Week 1 - OKpreps Standouts

9/7/2020 |  Ben Johnson

Top performers 

Dewar

Joey Fowler - Passing 20 of 22 for 252 yards and 4 TD’s 0 int’s / Rushing 19 for 156 yards and 1 TD / 11 tackles on defense

Vian

Javyn Wright - 24 rushes 249 yards 3 tds / 1 passing td

Grove

Emmanuel Crawford - 29 rushes, 197 yards, 1 TD / 2 receptions, 33 yards

Lawton Mac

Nasir Kemper - 4TDs / Kickoff return TD / 98 yard TD run / 2 yard TD run / 21 yard TD reception / 250+ all purpose yards

Tonkawa 

Tristan Burdick - 231 yds on 15 carries for 4 tds

Kellyville

Trevor Jones - 19 carries for 236 yds and 3 tds

Durant

Fransisco Avila - 19 rushes, 332 yards, 5 TDs

Stillwater

Qwontrel Walker - 29 carries, 228 yards, 5 TDs

Chelsea

Cash Ramsey - 23 carries, 300 yards, 4 TDs

Bixby

Mason Williams - 26/40 passing, 5 TDs, 231 yds

Honor roll

McLoud 

Clint Campbell - Soph. RB - 15 carries for 121 yards, 2-TD’s, 2-2 pt. conv.

3 catches for 67 yards. 1 TD

Holland Hall

Owen Ostroski: 9 solo tackles/2 assisted/6.5 for loss/ 4 QB hurries/2 sacks/ 1 forced fumble

Depew

Tavin Hunt - 10 carries 117 yards and 2 rushing TDs. 2 catches for 25 yards. 15 tackles and 2 picks (1 being a pick 6)

Tulsa Memorial 

Elvis Grayson: Senior - 2 rushing TDs / 1 catch for a 2pt Conv. / 8 Tackles 1 TFL

Scored 14 of team’s 15 points

He helped stop Central on 4th and inches late in the fourth quarter and got the first down to seal the game! 

Inola

Landon Prows was 20-33 for 345 yards, 3 td's and 0 picks.

Gavin Williams caught 4 passes for 165 and 2 td's.

Thomas

Ethan Hamberlin 15 carries 211 yards 2 TD

Jayce Miller 8 tackles- Int- blocked punt

Cache 

Hunter Tate. 6 carries 118 yards 2TDs, 2 receptions 63 yds 1TD / 7 Tackles / He only played first half

Dewar

Ty Whitlow - 11 catches for 193 yards and 3 TD’s

Lawton 

Christian Houston - 20 carries 150 yards 2 tds

Ardmore

Anton Scallion - 16 carries for 190 yards & 3 TDs

Wagoner

Braden Drake - 159 yards on 18 carries with 2 tds.  Also had 8 tackles

Isaac Smith - 8 tackles, 3 sacks, and a fumble recovery

Christian Heritage

Kye Davis - 10/17 passing, 262yds. 3 TDS and 1 int / 3 carries, 47 yds

Cade Hale - 5 receptions, 186 yds, 1 TD / 4 tackles

Cashion

Brexton Green - 7-198-4TDs receiving

Purcell

Sam Wofford - 12 tackles, 1 sack

Kody Kroth - 19-34 for 339 2tds no Ints 

Crescent

Hunter Wilmoth - 10 rushes 150 yds 3 rushing td. 1 passing td

Chandler

Casmen Hill - 10 carries for 143 yds, 2 TD / 95 yard kick return for a TD / 4 receptions for 53 yds

Frederick

Adrian Gaytan - 9-14 passing, 167 yds 2 td’s

Pawnee

Trevor Mitchell - 19 rushes, 144 yards, 1 TD

Blake Skidgel - 20 rushes, 109 yards, 3 TDs

Carl Albert

Noah Dobson (offensive tackle) - Coaching staff graded him at a 90 percent

Antlers

Isaac Sorrells - Kick return for a TD / Rushing TD / two 2pt conversions / 48 yards receiving / 12 tackles 

Grove

Greg McCurdy - 4 catches, 124 yards, 2 TDs

Weatherford 

Sam Hoffman - 14 carries 174yds 4 TD’s / 7 tackles

Piedmont

Caden Hendren - 3 catches for 100 yards 2 TDS / 11 tackles on defense.

Collinsville

Oscar Hammond (WR/FS  Junior) - 3 catches for 119, 2tds / 6 tackles

Verdigris

Alec James - 117 rushing yards and 2 TD / 40 receiving yards and 1 TD  / 4 tackles

Checotah 

Dontierre Fisher  - 11 carries 156 yards, 3 tds

Washington 

Luke Hendrix - 4 receptions 132 yards and 2 td

Atoka

Andrew McCall - 3 carries 158 yards rushing, two touchdowns

Salina

Jack Wilkins soph QB - 17 carries 157 yds rushing long of 66, 2 TD, 1 pass TD

Skiatook

Jace Woodrow (Corner) - 2 interceptions, 1 pick 6, 4 tackles. 

Barnsdall

Hunter Auschwitz - 13 carries, 128 yards, 3 TDs / 4 tackles, 1 sack

Carson Auschwitz - 12 tackles, 5 for loss / 1 rush, 25 yards / 5 catches, 38 yards

Enid

Nate Gamble - 5 pancake blocks after rehabbing sprained ankle all week long

Porter

Caleb Brewer - 14 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery

East Central

Cunu Fields - 6/10 passing, 241 yards, 5 TDs + 1 67-yard rushing TD

Stigler

Ridge McClary - 14 rushes, 115 yds, 1 TD

Bruce Engle - 12 tackles, 2 sacks

Chelsea

William Hampton - 4/9 passing, 63 yards, 2 TDs + 12 rushes, 121 yards, 2 TDs

Tahlequah 

Malik McMurtrey - 26 rushes, 135 yards, 1 TD

Have a player of the week candidate? Let us know. Email Ben Johnson at  benjohnsontdp@gmail.com 

**PHOTO CREDIT - JASON ELMQUIST - STILLWATER NEWSPRESS

WEEK 6 Rankings

10/7/2019 |  Ben Johnson

(__) - previous rank

Class 6AI
1. Owasso (1) - 5-0
2. Broken Arrow (2) - 4-1
3. Jenks (4) - 2-3
4. PC North (5) - 5-0
5. Union (3) - 1-4
6. Norman (6) - 4-1
7. Westmoore (7) - 5-0
8. Moore (8) - 3-2
9. Mustang (10) - 3-2
10. Edmond Santa Fe (9) - 3-2

Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1) - 5-0
2. Stillwater (2) - 5-0
3. Del City (4) - 4-1
4. Muskogee (6) - 5-0
5. Sapulpa (5) - 4-1
6. Choctaw (7) - 3-2
7. Booker T. Washington (3) - 2-3
8. Ponca City (10) - 3-2
9. Midwest City (8) - 2-3
10. Deer Creek (NR) - 3-2

Class 5A
1. Bishop McGuinness (2) - 4-1
2. Carl Albert (2) - 4-1
3. Edison (3) - 4-1
4. Tahlequah (5) - 5-0
5. Collinsville (6) - 4-1
6. Piedmont (10) - 4-1
7. Noble (NR) - 4-1
8. El Reno (7) - 4-1
9. Duncan (8) - 3-1
10. Pryor (9) - 4-1

