Brookfield’s Liebhart, Defense Bulldoze by Marceline in Bell Game
Brookfield beat Marceline 42-7 in the 85th Bell Game Friday. Bulldogs quarterback Derek Liebhart utilized his legs in the first half.
Scott Lunte with the calls of Liebhart’s 73, 77, and 6-yard runs on Superstation KRES and centralmoinfo.com. Liebhart delivered the first touchdown less than two minutes in. Marceline’s Hunter Nelson handed the Tigers a 7-6 lead with a four-yard run one minute into the second quarter, but Liebhart added his second and third scores in the back half of the second to hand Brookfield a 20-7 advantage at half. Bulldogs head coach Scott Stevens analyzed Liebhart’s performance.
Liebhart finished with an unofficial 172 rushing yards on 13 carries. Fellow senior Trace Alexander provided a seven-yard rushing touchdown in the second half, and seniors Gabe Rodriguez and Garrett Starlin both returned interceptions for touchdowns. Stevens addressed the pass defense, which limited Marceline’s Jacob Stallo to 137 yards on 37 attempts.
The Bulldogs ended 2-8 last year. Stevens explained 2-0 Brookfield’s overall improvement.
Marceline head coach Mark Ross reacted to the loss.
Ross’ Tigers dropped last year’s Bell Game before 10 straight wins and a state semifinal appearance.
1-1 Marceline visits Knox County next week. Brookfield welcomes Centralia for its home opener. Hear full interviews with both head coaches below:
Brookfield coach Scott Stevens:
Marceline coach Mark Ross:
