Cedar Rapids Kennedy’s 2021 season was put to an unsavory end at the hands of the Iowa City High Little Hawks 32-13 on Friday, Nov. 2. The loss was spurred on by running back Darren Richardson’s 227 yards and 3 touchdowns and future Iowa multi-sport athlete Ben Kueter’s 11 tackles and 3 sacks.

Despite the conclusion, Kennedy’s 2021 season was one of the most successful seasons in school history, boasting 15 all Mississippi Valley Conference players—players recognized as some of the best at their positions in the conference.

They finished the regular season 9-0, including wins over playoff teams Cedar Falls, Johnston, Bettendorf and Dubuque Senior, outscoring them 122-52 total in those four wins. They accounted for 3,561 yards of total offense, 1,725 yards passing and 1,836 rushing, and also showcased one of the best defenses in the state, allowing an average of just 11 points per game. The Cougar’s final win-loss ratio was 10-1.

Next year the Cougars will return, with six of their major defensive contributors and all-conference running back Jazan Williams. The loss does not take away from the season the Cougars had as the only undefeated 5A team going into the playoffs.

“We got 10 wins straight,” Colin Flanagan said. “Even though it didn’t end how we wanted it to, it was still a great season.”