(11-18-23) It has been 25 years since Celina played in a State Semifinal Football Playoff game…that streak will end this coming Friday.

The #6 seed Bulldogs won their first Regional title since 1998 when they beat #1 undefeated seed Hamilton Badin 37-25. It marked Celina’s second playoff win in 2023 on the Trotwood-Madison field.

Celina (12-2) advances to the D III state semifinals against Columbus Watterson next Friday, November 24th, at Xenia. Columbus Watterson advances after beating Bellefontaine 19-13 last night.

Amy Hoyng Photography...vs. Trotwood-Madison earlier in the playoffs

Making the playoff run special has been Senior Bulldog kicker Zach Greber (5’9 Sr.). Greber accounted for 13 of Celina’s 37 points in last night’s win, including a perfect 4 for 4 on extra points and 3 for 3 on field goals. He kicked field goals from 41, 41 and 45 yards out. It is hard to remember another kicker in Celina football history to match Greber and his impact on the Bulldogs playoff run.

Two of those FG’s came late in the 4th quarter and helped the Bulldogs control the tempo at the end.

Part of that kicking game is Bobby Morris (5’10 Jr) the holder, often overlooked and under appreciated, he has been a big part of Greber’s success.

Ask Badin who struggled all night on special teams, including those first two touchdowns when they didn’t add the extra points. The Rams seemed to always be playing catch-up after that. Special teams in a long playoff run can make or break a season.

Did you know….

Braylon Gabes rushed for 145 yards and three touchdowns in last night’s win. He also added two interceptions β€’ one he took back for an 80-yard, game-securing touchdown β€’ on the defensive side of the ball. Gabes threw for 70 yards and a touchdown.

1998 Bulldogs last team to advance to State Semifinals…