Class B & C playoff preview

11/9/2018 |  Ben Johnson

Players to watch

- Braden Gilbert (Regent Prep): Junior quarterback has passed for 2,176 yards and 37 touchdowns this season.

- Tatton Anderson (Alex): Sophomore tailback has rushed 137 times for 1,350 yards and 26 touchdowns, he's also caught 51 passes for 827 yards and 11 touchdowns.

- Stevie Orr (Davenport): Senior QB has passed for 2,112 yards and 24 touchdowns while completing 108 of 178 passes.

- Coleton Hudson (Weleetka): Senior running back has compiled 922 yards and 16 touchdowns for the Outlaws.

- Jace Horton (Prue): Junior quarterback has passed for 1,212 yards and 18 touchdowns, and he's also rushed for 649 yards on nine touchdowns. On defense, he leads the Rockets with 111 tackles.

Prediction time

Michael Swisher: Shattuck over Regent Prep - The Indians will need to slip past Davenport in the semifinals, but I expect them to do just that. Their closest game this season was a 30-point victory in the season opener over last year’s Class C champ Tipton. Their lowest scoring total is 36 points in Week 9 when they shutout Seiling. That said, Regent Prep has been every bit of dominant, if not more, beating foes by an average of 53-7. However, I give the nod to Shattuck for two reasons: Troy Bullard and experience.

Ben Johnson: Davenport over Regent Prep - I've been high on Davenport all season long, and the Bulldogs haven't given me a reason not to be. That said, I think the semifinal winner of Shattuck-Davenport wins it all, so keep an eye out for that matchup.

Whitt Carter: Shattuck over Regent Prep - Whoo, boy. There are some stellar teams atop Class B, which should make for a fun semifinals week on down the road. Shattuck has been the clear favorite all year long, although aa semifinal matchup with Davenport is certainly something to get excited about. Regent Prep has dominated the east side of things this year and have a really talented squad, but Shattuck will be too much. They win ANOTHER state title in 2018.

Players to watch

- Robert Taylor and Brendon Weathers): Pair of senior running backs have both eclipsed 700 yards apiece on the ground this season. They've contributed to Coyle's 2,373 yards and 32 touchdowns on the ground as a team this year.

- Cory Cunningham (Paoli): The Pugs' leading rusher with 808 yards and 11 touchdowns this season. As a team, Paoli has rushed for 2,570 yards and 38 TDs.

- Derrick Jennings (Graham-Dustin): Junior QB has passed for 1,398 yards and 27 touchdowns and has rushed for 689 yards and 14 TDs.

Prediction time

Michael Swisher: Buffalo over Tipton - This class has the potential for some dynamite semifinal matchups featuring Buffalo vs. Southwest Covenant on the top half and then a rematch of last year’s title game between Tipton and Pond Creek-Hunter on the bottom side. Tipton took a couple lumps early on but has returned to championship form with five shutouts in its last six games. However, it’s tough to ignore what Buffalo did against Tyrone (44-0) and Pond Creek-Hunter (38-6) in back-to-back weeks earlier this year. It will be a battle with Southwest Covenant in the semis, but I’m picking the Bison to emerge victorious and then bring home gold.

Ben Johnson: Southwest Covenant over Tipton - I've liked Buffalo all season long in Class C. but I'll go with Southwest Covenant anyway. But the way my picks have gone this season, that means Buffalo will skate to the title.

Whitt Carter: Tipton over Buffalo - Another fun class with some great teams at the top should make for a lot of fun in the playoffs. Tipton has been dominant as of late on defense, which is obviously tough to do in 8-man football. They could meet up with Pond-Creek in the semis, making for an awesome rematch of the title game a year ago. A popular pick in Buffalo will be tough to beat on the other side of the bracket, as the have rolled to a 10-0 record. They'll have to get past top ranked SW Covenant in the semis and I think they do. But I'll go with Tipton to win its' third straight Class C state championship.

Week 6 picks

10/4/2018 |  Ben Johnson

Phew, what a relief for myself and Whitt in week 5. Swisher and Coach Turney were leaving us in the dust. But we were able to gain a little bit of ground in the overall standings. Just have to ride the wave of momentum now.

Week 5 picks - Whitt 14-3 | Ben 14-3 | Coach Turney 13-4 | Swisher 12-5

Overall - Swisher 78-30 | Turney 77-31 | Ben 71-37 | Whitt 71-37

And per usual, my apologies in advance to the teams I pick below:

Collinsville at Tahlequah

Michael Swisher: Collinsville 21, Tahlequah 18

Ben Johnson: Collinsville 17, Tahlequah 10

Whitt Carter: Tahlequah 35, Collinsville 31

Randy Turney: Collinsville 21, Tahlequah 14

Washington at Millwood

Michael Swisher: Millwood 45, Washington 14

Ben Johnson: Millwood 32, Washington 19

Whitt Carter: Millwood 36, Washington 21

Randy Turney: Millwood 41, Washington 14

Tuttle at Bethany

Michael Swisher: Tuttle 24, Bethany 22

Ben Johnson: Tuttle 21, Bethany 17

Whitt Carter: Tuttle 24, Bethany 20

Randy Turney: Tuttle 24, Bethany 13

Coyle at Southwest Covenant

Michael Swisher: SW Covenant 48, Coyle 14

Ben Johnson: SW Covenant 43, Coyle 38

Whitt Carter: SW Covenant 42, Coyle 40

Randy Turney: SW Covenant 38, Coyle 28

Stillwater at Choctaw

Michael Swisher: Stillwater 30, Choctaw 23

Ben Johnson: Stillwater 33, Choctaw 21

Whitt Carter: Stillwater 41, Choctaw 13

Randy Turney: Stillwater 34, Choctaw 14

Putnam City North at Union

Michael Swisher: Union 35, PC North 14

Ben Johnson: Union 42, PC North 9

Whitt Carter: Union 37, PC North 14

Randy Turney: Union 38, PC North 14

Muskogee at Sapulpa

Michael Swisher: Muskogee 24, Sapulpa 20

Ben Johnson: Muskogee 39, Sapulpa 29

Whitt Carter: Muskogee 42, Sapulpa 28

Randy Turney: Muskogee 28, Sapulpa 20

Ardmore at El Reno

Michael Swisher: Ardmore 28, El Reno 7

Ben Johnson: Ardmore 24, El Reno 9

Whitt Carter: Ardmore 32, El Reno 24

Randy Turney: Ardmore 31, El Reno 20

Seminole at Idabel

Michael Swisher: Seminole 27, Idabel 21

Ben Johnson: Seminole 45, Idabel 27

Whitt Carter: Seminole 42, Idabel 28

Randy Turney: Seminole 42, Idabel 20

Tyrone at Buffalo

Michael Swisher: Tyrone 34, Buffalo 24

Ben Johnson: Buffalo 35, Tyrone 26

Whitt Carter: Buffalo 41, Tyrone 34

Randy Turney: Buffalo 34, Tyrone 26

Westmoore at Broken Arrow

Michael Swisher: Broken Arrow 38, Westmoore 18

Ben Johnson: Broken Arrow 49, Westmoore 13

Whitt Carter: Broken Arrow 52, Westmoore 14

Randy Turney: Broken Arrow 42, Westmoore 14

Stigler at Checotah

Michael Swisher: Checotah 31, Stigler 29

Ben Johnson: Checotah 34, Stigler 28

Whitt Carter: Checotah 28, Stigler 24

Randy Turney: Stigler 24, Checotah 14

Haskell at Victory Christian

Michael Swisher: Victory Christian 30, Haskell 15

Ben Johnson: Victory Christian 37, Haskell 22

Whitt Carter: Victory Christian 42, Haskell 16

Randy Turney: Victory Christian 31, Haskell 20

Okemah at Prague

Michael Swisher: Okemah 33, Prague 21

Ben Johnson: Okemah 30, Prague 20

Whitt Carter: Prague 32, Okemah 21

Randy Turney: Okemah 21, Prague 20

Wynnewood at Stroud

Michael Swisher: Stroud 29, Wynnewood 24

Ben Johnson: Wynnewood 29, Stroud 23

Whitt Carter: Wynnewood 28, Stroud 14

Randy Turney: Wynnewood 20, Stroud 14

Prue at Yale

Michael Swisher: Yale 35, Prue 17

Ben Johnson: Yale 43, Prue 22

Whitt Carter: Yale 47, Prue 38

Randy Turney: Prue 38, Yale 30

Regent Prep at Watts

Michael Swisher: Regent Prep 34, Watts 28

Ben Johnson: Regent Prep 55, Watts 41

Whitt Carter: Regent Prep 49, Watts 34

Randy Turney: Regent Prep 48, Watts 12

Tipton at Mountain View-Gotebo

Michael Swisher: Tipton 24, Mt. View-Gotebo 19

Ben Johnson: Tipton 56, Mt. View-Gotebo 22

Whitt Carter: Tipton 47, Mt. View-Gotebo 28

Randy Turney: Tipton 48, Mt. View-Gotebo 6

Let us know what you think. Tweet your predictions to us at @Skordle.

Week 6: Top 10 games

10/2/2018 |  Ben Johnson

There are some quality games to be had in week 6, but nothing like the run of games recently.

Here's what's on tap this week:

1. 5A No. 3 Collinsville (5-0) at 5A No. 5 Tahlequah (5-0): District 5A-4 supremacy is on the line, and another big game on tap for Tahlequah, who knocked off Skiatook last week. Meanwhile, Collinsville put the clamps on Memorial running back Jamoni Jones, who was coming off a 300-yard rushing game the week prior. Both Collinsville and Tahlequah can play some defense, so points could be at a premium here. And the matchup of Tahlequah tailback Dae Dae Leathers against Collinsville should be must-see theater. Also, these clubs have met every year since 2012, and the Cardinals are 5-1. Tahlequah did manage to win last year's game, 31-21.

2. 2A No. 6 Washington (4-1) at 2A No. 1 Millwood (5-0): Rematch of last year's Class 2A title game, but now there is District 2A-7 positioning at stake. The Falcons labored through a victory over Community Christian last week, so can Washington pounce on the Falcons? Should mention Millwood is 3-0 all-time against Washington.

3. 4A No. 3 Tuttle (5-0) at 4A No. 4 Bethany (5-0): A win for Bethany all but wraps up the 4A-2 crown. That would give the Bronchos wins over both Tuttle and Blanchard. Tuttle had been 1-5 against Bethany since 2006, but the Tigers won last year's game, 21-12.

4. B No. 5 Coyle (3-1) at B No. 2 Southwest Covenant (6-0): Southwest Covenant has beaten Coyle two years in a row. And the winner here keeps pace with Covington-Douglas for the C-3 crown.

5. 6AII No. 1 Stillwater (5-0) at 6AII No. 8 Choctaw (3-2): It appears a good football team will be left out of the playoff picture in District 6AII-1. Stillwater and Del City sit atop the district, but teams like Choctaw, Midwest City and Lawton all figure to be there in the final week competing for postseason spots. A win for Choctaw here creates a large mess in 6AII-1. But first, Choctaw would have to shut down the Pioneers' offense, which has generated 234 games in five contests so far. Since 2008, Stillwater has beaten Choctaw five out of six times.

6. 6AI No. 6 Putnam City North (5-0) at 6AI No. 3 Union (3-2): The Panthers have risen to the top -- along with Edmond Santa Fe -- as the two Oklahoma City-area teams in 6AI to challenge the likes of Broken Arrow, Jenks and Union this season. Perhaps this is PC North's chance to upend Union -- something the Panthers haven't done since 2001.

7. 6AII No. 7 Muskogee (4-1) at 6AII No. 9 Sapulpa (4-1): Should be plenty of offensive fireworks in this one, especially for a Chieftains team that score 63 last week against Bartlesville. The winner here puts Bixby in its crosshairs in an attempt to go after the 6AII-2 title. The Roughers have won the past four games in this match, including last season's 27-14 victory.

8. 5A No. 2 Ardmore (2) at El Reno (4-1): El Reno has posted some quality wins over Piedmont, Chickasha and Noble. But now comes a stout test against the Tigers and a stingy defense. Through five games, Ardmore is giving up an average of 6.8 points per contest. Since 2000, Ardmore is 5-3 against El Reno, and that includes a current five-game winning streak after last season's 37-13 win.

