Tonkawa Buccaneers
Tonkawa, OK 74653
Record: 0-0 | Unranked
 | @ Morrison | 1/28 6:30PM |
Week 1 - OKpreps Standouts
| 
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 5 rankings
| Ben Johnson
(___) - previously ranked
Class 6AI
1. Owasso (1) - 4-02. Broken Arrow (2) - 3-1
3. Union (3) - 1-3
4. Jenks (4) - 1-3
5. PC North (5) - 4-0
6. Norman (6) - 4-0
7. Westmoore (7) - 4-0
8. Moore (9) - 2-2
9. Edmond Santa Fe (10) - 3-1
10. Mustang (8) - 2-2
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1) - 4-02. Stillwater (2) - 4-0
3. Booker T. Washington (4) - 2-2
4. Del City (5) - 3-1
5. Sapulpa (3) - 3-1
6. Muskogee (7) - 4-0
7. Choctaw (6) - 2-2
8. Midwest City (9) - 2-2
9. Lawton (8) - 3-1
10. Ponca City (10) - 2-2
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1) - 4-02. Bishop McGuinness (2) - 3-1
3. Edison (4) - 3-1
4. Bishop Kelley (5) - 2-2
5. Tahlequah (6) - 4-0
6. Collinsville (7) - 3-1
7. El Reno (8) - 4-0
8. Duncan (3) - 2-1
9. Pryor (9) - 3-1
10. Piedmont (NR) - 3-1
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1) - 4-0
2. Tuttle (2) - 4-0
3. Wagoner (3) - 3-1
4. Weatherford (5) - 3-1
5. Poteau (6) - 3-1
6. Bristow (7) - 3-1
7. Broken Bow (8) - 3-1
8. Clinton (4) - 2-2
9. Central (NR) - 4-0
10. Cache (NR) - 2-2
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1) - 3-02. Lincoln Christian (2) - 4-0
3. Plainview (3) - 2-1
4. John Marshall (4) - 4-0
5. Berryhill (5) - 4-0
6. Sulphur (6) - 4-0
7. Perkins-Tryon (7) - 4-0
8. Lone Grove (8) - 4-0
9. Seminole (NR) - 3-1
10. Stigler (9) - 3-1
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (1) - 4-02. Sperry (2) - 4-0
3. Vian (3) - 3-1
4. Millwood (4) - 3-1
5. Holland Hall (5) - 3-1
6. Washington (6) - 4-0
7. Jones (7) - 3-1
8. Beggs (9) - 3-1
9. Kingston (10) - 3-1
10. Adair (8) - 4-0
Class A
1. Cashion (1) - 4-02. Stroud (2) - 4-0
3. Pawhuska (3) - 5-0
4. Rejoice Christian (4) - 4-0
5. Thomas (6) - 4-1
6. Pawnee (8) - 4-0
7. Minco (9) - 5-0
8. Christian Heritage (7) - 4-1
9. Colcord (10) - 4-0
10. Tonkawa (5) - 4-1
Class B
1. Shattuck (1) - 4-02. Regent Prep (2) - 4-0
3. Cherokee (3) - 4-0
4. Davenport (4) - 3-1
5. Dewar (5) - 4-0
6. Burns Flat-Dill City (7) - 3-1
7. Laverne (8) - 3-1
8. Weleetka (6) - 2-2
9. Canadian (9) - 4-0
10. Snyder (NR) - 4-0
Class C
1. Southwest Covenant (1) - 3-02. Pond Creek-Hunter (2) - 4-0
3. Tyrone (4) - 4-0
4. Covington-Douglas (5) - 3-2
5. Maysville (6) - 4-0
6. Coyle (7) - 3-1
7. Midway (8) - 5-0
8. Boise City (9) - 4-0
9. Graham-Dustin (10) - 3-1
10. Buffalo (3) - 3-1
WEEK 4 PICKS
| Ben Johnson
Swisher is still in the lead, and blah blah blah. Whitt and I need to step it up
Week 3 picks
Michael Swisher - 9-6
Whitt Carter - 12-3
Ben Johnson - 13-2
Overall standings
Michael Swisher - 46-13
Whitt Carter - 41-18
Ben Johnson - 43-16
Broken Arrow at Jenks
Swisher: Broken Arrow
Whitt: Broken Arrow
Ben: Broken Arrow
Union at Owasso
Swisher: Owasso
Whitt: Owasso
Ben: Owasso
Del City at Choctaw
Swisher: Del City
Whitt: Del City
Ben: Del City
Sapulpa at Bixby
Swisher: Bixby
Whitt: Bixby
Ben: Bixby
Claremore at Collinsville
Swisher: Claremore
Whitt: Collinsville
Ben: Claremore
Elgin at Weatherford
Swisher: Elgin
Whitt: Elgin
Ben: Weatherford
Bethel at Sulphur
Swisher: Sulphur
Whitt: Sulphur
Ben: Sulphur
Cascia Hall at Verdigris
Swisher: Verdigris
Whitt: Cascia Hall