Class 4A
1. Bethany (1) - 5-0
2. Tuttle (2) - 5-0
3. Wagoner (3) - 4-1
4. Poteau (5) - 4-1
5. Bristow (6) - 4-1
6. Clinton (3-2
7. Broken Bow (7) - 4-1
8. Weatherford (4) - 3-2
9. Central (9) - 5-0
10. Cache (10) - 3-2

Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1) - 4-0
2. Lincoln Christian (2) - 5-0
3. Plainview (3) - 3-1
4. Berryhill (5) - 5-0
5. Sulphur (6) - 5-0
6. John Marshall (4) - 4-1
7. Perkins-Tryon (7) - 5-0
8. Lone Grove (8) - 5-0
9. Stigler (10) - 4-1
10. Checotah (NR) - 4-1

Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (1) - 5-0
2. Sperry (2) - 5-0
3. Vian (3) - 4-1
4. Millwood (4) - 4-1
5. Holland Hall (5) - 4-1
6. Washington (6) - 5-0
7. Jones (7) - 4-1
8. Beggs (8) - 4-1
9. Kingston (9) - 4-1
10. Adair (10) - 4-1

Class A
1. Cashion (1) - 5-0
2. Stroud (2) - 5-0
3. Pawhuska (3) - 6-0
4. Rejoice Christian (4) - 5-0
5. Thomas (5) - 5-1
6. Pawnee (6) - 5-0
7. Minco (7) - 6-0
8. Christian Heritage (8) - 4-1
9. Mangum (NR) - 5-0
10. Dibble (NR) - 5-1

Class B
1. Shattuck (1) - 5-0
2. Regent Prep (2) - 5-0
3. Dewar (5) - 5-0
4. Burns Flat-Dill City (6) - 4-1
5. Laverne (7) - 4-1
6. Weleetka (8) - 3-2
7. Cherokee (3) - 4-1
8. Davenport (4) - 4-1
9. Canadian (9) - 5-0
10. Seiling (NR) - 5-1

Class C
1. Southwest Covenant (1) - 4-0
2. Pond Creek-Hunter (2) - 5-0
3. Covington-Douglas (4) - 4-2
4. Maysville (5) - 4-0
5. Coyle (6) - 4-1
6. Midway (7) - 6-0
7. Tyrone (3) - 4-1
8. Graham-Dustin (9) - 3-1
9. Boise City (8) - 4-1
10. Sharon-Mutual (NR) - 3-2

*Photo by Trey Hunter/Piedmont Gazette

WEEK 3 PICKS

9/20/2019 |  Ben Johnson

Here’s how things stand through Week 2 and 44 games picked by the Skordle fellas (and a few wives).

Last week

Michael Swisher: 11-2
Whitt Carter: 8-5
Ben Johnson: 11-2
Alicia Johnson: 11-2
Madison Carter: 9-4

Overall

Swisher: 37-7
Whitt: 27-17
Ben: 30-14
Alicia: 29-15
Madison: 25-19

Holland Hall at Metro Christian

Michael Swisher: Metro Christian
Whitt Carter: Metro Christian
Ben Johnson: Metro Christian

Kingfisher at Bethany

Michael Swisher: Bethany
Whitt Carter: Bethany
Ben Johnson: Bethany

Kingston at Sperry

Michael Swisher: Sperry
Whitt Carter: Sperry
Ben Johnson: Sperry

Putnam City North at Choctaw

Michael Swisher: PC North
Whitt Carter: PC North
Ben Johnson: PC North

Edison at Claremore

Michael Swisher: Claremore
Whitt Carter: Edison
Ben Johnson: Edison

Mustang at Westmoore

Michael Swisher: Mustang
Whitt Carter: Westmoore
Ben Johnson: Mustang

Elgin at Plainview

Michael Swisher: Plainview
Whitt Carter: Plainview
Ben Johnson: Plainview

Clinton at Lawton MacArthur

Michael Swisher: Lawton Mac
Whitt Carter: Lawton Mac
Ben Johnson: Clinton

Pawhuska at Morrison

Michael Swisher: Pawhuska
Whitt Carter: Pawhuska
Ben Johnson: Pawhuska

Ponca City at Collinsville

Michael Swisher: Collinsville
Whitt Carter: Collinsville
Ben Johnson: Collinsville

Chickasha at El Reno

Michael Swisher: El Reno
Whitt Carter: El Reno
Ben Johnson: El Reno

Oologah at Hilldale

Michael Swisher: Oologah
Whitt Carter: Oologah
Ben Johnson: Oologah

Checotah at Eufaula

Michael Swisher: Checotah
Whitt Carter: Eufaula
Ben Johnson: Checotah

Millwood at Cascia Hall

Michael Swisher: Millwood
Whitt Carter: Millwood
Ben Johnson: Millwood

Cashion at Crescent
Michael Swisher: Cashion
Whitt Carter: Cashion
Ben Johnson: Cashion

Hominy at Barnsdall
Michael Swisher: Hominy
Whitt Carter: Hominy
Ben Johnson: Barnsdall

CLASS 3A PREVIEW

8/28/2019 |  Ben Johnson

Class 3A preview

Rankings

Our best guess(es)

WRESTLING: All-State rosters announced

3/12/2019 |  Ben Johnson

The Oklahoma Coaches Association announced the 2019 All-State wrestling rosters on Tuesday morning.

Here are the rosters and some notes on the honorees:

Large East

113: David Boucher (Bartlesville)

120: Laif Jones (Bartlesville)

126: Ty Nohelty (McAlester)

132: Reece Witcraft (Broken Arrow) - Two-time state champion headed to Oklahoma State

138: Spencer Schickram (Ponca City) - Won the Class 6A 138 title this season

145: Gage Hight (Glenpool) - Finished as a three-time runner-up for the Warriors 

152: Ja’len Hernandez (Union) 

160: Scott Patton (Sand Springs) - Runner-up at 6A 152

170: Isaac Strain (Tahlequah)

182: Talon Borror (Coweta) - Three-time state champion headed to Oklahoma

195: Elijah Tomlin (Union)

220: Korbin McLaughlin (Skiatook) - The 5A 220 champion this season to help Skiatook split the 5A state title with Collinsville

HWT: Caleb Orr (Jenks) - Runner-up in 6A heavyweight this season

Large West

113: Dominic Derr (Westmoore)

120: Jayston Cato (Carl Albert) - Runner-up at 5A 120 this season

126: Mitchell Lance (Piedmont) - Third place finish at 5A 126 this season

132: Colt Newton (Choctaw) - Finished third at 6A 132 this season 

138: Cameron Picklo (Mustang) - Finished third at 138 this season

145: Kobi Gomez (Altus) - State champion at 5A 138 this season

152: Hunter Jump (Duncan) - State champion at 5A 160 after winning a state title at Lawton Mac as a junior

160: Rene Martinez (Putnam City) - Runner-up at 6A 160 this season

170: Zane Coleman (Choctaw) - Arizona State signee became a four-time state champion this season

