Sun Prairie East Football: A Resounding Comeback
It’s safe to say the Sun Prairie East football team is back on track after a shaky start to the 2026 season. In their opening game, the Cardinals faced the daunting task of hosting the defending Division 2 state champion West De Pere. Despite their best efforts, they stumbled, losing 42-20. However, the determination displayed by the team was unmistakable as they quickly rebounded in week two against Racine Horlick.
A Dominant Performance
On August 28, Sun Prairie East took to the road and put on a show against Racine Horlick. The Cardinals delivered a commanding performance, highlighted by a staggering 23-point scoring explosion in the second quarter. The game concluded with a remarkable 67-8 victory, showcasing the squad’s resilience and skill.
Sun Prairie East senior quarterback Braylon Peterson rushed for three touchdowns in the game. (Credit: Ryan Gregory)
A Two-Quarterback System in Action
One of the standout features of Sun Prairie East’s victory was their innovative two-quarterback system, which proved to be a formidable strategy. Senior Braylon Peterson led the charge by scoring three rushing touchdowns and displaying remarkable efficiency in the passing game. He completed five of his attempted passes for a total of 70 yards, efficiently managing the offense.
Competing alongside Peterson was sophomore Carter Kavanaugh, who made a significant impact with his passing abilities. Kavanaugh threw for an impressive 115 yards on just four completions, driving the scoreboard with five touchdown passes. His aerial strikes found targets in junior Kevin Packard III and sophomore Payton O’Hern, both of whom made key contributions.
Carter Kavanaugh threw two touchdown passes during the game. (Credit: Ryan Gregory)
Explosive Rushing Attack
While the quarterbacks shined, the Cardinals’ rushing attack was equally impressive. Senior Tyler Mitchell stepped up with 47 rushing yards on seven carries, while junior Juan Randle added 46 yards on six attempts. Both efforts contributed to the dominant ground game, allowing the team to maintain control throughout the match.
Adding to the display of skill was senior Romeo Jansen, who rushed for 30 yards, and junior Jerome Garwo, who made his presence felt with an 18-yard touchdown run. With multiple players stepping up in the backfield, Sun Prairie East’s rushing strategy proved versatile and effective.
Building Momentum
This overwhelming victory serves as a much-needed boost for Sun Prairie East as they prepare to enter Badger – Large conference play. The Cardinals will face a challenging test as they open against the defending champion Waunakee Warriors. However, the fact that they will be hosting this matchup on Friday, September 4, gives them a distinct advantage, allowing them to capitalize on their home-field support.
With the momentum from their convincing win over Racine Horlick and the tactical prowess showcased by both quarterbacks, Sun Prairie East is eager to demonstrate their capabilities as they set their sights on success in the conference. The team’s depth and talent make them a formidable contender as they aim high for the remainder of the season.