Ben: Verdigris
Lincoln Christian at Stigler
Swisher: Lincoln Christian
Whitt: Lincoln Christian
Ben: Lincoln Christian
Metro Christian at Adair
Swisher: Metro Christian
Whitt: Metro Christian
Ben: Metro Christian
Morris at Beggs
Swisher: Beggs
Whitt: Beggs
Ben: Beggs
Vian at Spiro
Swisher: Vian
Whitt: Vian
Ben: Vian
Barnsdall at Pawhuska
Swisher: Pawhuska
Whitt: Pawhuska
Ben: Pawhuska
Christian Heritage at Cashion
Swisher: Cashion
Whitt: Cashion
Ben: Cashion
Hooker at Thomas
Swisher: Thomas
Whitt: Thomas
Ben: Hooker
Tonkawa at Pawnee
Swisher: Tonkawa
Whitt: Tonkawa
Ben: Pawnee
Weleetka at Dewar
Swisher: Dewar
Whitt: Weleetka
Ben: Dewar
Buffalo at Boise City
Swisher: Boise City
Whitt: Buffalo
Ben: Boise City
Graham Dustin at Midway
Swisher: Midway
Whitt: Graham-Dustin
Ben: Midway
Seiling at Cherokee
Swisher: Cherokee
Whitt: Cherokee
Ben: Cherokee
**Photo by David Stacy
WHAT WE'VE LEARNED SO FAR
| Ben Johnson
It’s time for most teams to embark on district games. Let’s take a look at what’s become apparent so far…
Mansfield, Texas teams stink
Everyone hypes up Texas football, but wow, the teams in Mansfield are ……. ungood. I mean, sure, Union lost in one of the only competitive games between five Oklahoma teams and the Mansfield clubs. But I watched Mansfield Legacy with my own eyes, and I watched Jenks to shove it down their throat all game long. That’s all I needed to know about the caliber of teams down there.
6AI runs through Owasso (so far)
We’ll find out who the best team is in 6AI-2 on Friday night, but it appears as though Owasso is on track for its second title in three years. And hot take: If Blankenship wins another title at Owasso, he becomes the best high school football coach this state has ever seen.
Bixby might be the best team in the state
Notice above I said “6AI-2” because the state’s best team could be in 6A Division II. Bixby is that good. If you’ve never watched Brennan Presley or any of his superstar teammates in Bixby, do yourself a favor and go see them before the Spartans’ season ends in another 6AII championship game.
Bishop Kelley has had the worst injury luck so far
The Comets had a chance to stand toe to toe with Carl Albert in Class 5A. Then Bishop Kelley lost defensive lineman Montrell Cozart, receiver Cori Lewis and Oklahoma State commit Zach Middleton to various injuries. Now Bishop Kelley will have to dig deep and grind its way through District 5A-3 until Lewis and Middleton maybe (possibly) come back.
We need to start using common sense when it comes to weather
One coach texted me and was pissed about a having a game cut short due to weather to close out non-district play. Someone happened to let the officials know that lightning was 32 -- THIRTY-TWO -- miles away. That’s outrageous. Look, I get it, safety is the name of the game. But let’s use some common sense. We all live in Oklahoma; we all know how to read radars. Just because you see lightning doesn’t always mean there’s imminent danger. Take the 6AI title game last year …. We endured a long delay and were just about to get back to the game when a stray lightning strike flashed east of Tulsa. There was no chance it was coming back toward Chapman Stadium, and yet, the clock was reset to 30 minutes before teams could warm up. All I’m asking for is some common sense to be applied.