9. 3A No. 4 Seminole (5-0) at Idabel (4-1): Seminole running back Cameron Gunville has been stellar through five games, racking up 1,107 yards and 16 touchdowns on 111 carries. Averaging 10 yards per rush will usually get the job done, and in this case it has the Chieftains 5-0 after a statement win over Lincoln Christian. Idabel has allowed a lot of points (134), but the Warriors can score, too, posting 214 to this point. Expect an offensive barrage in this one. Oh, and Seminole is 3-0 against Idabel in the all-time series.

10. C No. 6 Tyrone (4-0) at C No. 4 Buffalo (5-0): It's a three-team race to the C-1 title, and the winner here has to like its chances with Pond Creek-Hunter as the final district hurdle. Tyrone is 7-17 against Buffalo since 1980, but the Bobcats own a four-game winning streak over Buffalo after last year's 30-6 win.

Honorable mention

Westmoore at Broken Arrow: Westmoore has been solid, but can it figure out a way to slow down Noah Cortes and the Tigers?

Stigler at Checotah: Last time these two met was a 22-15 win for Stigler in 2013. Expect a lot of points on the scoreboard in this one.

Haskell at Victory Christian: Tayden Lucero continues to turn in one spectacular performances after another for Haskell. But Garrett Williams, Josh Sirleaf and Gabe Byrams have the Conquerors' offense humming along.

Okemah at Prague: District 2A-2 is providing some quality depth early on. The winner here could potentially challenge Jones for the district title.

Wynnewood at Stroud: District A-7 is on the line in this one. Winner faces very few speed bumps the rest of the way.

Prue at Yale: These two haven't met since 2003, and Yale was 4-1 from 1999 to 2003 against Prue. The winner here can shift its focus to Davenport for the B-7 crown.

Regent Prep at Watts: The Engineers (superb team nickname, by the way) have been a pleasant surprise in Class B. They can prove they're Class B title contenders by taking down the high-powered Rams.

Tipton at Mountain View-Gotebo: A throwback matchup to late 1950's here. These two haven't met since 1991 despite only being one hour apart from each other. Winner here as the inside track to the C-2 title.

So who wins all the matchups? Check back for our weekly picks on Thursday.

*Photo courtesy of Tahlequah Daily Press

High School Football rankings

11/14/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

1. Owasso (10-0)
2. Jenks (7-3)
3. Norman (9-1)
4. Bixby (8-2)
5. Edmond Memorial (8-2)
6. Union (7-3)
7. Deer Creek (7-3)
8. Moore (6-4)
9. Norman North (3-7)
10. Broken Arrow (4-6)

6A Division-II

1. Muskogee (10-0)
2. Choctaw (8-2)
3. Stillwater (8-2)
4. Sand Springs (7-3)
5. Piedmont (6-4)
6. Putnam City (6-4)
7. Putnam City North (7-3)
8. Bartlesville (3-7)
9. Lawton Ike (4-6)
10. Sapulpa (4-6)

Class 5A

1. Carl Albert (10-0)
2. Del City (9-1)
3. Booker T. Washington (8-2)
4. Newcastle (7-3)
5. Guthrie (7-3)
6. McAlester (8-2)
7. Bishop McGuinness (7-3)
8. Bishop Kelley (5-5)
9. Lawton Mac (7-3)
10. Pryor (7-3)

Class 4A

1. Wagoner (10-0)
2. Elgin (10-0)
3. Tuttle (10-0)
4. Blanchard (9-1)
5. Bethany (8-2)
6. Ada (7-3)
7. Weatherford (8-2)
8. Sallisaw (8-2)
9. Clinton (8-2)
10. Miami (8-2)

Class 3A

1. Lincoln Christian (10-0)
2. Heritage Hall (9-1)
3. Sulphur (9-1)
4. Cascia Hall (9-1)
5. Plainview (9-1)
6. Perkins-Tryon (8-2)
7. Pauls Valley (7-3)
8. Bristow (6-4)
9. North Rock Creekl (6-4)
10. Idabel (7-3)

Class 2A Division-I

1. Washington (10-0)
2. Millwood (9-1)
3. Metro Christian (10-0)
4. Kingston (9-1)
5. Marlow (8-2)
6. Jones (8-2)
7. Kiefer (7-3)
8. Chandler (7-3)
9. Chisholm (6-4)
10. OCS (7-3)

Class 2A Division-II

1. Vian (10-0)
2. Adair (10-0)
3. Stroud (10-0)
4. Holdenville (10-0)
5. Alva (8-2)
6. Davis (6-4)
7. Beggs (8-2)
8. Colcord (9-1)
9. Henryetta (8-2)
10. Salina (6-4)

Class A Division-I

1. Hooker (9-1)
2. Fairview (9-1)
3. Rejoice Christian (9-1)
4. Walters (9-1)
5. Pawnee (7-3)
6. Pawhuska (8-2)
7. Christian Heritage (7-3)
8. Pocola (8-2)
9. Wynnewood (8-2)
10. Minco (7-3)

Class A Division-II

1. Woodland (10-0)
2. Regent Prep (9-1)
3. Hominy (8-2)
4. Thomas (9-1)
5. Mangum (9-1)
6. Talihina (9-1)
7. Central Sallisaw (7-3)
8. Velma-Alma (8-2)
9. Texhoma (7-3)
10. Mooreland (7-3)

Class B Division-I

1. Laverne (9-1)
2. Dewar (8-1)
3. Yale (9-0)
4. Turpin (9-1)
5. Hollis (7-2)
6. Drumright (7-3)
7. Empire (9-1)
8. Garber (7-3)
9. Caddo (8-2)
10. Keota (7-3)

Class B Division-II

1. Seiling (9-1)
2. Weleetka (10-0)
3. Covington-Douglas (10-0)
4. Okeene (9-1)
5. Wilson-Henryetta (8-1)
6. Waukomis (8-2)
7. Copan (8-2)
8. Shattuck (6-3)
9. Webbers Falls (6-4)
10. Alex (6-4)

Class C

1. Tipton (10-0)
2. Timberlake (10-0)
3. Ryan (9-1)
4. Medford (7-2)
5. Welch (9-1)
6. Tyrone (7-2)
7. Maysville (8-2)
8. Paoli (7-3)
9. Geary (7-3)
10. Waynoka (5-5)

SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 10 (2024): Sunrise Cafe in Kingfisher

11/7/2024 |  Michael Swisher

In Kingfisher, Oklahoma, there is a great little food place called Sunrise Cafe.

