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Indians, Beavers clash tonight

EHS grad Tyler Phares serves as Bridgeport’s offensive coordinator

The Inter-Mountain file photo Former Elkins High School standout Tyler Phares is the offensive coordinator for Bridgeport, which faces Bluefield in the Class AA title game tonight at Wheeling Island Stadium.

WHEELING – Bridgeport and Bluefield will meet for the third straight year in the Class AA playoffs tonight. This time with a state title is on the line.

The Indians and Beavers will battle at 7 p.m. at Wheeling Island Stadium.

Second-seed Bridgeport, which will jump up to triple-A in the 2020-21 school year, has lost to Bluefield in the semifinal round the past two seasons.

The lone blemish for the 12-1 Indians was a setback to Fairmont Senior back on Sept. 19. Since then, Bridgeport has reeled off nine straight victories, including wins over Lewis County, Mingo Central and previously undefeated Oak Glen in the postseason.

The fourth-seeded Beavers (12-1) have yet to lose to an in-state opponent this season as their lone setback came at Lord Botetourt (Va.) on Sept. 13. This will be the third straight season they have battled a Big 10 Conference member for the banner, splitting with Fairmont Senior the past two seasons.

Bluefield and head coach Fred Simon earned their third straight appearance in the title game by downing the defending state champion Polar Bears, 40-24, in the semifinals.

The high-powered Beaver offense has scored 40-plus points in six consecutive games.

Quarterback Carson Deeb, who has throw for 32 scores this season, has several weapons at his disposal, including running back J.J. Davis and receivers Jahiem House and Brandon Wiley.

West Virginia University commit Sean Martin anchors the defense from his end position.

The Indians rely on their traditional run game behind the trio of Carson Winkie, Brian Henderson and Trey Pancake, along with quarterback Devin Vandergrift.

Bridgeport is coached by John Cole, while former Elkins High School standout Tyler Phares serves as the team’s offensive coordinator.

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