Sam Brandt & Asher Link need to be getting more attention
Mason Williams is putting up silly numbers at Bixby, but there’s plenty of QB talent around. Sam Brandt is a menace on both sides of the ball for Bethany, and Asher Link has Metro Christian in position to be the favorite in 2A. More college coaches should be taking notice in these guys.
Dorian Plumley could lead El Reno to special things
If El Reno’s junior quarterback were two inches taller, college coaches would be knocking down his door. Some things never change on the recruiting trail.
Dae Dae Leathers might be the best RB you don’t know about
Dominic Richardson, Sevion Morrison, Qwontrel Walker and Tristan Truelove are notable running backs in this state, but Leathers is putting up solid numbers every week in far eastern Oklahoma.
Bristow & Mannford have a fantastic rivalry trophy
The Battle for the Boat trophy played for between the two Keystone Lake rivals KICKS ASS!
Heritage Hall remains good
Take a moment, allow the shock to wear off. OK, let’s continue….
Mike Snyder is about to be the king of coaching in Oklahoma
Might not be another guy in the state who remains so quiet and just continues to get the job done. And he’s a win shy of tying the state’s record for all-time coaching wins.
Classes 2A & A are extremely deep
As many as a dozen teams (if not more) could win the gold balls in 2A or A.
A really good team from District A-5 will miss the playoffs
Pawhuska, Barnsdall, Pawnee and Tonkawa are all unbeaten. Hominy is 3-1 and Morrison is 2-2. Only four of these teams will escape A-5 and venture into the playoffs. Buckle up!
WEEK 4 RANKINGS
| Ben Johnson
(____) - previous rank
Week 3 scoreboard
6AI
6AII
5A
4A
3A
2A
A
B
C
Class 6AI
1. Owasso (1) - 3-0
2. Broken Arrow (2) - 2-1
3. Union (3) - 1-2
4. Jenks (4) - 1-2
5. PC North (5) - 3-0
6. Norman (6) - 3-0
7. Westmoore (7) - 3-0
8. Mustang (8) - 2-1
9. Moore (9) - 1-2
10. Edmond Santa Fe (10) - 2-1
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1) - 3-0
2. Stillwater (2) - 3-0
3. Sapulpa (3) - 3-0
4. Booker T. Washington (4) - 1-2
5. Del City (6) - 2-1
6. Choctaw (5) - 2-1
7. Muskogee (7) - 3-0
8. Lawton (9) - 3-0
9. Midwest City (8) - 1-2
10. Ponca City (10) - 2-1
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1) - 3-0
2. Bishop McGuinness (2) - 2-1
3. Duncan (3) - 2-0
4. Edison (4) - 2-1
5. Bishop Kelley (5) - 1-2
6. Tahlequah (6) - 3-0
7. Collinsville (7) - 2-1
8. El Reno (NR) - 3-0
9. Pryor (NR) - 2-1
10. Claremore (8) - 1-2
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1) - 3-0
2. Tuttle (2) - 3-0
3. Wagoner (3) - 2-1
4. Clinton (4) - 2-1
5. Weatherford (5) - 2-1
6. Poteau (7) - 2-1
7. Bristow (8) - 2-1
8. Broken Bow (9) - 2-1
9. Elgin (10) - 1-1
10. Hilldale (NR) - 2-1
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1) - 2-0
2. Lincoln Christian (2) - 3-0
3. Plainview (3) - 1-1
4. John Marshall (4) - 3-0
5. Berryhill (5) - 3-0
6. Sulphur (6) - 3-0
7. Perkins-Tryon (7) - 3-0
8. Lone Grove (9) - 3-0