182: Christian Maldonado (Lawton Mac) - State champion at 5A 170 this season

195: Carson Savage (Deer Creek) - Runner-up at 6A 195 this season

220: Jake McCoy (Edmond North) - Runner-up at 6A 220 this season

HWT: Josh Heindselman (Piedmont) - Became a two-time state champion by winning the 5A heavyweight crown this season

Small East

113: Kaleb Harris (Sallisaw)

120: Luke Montgomery (Bristow) - Finishied third at 4A 120 this season

126: Thaddeus Long (McLain) - Became the Titans’ first state champion since 1976 with a title at 4A 126

132: Wesley Scott (Pawnee) - Runner-up at 3A 132 this season

138: Price Perrier (Pawhuska) - Runner-up at 3A 138 this season

145: Trystian Shireman (Wagoner) - Finished third at 4A 138 this season

152: Hadyn Redus (Perry) - State champion at 3A 152 this season

160: Jacob Ahrberg (Cushing) - State champion at 4A 160 this season

170: Cade Shropshire (Checotah) - Two-time state champion for the Wildcats with the 3A 160 chamionship this season

182: River Simon (Vian) - Became a two-time state champion by winning the 3A 182 title this season

195: Eriq Simpson (Cushing) - Runner-up at 4A 195 this season

220: Drake Barbee (Blackwell) - State champion at 3A 195 this season

HWT: Teaguen Wilson (Perry) - Runner-up at 3A heavyweight this season

Small West

113: Remington White (Walters) - Former state champion was the 3A runner-up at 113 this season

120: Jaxon Miller (Comanche)

126: Logan Farrell (Tuttle) - Runner-up at 4A 126 this season

132: Kolton Smith (Bridge Creek) - Became the Bobcats’ first state champion by winning the 3A 126 title this season

138: Kobey Kizarr (Marlow) - State champion at 3A 138 this season

145: Val Park (Heritage Hall) - Became a three-time state champion by winning 4A 138 title this season

152: Alec McDoulett (Little Axe) - Runner-up at 3A 152 this season

160: Tyler Lavey (Marlow) - Runner-up at 3A 160 this season

170: Ethon Hamrick (Comanche) 

182: Denver Dahlenburg (Hinton) 

195: Carson Berryhill (Tuttle) - Won a second straight state championship by winning 4A 195 title this season

220: Cameron Gregg (Pauls Valley)

HWT: Ruben Guiterrez (Clinton) - Finished third at 4A heavyweight this season

**Photo courtesy of Austin Bernard/Owrestle.com

STATE TOURNAMENT WRESTLING: Complete class-by-class roundup

2/25/2019 |  Ben Johnson

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Zane Coleman stepped off the podium and started fielding multiple requests. Everyone inside Jim Norick Arena wanted to snap a photo with the newest member of the four-time state champion club.
The Choctaw senior joined the exclusive membership with a 1-0 victory over Broken Arrow’s Bryce Mattioda, making it 37 wrestlers to be share the lofty accomplishment.
“It’s unbelievable,” said Coleman, the 170-pound senior who did it with his dad, Benny Coleman, coaching him to all four championships. “I dreamed about this forever, and now that it’s come true I couldn’t be happier.”
Finishing as Class 6A’s Most Outstanding Wrestler of the state tournament capped Coleman’s career and wrapped up a 41-1 season. He’ll soon depart for Tempe, Arizona, where he’ll join the Arizona Sun Devils program.
“They have a great coaching staff,” Zane Coleman said, “and I think we’re the No. 2 recruiting class right now, so we have good things coming.”

Class 3A wrap-up

Perry wins another title; Bridge Creek claims first individual crowns

The state’s preeminent wrestling program did what it normally does to end each wrestling season: pose with a trophy to memorialize another team championship. For Perry, that’s now 43 team championships. The closest to the Maroons? Tuttle and Midwest City with 16.
“It’s pretty awesome to win as a team,” Perry’s Ryan Smith told the Stillwater NewsPress. “Since I’ve been a freshman, we’ve won every year. All of my teammates did what they’re supposed to do.”
Smith picked up one of three individual championships for the Maroons. Smith beat Walters’ Remington White, 4-2, to capture the 113 title. Dylan Avery (132) and Hadyn Redus (152) claimed the Maroons other two championships.
- Smith, DePron lead Bridge Creek: The Bridge Creek Bobcats had waited long enough, so Kolton Smith made sure to make quick of his opponent. Smith, at 126 pounds, pinned Marlow’s Anthony Orum in 58 seconds to claim Bridge Creek’s first individual championship.
Then Kolby DePron followed at 145 with another title, picking up a 10-8 victory over Geary’s Landon Holt to double up the Bobcats’ hardward in one evening.
“It feels insane,” DePron said. “I don’t think it’s sunk in yet. … I hardly remember the match. Just an adrenaline rush; I went out and barfed everywhere.”
- Marlow finishes second: Perry was too far out of reach, but Marlow still made plenty of noise in the championship matches on Saturday night. Tyler Lawson (106) picked up a title with a 6-2 over Vian’s Braylen Rodgers, and Kobey KIzarr pinned Pawhuska’s Price Perrier at 6:57 to pick up the Outlaws second title.
Perry topped the 3A leaderboard with Marlow in second place with 91 points.
- Other 3A titles: Vinita’s Alex Prince won the 120 crown with an 8-3 win over Newkirk’s Dayton Cary. Sperry’s Bryce Carter beat Comanche’s Cade Cook 6-4 at 170 pounds. Blackwell’s Drake Barbee (182) pinned Inola’s Brody Jenkins at 2:33.
All three became first-time champions.
Checotah’s Cade Shrosphire beat Marlow’s Tyler Lavey, 3-2, in an ultimate tiebreaker. Vian’s River Simon (182) pinned Perry’s Kohl Owen at 3:41. Comanche’s Konner Doucet picked up a 15-0 technical fall over Berryhill’s Nico Lopez for the 220 crown, and Davis’ Cooper Webb won the heavyweight crown by pinning Perry’s Teaguan Wilson at 1:20. All four became repeat champions. It was the second for Shrosphire, Simon and Webb, and Doucet picked up his third in three years. He’ll attempt to become a four-time state champion as a senior next season.

