East Central prepares for its rivalry game against Batesville in Week 5 of the 2025 season. Photo provided by East Central Media team Andrew Shaver.
The East Central Trojans rolled past Franklin County last Friday night, shaking off an early deficit to storm to a 35–14 victory. With the win, East Central improved its record and now turns its focus to a familiar rival, the Batesville Bulldogs, in what should be one of Southern Indiana’s most anticipated Week 5 matchups.
Trojans’ Ground Game Finding Its Rhythm
Running back Colton Bellman powered the offense against Franklin County with 93 rushing yards and three touchdowns, both career highs. Bellman has now racked up 549 yards on 93 carries this season, averaging 5.9 yards per attempt. His ability to wear down defenses has been the centerpiece of East Central’s attack.
Quarterback Nolan Maple was efficient through the air, completing 6 of 12 passes for 118 yards and a touchdown. His biggest strike came on a 59-yard connection with wideout Ethan Feldkamp, the longest reception of Feldkamp’s career. Feldkamp’s big-play ability is becoming a major weapon, with half of his career receptions going for 15 yards or more.
The offensive line also deserves credit, creating an average of 3.2 yards before contact this season — a sign that East Central’s front is winning battles at the line of scrimmage.
Defensive Playmakers Shine
Defensively, the Trojans were just as dominant. East Central piled up five sacks and six tackles for loss against the Wildcats, led by Jake Lutz’s three-sack performance. Trey Nishime added 1.5 sacks and another 1.5 tackles for loss. Meanwhile, linebacker Chase McCracken anchored the middle with 12 tackles, pushing his season total to 23 stops, tops on the team.
Remembering Last Year’s Batesville Clash
Fans will remember that last year’s East Central–Batesville matchup was a grinder. The Trojans escaped with a 24–13 win thanks to balanced play from Maple, Bellman, and Ryan Minges. Maple threw for a season-high 134 yards in that contest, while Bellman and Minges combined for nearly 140 rushing yards.
The Trojans now hold a commanding 44–12 lead in the all-time series.
Spotlight on Batesville’s Star Back
If East Central hopes to stay unbeaten, the defense will need to keep close tabs on Batesville running back Zadiin Small. Small has been a force this season, rushing for 419 yards and six touchdowns on just 50 carries — an eye-popping 8.4 yards per attempt. He already has three 100-yard games in 2025, making him one of Southern Indiana’s breakout offensive stars.
What’s at Stake
East Central enters this rivalry tilt with momentum, fueled by an improving offense and a defense that’s built a reputation for punishing opposing quarterbacks. Batesville, on the other hand, will look to Small and a resilient ground game to pull off the upset.
It’s another Southern Indiana showdown that should deliver on Friday night lights.
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