Blue and Gold spring game showcases veteran talent and new roster additions
By Mark Stallworth, Miami Times Contributor
(Src: Miami Times)
The reigning Class 3A state champions, the Miami Northwestern Senior High School Bulls, are wasting no time preparing for their title defense. After capturing the state championship under first-year head coach Teddy Bridgewater, the Bulls have reloaded, refocused and reignited their hunger during spring football practices, culminating in their highly anticipated annual Blue & Gold Spring Game at Traz Powell Stadium.
The Blue & Gold Spring Game, which took place on Friday, showcased veteran talent and rising stars. Held under the lights with a packed crowd of alumni, fans and college scouts, it did not disappoint.
Coach Bridgewater praised the effort: “Great energy and great effort. Guys came out and competed, and we wanted to create an environment in which these guys would feel comfortable coming out to compete.”
The defending champs now aim to repeat and dominate with summer training camp just around the corner.
Stars Returning
At the heart of the Bulls’ championship campaign are several elite returning starters, headlined by newly crowned five-star wide receiver Calvin Russell III, who continues to attract national recruiting buzz. The Class of 2026 standout is considered one of the top wideouts in the country, known for his crisp route running, breakaway speed and highlight-reel grabs.
“Now we know what it takes to become a champion,” said Russell.
Lining up opposite Russell is Class of 2027 standout Nicholas Lennear, a dynamic and reliable receiver with strong hands and the ability to stretch the field. With two of the state’s top pass catchers returning, Miami Northwestern’s aerial attack remains lethal.
Under center, senior quarterback Leon Strawder is back to command the offense. After showing poise and leadership throughout the 2024 season, Strawder’s chemistry with Russell and Lennear gives the Bulls a clear offensive edge as they transition from spring to summer.
Top Talent
The Bulls have added even more firepower to the team.
Among the most talked-about newcomers is Neimann Lawrence, a rising freshman quarterback from the Class of 2028. With a cannon arm, advanced football IQ and impressive mobility for his age, Lawrence has already drawn comparisons to elite high school QBs playing varsity as an eighth grader last season at Ransom Everglades. His development under Bridgewater and alongside Strawder could shape the future of Bulls football for years to come.
“I feel that I have learned a lot since I’ve been here (at Miami Northwestern), and I believe when I’m done here, I will be ready for the next level,” said Lawrence.
Defensively, the Bulls received a massive boost with the addition of Jordan Campbell, a four-star linebacker and Miami Hurricanes commit. Campbell’s sideline-to-sideline presence, tenacity and experience against top-tier competition make him an instant impact player. His decision to commit to “The U” only further validates the legacy of top defensive talent produced by the Bulls program.
Also making headlines is James Johnson, a fierce defensive lineman transferring in from North Fort Myers for his senior season. Johnson brings size, power and versatility to the trenches, and his presence up front solidifies an already strong defensive line unit.
Bridgewater’s Second Year
Former NFL quarterback Bridgewater returned home to Liberty City in 2024 and delivered a state championship in his first year leading the Bulls. Immediately following the state championship, he returned to the NFL to play with the Detroit Lions and lead a scoring drive during their Divisional Playoff game against the Washington Commanders.
Now entering his second season as head coach, Bridgewater is aiming for more than just hardware. He’s creating a championship culture rooted in discipline, resilience and pride.
“At the end of the day I’m coaching to develop kids. These kids have a goal to make it out of Miami and I’m just here to be a stepping stool for them to help them get where they want to go,” said Bridgewater.
His NFL experience and hometown roots have created a perfect storm for success at Miami Northwestern, a program already steeped in tradition.
Shifts in the Dade Coaching Landscape
As the Bulls fine-tune their roster, other powerhouses across Miami-Dade are undergoing major transitions.
Most notably, former Miami Central head coach Jube Joseph has joined St. Thomas Aquinas as a defensive coach, bringing his championship pedigree to one of Florida’s most elite programs.
After decades of dominance at Miami Booker T. Washington, Tim “Ice” Harris has taken the reins at Mater Academy, hoping to breathe life into a new program with his championship-tested leadership.
The always-competitive Miami Central Rockets have hired Derrick Gibson as their new head coach. Gibson, a former Florida Atlantic University safeties coach and Miami Central defensive coordinator, returns to familiar territory with the goal of restoring Central to the top of the 2M ranks.
Meanwhile, coach Dorrean James has returned to Booker T. Washington, this time as head coach. A former assistant with deep roots in the program, James is expected to inject fresh energy while honoring the Tornadoes’ legacy.
Looking Ahead
With a championship title already in hand, Miami Northwestern isn’t satisfied. Summer training camps will focus on conditioning, installing advanced offensive packages and building defensive toughness.
“There’s no let-up,” said Bridgewater. “We’ve got a target on our backs now. Every team we face is going to give us their best shot.”
The Bulls will open the 2025 season as favorites not just in Class 3A, but among all of Florida’s elite programs. With stars like Russell III, a talented core of returning veterans, and next-generation standouts like Lawrence, the Bulls are set to defend their title with the swagger, speed and strength that defines Miami football.
Up next for the team is the one final fellowship of the Bulls scrimmage at Gwen Cherry Park, starting at 6 p.m. on Thursday. Before the scrimmage, a kids’ skills clinic will take place.
And as the kickoff count begins, one thing is certain: The road to the 3A state title runs through Miami Northwestern.
