep run and continue the great tradition in Stratford.”
About Braden
Favorite band or musician: Flatland Calvary
Favorite social media platform: Instagram
Favorite athlete: Luke Kuechly
Bet you didn’t know: I have a weak stomach.
Parents: Kevin and Heather Braden