Class 4A wrap-up

Long breaks McLain’s title drought; Tuttle picks up title No. 16

McLain’s TJ Long put the Titans back on the wrestling map at State Fair Arena. In perhaps the match of the night, Long went back and forth with Tuttle’s Logan Farrell in the 126-pound title bout before ultimately picking up a 12-10 win in sudden victory.
It was McLain’s first individual championship since 1977 (Greg Hawkins at 178 pounds).
“It sounds like I just wrote my name in the record books,” Long said.
Long, last year’s runner-up at 126 pounds, capped his senior season at 36-0.
“I lost in the finals last year,” Long said. “And I said, ‘that’s not happening this year. I’m known for clutch situations, so I was like, ‘I got this.’”
- Tuttle wins again: There was never a doubt -- even before the weekend started -- as to who would claim the 4A championship. Tuttle made it look easy again, claiming 229 points to cruise to its 16th championship in its program’s history.
“I transferred to Tuttle my eighth grade year to experience this, and it’s great,” said Plott, ranked third nationally at 170 pounds. “The group of guys we have right now is like a family. We hang out a lot, and we’re all really close.”
Garrett Steidley (113), Ryder Ramsey (132), Brady DeArmond (145), Luke Surber (152), Plott and Carson Berryhill (195) each picked up individual crowns for the Tigers. Reese Davis (120), Farrell (126), Bryce Dauphin (138), Harley Andrews (160) and Kavan Guffey (182) were all runners-up at their respective weights.
-- Cascia Hall sophomore Eli Griffin picked up a 9-1 major decision win over Cushing Luke Ahrberg for his second title in two years. The Commandos have claimed at least one individual title every year since Mike Bizzle won the school’s first in 2002.
-- Heritage Hall’s Val Park beat Dauphin 3-0 for his third consecutive championship. He became the school’s fourth wrestler to win at least three individual championships, with Rodrick Mosley being the most recent with his title at 152 last season.
-- Cushing picked it first individual championships since 2014. Jacob Ahrberg finished the season 26-0 with a 9-8 win over Tuttle’s Harley Andrews. Gage Hockett followed at 182 and beat Tuttle’s Kavan Guffey 3-2 in an tiebreaker. Hockett finished the season 32-0.
-- Bristow’s Luke Fortney pinned Poteau’s Seth Ford at 3:06 to claim the 220 championship, Bristow’s first since 2007.
-- Other 4A champions included Wagoner’s Braden Drake (120) and Blanchard’s Ryder Wiese at heavyweight.

Class 5A wrap-up

Collinsville, Skiatook split 5A title; Borror wins for a 3rd time

The pressure was sitting squarely on Korbin McLaughlin’s shoulders. The Skiatook senior needed a victory at 220 pounds for the Bulldogs to have a chance at the Class 5A championship.
Collinsville was leading Skiatook 137 to 133, and a win by decision by McLaughlin would be enough to pull the Bulldogs even. Anything better than that would give Skiatook the championship outright, two weeks after celecrating a dual state title in Shawnee.
McLaughlin wound up beating Claremore’s Seth Seago, 4-1, meaning Skiatook and Collinsville both left Jim Norick Arena with first-place honors.
Collinsville finished with four individual champions, including junior Caleb Tanner (132) beating Skiatook’s Cody Francis, 9-0, for his third title in three years. Two Cardinal freshmen claimed their first titles: Cameron Steed (106) and Jordan Williams (113). Rocky Stephens (120) followed with a title by posting an 8-0 win over Carl Albet’s Jayston Cato.
Skiatook sophomore Josh Taylor (126) picked up his second championship in as many seasons with a 9-3 win over Collinsville’s Jordan Cullors. Then the Bulldogs’ Cougar Anderson capped an unbeaten season (38-0) by pinning Piedmont’s Landis Scoon at 4:36 for the 152 crown.
For Collinsville, it’s the Cardinals’ second straight championship, and Skiatook claimed its first title since 1987.
- Borror bests 182 field: Piedmont’s Austin Cooley jumped out to an early lead against Coweta’s Talon Borror. But Borror didn’t let that last long, rallying to pin Cooley at 2:43 to pick up his third consecutive championship.
“There’s a lot of hard work that goes into it,” Borror said. “Now it’s time call it a career.”
Well, high school career, that is. Borror wrapped up his senior varsity stint at 38-2 and now will head to Norman and join the Sooners.
“We’re building a good team and have a lot of good recruits coming in,” Borror said. “Looking to make a run at the top.”
- Hicks prevails for Durant’s 1st title: Durant’s Cody Hicks trailed early on, but he rallied for a 6-4 win over Glenpool’s Gage Hight. Now Hicks will forever be known as the first Durant wrestler to win an individual championship for the Lions.
And he celebrated accordingly by jumping into his brother’s arms.
“He’s eight years older than me, and he’s always worked with us,” Hicks said of his brother, Colby. “(To jump into his arms) was an amazing moment.”
-- Other 5A champions included Altus’ Kobi Gomez (138), Lawton Mac’s Christiain Maldonado (170) and Matthew Santos (195) and Duncan’s Hunter Jump (160), a former champion at Lawton Mac before moving to Duncan.
Piedmont’s Josh Heindselman, named 5A's most outstanding wrestler, also picked up his second state championship at heavyweight by pinning Lawton Mac’s Montana Phillips at 3:13.

Class 6A wrap-up

Tigers back on top with 6A crown; Mustang nabs 4 titles

If there’s ever a constant about Class 6A, it’s that the teams like to pass around the team championship. Sure enough, it was Broken Arrow’s turn again with the Tigers claiming their first crown since 2015.
Broken Arrow was the lone 6A team to crack the 100-point barrier and compiled 158 points by weekend’s end. Mustang was second with 96, and Choctaw was third at 75.
The Tigers’ Jackson Cockrell (113) and Jared Hill (120) both lost in the finals before Reece Witcraft registered Broken Arrow’s first individual title at 132. Witcraft toppled Owasso’s Zeke Washington -- for the second week in a row -- with a 6-3 decision for his second straight state championship.
Broken Arrow sophomore Emmanuel Skillings (182) nabbed his first championship with a 5-1 victory over Owasso’s Taylor Fleming, and then Zach Marcheselli (220) etched his name into the Oklahoma record book with his fourth state championship. He made history by beating Edmond North’s Jake McCoy 10-4 in his final varsity match.
For Broken Arrow, that’s now two four-time state champions after Brandon Tucker accomplished the feat from 2000 to 2003.
- Mustang crowns 4: Mustang threw the biggest party on the outskirts of the 6A mat inside State Fair Arena on Saturday night. It had been since 2005 that the Broncos snared an individual state championship, so Mustang made sure to celebrate accordingly for each of the four titles.
Tucker Owens (113) claimed Mustang’s first title with a 9-0 victory over Cockrell of Broken Arrow. Then John Wiley, the No. 4 seed out of the West Regional, picked up a 5-1 win over Stillwater’s Carter Young for title No. 2 for Mustang.
Tate Picklo followed at 160 and pinned Putnam City’s Rene Martinez to cap off an unbeaten 43-0 season. The Broncos’ final state title was courtesy of Judson Rowland and his last-second, 11-10 win over Deer Creek’s Carson Savage.
-- Choctaw claimed three individual championships. Coleman won at 170, Gabe Johnson (145) knocked off Deer Creek’s Micah Lugafet, 9-4, and heavyweight Marquonn Journey beat Jenks’ Caleb Orr, 3-1.
- Other 6A champions included:
-- Bixby’s Zach Blankenship: Won the 120 title as a freshman with a pin of Broken Arrow’s Jared Hill at 5:12.
-- Ponca City’s Spencer Schickram picked up the 138 title with a 10-0 major decision over Broken Arrow’s Blake Gonzalez.
-- Jenks junior Drake Vannoy picked up his second championship by beating Sand Springs’ Scott Patton, 5-1.

NEW PODCAST: Talkin' Wrestlin' ..... (and lots of hoops)

2/21/2019 |  Ben Johnson

Week 10: Top 10 games

10/30/2018 |  Ben Johnson

The playoffs are here! Well, not quite but for some teams it will feel that way. Some teams are playing to extend their seasons while some are playing to better position themselves for long postseason runs. Week 10 is always a whirlwind, so buckle up and hold on!