I have had breakfast here a few times over the years, but my most recent trip had me giving the incredible looking "Gravy Train" a try after scanning over the menu.

When it comes to breakfast dining out, I normally tend to migrate towards some combination that includes biscuits and this morning would be no different with the Gravy Train selection I was making. 

Week 10 High School Football Rankings

11/5/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

1. Owasso (9-0)
2. Bixby (8-1)
3. Union (7-2)
4. Jenks (6-3)
5. Norman (8-1)
6. Edmond Memorial (7-2)
7. Deer Creek (6-3)
8. Moore (5-4)
9. Mustang (5-4)
10. Norman North (2-7)

6A Division-II

1. Muskogee (9-0)
2. Choctaw (7-2)
3. Stillwater (7-2)
4. Sand Springs (6-3)
5. Putnam City (6-3)
6. Putnam City North (7-2)
7. Piedmont (5-4)
8. Southmoore (4-5)
9. Bartlesville (2-7)
10. Lawton Ike (3-6)

Class 5A

1. Carl Albert (9-0)
2. Del City (8-1)
3. Booker T. Washington (7-2)
4. Newcastle (6-3)
5. Guthrie (6-3)
6. Lawton Mac (7-2)
7. McAlester (7-2)
8. Bishop McGuinness (6-3)
9. Pryor (7-2)
10. Bishop Kelley (4-5)

Class 4A

1. Wagoner (9-0)
2. Elgin (9-0)
3. Tuttle (9-0)
4. Blanchard (8-1)
5. Sallisaw (8-1)
6. Bethany (7-2)
7. Weatherford (7-2)
8. Ada (6-3)
9. Clinton (7-2)
10. Miami (7-2)

Class 3A

1. Lincoln Christian (9-0)
2. Heritage Hall (8-1)
3. Sulphur (8-1)
4. Cascia Hall (8-1)
5. Plainview (8-1)
6. Perkins-Tryon (7-2)
7. Idabel (7-2)
8. Pauls Valley (6-3)
9. Berryhill (6-3)
10. Holland Hall (6-3)

Class 2A Division-I

1. Washington (9-0)
2. Millwood (8-1)
3. Metro Christian (8-0)
4. Kingston (8-1)
5. Marlow (7-2)
6. Jones (7-2)
7. Kiefer (6-3)
8. Chandler (6-3)
9. Chisholm (5-4)
10. Lindsay (6-3)

Class 2A Division-II

1. Vian (9-0)
2. Adair (9-0)
3. Stroud (9-0)
4. Holdenville (9-0)
5. Alva (7-2)
6. Davis (5-4)
7. Beggs (7-2)
8. Colcord (8-1)
9. Henryetta (7-2)
10. Kansas (6-3)

Class A Division-I

1. Hooker (8-1)
2. Fairview (8-1)
3. Rejoice Christian (8-1)
4. Walters (8-1)
5. Pawnee (6-3)
6. Pawhuska (7-2)
7. Wynnewood (8-1)
8. Christian Heritage (6-3)
9. Pocola (7-2)
10. Cashion (7-2)

Class A Division-II

1. Woodland (9-0)
2. Regent Prep (8-1)
3. Hominy (7-2)
4. Thomas (8-1)
5. Mangum (8-1)
6. Mooreland (7-2)
7. Talihina (8-1)
8. Central Sallisaw (6-3)
9. Velma-Alma (7-2)
10. Texhoma (6-3)

Class B Division-I

1. Laverne (8-1)
2. Dewar (7-1)
3. Yale (8-0)
4. Turpin (8-1)
5. Caddo (8-1)
6. Hollis (6-2)
7. Drumright (6-3)
8. Empire (8-1)
9. Garber (6-3)
10. Pond Creek-Hunter (7-2)

Class B Division-II

1. Seiling (8-1)
2. Weleetka (9-0)
3. Covington-Douglas (9-0)
4. Okeene (8-1)
5. Wilson-Henryetta (7-1)
6. Waukomis (7-2)
7. Cherokee (5-4)
8. Alex (6-3)
9. Copan (7-2)
10. Shattuck (5-3)

Class C

1. Tipton (9-0)
2. Timberlake (9-0)
3. Ryan (8-1)
4. Tyrone (7-1)
5. Medford (6-2)
6. Welch (8-1)
7. Maysville (7-2)
8. Paoli (6-3)
9. Geary (6-3)
10. Waynoka (4-5)

SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 9 (2024): Revisiting Our Top Candy Picks, Good Soup & Happy Birthday Adam

10/31/2024 |  Michael Swisher

Since it is Halloween today, I thought it would be fun and timely to run back some previous SKORDLE Halloween Candy Blogs from 2021 and 2022.

I discuss many important topics related to candy preference, secretly stealing lots of candy from my children and my love for the old days of homemade Halloween treats.

If you are fortunate enough to come across a Popcorn Ball, Brownie, Candy Apple, or Rice Krispies Treats, rather than a full-sized candy bar (what's really special about that?), you are truly one of the lucky ones tonight! 

I have also included - in the 2021 blog - an incredible Minestrone Soup recipe courtesy of Mr. SKORDLE himself Adam Diesselhorst.

Speaking of Adam, today is his birthday, so tell him Happy Birthday! 

