Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School from Sarasota defeated their rivals on the road on Sept. 26, 2025, topping Bishop Verot Catholic High School in Fort Myers.
The 49-14 victory brings the Caridinal Mooney Cougars to a 4-1 record, while the Bishop Verot Vikings are 2-3. This was the third victory by the Cougars over the Vikings in a year. Cardinal Mooney snapped a losing streak to Bishop Verot in September 2024, and again during the 2024 playoffs. The Cougars leads the all-time series 25-22.
Mooney was led by running back Connail Jackson, who rushed for 118 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries. Quarterback Davin Davidson threw for 251 yards and two touchdowns. The team finished with 211 rushing yards. In addition, Laron Foye ran a punt back for a touchdown.
Verot was led by Deshon Jenkins Jr. who rushed for 73 yards and a pair of touchdowns, while Macrae Thompson rushed for 78 yards. Meanwhile, Ayden Gonzalez racked up 82 receiving yards.
Father John Belmonte, SJ, Diocese of Venice Superintendent of Catholic Education, attended the game, splitting his time between the two sidelines.
Congratulations to Cardinal Mooney for the win, and to both teams for their solid efforts in this historic rivalry.
