The Clairton Bears (1-1) return home to face the unbeaten Shady Side Academy Bulldogs (2-0) in a high-powered non-conference matchup on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Clairton High School. Both programs are known for producing explosive playmakers, and this Week 3 game should provide plenty of fireworks.
Game Details
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Matchup: Shady Side Academy @ Clairton
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Date & Time: Friday, September 5, 2025 – 7:00 PM
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Location: Clairton High School – Clairton, PA
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Live Coverage: Follow live scores on MaxPreps
Fans can purchase digital tickets through GoFan or stream the game live on the NFHS Network (subscription: $13.99/month or $79.99/year).Watch here: Start your free trial today
Shady Side Academy Bulldogs
Shady Side Academy enters this contest undefeated at 2-0, scoring a combined 84 points while giving up 52. They opened with a close win against Greensburg Central Catholic (28-26) and followed it with a commanding victory. The Bulldogs are averaging 42 points per game, led by QB Jeff Thompson, who has been outstanding through the air with 226 passing yards per game and 232 total yards per game. His top target, WR Brandon Murphy Jr., has been a difference-maker with 110 receiving yards per game. Defensively, Murphy also leads the team with 9 tackles and 1 sack per game, proving he’s a two-way weapon.
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2025 Record: 2-0
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National Rank: #6,069
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State Rank (PA): #233
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Class Rank: #19
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Points For: 84
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Points Allowed: 52
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Key to Win: Thompson’s passing game needs to stay sharp, and the Bulldogs must avoid defensive breakdowns against Clairton’s speed.
Main Squad
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#3 Jeff Thompson – QB
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#8 Brandon Murphy Jr. – WR/DB
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#1 Michael Ruffin – RB
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#5 Taris Wooding – WR/DB
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#52 Anthony Davis – OL/DL
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#6 Gavin Richards – LB
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#21 Marcus Perry – DB
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#74 Ethan Walsh – OL
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#12 Ryan Keller – WR
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#9 Jaden Scott – DB
Clairton Bears
The Bears sit at 1-1, splitting their first two contests while putting up 91 total points in just two games. Their offense has been dynamic, averaging 45.5 points per game, highlighted by explosive starts in the first half. Clairton opened with a tough defeat but bounced back with an emphatic win, showing their trademark big-play ability. RB/WR Taris Wooding has been their scoring leader with 12 points per game, while the defense has allowed just 19 points per contest. With plenty of speed and physicality, the Bears will look to protect their home turf and hand SSA their first loss.
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2025 Record: 1-1
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National Rank: #4,207
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State Rank (PA): #158
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Class Rank: #5
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Points For: 91
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Points Allowed: 19
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Key to Win: Use their balanced scoring attack early and keep constant pressure on Shady Side’s passing game.
Main Squad
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#5 Taris Wooding – RB/WR
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#8 Brandon Murphy Jr. – WR/DB (SSA transfer comparison, not on roster — check actual lineup)
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#2 Isaiah Green – QB
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#4 Jamal Carter – WR/DB
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#7 Terrence Johnson – RB/LB
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#56 Malik Owens – OL/DL
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#11 Chris Taylor – DB
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#15 Jordan Harris – LB
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#9 Darnell Parker – WR/DB
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#60 Corey White – OL/DL
Rankings & Records
| Team | National Rank | State Rank | Class Rank | Record | Points For | Points Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shady Side Academy | #6,069 | #233 | #19 | 2-0 | 84 | 52 |
| Clairton | #4,207 | #158 | #5 | 1-1 | 91 | 19 |
Abu Sayem is a sports enthusiast and writer who enjoys sharing stories about high school athletics. He is passionate about celebrating the teamwork, dedication, and spirit of young athletes.