Here's what's on tap:

1. 6AII No. 1 Stillwater (9-0) at 6AII No. 4 Del City (7-2): It has been a day or two since Stillwater last laid claim to a district championship. Since 1995 to be exact. Pioneers can clinch the District 6AII-1 title with a win. A Del City victory (plus a Midwest City win over PC West) creates a three-way tie at the top of the district with district points deciding the champion. Stillwater is 2-0 against Del City, but they haven't played since 2007.

2. 5A No. 1 Carl Albert at 5A No. 4 Bishop McGuinness (8-1): If these two are squaring off, there's always something significant on the line. Last season it was the Class 5A championship. This time, it's for 5A-2 supremacy. The winner claims the district crown. For Carl Albert, it would two years in a row. For the Irish, it would be the third district title in four years.

3. A No. 2 Cashion (9-0) at A No. 3 Minco (8-1): Take the Stillwater-Del City playoff scenario and apply it here. Cashion wins the District A-3 title with a win. A victory for Minco creates a logjam atop the district with Crossings Christian off for the way and cemented at 7-1 in the district. A Cashion win also moves Minco to third. 

4. 2A No. 2 Sperry (9-0) at 2A No. 4 Beggs (8-1): It's been 77 years -- SEVENTY. SEVEN. -- since Sperry was 9-0. The Pirates have won a district title more recently than that (1992), but it's still been a long time for that, too. Beggs, on the other hand, is coming off a runner-up finish in Class 3A, so this is familiar territory for the Demons. The winner here claims the District 2A-3 title, and the loser finishes second. The quarterback matchup -- Sperry's Beau Tell against Beggs' Dalton Spring -- should be a good one, too.

5. 3A No. 3 John Marshall (8-1) at 3A No. 7 Kingfisher (6-3): Winner finishes second in 3A-1 and gets a home playoff game. Loser finishes third and hits the road -- likely to Plainview -- in the first round of the playoffs.

6. 4A No. 8 Hilldale (8-1) at 4A No. 1 Poteau (9-0): Poteau will have to reverse a recent trend if it wants to win District 4A-4. The Pirates can win the district with a win, but a Hilldale victory likely creates a three-team tie atop the standings with Broken Bow also involved. The streak Poteau has to end is its losing ways to Hilldale, who has beaten the Pirates four times in a row, dating bcak to 2010. Poteau's last win over Hilldale was 2009.

7. 6AI No. 7 Owasso (5-4) at 6AI No. 5 Putnam City North (8-1): Neither one can catch Union in 6AI-2, but the Panthers can lock up second place with a win over Owasso, the reigning 6AI champion. An Owasso win likely means the Rams, PC North finish in a tie for second and resort to district points. A win for PC North would be its first ever against Owasso. The Rams are 4-0 all-time against PC North.

8. 5A No. 7 Tahlequah (8-1) at 5A No. 9 Claremore (6-3): This one is simple enough -- winner gets second place in 5A-4, the loser finishes third. The running back battle between Tahlequah's Dae Dae Leathers and Claremore's Jace Hightower should be fun to watch.

9. 6AII No. 2 Bixby (8-1) at 6AII No. 7 Muskogee (6-3): Regardless of records, it seems as though Bixby always struggles with Muskogee. The Spartans have secured the 6AII-2 title and can look toward a home playoff game next week, while Muskogee needs a win to finish third in 6AII-2.

10. 5A No. 5 Altus (8-1) at 5A No. 10 Duncan (8-1): Same at the Tahlequah-Claremore game -- winner gets second place, loser finishes third.

Honorable mention

Edmond Santa Fe at Norman: The Wolves are in the playoffs, but a win would assure a third-place finish. A Norman victory gives the Tigers a chance to make the playoffs with Westmoore headed to Jenks.

Ada at Edison: Winner finishes second in 5A-3, loser gets third since both Edison and Ada are vastly ahead of McAlester in district points.

Clinton at Cache: The Red Tornadoes are no strangers to district titles with 38, according to Iwasatthegame.com. Yet, Clinton hasn't won one since 2011. Cache hasn't won one since 1983. It's a winner-take-all game in 4A-1.

Oologah at Catoosa: A Catoosa win likely means third place and would leave Bristow and Wagoner to settle the district title. An Oologah victory likely means Bristow, Wagoner and Oologah finish tied for the district title, and would likely go to Bristow based on district points.

Checotah at Lincoln Christian: Well, the best way to describe the District 3A-3 standings is jumbled. But don't over-think it. More likely than not, Seminole, Stigler and Idabel should bag victories this week, so this game will decide whether there's a five-way tie for first place or a three-way tie for second place. Either way, it's all about district points at that stage.

Locust Grove at Vinita: After Berryhill at the top of this district, it gets a bit chaotic. Vinita need to win to keep its playoff hopes alive, whereas Locust Grove claims second place with a win.

Lindsay at Kingston: Even if Lindsay wins here, Kingston will have wrapped up its first district championship since 1987. That's how sizeable Kingston's district points lead is.

Panama at Holland Hall: The Dutch win a district title with a win over Panama, whereas a Panama victory likely hands the district title to Vian.

Christian Heritage at Crescent: Someone's season will end here. District A-3 is deep so this game will decide who finishes fourth. Crazy to think Crescent could go from Class A runner-up to out of the playoffs, but that's the scenario headed into this week's slate of games.

Pawhuska at Pawnee: Pawnee has to win to keep its playoff hopes alive. A Pawhuska win would assure the Huskies of third place in District A-5.

Hobart at Frederick: Simple enough on this one. The winner claims the District A-2 title and the loser finishes second.

Ringling at Apache: Did you read the Hobart-Frederick breakdown? Same thing applies here. Would be Ringling's eighth straight district title.

Gore at Central Sallisaw: Gore is looking for its first district championship since 2011. A Central Sallisaw win would give it a chance at a district title for the first time since 2001.

Weleetka at Wetumka: District B-5 will be decide in this one. Winner gets first place, loser gets second place.

Regent Prep at Foyil: These two clubs have played some stout defense this year, giving up only a combined 112 points in 17 games. The better defense here will help its win a district championship. The loser of the game stays home for the playoffs but won't claim a district title.

Paoli at Graham-Dustin: Winner claims the District C-4 championship. Loser finishes second.

*Photo courtesy of Jason Elmquist/Stillwater NewsPress

Week 8: Top 10 games

10/16/2018 |  Ben Johnson

It's time for fall break, and some district titles could be decided this week.

Here's what's on tap:

1. 6AII No. 4 Midwest City (5-2) at 6AII No. 3 Del City (6-1): District 6AII-1 has become a three-team race, and this one will go a long way in deciding whether it's a two-horse race or not. If Midwest City wins, it remains a three-team sprint to the end -- so long as Del City knocks off Stillwater in two weeks. A win for Del City sets up a clash for district supremacy on Nov. 2. Midwest City has dominated this matchup with five straight wins dating back to 2013. Overall, Midwest City is 35-16 against its long-time rival.

2. 4A No. 2 Tuttle (7-0) at 4A No. 3 Blanchard (6-1): Buckle up for Blanchard tailback Bryce Madron against Tuttle's defense, which has yielded only 56 points this season. Also, can Blanchard slow down Tuttle quarterback Carson Berryhill? A win for Tuttle all but wraps up the 4A-2 crown. Since 2011, Blanchard has won four of the seven meetings, but before Tuttle had won all 13.

