After failing to launch a year ago, Stepinac needed this win. Really needed this win. There was an emotional release in the stands and on the sideline when John Smith got loose and sprinted 60 yards for a touchdown Aug. 30, two snaps into the new season. Each big play upped the level of optimism. Smith reached the end zone again before the end of the first quarter and the Crusaders rolled to a 40-14 win over PSAL contender Abraham Lincoln. It was the first win for Crusaders head coach A.J. Magee, who took over in January. “This feels great,” Smith said. “Last year wasn’t us. This year, we’re coming and we’re ready to take it all.” 🔗 : Read more of Stepinac getting needed confidence and momentum with a win over Lincoln at our link in bio. 📹️/ 📸: Frank Becerra Jr. frankbjrphoto ✍: Mike Dougherty hoopsmbdlohud #lohudsports #lohudfootball #highschoolfootball #football #chsfl nychsfl stepinacsports lincolnrailsplittersfb #psal psalsports