Recap: Bandits vs Topeka Tropics

On Saturday, April 22, 2023, the Bandits traveled to Topeka Kansas to take on the Topeka Tropics in a CIF conference game. The game was an exciting, back-and-forth contest, in which the Bandits ultimately prevailed 45-36.

The Bandits roared out to an early lead behind a huge pass from Tasleem Wilson to Fred Bruno. Standing on his own 2-yard line, Wilson launched a bomb downfield that Bruno caught for an early touchdown.

Topeka fought back and traded scores with the Bandits for the rest of the half, which ended with the score tied at 21-21.

The Bandits seized momentum in the 3rd quarter with a pick-six pass interception by Justin Gilbert—part of a smothering defensive effort by the Bandits that limited Topeka’s scoring opportunities. The Bandits were sharp on the offensive side of the ball as well, with another Wilson-to-Bruno touchdown pass increasing the Bandits’ lead to 45-30 by the end of the 3rd quarter. The game ended in a 45-36 Bandits’ victory.

Defensive lineman Claude Davis led the charge on defense with a CIF record-breaking four sacks. Tasleem Wilson continued his offensive production with four passing touchdowns.

This week the Bandits are at home taking on the Gillette Mustangs in a critical battle for position in the race for the conference championship. Come show your support this Saturday, April 29th, for a special Black Out Night. Bandits fans will wear black, get loud, and help Head Coach Erv Strohbeen get his 100th career victory!