For the majority of their lives, twins Jeff and Jeremy Brinck did everything together. Regardless of the sport or team, they were on the same side. School? They had many of the same classes. They even decided to attend the same college.
Tuesday: A little history of the Bridge Bowl
Wednesday: Senior prospective entering final BB
Today: Twins Jeff (TMC TE) and Jeremy (MSJ WR) Brinck
Friday: Game Preview
Saturday: THE GAME!!!
However, all of that changed when Thomas More hired Jim Hilvert following the 2006 season. Hilvert, who was the defensive coordinator at Mount St. Joseph, convinced Jeff to come with him across the river.
“It was hard leaving my friends,” said Jeff Brinck. “I was taking a chance and it seemed like a really good idea. I took coach Hilvert at his word. I’m glad I came over. The four years with coach Hilvert have been good times.”
Older brother, by five minutes, Jeremy, also thought the move benefited both individuals.
“I thought it was good for him and myself,” said the older Brinck. “Usually we are always together. (Now) it’s easier for people to tell us apart and see us independently.”
While Jeff followed Hilvert to Crestview Hills, Jeremy never wavered on his initial commitment.
Well for the first time in their lives, they will be competing against each other when Thomas More and Mount St. Joseph meet in Bridge Bowl XIVat 1 p.m. Saturday on the MSJ campus. Jeff didn’t play when the Lions posted the 35-14 victory, while Jeremy missed last season with an injury as Thomas More recorded the 19-0 win.
“We’ve been very competitive our entire lives,” said Jeff. “He knows its special whatever the outcome.”
Now both are integral parts of their respective offenses this season. Jeremy, who is second on the team in receiving, has been more productive with 17 catches for 309 yards. But Jeff is the only one to have found the end zone. The younger Brinck, who moved to tight end this season, has nine receptions for 114 yards and three touchdowns.
Despite attending Elder High School with such rivalry games as St. Xavier and Moeller, the twins agreed that this is the biggest game either have played.
“This game is going to be an absolute battle,” said Jeff. “They defense is solid and their offense looks pretty good. We are both unbeaten. There is going to be a lot of smack talking out there on the field. Both teams are going to play hard. Regardless of the outcome, it’s going to be a great game.”
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