3. 4A No. 4 Bristow (7-0) at 4A No. 5 Wagoner (6-1): This had all the looks of two unbeaten teams clashing for district bragging rights up until Oologah upset Wagoner in overtime last week. Another loss all but keeps Wagoner from winning the 4A-3 crown, and it would be the first time since 2011 that the Bulldogs hadn't claimed a district title. As for Bristow, quarterback Tyler Wayland leads a dynamic rushing attack that's powered by a demoralizing offensive line. The Bulldogs will counter with Schyler Adair in the backfield.

4. 4A No. 7 Broken Bow (6-1) at 4A No. 1 Poteau (7-0): When it comes to two teams not liking one another, here is exhibit A. And this time the District 4A-4 title is up for grabs. A win for Broken Bow all but secures the district title, whereas Poteau still has Hilldale looming on the schedule. Neither one of these teams has given up more than 48 points this season, so don't expect a wild, high-scoring shootout. Poteau and Broken Bow have met every year since 1996, and it's been Poteau with wins in five victories in the last seven seasons.

5. 5A No. 6 Duncan (7-0) at 5A No. 2 Ardmore (7-0): The similarities are striking between these two. Both are 4-0 in 5A-1. Duncan has scored 268 points this season, compared to Ardmore's 267. Then on defense, the Tigers have given up 51 points, whereas Duncan has issued 53 points to opposing teams. So the only question remains is what prevails in the game: Duncan's balanced offensive attack or Ardmore's nonstop rushing attack? Ardmore has won five straight against the Demons, including a 28-7 victory last season.

6. 2A No. 3 Vian (6-1) at 2A No. 6 Holland Hall (5-2): These two generated a memorable showdown during the 2016 playoffs when Holland Hall edged past the Wolverines, 27-26. This time, however, Vian has River Simon and Bodhi Vann back as seniors with the 2A-5 title on the line. The winner can start preparing for the fourth-place finisher in 2A-6.

7. 3A No. 1 Heritage Hall (6-1) at 3A No. 6 Kingfisher (5-2): A Charger victory all but nails down the 3A-1 district title. A win for Kingfisher creates chaos at the top of the district with Heritage Hall, Kingfisher and John Marshall in a three-team clash to the end. The Yellowjackets have scored an average of 38.7 points per game, but can their defense slow down Conner Carey and Billy Ross on the other side of the ball?

8. B No. 6 Laverne (6-1) at B No. 1 Shattuck (6-0): Perhaps the first of two matchups this season? That's how it's gone the past two years. Laverne and Shattuck have squared off in district play -- both games won by Laverne -- and twice in Class B title games -- split between the two schools -- since 2016. Only wrench in the plans this year could be Seiling, a team sitting there unbeaten in B-1 play like Laverne and Shattuck.

9. 2A No. 2 Sperry (7-0) at Victory Christian (6-1): Pure excitement surrounded the outcome of last year's game -- a 26-21 win for Victory Christian. The Conquerors won on a Hail Mary pass at the end of the game when quarterback R.J. Wakley found Caleb Calhoon for a 33-yard touchdown pass. Both of those players are gone now for the Conquerors, who have to win to keep pace with Sperry in 2A-3. A win for Sperry creates a winner-take-all showdown with Beggs in week 10.

10. A No. 3 Minco (6-1) at Christian Heritage (4-3): District A-3 never disappoints when it comes to top-notch matchups each week, so it's no surprise to see this game crack the top 10. Despite being in third place in A-1 right now, Minco has given up the fewest amount of points in the district at 70. Christian Heritage isn't far off with 95. With Crossings Christian and Cashion atop the district standings, the winner of this one at least feels more secure in nabbing a playoff spot. Also, Christian Heritage is 3-0 all-time against Minco with the last game between the two being played in 2009.

Honorable mention

Edmond Santa Fe at Westmoore: The Wolves are looking to bounce back from last week's 35-7 loss to Broken Arrow. A win over Westmoore for Edmond Santa Fe would create a clash against Jenks for second place in 6AI-1 next week.

Muskogee at Booker T. Washington: Muskogee's two losses have been by a combined three points this season. Meanwhile, the Hornets continue to struggle on offense, and they just lost a receiving weapon in DJ Jones for the rest of the season.

Mustang at Owasso: Mustang desperately needs to win to keep its playoff hopes alive. Owasso is 3-1 in 6AI-2, but the Rams are issuing 24.7 points per game.

Weatherford at Cache: Weatherford can work its way back into 4A-1 contention with a win. For Cache, it's been quite a week with Arthur McDonald appearing on national shows with his highlight-reel TD run.

Idabel at Stigler: Idabel hammered Stigler last year, 62-10. But 3A-3 has proven to be chaotic every single week, so expect an outcome that further mucks up the 3A-3 standings.

Seminole at Checotah: More 3A-3 craziness here. At this point, both of these teams need victories to stay in postseason contention. Seminole is 4-1 against Checotah, but they haven't met since

Kellyville at Prague: Ponies and Red Devils -- what a combo. District 3A-2 has proven to be pretty deep, and someone among Meeker, Prague, Kellyville and Okemah will miss the playoffs. The outcome of this one could help determine who advances beyond the regular season.

Commerce at Rejoice Christian: Commerce's Chris Ibarra is coming off a monster week against Oklahoma Union last week -- 18 carries, 301 yards, four touchdowns. And that doesn't even account for his defensive contributions. The Ibarra vs. Andrew Crow showdown at running back should be a fun one to watch.

Oklahoma Bible Academy at Hooker: District A-1 is all but a done deal if Hooker wins. Oklahoma Bible Academy can make it an interesting final few weeks among Hooker, Fairview and itself with a win.

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

*Photo courtesy of Chance Batey/Bristow

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

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

Week 5 Player of the Week Poll

10/1/2018 |  Ben Johnson

The Skordle Week 5 Player of the Week poll is sponsored by:

Noah Cortes (Broken Arrow) - Senior tailback rushed for 200 yards and a single-game school-record six touchdowns on 14 carries in the Tigers’ 63-7 win over Norman.

Cameron Gunville (Seminole) - Junior tailback rushed for 319 yards and four touchdowns on 41 carries in the Chieftains’ 50-31 victory over Lincoln Christian.

Corey Ramsey (Okemah) - Senior running back rushed for 359 yards and seven touchdowns on 16 carries in the Panthers’ 70-32 victory over Holdenville.

Brant Hager (Verdigris) - Junior quarterback completed 22 of 33 passes for 537 yards and five touchdowns. Also rushed for 24 yards and one touchdown in the Cardinals’ 45-35 win over Vinita.

Austin Hines (Adair) - Senior quarterback completed 14 of 23 passes for 496 yards and seven touchdowns in the Warriors’ 48-21 win over Wyandotte..

Tayden Lucero (Haskell) - Senior quarterback had 23 carries for 271 yards and four touchdowns, and also completed 9 of 17 passes for 197 yards and one touchdown. On defense, had 10 tackles and an 81-yard interception return for a touchdown in the Haymakers’ 44-16 win over Dewey.

Stevie Orr (Davenport) - Senior quarterback rushed for 123 yards and five touchdowns on 18 carries. Completed 20 of 34 passes for 396 yards and two touchdowns in the Bulldogs’ 50-38 win over Dewar.

