Junior running back Aiden Brunner embraced the challenge of waiting his turn in the Jacobs football program. Under coach Brian Zimmerman’s guidance, the team is renowned for its strong running game. Brunner knew he had to earn his place in the starting lineup.
“I knew coming in I wasn’t going to play right away,” Brunner stated. “I had to wait and develop. I talked with ‘Zim’ about it. Now, it’s my chance.”
A remarkable comeback unfolded as Jacobs overcame a 17-point deficit. Brunner took full advantage of his opportunity, scoring two key touchdowns in the second half. His game-winning touchdown came with just 1.8 seconds remaining, sealing a 31-27 victory over Burlington Central in the Fox Valley Conference.
Brunner’s performance included 38 yards on 11 carries, featuring touchdowns from 1 and 8 yards. Quarterback Austin Stennett led the offensive surge, completing 19 of 31 passes for 263 yards. His 74-yard touchdown connection with Owen Crouch ignited the comeback. Crouch finished the game with five catches for 111 yards. Chris Williams contributed seven receptions for 59 yards and an 8-yard touchdown on a reverse. Jordan Hudson made five catches for 75 yards.
Burlington Central’s Reece Beemer threw for 112 yards, completing 14 of 30 passes with a touchdown. His 10-yard touchdown run in the final moments gave the Rockets a brief 27-24 lead. Parker Auxier contributed with 126 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries.
Despite earlier offensive struggles, Jacobs relied on Stennett’s growth as quarterback to fill the gap. Zimmerman expressed satisfaction with Brunner’s performance in the second half. “He’s been waiting in the wings,” Zimmerman noted. “We told him it was his turn. We have a tradition of running the ball, and while we’ve not been satisfied with our running game, Austin has delivered major plays.”
After Burlington Central’s late lead at 27-24, Jacobs mounted a response. Stennett drove the Golden Eagles downfield, and Brunner powered through for the decisive touchdown. “We knew we had the strength on them, so we decided to run it down their throat,” Brunner explained. “Seeing the gap open felt fantastic. All those years of development paid off.”
Burlington Central initially led 20-3 following Beemer’s touchdown to Chace Chesney. Stennett’s 74-yard touchdown pass to Crouch was a turning point. After a defensive stop, Jacobs marched 71 yards in five plays, capped by Brunner’s 8-yard touchdown, cutting the deficit to 20-17. Williams then scored an 8-yard touchdown, giving Jacobs a 24-20 lead with over five minutes left.
Burlington Central coach Brian Iossi expressed concerns about missed red zone opportunities. “We lost the game in the second quarter when failing to score three times inside the 20-yard line,” Iossi remarked. “You must finish those opportunities. Nevertheless, I’m proud of this team. That was probably one of the best games in the state this year.”
Jacobs’ coaches delivered a inspirational message before the game. “This is a game you’re going to remember for the rest of your lives,” Brunner recalled. The team’s premonition was accurate. “I’ve never been a part of something like that,” Brunner added.
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