McDonogh Pulls Away From Riverdale Baptist, 22-14, Behind Herbert's 281 Passing Yards

Game #1 McDonogh Pulls Away From Riverdale Baptist, 22-14, Behind Herbert's 281 Passing Yards Eagles score eight unanswered fourth-quarter points to win season opener in Upper Marlboro. UPPER MARLBORO, Md. — Friday, August 28, 2026 — McDonogh opened its 2026 football season with a road victory Friday night, defeating Riverdale Baptist, 22-14, behind a productive passing performance from quarterback Jackson Herbert and a decisive fourth-quarter response. The Eagles and Crusaders played a scoreless opening quarter before McDonogh broke through with seven points in the second period to take a 7-0 halftime lead. Riverdale Baptist answered after halftime, scoring 14 third-quarter points to pull even at 14 entering the final period. But McDonogh controlled the fourth quarter, scoring eight unanswered points while holding the Crusaders scoreless to secure the victory. Herbert completed 17 of 31 passes for 281 yards and a touchdown, although he also threw two interceptions. Running back Basil Oshegbo provided support on the ground, rushing for 80 yards on seven carries, an average of more than 11 yards per attempt. Wide receiver Carlos Ferguson caught five passes for 72 yards, giving Herbert a reliable target in the passing game. McDonogh's offensive advantage extended beyond the scoreboard. The Eagles ran 64 plays compared with Riverdale Baptist's 37 and produced 21 first downs to the Crusaders' five. McDonogh also held a 26:39 to 21:21 advantage in time of possession. Riverdale Baptist quarterback B. Brady completed seven of 13 passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns, with one interception. Receiver C. Jefferson caught four passes for 76 yards and both receiving touchdowns. Despite the Crusaders' third-quarter rally, McDonogh's ability to sustain possessions and generate first downs helped the Eagles regain control. The victory improved McDonogh to 1-0 and dropped Riverdale Baptist to 0-1. The Eagles will next face Haverford School of Pennsylvania on September 5. DMV Gridiron Takeaway: McDonogh demonstrated offensive balance and resilience in its opener. Herbert's 281 passing yards and the Eagles' 21 first downs helped overcome a third-quarter rally by Riverdale Baptist. Final Score: McDonogh 22, Riverdale Baptist 14 Top Performers - Jackson Herbert, QB: 17-of-31 passing, 281 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions. - Basil Oshegbo, RB: 7 carries, 80 rushing yards. - Carlos Ferguson, WR: 5 receptions, 72 yards. SEO Tags: McDonogh Eagles Football, McDonogh vs Riverdale Baptist, Jackson Herbert, Basil Oshegbo, Carlos Ferguson, MIAA Football, Maryland High School Football, DMV Gridiron, [SASN.TV](http://sasn.tv/)