9. Stigler (10) - 3-0
10. Kingfisher (8) - 1-2
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (1) - 3-0
2. Sperry (2) - 3-0
3. Vian (4) - 2-1
4. Millwood (5) - 2-1
5. Holland Hall (3) - 2-1
6. Washington (7) - 3-0
7. Jones (9) - 2-1
8. Adair (10) - 3-0
9. Beggs (6) - 2-1
10. Kingston (8) - 2-1
Class A
1. Cashion (1) - 3-0
2. Stroud (2) - 3-0
3. Pawhuska (3) - 4-0
4. Rejoice Christian (4) - 3-0
5. Tonkawa (5) - 4-0
6. Thomas (6) - 3-1
7. Christian Heritage (7) - 4-0
8. Pawnee (8) - 3-0
9. Minco (9) - 4-0
10. Colcord (NR) - 3-0
Class B
1. Shattuck (1) - 3-0
2. Regent Prep (2) - 3-0
3. Cherokee (3) - 3-0
4. Davenport (4) - 2-1
5. Dewar (7) - 3-0
6. Weleetka (8) - 2-1
7. Burns Flat-Dill City (NR) - 3-1
8. Laverne (5) - 2-1
9. Canadian (NR) - 3-0
10. Seiling (NR) - 4-0
Class C
1. Southwest Covenant (1) - 2-0
2. Pond Creek-Hunter (2) - 3-0
3. Buffalo (3) - 3-0
4. Tyrone (4) - 3-0
5. Covington-Douglas (5) - 2-2
6. Maysville (7) - 3-0
7. Coyle (8) - 2-1
8. Midway (9) - 4-0
9. Boise City (10) - 3-0
10. Graham-Dustin (NR) - 3-0
**Photo credit: Von Castor / Von Castor Photography
WEEK 3 Rankings
| Ben Johnson
(___) - previous rank
Week 2 scoreboard
6AI
6AII
5A
4A
3A
2A
A
B
C
Class 6AI
1. Owasso (2)
2. Broken Arrow (1)
3. Union (3)
4. Jenks (4)
5. PC North (5)
6. Norman (6)
7. Westmoore (8)
8. Mustang (9)
9. Moore (10)
10. Edmond Santa Fe (7)
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1)
2. Stillwater (2)
3. Sapulpa (3)
4. Booker T. Washington (3)
5. Choctaw (6)
6. Del City (4)
7. Muskogee (8)
8. Midwest City (7)
9. Lawton (9)
10. Ponca City (NR)
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1)
2. Bishop McGuinness (2)
3. Duncan (4)
4. Edison (5)
5. Bishop Kelley (3)
6. Tahlequah (7)
7. Collinsville (6)
8. Claremore (8)
9. Noble (10)
10. Lawton MacArthur (NR)
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1)
2. Tuttle (5)
3. Wagoner (2)
4. Clinton (3)
5. Weatherford (4)
6. Blanchard (6)
7. Poteau (8)
8. Bristow (7)
9. Broken Bow (9)
10. Elgin (NR)
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1)
2. Lincoln Christian (2)
3. Plainview (3)
4. John Marshall (5)
5. Berryhill (4)
6. Sulphur (6)
7. Perkins-Tryon (8)
8. Kingfisher (9)
9. Lone Grove (NR)
10. Stigler (NR)
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (1)
2. Sperry (2)
3. Holland Hall (4)
4. Vian (3)
5. Millwood (5)
6. Beggs (6)
7. Washington (7)
8. Kingston (8)
9. Jones (9)
10. Adair (10)
Class A
1. Cashion (1)
2. Stroud (2)
3. Pawhuska (4)
4. Rejoice Christian (5)
5. Tonkawa (6)
6. Thomas (3)
7. Christian Heritage (7)
8. Pawnee (9)
9. Minco (10)
10. Morrison (8)
Class B
1. Shattuck (1)
2. Regent Prep (2)
3. Cherokee (3)
4. Davenport (4)
5. Laverne (5)
6. Keota (6)
7. Dewar (7)
8. Weleetka (8)
9. Snyder (9)
10. Seiling (NR)
Class C
1. Southwest Covenant (1)
2. Pond Creek-Hunter (2)
3. Buffalo (3)
4. Tyrone (5)
5. Covington-Douglas (4)
6. Tipton (6)
7. Maysville (7)
8. Coyle (8)
9. Midway (9)
10. Boise City (10)
Photo cred: Byron Beers/Tahlequah Daily Press
Week 2 rankings
