A Gritty Rebuild in Bridgeport
Head coach Derrick Lewis, now in his fifth season at Bullard‑Havens, brings a 21‑20 record and a philosophy built around grit. After a 3‑7 finish last year, the Tigers are determined to turn the tide, drawing on the experience of seniors who have known both a 7‑4 playoff run and the disappointment of a losing season.
The defense returns six starters, highlighted by Jeremiah Duverce, who earned 80 tackles and 16.5 tackles for loss a year ago before shifting to linebacker this fall. Michael Ferreira‑Rojas anchors the secondary, giving the unit a solid foundation as it looks to improve on previous shortcomings.
Offensively, the team must replace program‑all‑time leading rusher Josh Headley, who graduated in the spring. To fill the void, Marlon Benbow and Michael Ferreira‑Rojas will share carries, while sophomore David Pacheco and junior Mikhail Taylor split duties at quarterback, offering a dynamic dual‑signal approach.
The receiving corps will be led by Landon Soto and Zaire Byfield, providing speed and reliability, while the offensive line benefits from returning starters Nevyn Rosario and TJ Marshall, who bring continuity to the front five.
The schedule promises tough conference matchups and non‑league tests against Prince Tech, Montville/St. Bernard, and Platt Tech, setting the stage for a season where each game could define the Tigers’ resurgence.