By Jim Charboneau – September 6th, 2023

After a 25 year drought, the Barnum Bombers football team defeated the MLWR Rebels to earn possession of the prized “Little Brown Jug” last Friday, September 1st. The rivalry for the “Little Brown Jug” dates back at least 73 years. The oldest date on the jug itself is 1950!

Friday’s game was hotly contested with many ups and downs for each team. Neither team was willing to give up, fighting mightily to the bitter end. Four quarters of play was not enough to determine a victor as the game was tied at 16 points at the end of regulation. 

In the 1st overtime period, the Rebels were awarded the ball at Barnum’s 10 yard line. They were able to score a touchdown but no extra points. During the Bombers possession, they also scored a touchdown with a 10 yard pass from QB Hayden Charboneau to RB Carlos Beckstrand.  The extra point try failed, ending the first overtime tied at 22-22.

The 2nd overtime began with the Bombers possessing the ball at the MLWR 10 Yard Line. On second down, Bombers QB Hayden Charboneau was able to find the endzone on a 2 yard run to take the lead 28-22. The extra points try failed. MLWR was unable to convert in the 2nd overtime which ended the game. The Bombers earned a victory and the Little Brown Jug.

Coach Minkkinen stated this was very much a team victory giving credit to each and every one of his players. He also wants to recognize the fine play and accomplishments of several of his players during this game:

QB Hayden Charboneau was 13 of 17 passing for 150 yards with 3 TD passes and he passed for a 2pt score. He rushed for 26 yards including 1 TD run.  On defense he was able to intercept a pass and return the ball 35 yards.

RB Carlos Beckstrand had 2 pass receptions for 29 yards; 2 TDs.

WR Eli Gilbertson made 5 receptions for 31 yards.

TE Gunnar Warpula caught 1 pass for 50 yards and made another reception scoring on a 2pt conversion.

TE Landon Oetterer caught 2 passes for 14 yards; 1 TD.

LB/FB Cole Laitinen made 21 tackles including 2 tackles for loss. He rushed for 27 yards and he scored running in a 2pt conversion.

LB Caden Sheff made 19 tackles and he intercepted a pass.