| Ben Johnson
(__) - previous rank - Week 1 result
Class 6AI
1. Broken Arrow (1) - Beat Union, 14-0
2. Owasso (3) - Beat Fayetteville (Ark.), 51-19
3. Union (2) - Lost to Broken Arrow, 14-0
4. Jenks (4) - Lost to Bixby, 57-7
5. PC North (5) - Beat Putnam City, 50-0
6. Norman (6) - Beat Norman North, 31-24
7. Edmond Santa Fe (7) - Beat Edmond North, 41-14
8. Westmoore (9) - Beat Moore, 44-35
9. Mustang (10) - Beat Yukon, 38-0
10. Moore (8) - Lost to Westmoore, 44-35
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1) - Beat Jenks, 57-7
2. Stillwater (2) - Beat Edmond Memorial, 42-7
3. Booker T. Washington (3) - Beat Bishop Kelley, 33-14
4. Del City (4) - Beat Bishop McGuinness, 20-17
5. Sapulpa (5) - Beat Edison, 21-13
6. Choctaw (7) - idle
7. Midwest City (6) - Lost to Carl Albert, 31-0
8. Muskogee (8) - Beat McAlester, 43-7
9. Lawton (9) - Beat Burkburnett (Texas), 56-21
10. Deer Creek (NR) - Beat Southmoore, 45-14
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1) - Beat Midwest City, 31-0
2. Bishop McGuinness (4) - Lost to Del City, 20-17
3. Bishop Kelley (2) - Lost to Booker T. Washington, 33-14
4. Duncan (7) - Beat Putnam West, 59-35
5. Edison (5) - Lost to Sapulpa, 21-13
6. Collinsville (3) - Lost to Oologah, 13-12
7. Tahlequah (8) - Beat Fort Gibson, 42-21
8. Claremore (10) - Beat Bartlesville, 40-28
9. Guthrie (6) - Lost to Shawnee, 33-23
10. Noble (NR) - Beat Newcastle, 41-12
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1) - Beat Elk City, 41-20
2. Wagoner (3) - Beat Coweta, 36-27
3. Clinton (4) - Beat Woodward, 49-14
4. Weatherford (5) - idle
5. Tuttle (6) - Beat Kingfisher, 41-18
6. Blanchard (2) - Lost to Elgin, 35-20
7. Bristow (7) - Beat Cushing, 19-16
8. Poteau (8) - Beat Durant, 40-13
9. Broken Bow (9) - Beat Idabel, 41-0
10. Cache (NR) - idle
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1) - Beat Millwood, 34-0
2. Lincoln Christian (2) - Beat Jones, 49-14
3. Plainview (3) - bye
4. Berryhill (4) - Beat Mannford, 35-7
5. John Marshall (5) - Beat Classen SAS, 48-0
6. Sulphur (6) - Beat Madill, 49-21
7. Seminole (8) - Beat Harrah, 40-8
8. Perkins-Tryon (10) - Beat Hennessey, 35-0
9. Kingfisher (7) - Lost to Tuttle, 41-18
10. Cascia Hall (9) - Lost to Holland Hall, 28-7
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (2) - idle
2. Sperry (3) - Beat Verdigris, 49-13
3. Vian (4) - Beat Eufaula, 14-2
4. Holland Hall (5) - Beat Cascia Hall, 28-7
5. Millwood (1) - Lost to Heritage Hall, 34-0
6. Beggs (7) - Beat Okmulgee, 39-0
7. Washington (8) - Beat Hobart, 42-7
8. Kingston (9) - Beat Hugo, 44-22
9. Jones (6) - Lost to Lincoln Christian, 49-14
10. Adair (NR) - Beat Commerce, 46-16
Class A
1. Cashion (1) - Beat Prague, 28-0
2. Stroud (2) - Beat Okemah, 40-38
3. Thomas (3) - Beat Newkirk, 41-0
4. Pawhuska (4) - Beat Okla. Union, 60-18
5. Rejoice Christian (5) - Beat Crossings Christian, 48-6
6. Tonkawa (6) - Beat Newkirk, 41-0
7. Christian Heritage (7) - Beat Mount Saint Mary, 30-7
8. Morrison (9) - Beat Crescent, 24-10