Josiah Markum (Okla. Christian Academy) - Senor tight end caught nine passes for 398 yards and seven touchdowns. On defense, he finished with four tackle, one interception, one sack, one tackle for loss and one fumble recovery in OCA’s 63-42 win over Northeast.

Honorable Mention

Nick Jones (Eufaula) - Rushed for 158 yards and two touchdowns and threw a touchdown pass in only one half against Hartshorne in the Ironheads’ 41-6 win.

Michelle Artzberger (Lawton Mac) - Caught eight passes for 100 yards and three touchdowns. Also had six tackles on defense in the Highlanders’ 48-0 win over Southeast.

Cade Shropshire QB (Checotah) - Passed for 172 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 155 yards and four touchdowns on 16 carries in the Wildcats’ 55-26 win over Okmulgee.

Wyatt Conley (Minco) - Passed for 148 yards and one touchdown and also ran for one touchdown. On defense, had an 18-yard interception return for a touchdown in Minco’s 34-8 win over Watonga.

Laquan Wells (Idabel) - Passed for 186 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for 88 yards and three touchdowns in the Warriors’ 70-12 win over Webster.

Dae Dae Leathers (Tahlequah) - Rushed for 202 yards and two touchdowns on 28 carries in Tahlequah’s 14-7 win over Skiatook.

Danny Brockup (Inola) - Senior running back scored three touchdowns while rushing for 176 yards on 20 carries. Also had one catch for 45 yards in the Longhorns’ 42-0 win over Claremore Sequoyah.

Andrew Crow (Victory Christian) - Rushed for five touchdowns on offense and had two interceptions on defense in the Eagles’ 54-0 win over Fairland.

Garrett Williams (Victory Christian) - Threw for 301 yards and four touchdowns, also rushed seven times for 58 yards and two touchdowns in the Conquerors’ 63-16 victory over Morris.

Jaxon Canard (OCS) - Rushed for 182 yards and four touchdowns on 23 carries in the Saints’ 42-22 win over Newkirk.

Senior LB/WR Jonathan Buskirk (Regent Prep) - Had 15 tackles and three tackles for loss on defense. On offense, had two catches for 44 yards and a touchdown in Regent Prep’s 32-22 win over Yale.

Michael Marin (Barnsdall) JR RB - Junior tailback had 244 yards and three touchdowns on 24 carries in the Panthers’ 50-36 win over Langston Hughes.

Qwontrel Walker (Stillwater) - Rushed for 151 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries. Also had a 44-yard touchdown reception in the Pioneers’ 31-13 win over Midwest City.

Will Dunigan (Spiro) - Caught five passes for 130 yards and one touchdown. On defense, he had 14 tackles in Spiro’s 47-14 win over Westville.

Shade Watie (Tahlequah Sequoyah) - Rushed for 148 yards and one touchdown on 22 carries. Also had six catches for 77 yards and one touchdown in the Indians’ 34-13 win over Pocola.

Drake Roush (Holland Hall) - Completed 14 of 23 passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns. Also had eight tackles on defense in a 49-21 win for the Dutch over Keys.

Conner Carey (Heritage Hall) - Rushed for 188 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries. Also had three catches for 86 yards in the Chargers’ 27-20 win over John Marshall.

Nate Asbill (Sallisaw) - Rushed for 274 yards and four touchdowns in the Black Diamonds’ 42-21 win over Stilwell.

OLB Cole McMurphy (Crossings Chr) - Recorded 17 tackles and a touchdown off his own blocked punt in Crossings Christian’s 16-14 win over Crescent. 

Makai Blades (Glenpool) - Rushed for 153 yards and two touchdowns on eight carries in the Warriors’ 66-0 win over Hale.

Collin Oliver (Edmond Santa Fe) - Recorded 17 tackles, three tackles for loss, one tackle for a safety and a fumble recovery in the Wolves’ 30-14 win over Yukon.

Blake Lair (Coweta) - Caught six passes for 126 yards and three touchdowns in the Tigers’ 41-7 win over Durant.

Jahkobie Smith (Del City) - Completed 17 of 22 passes for 264 yards and three touchdowns and also rushed for 155 yards and three touchdowns in Del City’s 49-13 win over Putnam City West.

Jeff Foreman (Del City) - Caught 10 passes for 198 yards and three touchdowns in the Eagles’ 49-13 win over PC West.

Miles Davis (Lawton) - Rushed for 256 yards and a touchdowns on 35 carries in the Wolverines’ 34-17 win over Deer Creek. 

Trenton Skinner (Shawnee) - Caught seven passes for 130 yards and a touchdown. Also threw a touchdown pass in the Wolves’ 32-27 win over Ponca City.

Brennan Presley (Bixby) - Caught three passed for 51 yards and a touchdown, and also rushed for 25 yards. Even completed a pass for 34 yards. On defense, he had a 36-yard interception return in the Spartans’ 21-7 win over Booker T. Washington.

Jimmie Coleman (Muskogee) - Rushed for 206 yards and five touchdowns on 29 carries. Also caught three passes for 49 yards in the Roughers’ 45-27 win over Sand Springs.

Class 3A preview

7/6/2018 |  Ben Johnson

Look back at 2017

2017 district champs

3A-1: Oklahoma Christian School - Kingfisher gave OCS a run for its money in district play, but the Saints marched to a 28-22 victory against the Yellowjackets to close out the regular season. In the playoffs, Mason Arnold, who rushed for 1,368 yards his senior season, and the Saints almost knocked off Beggs, but the Demons moved on an eventually made the 3A championship game.

3A-2: Jones - The Longhorns were machine-like in 2017. It was a near cakewalk to 13-0, and it was the same story in the first three rounds of the playoffs. But then John Marshall got in the way. That's when Jones' season came to a half at 13-1.

3A-3: John Marshall - The Bears had weapons for days on their way to the 3A-3 title and the Class 3A crown. Both Devonte Lee and Trey Eason rushed for more than 1,000 yards, but it was Lee who amassed 2,175 yards and 35 touchdowns before heading off to Nevada to start his collegiate career.

3A-4: Sulphur - The only blemish the Bulldogs endured in the season's first 13 weeks was a loss to John Marshall out of district play. Beyond that, the Bulldogs rolled right up until the 3A semifinals. There, Beggs derailed Sulphur and its plans to advance to the title game.

3A-5: Berryhill - Had all the makings of a team poised to make a run at the title in 2017. The Chiefs pulled out a seven-point win over Sperry in district play for the crown, and Berryhill's defense was stout all season long. But then Tahlequah Sequoyah pulled off a 32-30 upset in the second of the 3A playoffs to stun Berryhill.

3A-6: Beggs - The Demons had no problem scoring points last season. Quarterback Dalton Spring and all his weapons put up 592 points in 14 weeks, including eight performance of 40-plus points. Beggs stormed its way to the 3A finals, but there points were hard to come by in a 14-7 loss to John Marshall.

3A-7: Jay - No one pegged as the 3A champion before the 2017 season started. That's when Gabe Simpson and company steamrolled their way to a 9-1 regular season, including an unbeaten run through district play. But in the second round of the playoffs, Sperry ousted the Bulldogs from the playoffs.

