WEST PALM BEACH – Chris D’Or has had an amazing season at this juncture for Cardinal Newman.
The senior running back, who was our MVP of Week 6, led the Crusaders to a thrilling 35-21 win last week over American Heritage (Delray Beach). He had three rushing touchdowns and the game-sealing interception to help secure his team the 14-point victory.
“It felt like history,” D’Or said. “My o-line stepped up big time and opened up some huge holes for me. I love those guys to death. To score three touchdowns like that in a game like that was huge.”
This shining moment meant a whole lot for Cardinal Newman (6-2) because American Heritage (5-4) was heavily favored to take the road team down in Week 10. But when the Crusaders are on the same page and they have something to play for, they normally find a way to come out on top.
Also helping the cause was junior linebacker Jaydon Hood, who had perhaps his best overall game to date this season. He registered 10 tackles (3 TFL’s), a pass breakup, and a key pick-six against American Heritage.
Hood’s took his interception return 45 yards to the end zone, which contributed to Newman’s 35-21 lead with 6:45 left in the game.
Hood and D’Or directly accounted for four of Cardinal Newman’s five scores in their big win.
“He’s a leader in every way,” D’Or said. “You can feel his presence on the field sideline to sideline. He’s everywhere. I’m glad he’s on my team.”
Cardinal Newman junior kicker Carson Wilt connected on all five of his point after attempts, which helped to make the 35-21 victory possible. He recovered an onside kick as well.
All of these factors led to Cardinal Newman sharing Team of Week 10 honors with Santaluces at 30 percent of the overall vote.
“It’s an amazing feeling with all the competition we have in Palm Beach County,” D’Or said. “We put work in every week. It’s a good feeling when you’re recognized for it. But we’re not satisfied. We got bigger goals.”
With this win, Cardinal Newman (No. 7, New Era Prep Top 10) is now currently projected to be the No. 3 seed in in Class 3A-Region 3 playoffs, according to the latest FHSAA RPI team ratings. If the ratings hold on Selection Sunday (Nov. 3), the Crusaders would host current projected No. 6 seed Benjamin (7-3; No. 10, NEP Top 10) in the first round of the 3A playoffs.
But first things first: Cardinal Newman needs a win tonight (7 p.m.) in its regular season finale at home against Coral Springs Charter (4-5). A victory here will secure a 7-2 regular season record for Newman and possibly preserve the coveted No. 3 seed for the 3A playoffs.
As for tonight, this will be D’Or’s final regular season game playing for Newman. He wants to help his team end this run in style.
“Four years and I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” D’Or said. “We’re prepared. We know what must be done. Expect what you’ve been expecting from all year from us. We’re coming as one.”