Week 9 Pay Dirt Picks & Results

10/31/2024 |  Korry Rogers

	MARK 11-1	JACOB 9-3	TOM 9-2	TONY 10-2
Anadarko @ Kingfisher
Chandler @ Sperry
Crossings @ Washington
Hinton @ Cashion
Minco @ Christian Heritage
Keota @ Dewar
Piedmont @ Stillwater
Perry @ Chisholm
Norman @ Mustang
Sand Springs @ Putnam City North
Carl Albert @ Guthrie
Bishop McGuinness @ Newcastle

Week 9 High School Football Rankings

10/30/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

1. Owasso (8-0)
2. Bixby (7-1)
3. Union (6-2)
4. Jenks (5-3)
5. Norman (7-1)
6. Edmond Memorial (6-2)
7. Mustang (5-3)
8. Deer Creek (6-2)
9. Norman North (2-6)
10. Moore (4-4)

6A Division-II

1. Muskogee (8-0)
2. Choctaw (6-2)
3. Stillwater (6-2)
4. Sand Springs (5-3)
5. Putnam City North (7-1)
6. Southmoore (4-4)
7. Piedmont (5-3)
8. Putnam City (5-3)
9. Lawton Ike (3-5)
10. Sapulpa (4-4)

Class 5A

1. Carl Albert (8-0)
2. Del City (7-1)
3. Guthrie (6-2)
4. Booker T. Washington (6-2)
5. Newcastle (5-3)
6. Bishop McGuinness (6-2)
7. Lawton Mac (6-2)
8. McAlester (6-2)
9. Shawnee (6-2)
10. Pryor (6-2)

Class 4A

1. Wagoner (8-0)
2. Elgin (8-0)
3. Tuttle (8-0)
4. Blanchard (7-1)
5. Clinton (7-1)
6. Sallisaw (7-1)
7. Bethany (6-2)
8. Weatherford (6-2)
9. Ada (5-3)
10. Miami (6-2)

Class 3A

1. Lincoln Christian (8-0)
2. Heritage Hall (7-1)
3. Sulphur (7-1)
4. Cascia Hall (7-1)
5. Plainview (7-1)
6. Perkins-Tryon (6-2)
7. Idabel (6-2)
8. North Rock Creek (5-3)
9. Pauls Valley (5-3)
10. Berryhill (5-3)

Class 2A Division-I

1. Washington (8-0)
2. Millwood (7-1)
3. Metro Christian (8-0)
4. Kingston (7-1)
5. Marlow (6-1)
6. Jones (6-2)
7. Kiefer (5-3)
8. Perry (6-2)
9. Hugo (6-2)
10. Chandler (5-3)

Class 2A Division-II

1. Vian (8-0)
2. Adair (8-0)
3. Stroud (8-0)
4. Davis (5-3)
5. Holdenville (8-0)
6. Alva (6-2)
7. Beggs (6-2)
8. Colcord (7-1)
9. Wyandotte (6-2)
10. Salina (5-3)

Class A Division-I

1. Hooker (7-1)
2. Fairview (7-1)
3. Rejoice Christian (7-1)
4. Christian Heritage (6-2)
5. Walters (7-1)
6. Pawnee (5-3)
7. Pawhuska (6-2)
8. Pocola (6-2)
9. Wynnewood (7-1)
10. Cashion (6-2)

Class A Division-II

1. Woodland (8-0)
2. Mangum (8-0)
3. Regent Prep (7-1)
4. Hominy (6-2)
5. Talihina (8-0)
6. Thomas (7-1)
7. Ketchum (6-2)
8. Mooreland (6-2)
9. Central Sallisaw (5-3)
10. Velma-Alma (6-2)

Class B Division-I

1. Laverne (7-1)
2. Dewar (6-1)
3. Yale (7-0)
4. Turpin (7-1)
5. Caddo (7-1)
6. Hollis (5-2)
7. Garber (6-2)
8. Keota (6-2)
9. Drumright (4-2)
10. Waurika (4-4)

Class B Division-II

1. Seiling (7-1)
2. Weleetka (8-0)
3. Covington-Douglas (8-0)
4. Okeene (7-1)
5. Wilson-Henryetta (6-1)
6. Waukomis (6-2)
7. Copan (7-1)
8. Shattuck (5-2)
9. Cherokee (4-4)
10. Wetumka (5-3)

Class C

1. Tipton (8-0)
2. Timberlake (8-0)
3. Ryan (7-1)
4. Tyrone (6-1)
5. Medford (5-2)
6. Geary (6-2)
7. Welch (7-1)
8. Maysville (6-2)
9. Paoli (5-3)
10. Sasakwa (6-1)

Week 8 Pay Dirt Picks & Results

10/24/2024 |  Korry Rogers

	MARK 9-3	JACOB 9-3	TOM 9-3	DOUG 10-2
Okeene @ Boise City
Kingfisher @ North Rock Creek
Tulsa Central @ Chandler
Lincoln Christian @ Checotah
Texhoma-Goodwell @ Mangum
Southwest Covenant @ Thomas-Fay-Custer
Blanchard @ Tuttle
Turpin @ Garber
Sequoyah Claremore @ Cascia Hall
Muskogee @ Sand Springs
Jenks @ Moore
McAlester @ Booker T Washington

SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 8 (2024): Flamingo Lounge

10/23/2024 |  Michael Swisher

If you haven’t had a burger at the Flamingo Lounge in Enid, you really need to because they are absolutely delicious! 

The Flamingo is located right at the main intersection of town (U.S. 81 and U.S. 412 or Van Buren and Garriott for the locals).

It’s a classic dive joint that has been a favorite for many for a really long time. 

Simple is why they are great. 

The burgers are incredible and what I love the most is the melty cheese and warm greasy bun.

I would highly recommend the Double Meat, Double Cheeseburger.

You can even add chili if you’re brave enough or have arteries made of steel.

Regulars normally get some Chili Cheese Nachos as an appetizer or side. 

If you’re wanting to try something truly unique, follow the lead of Mr. SKORDLE Adam Diesselhorst and order the Pickled Eggs. 

I have never brought myself to try them (I stick to the nachos and burgers), but Adam loves them and you might too. 

The place has a shuffleboard, pool and video games for the kids. 

The next time you are in Enid, I would strongly suggest a stop at the Flamingo for an awesome burger!!!