3A-8: Idabel -Offering up stout defense all year long, the Warriors only slip-up in district play was against Eufaula. Idabel did, however, knock off Muldrow, who tied with the Warriors atop the district standings. In the playoffs, Idabel beat Bristow in the second round of the postseason, but John Marshall ended the Warriors' season in the quarterfinals.

Talking title game: John Marshall 14, Beggs 7

Both John Marshall and Beggs could put up points at will in 2017, but neither succeeded in doing so in the championship game. The two teams combined for six turnovers in the title game, but it was Devonte Lee's 51-yard touchdown run midway through the fourth quarter to put the Bears ahead for good. Lee rushed for 223 yards on 25 carries in John Marshall's first championship since 1995.

On to 2018...

Players to watch

- Jett Sternberger (Kingfisher): The Yellowjacket quarterback was instrumental on offense all year long in 2017. Sternberger completed 183 of his 282 passes for 2,398 yards and 35 touchdowns.

- Trey Kiser (Sulphur): Bulldog tailback is gaining traction on the recruiting scene, thanks to his monster junior year in 2017. He rushed for 1,937 yards and 25 touchdowns on 195 carries, and he mixed in 100 tackles on defense.
- Jamon Dennis (Seminole): In 2017, Dennis was one of two 1,000-yard rushers for the Chieftains. Dennis racked up 1,121 yards and 12 touchdowns on 184 carries.

- Cameron Gunville (Seminole): Gunville joined Dennis in the 1,000-yard rushing club with 1,067 yards and 10 touchdowns on 167 carries.

- Chase Ricke (Lincoln Christian): Emerged on the scene last year as a sophomore and immediately took command of the Bulldogs' passing attack. Ricke passed for 3,055 yards and 25 touchdowns while completing 222 of 367 attempts.
- Cody Ross (Berryhill): The Chiefs were led on offense by Ross, who completed 132 of 211 passes for 2,319 yards and 29 touchdowns.

- Jerod Leviston (John Marshall): Leviston takes over the Bears' offense with the departure of Devonte Lee. Last season, Leviston passed for 1,698 yards and 19 touchdowns.
- Kaysen Fisher (Mount Saint Mary): The leader of the Rockets' defense last season with 106 tackles and five sacks.

- Aaron Wolcott (Mannford): Landry Wasson was the key cog for Mannford on offense last season, but now Wolcott will look to build on his 919 yards and six touchdowns on 180 carries last season.
- Billy Ross (Heritage Hall): A situational tailback during his freshman and sophomore years, Ross emerged as a key playmaker for the Chargers in 2017. He had 1,388 yards and 22 touchdowns on 168 carries, and he also caught 31 passes for 380 yards and four touchdowns. Then on defense, he added 49 tackles.

- Cole Crosswhite (Kingfisher): His rushing totals were down last year, but his effectiveness wasn't. Crosswhite is a true dual threat with lightning-quick moves and surprising power packed into his smaller frame.

District debriefs

(Note: Class 3A has only four districts for the 2018 and 2019 seasons.)

3A-1: Things could get interesting here. First off, there's Heritage Hall, who faced limited resistance en route to a 14-0 season and the 4A title in 2017. The Chargers drop down a class and now share district space with the reigning 3A champion, John Marshall. Then mix in a solid Kingfisher team and 3A-1 offers up plenty of intrigue from start to finish. Also vying for the 3A-1 crown the next two seasons will be Blackwell, Bridge Creek, Mount Saint Mary, Mannford and Perkins-Tryon.

3A-2: Shades of 3A-4 from the last couple of seasons. Sulphur and Plainview will again clash for district supremacy, and they're once again joined by Pauls Valley and Lone Grove. Bethel, Douglass, Purcell and Marlow round out the rest of the district.

3A-3: Break out the gas card for this group of eight, which spans from the far southeast corner of the state up through east Tulsa. Idabel, Stigler and Roland all stick together in the move from 3A-8. The rest includes a mixture of Checotah, Seminole, Okmulgee, Webster and Lincoln Christian.

3A-4: Berryhill, Claremore Sequoyah and Verdigris will all be familiar with one another, while Inola, Locust Grove and Jay move in from 3A-7. Then there's Cascia Hall and Vinita who both shift down from Class 4A.

What’s new? (coaching moves)

- Dusty Raper is now in charge at Pauls Valley, taking the place of Matt Weber.

- Speaking of Matt Weber, he's now in charge at Marlow.

- Former Roland coach Jeff Streun left, and assistant coach Waymon Potts was elevated to head coach.

- Tragedy struck Okmulgee in the offseason when head coach Carl Lee died due to complications with kidney cancer. The Bulldogs' new head coach is Bruce Munden, who was recently the head coach at Hale.

- Dennis Parker retired at Idabel, and Jeffrey Gibson is now the head coach.

- Matt Hennesy led a resurgence at Locust Grove, and he took over at Pawhuska this summer. Now David Blevins is the head coach for the Pirates.

- Rob Gilbreath spent eight seasons as the head coach at Claremore, and now he's back in Claremore again -- this time as the head coach at Claremore Sequoyah.

Fun facts:

- Brett Bogert took over for his dad, Andy, prior to the 2015 season. In three years at the helm for the Chargers, Brett Bogert is 40-1 -- the only loss being a quarterfinal setback against Cascia Hall in 2016.

- Cascia Hall head coach Joe Medina has been in charge of the midtown Tulsa school since 1999. During that time, Medina has gone 202-39.

Prediction time

Swisher - You know about Kingfisher's Trey Green and his basketball exploits. You'll read more about him and football this year | Captain Obvious: 3A-1 is a bit top-heavy | Defending champ John Marshall lost a lot of talent and its OC, but coaches tell me they don't expect a huge drop-off on the field | The class is loaded with quality teams. Maybe not "great" teams, but really good ones that will make the top-10 tough to pick each week | I can't go against Heritage Hall until someone beats the Chargers. Tough pre-district schedule will help prepare them for two anticipated district games and then a strong playoff run.

Whitt Carter - Sulphur's Trey Kiser is Oklahoma's best-kept secret | No, seriously. He might just be the best player in the class | Although 3A looks much different now, the smaller-sized class is loaded with good teams | And it's even tougher with the addition of Heritage Hall and Cascia Hall, both down from Class 4A | Familiar programs like Kingfisher, Lincoln Christian, Berryhill and Plainview will certainly be tough to beat | But can anyone beat the aforementioned Chargers? | They won it all in a class above last year and are the clear favorite to win their fourth state title in five years.

Ben - Yowza, 3A-1 is loaded at the top -- of course, like Swisher said, that's plainly obvious | Sulphur will lay low and rack up victory after victory and then start wrecking havoc on the rest of the field come playoff time | Always feel like Mike Snyder and Seminole are overlooked, and I'm guilty of that nearly every year. But shocker, the Chieftains will be good yet again | Lincoln Christian's statkeeper will be one of the hardest-working individuals on Friday nights this season | Cascia Hall returns to 3A and wins District 4 | Going chalk here with Heritage Hall to win the 3A crown. No reason to doubt Brett Bogert, so why start now?

Guest picker - Hall of Fame coach Randy Turney - Gotta go with Heritage Hall here.

*Photos courtesy of Joey Johnson & Russell Stitt