The Benson Bruins 6U kicked off their season on a high note, putting together a strong showing on both sides of the ball in a win over Rise during the Washington Youth Football League’s Game of the Week. Played in the two-half format used at the 6U level, this season opener gave both teams a chance to showcase their young talent, build chemistry, and get valuable early-season experience.
The game began with the Bruins receiving the opening possession and quickly setting the tone with a big play. On first down from their own 40-yard line, Nasir Bosley found a seam and raced 37 yards downfield, putting Benson in scoring position early. After a few backfield stops by Rise’s defense, the Bruins found themselves facing 3rd-and-long. That’s when Jayden Long made the play of the half — cutting outside and outrunning defenders for a 42-yard touchdown run, putting Benson on the board first.
After the score, the Bruins defense took the field and showed they were just as ready. Rise started their drive with short gains from Amaree Steward and Jay’son Doleman, but the Bruins’ defenders held firm. Blaze Solo came up with multiple stops, and a fourth-down tackle near midfield gave Benson the ball back.
With possession again, Benson’s offense continued to find success. Long picked up another 12 yards on the ground, and after a couple of short runs, he punched in his second touchdown of the day from 15 yards out, capping another efficient drive. While the blocking up front created space, it was Long’s vision and speed that helped stretch the lead.
Rise responded with their best offensive series of the day early in the second half. On a first down play from their own 38-yard line, Amaree Steward broke loose for a 52-yard run, getting all the way down to Benson’s 10-yard line. It was a huge momentum shift and gave Rise a chance to close the gap. But the Bruins defense tightened up again. Keanu Pelenato made two crucial tackles near the line of scrimmage, and Ace Temple sealed the goal-line stand with a stop on fourth down.
From there, the game continued with strong effort from both sidelines. The Bruins worked to control the ball, mixing carries between Blaze Solo, Lucciano Gossett, and JB Failautusi, while Rise looked to respond with runs from Magic Hayden, Jay’son Doleman, and Zion Tagovalloa-Taufalele. Despite the scoreboard, Rise continued to fight through every possession, showing promise with each series.
The Bruins’ defense stayed active in the second half, with Damarion-Ray Brackins adding backfield tackles and Bosley and Long contributing on both sides of the ball. The group worked together to keep Rise out of the end zone, wrapping up a game full of effort and encouraging signs for both teams.
While the result went in Benson’s favor, both teams showed development and heart in their first game of the year. The Bruins executed well offensively, found consistency on defense, and played with confidence throughout. For Rise, the game provided a chance to highlight explosive ability in the run game and areas for growth as they continue to build chemistry over the coming weeks.
Game Statistics
Benson Bruins (Offense):
- Jayden Long: 3 carries, 69 yards, 2 TDs; 4 tackles on defense
- Nasir Bosley: 1 carry, 37 yards; 1 tackle
- Blaze Solo: 3 carries; and 2 tackles
- Lucciano Gossett: 1 carry
- JB Failautusi: Led multiple scoring drives at quarterback
Benson Bruins (Defense):
- Keanu Pelenato: 2 tackles for loss
- Damarion-Ray Brackins: 2 tackles for loss
- Ace Temple: 1 tackle on 4th down stop
- Jayden Long, Nasir Bosley, Blaze Solo: multiple stops throughout the game
Rise (Offense):
- Amaree Steward: 4 carries, 62 yards; 2 tackles
- Jay’son Doleman: 4 carries, 5 yards; 1 tackle for loss
- Magic Hayden: 3 carries, 4 yards; 1 tackle
- Zion Tagovalloa-Taufalele: 2 carries
Rise (Defense):
Jay’son Doleman, Amaree Steward, Magic Hayden, and Zion Tagovalloa-Taufalele all contributed key tackles