Week 8 High School Football Rankings

10/20/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

1. Owasso
2. Bixby
3. Union
4. Jenks
5. Deer Creek
6. Norman
7. Edmond Memorial
8. Mustang
9. Moore
10. Broken Arrow

6A Division-II

1. Muskogee
2. Stillwater
3. Choctaw
4. Sand Springs
5. Piedmont
6. Putnam City North
7. Putnam City
8. Sapulpa
9. Southmoore
10. Lawton Ike

Class 5A

1. Carl Albert
2. Del City
3. Lawton Mac
4. McAlester
5. Guthrie
6. Bishop McGuinness
7. Collinsville
8. Booker T. Washington
9. Newcastle
10. Shawnee

Class 4A

1. Wagoner
2. Elgin
3. Tuttle
4. Blanchard
5. Broken Bow
6. Clinton
7. Poteau
8. Sallisaw
9. Bethany
10. Weatherford

Class 3A

1. Lincoln Christian
2. Heritage Hall
3. Sulphur
4. Cascia Hall
5. North Rock Creek
6. Plainview
7. Perkins-Tryon
8. Sequoyah-Claremore
9. Pauls Valley
10. Idabel

Class 2A Division-I

1. Washington
2. Millwood
3. Metro Christian
4. Kingston
5. Marlow
6. Jones
7. Kiefer
8. Perry
9. Crossings Christian
10. Hugo

Class 2A Division-II

1. Vian
2. Adair
3. Stroud
4. Davis
5. Holdenville
6. Alva
7. Beggs
8. Colcord
9. Kansas
10. Community Christian

Class A Division-I

1. Hooker
2. Fairview
3. Rejoice Christian
4. Christian Heritage
5. Walters
6. Pawnee
7. Pawhuska
8. Pocola
9. Hartshorne
10. Wynnewood

Class A Division-II

1. Woodland
2. Mangum
3. Regent Prep
4. Hominy
5. Talihina
6. Thomas
7. Texhoma
8. Ketchum
9. Central Sallisaw
10. Velma-Alma

Class B Division-I

1. Laverne
2. Dewar
3. Yale
4. Turpin
5. Garber
6. Caddo
7. Empire
8. Hollis
9. Keota
10. Drumright

Class B Division-II

1. Seiling
2. Weleetka
3. Covington-Douglas
4. Okeene
5. Wilson-Henryetta
6. Copan
7. Boise City
8. Waukomis
9. Shattuck
10. Cyril

Class C

1. Tipton
2. Timberlake
3. Ryan
4. Welch
5. Tyrone
6. Maysville
7. Geary
8. Medford
9. Paoli
10. Sasakwa

Week 7 Pay Dirt Picks

10/16/2024 |  Korry Rogers

	MARK 5-7	TOM 10-1	CHRIS 8-4	HUNTER 8-4
Ardmore @ Blanchard
Oklahoma Christian School @ Perry
Minco @ Walters
Thomas-Fay-Custer @ Texhoma-Goodwell
Waynoka @ Timberlake
Garber @ Pond Creek-Hunter
Marlow @ Washington
Fairview @ Hooker
Deer Creek @ Jenks
Stillwater @ Choctaw
Colcord @ Adair
Norman @ Moore

SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 7 (2024): Fun Facts on Win Streaks and Mr. Burger

10/16/2024 |  Michael Swisher

Week 7 High School Football Rankings

10/15/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

1. Owasso
2. Bixby
3. Deer Creek
4. Union
5. Jenks
6. Edmond Memorial
7. Broken Arrow
8. Moore
9. Mustang
10. Norman

6A Division-II

1. Muskogee
2. Stillwater
3. Choctaw
4. Sand Springs
5. Piedmont
6. Putnam City North
7. Putnam City
8. Sapulpa
9. Lawton Ike
10. Southmoore

Class 5A

1. Carl Albert
2. Del City
3. Lawton Mac
4. Collinsville
5. McAlester
6. Guthrie
7. Bishop McGuinness
8. Booker T. Washington
9. Newcastle
10. Shawnee

Class 4A

1. Wagoner
2. Elgin
3. Tuttle
4. Blanchard
5. Broken Bow
6. Grove
7. Weatherford
8. Clinton
9. Poteau
10. Cushing

Class 3A

1. Lincoln Christian
2. Heritage Hall
3. Sulphur
4. Plainview
5. Cascia Hall
6. North Rock Creek
7. Bristow
8. Perkins-Tryon
9. Checotah
10. Sequoyah-Claremore

Class 2A Division-I

1. Washington
2. Millwood
3. Metro Christian
4. Marlow
5. Kingston
6. Jones
7. Hugo
8. OCS
9. Kiefer
10. Chisholm

Class 2A Division-II

1. Vian
2. Adair
3. Stroud
4. Davis
5. Holdenville
6. Colcord
7. Luther
8. Salina
9. Alva
10. Beggs

Class A Division-I

1. Fairview
2. Hooker
3. Rejoice Christian
4. Hartshorne
5. Christian Heritage
6. Walters
7. Pawnee
8. Pawhuska
9. Pocola
10. Wynnewood

Class A Division-II

1. Woodland
2. Mangum
3. Texhoma
4. Regent Prep
5. Hominy
6. Talihina
7. Thomas
8. Ketchum
9. Central Sallisaw
10. Velma-Alma

Class B Division-I

1. Laverne
2. Turpin
3. Dewar
4. Yale
5. Garber
6. Caddo
7. Empire
8. Hollis
9. Keota
10. Pond Creek-Hunter

Class B Division-II

1. Seiling
2. Weleetka
3. Covington-Douglas
4. Okeene
5. Wilson-Henryetta
6. Shattuck
7. Copan
8. Cherokee
9. Thackerville
10. Boise City

Class C

1. Tipton
2. Ryan
3. Timberlake
4. Welch
5. Tyrone
6. Maysville
7. Geary
8. Sasakwa
9. Medford
10. Balko-Forgan

Week 6 Pay Dirt Picks

10/9/2024 |  Korry Rogers

	MARK 10-2	JACOB 9-3	TOM 8-4	SHANE 9-3
Tonkawa @ Pawhuska
Beggs @ Holdenville
Crossings @ Marlow
Millwood @ Oklahoma Christian School
Wynnewood @ Minco
Waukomis @ Covington-Douglas
Perry @ Mount St. Mary
Hooker @ Cashion
Moore @ Deer Creek
North Rock Creek @ Pauls Valley
Tuttle @ Bethany
Alva @ Stroud

SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 6 (2024) Part I: Flour and Fennel

10/9/2024 |  Michael Swisher

SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 6 (2024) Part II - REVISITING AUBURN 25 YEARS LATER

10/9/2024 |  Michael Swisher

Great food experiences are often tied to core memories.

We enjoyed a great meal as part of a bigger experience and often linked them together.

Sometimes, sadly, that great memory inflates the actual quality of the meal.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been disappointed to revisit a restaurant on my own - after having previously experienced a fantastic meal there before - only to discover the meal was….just….OK.