9. Pawnee (10) - idle
10. Minco (NR) - Beat Dibble, 14-6
Class B
1. Shattuck (1) - Beat Destiny Christian, 44-8
2. Regent Prep (2) - Beat Prue, 53-6
3. Cherokee (4) - Beat South Barber (Kan.), 44-8
4. Davenport (3) - Lost to Weleetka, 32-28
5. Laverne (5) - Beat Alex, 28-22
6. Keota (6) - idle
7. Dewar (7) - Beat Strother, 46-0
8. Weleetka (8) - Beat Davenport, 32-28
9. Snyder (9) - Beat Waukomis, 44-6
10. Wetumka (10) - Beat Depew, 40-6
Class C
1. SW Covenant (1) - Beat Central Marlow, 52-28
2. Pond Creek-Hunter (3) - Beat Kremlin-Hillsdale, 54-0
3. Buffalo (4) - Beat Medford, 40-12
4. Covington-Douglas (6) - Beat Garber, 64-62 (4OT)
5. Tyrone (8) - Beat Turpin, 56-22
6. Tipton (2) - Lost to Burns Flat-Dill City, 54-6
7. Maysville (NR) - Beat Paoli, 52-6
8. Coyle (5) - Lost to Pioneer, 48-20
9. Midway (NR) - Beat Gans, 64-48
10. Boise City (NR) - Beat Beaver, 48-0
Photo credit - David Stacy
CLASS PREVIEWS - 2A through C
| Ben Johnson
Rankings
2A
1. Millwood (1)
2. Metro Christian (2)
3. Sperry (3)
4. Vian (4)
5. Holland Hall (5)
6. Jones (6)
7. Beggs (7)
8. Washington (8)
9. Kingston (9)
10. Eufaula (10)
Class A
1. Cashion (1)
2. Stroud (2)
3. Thomas (3)
4. Pawhuska (4)
5. Rejoice Christian (5)
6. Tonkawa (6)
7. Christian Heritage (7)
8. Crossings Christian (9)
9. Morrison (10)
10. Pawnee (NR)
Class B
1. Shattuck (1)
2. Regent Prep (2)
3. Davenport (3)
4. Cherokee (4)
5. Laverne (5)
6. Keota (6)
7. Dewar (7)
8. Weleetka (8)
9. Snyder (9)
10. Wetumka (10)
Class C
1. SW Covenant (2)
2. Tipton (1)
3. Pond Creek-Hunter (3)
4. Buffalo (4)
5. Coyle (5)
6. Covington-Douglas (6)
7. Fox (7)
8. Tyrone (8)
9. Sharon-Mutual (9)
10. Medford (10)
Our best guess(es)…
Class 2A
Michael Swisher: Vian - I could be way off on this one, but I’m going with a wildcard. Sperry dominated everyone in the playoffs and will be salty on defense. Metro will have the flashy offense. Both of them are great picks. I’ll take Vian, which is a steady force year in and year out.
Whitt Carter: Metro Christian - This class is wide open. Millwood will certainly have a say and I think Jones and Adair will be very good by year’s end, but I’ll go with the Patriots, who have some key pieces back including quarterback Asher Link.
Ben Johnson: Metro Christian - If the Patriots’ defense is solid, Metro Christian could be hard to beat with Asher Link leading the charge.
Class A
Michael Swisher: Cashion - The Wildcats have been good - really good - some years, but so unlucky. Other years they’ve caught some breaks, but maybe weren’t as good as the best in the class. This could be the year for Shack and the ‘Cats. He returns 21 starters from a team that won the toughest district in the class a year ago and went unbeaten in the regular season. If they stay healthy and Harman is at least productive at QB, they’ll be tough to top.
Whitt Carter: Ringling - (from the editor’s desk)… Whitt originally had Cashion. Then he got some inside intel that Ringling is really good. That’s the pick.
