Full Breakdown
Thanksgiving Turkey Bowl Highlights: Coolidge and Paterson Eastside Triumph
11/28/2025, 12:48:59 PM
Coolidge Senior High School's Historic Victory
The 2025 Turkey Bowl, a championship game for D.C. Public Schools, showcased a thrilling contest between the Coolidge Senior High School Colts and the Dunbar High School Crimson Tide. The game, held on Thanksgiving Day, began with Dunbar establishing a 14-0 lead. However, Coolidge mounted a comeback, scoring a touchdown to narrow the gap to 14-13. In a pivotal moment during the fourth quarter, Coolidge opted for a two-point conversion, successfully converting to secure a 15-14 victory. This win marked Coolidge's first Turkey Bowl championship since 1986. Head coach Kevin Nesbitt expressed pride in his team's resilience, stating, "When you go down, you keep fighting, and all of your hard work pays off."
Paterson Eastside's Dominance
In another notable Turkey Bowl matchup, Paterson Eastside faced off against Paterson Kennedy in the 101st annual Thanksgiving game. Paterson Eastside delivered a commanding performance, shutting out Paterson Kennedy with a score of 52-0. The Ghosts, led by Jeremiah Bailey, who scored three rushing touchdowns in the first half, dominated the game from the outset. Paterson Eastside scored on each of its first five possessions, establishing a 38-0 lead by halftime. The team maintained its momentum in the second half, adding two defensive touchdowns to seal the victory. This win marked the seventh consecutive Turkey Bowl triumph for Paterson Eastside, further extending their lead in the historical series to 50-44-7.
Key Players and Their Contributions
Jeremiah Bailey was a standout player for Paterson Eastside, contributing significantly to the team's offensive success. He highlighted the importance of teamwork and motivation from the coaching staff, stating, "The people that come and watch us play and give us motivation in each other." Meanwhile, Coolidge's Kevin Nesbitt celebrated his team's hard-fought victory, emphasizing the significance of their comeback.
Official Statements & Responses
Both teams expressed pride in their performances. Kevin Nesbitt remarked on the hard work and determination displayed by his players, while Paterson Eastside's head coach James Magazine acknowledged the tradition and significance of the Turkey Bowl in the community.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the celebrations, some critics pointed out the need for improvements in both teams' defensive strategies, particularly highlighting Paterson Kennedy's struggles throughout the game. New head coach Jarrod Rogers of Paterson Kennedy acknowledged the challenges faced, stating, "I’m just honored to be blessed to have the job and hopefully lead my team to victory."
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was championship football,” — Kevin Nesbitt, Head Coach, Coolidge Senior High School
- “What I really saw was just me putting my feet down and pushing through whatever challenges came through,” — Jeremiah Bailey, Player, Paterson Eastside
- “I’m a Patersonian my whole life, so I’ve been to these games growing up, so I know the tradition that it brings to the city,” — Jarrod Rogers, Head Coach, Paterson Kennedy
The Thanksgiving Turkey Bowl games this year not only highlighted the competitive spirit of high school football but also underscored the rich traditions that accompany these annual matchups.