It was the overall time I had that was fantastic.

So that was my concern as I was driving into Auburn, Ala., early in the afternoon of Sept. 27.

I was headed there for a showdown between MY two teams.

I grew up in Oklahoma, was lured in by Barry Switzer’s OU teams of the 1980s and have never been able to shake a love and a pride of the crimson and cream ever since.

However, I also moved to Alabama in 1989. Lived there for eight years. I went to high school in Muscle Shoals and, after a stellar academic career in JUCO, went to Auburn to pursue a journalism degree.

Eventually, I landed back in Oklahoma, but I grew to truly love Auburn, the Tigers, War Eagle, Toomer’s Corner and everything that came with it.

But it’s not easy to return to a place that’s 865 miles away.

I went once for a few days in 1999.

Then I flew in and flew out in 2018 when Auburn hosted Jace Sternberger and Texas A&M.

That’s it.

It had been 25 years since I’d spent an measurable time in a place that holds a big spot in my heart.

When OU was announced to be joining the SEC, I was ecstatic. When it was announced OU would be visiting Auburn this season, I. HAD. TO. GO.

So I did.

Lots of people stepped up for me to make it happen, but it did.

Anyone who has followed me through the years knows I love food. I’m not some big connoisseur of fine dining. I just love to find cool spots with great food.

And there were two places in Auburn that I insisted on revisiting: Momma Goldberg’s and Guthrie’s.

Both were Auburn staples when I was there in the mid- to late-1990s and both remain today.

I pulled into Auburn at about 1 p.m. on that Wednesday prior to the OU game. 

By 2 p.m., me and my buddy Elk were sitting inside Momma Goldberg’s with three Momma’s Love sandwiches and a pitcher sitting in front of us.

Yes, three. Elk loves to eat, too.

You can read about Momma Goldberg’s and its history here.

They have multiple “signature” sandwiches but their signature of signatures is the “Momma’s Love.” 

It’s roast beef, ham, hickory smoked turkey with muenster cheese served on a seeded hoagie bun. All signature sandwiches there have spicy brown mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomato and “Momma’s sauce.”

And they’re also steamed before they are served which, to me, is the kicker.

Yes, it’s simple. Yes, it’s just a sandwich.

Which had me wondering….did I really love the Momma’s Love or did I just love being at Auburn and the Momma’s Love is part of that.

My first bite into one in over a quarter-century told me I did, in fact, love the Momma’s Love.

It was all that I had remembered.

A couple days later, it was time to revisit Guthrie’s.

Now I know what you’re thinking. It’s a chicken finger restaurant. How original. There’s 20 different franchises and 100 locations in Oklahoma City.

True.

But Guthrie’s is truly the original chicken finger restaurant. It opened its first location in Auburn in 1982.

When I actually had some money in my pocket while in college, Guthrie’s was a must-stop for me.

The order: Box, no slaw, extra fries, extra sauce.

Sounds like Raising Cane’s, right?

Just think Cane’s before there was Cane’s. 

That was - and is - Guthrie’s.

But did it live up to my hype?

Now imagine this….

Just think Cane’s chicken…..but SEASONED. Guthrie’s actually has flavor WITHOUT using the dipping sauce.

But you also can’t not (double negative alert) use their signature sauce which was Cane’s sauce before there was Cane’s sauce!!!!!

Needless to say, Guthrie’s - like Momma Goldberg’s - wasn’t just about great memories at Auburn.

It was great food and remains so today….almost 30 years after I first fell in love.

Week 6 High School Football Rankings

10/7/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

1. Owasso
2. Bixby
3. Deer Creek
4. Union
5. Jenks
6. Edmond Memorial
7. Moore
8. Mustang
9. Norman
10. Broken Arrow

6A Division-II

1. Muskogee
2. Stillwater
3. Choctaw
4. Sand Springs
5. Piedmont
6. Putnam City North
7. Putnam City
8. Sapulpa
9. Lawton Ike
10. Southmoore

Class 5A

1. Carl Albert
2. Del City
3. Bishop McGuinness
4. Lawton Mac
5. Collinsville
6. McAlester
7. Guthrie
8. Claremore
9. Booker T. Washington
10. Newcastle

Class 4A

1. Wagoner
2. Elgin
3. Tuttle
4. Blanchard
5. Broken Bow
6. Grove
7. Weatherford
8. Bethany
9. Clinton
10. Poteau

Class 3A

1. Lincoln Christian
2. Heritage Hall
3. Sulphur
4. Plainview
5. Cascia Hall
6. Pauls Valley
7. Bristow
8. Seminole
9. North Rock Creek
10. Checotah

Class 2A Division-I

1. Washington
2. Millwood
3. Metro Christian
4. Marlow
5. Kingston
6. OCS
7. Jones
8. Crossings Christian
9. Hugo
10. Kiefer

Class 2A Division-II

1. Vian
2. Adair
3. Stroud
4. Davis
5. Holdenville
6. Colcord
7. Kansas
8. Alva
9. Beggs
10. Luther

Class A Division-I

1. Fairview
2. Hooker
3. Rejoice Christian
4. Hartshorne
5. Tonkawa
6. Christian Heritage
7. Walters
8. Pawnee
9. Pawhuska
10. Minco

Class A Division-II

1. Woodland
2. Hominy
3. Mangum
4. Regent Prep
5. Texhoma
6. Thomas
7. Talihina
8. Central Sallisaw
9. Mooreland
10. Ringling

Class B Division-I

1. Laverne
2. Turpin
3. Dewar
4. Yale
5. Garber
6. Pond Creek-Hunter
7. Caddo
8. Hollis
9. Empire
10. Keota

Class B Division-II

1. Seiling
2. Weleetka
3. Okeene
4. Covington-Douglas
5. Wilson-Henryetta
6. Shattuck
7. Webbers Falls
8. Thackerville
9. Waukomis
10. Copan

Class C

1. Tipton
2. Ryan
3. Timberlake
4. Welch
5. Tyrone
6. Maysville
7. Waynoka
8. Geary
9. Paoli
10. Sasakwa

Week 5 Pay Dirt Picks

10/4/2024 |  Korry Rogers

	MARK 9-3	JACOB 9-3	TOM 8-3	NICK 7-5
Blackwell @ Perry
Bethany @ Blanchard
El Reno @ Carl Albert
Jones @ Millwood
Mooreland @ Texhoma-Goodwell
Cashion @ Watonga
Mount St. Mary @ Chisholm
Davis @ Beggs
Owasso @ Union
Putnam City @ Choctaw
Pocola @ Rejoice Christian
Pauls Valley @ Plainview

SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 5 (2024): Taco Stop in Ponca City

10/2/2024 |  Michael Swisher

This week the Blackwell vs. Perry football game is on the SKORDLE PayDirt Pick’em Show as well as SKORDLE PayDirt.

When these two schools meet, it must be one of, if not the only, Maroons vs. Maroons game in America and by all accounts a heck of rivalry. 

In between the two towns and just slightly east is Ponca City and for many years I have heard numerous folks rave about Taco Stop. 

When I was rolling through Ponca City this year, the time had come for me to try this popular place myself. 

I decided my best bet was to get the favorites of two people who are big fans of Taco Stop, my wife Amanda and food expert Mark Rodgers. 

Amanda’s favorite item on the menu is the Taco Salad while Mark’s go-to the is Casadia. 

Both Amanda and Mark stated that the famous taco sauce - and a lot of it - is what really made the meals at Taco Stop. 

I went to the counter and placed my order of a Taco Salad and Casadia along with a refreshing fountain drink to wash it all down. I also made sure that some taco sauce would be readily available at the table. 

When I got my food and sat down, I could immediately tell this was going to be a solid lunch! 

The Taco Salad had all the markings of being great, most notably the paper-thin crunch taco shell and pile of shredded cheese. 

The Casadia had a generous layer of taco meat topping and melted shredded cheese on top of a corn tortilla.  

I also added a ton of taco sauce as I devoured my food and found myself generously adding some more to every single bite. 

Quite frankly, Taco Stop was fantastic! 

It is easy to see why Taco Stop, with its great food and extremely reasonable prices, is such a popular place to eat in Ponca City. 

I would highly recommend stopping in any time you are in town and remember to put a lot of the famous taco sauce on everything you order because it makes everything even better.

Week 5 High School Football Rankings

10/1/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

1. Owasso
2. Bixby
3. Union
4. Deer Creek
5. Jenks
6. Moore
7. Norman
8. Edmond Memorial
9. Mustang
10. Broken Arrow

6A Division-II

1. Muskogee
2. Stillwater
3. Choctaw
4. Sand Springs
5. Putnam City
6. Putnam City North
7. Piedmont
8. Southmoore
9. Sapulpa
10. Bartlesville

Class 5A

1. Carl Albert
2. Del City
3. Bishop McGuinness
4. Lawton Mac
5. Collinsville
6. McAlester
7. Guthrie
8. Claremore
9. Shawnee
10. Booker T. Washington

Class 4A

1. Wagoner
2. Elgin
3. Tuttle
4. Blanchard
5. Sallisaw
6. Poteau
7. Bethany
8. Cushing
9. Grove
10. Weatherford

Class 3A

1. Lincoln Christian
2. Heritage Hall
3. Sulphur
4. Pauls Valley
5. Plainview
6. Seminole
7. Cascia Hall
8. Idabel
9. Anadarko
10. Muldrow

Class 2A Division-I

1. Washington
2. Millwood
3. Metro Christian
4. Jones
5. Marlow
6. Kingston
7. OCS
8. Mount St. Mary
9. Chandler
10. Crossings Christian

Class 2A Division-II

1. Vian
2. Adair
3. Stroud
4. Davis
5. Holdenville
6. Beggs
7. Colcord
8. Kansas
9. Alva
10. Luther

Class A Division-I

1. Fairview
2. Hooker
3. Rejoice Christian
4. Pocola
5. Pawhuska
6. Wynnewood
7. Hartshorne
8. Tonkawa
9. Christian Heritage
10. Walters

Class A Division-II

1. Woodland
2. Regent Prep
3. Hominy
4. Mooreland
5. Mangum
6. Thomas
7. Velma-Alma
8. Texhoma
9. Talihina
10. Central Sallisaw

Class B Division-I

1. Laverne
2. Turpin
3. Dewar
4. Yale
5. Garber
6. Pond Creek-Hunter
7. Keota
8. Caddo
9. Hollis
10. Empire

Class B Division-II

1. Seiling
2. Weleetka
3. Okeene
4. Covington-Douglas
5. Wilson-Henryetta
6. Shattuck
7. Webbers Falls
8. Thackerville
9. Waukomis
10. Copan

Class C

1. Tipton
2. Ryan
3. Timberlake
4. Welch
5. Tyrone
6. Maysville
7. Mt. View-Gotebo
8. Waynoka
9. Paoli
10. Sasakwa

Oklahoma State Fair Trip 2024 - Where is the Beef?

9/26/2024 |  Michael Swisher

This past weekend my family made our annual trip to the Oklahoma State Fair. We go mainly to eat our favorite fair foods which are the corn dog and roasted corn. Funnel cake normally makes the rotation, especially for the kids, but for some reason it took a year off this time. Here are some pictures of our trip and man these were great!

Also, the Brown’s Lemonade stands never disappoint because they only serve actual real hand squeezed lemonade. Multiple lemonade refills were needed on our trip because it was hot!

The Indian Taco used to ALWAYS be in the rotation until this year. The last couple of years I noticed that my Indian Tacos were severely lacking in beef. From my estimation the “chili mix” as described on the menu was about 99.9% beans and 0.1% beef. Last year I even went into the State Fair with a gameplan to only order meat and cheese so the lack of beef couldn’t be hidden under a pile of toppings. My suspicion of no beef was only confirmed even further, and I was disappointed.

I made the decision this year that I would do some reconnaissance of the Indian Taco hoping for improvements. Unfortunately, I saw none, so I just passed on the Indian Taco this year. As I looked at several Indian Tacos passing by, I saw the delicious fry bread, piles of beans, heaps of lettuce, and a handful of shredded cheese, but no noticeable beef.

It is a sad day at the State Fair when the Indian Taco is no longer in the line-up! Has anyone else felt the same way or had a similar experience? This will be my final comments on the matter until actual beef topping makes its triumphant return to the Indian Taco at the State Fair. Until then I will remember the days of old when this great State Fair food staple was at its peak.