Ben Johnson: Stroud - I’ll go with the Elerick family to get it done and win a title this season.
Class B
Michael Swisher: Regent Prep - It’s really tough to pick against Shattuck, which just knows how to win in November and December, including last year’s 42-26 victory over Regent in last year’s title game. However, nobody will put more talent on the field than Regent this year and it will equate into a state title.
Whitt Carter: Shattuck - If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I have learned in previous years to basically auto pick these guys to win it all. Although there are some teams that can challenge, it won’t be enough.
Ben Johnson: Regent Prep - (insert what Swisher said right here)
Class C
Michael Swisher: Tipton - See Class 5A and Class 3A. Not picking against Tipton. @me,
Whitt Carter: Southwest Covenant - Crazy not to go with Tipton, but the talent coming back on offense for SW Covenant is unreal. I think that’s enough to knock off the big bad Tigers and win it all.
Ben Johnson: SW Covenant - Tipton can’t win them all. Might as well go with the Patriots.
WEEK 1 RANKINGS
| Ben Johnson
Class 6AI
1. Broken Arrow (2)
2. Union (1)
3. Owasso (3)
4. Jenks (4)
5. PC North (5)
6. Norman (6)
7. Edmond Santa Fe (7)
8. Moore (8)
9. Westmoore (9)
10. Mustang (10)
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1)
2. Stillwater (2)
3. Booker T. Washington (3)
4. Del City (4)
5. Sapulpa (5)
6. Midwest City (6)
7. Choctaw (7)
8. Muskogee (8)
9. Lawton (9)
10. Bartlesville (10)
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1)
2. Bishop Kelley (2)
3. Collinsville (3)
4. Bishop McGuinness (4)
5. Edison (5)
6. Guthrie (6)
7. Duncan (7)
8. Tahlequah (8)
9. Ardmore (9)
10. Claremore (10)
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1)
2. Blanchard (2)
3. Wagoner (3)
4. Clinton (4)
5. Weatherford (5)
6. Tuttle (6)
7. Bristow (7)
8. Poteau (8)
9. Broken Bow (9)
10. Cache (NR)
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1)
2. Lincoln Christian (2)
3. Plainview (3)
4. Berryhill (4)
5. John Marshall (5)
6. Sulphur (6)
7. Kingfisher (7)
8. Seminole (8)
9. Cascia Hall (9)
10. Perkins-Tryon (10)
Class 2A
1. Millwood (1)
2. Metro Christian (2)
3. Sperry (3)
4. Vian (4)
5. Holland Hall (5)
6. Jones (6)
7. Beggs (7)
8. Washington (8)
9. Kingston (9)
10. Eufaula (10)
Class A
1. Cashion (1)
2. Stroud (2)
3. Thomas (3)
4. Pawhuska (4)
5. Rejoice Christian (5)
6. Tonkawa (6)
7. Christian Heritage (7)
8. Crossings Christian (9)
9. Morrison (10)
10. Pawnee (NR)
Class B
1. Shattuck (1)
2. Regent Prep (2)
3. Davenport (3)
4. Cherokee (4)
5. Laverne (5)
6. Keota (6)
7. Dewar (7)
8. Weleetka (8)
9. Snyder (9)
10. Wetumka (10)
Class C
1. SW Covenant (2)
2. Tipton (1)
3. Pond Creek-Hunter (3)
4. Buffalo (4)
5. Coyle (5)
6. Covington-Douglas (6)
7. Fox (7)
8. Tyrone (8)
9. Sharon-Mutual (9)
10. Medford (10)
*** Big thanks to Caleb Williams, whose work is the cover photo for this post. Check out his work here: https://www.photosbycaleb.com/
Andrew Crow commits to OU
| Ben Johnson
Brent Marley worked tirelessly to circulate Andrew Crow’s game film. Rejoice Christian’s head coach wanted Crow, his star running back and defensive back, to receive the attention he was due.
It finally paid off Wednesday.
Crow’s accomplishments landed in the lap of Drew Hill, director of player personnel at the University of Oklahoma. From there, it didn’t take much time for OU to extend an invitation Crow’s way.
Now Crow will head to Norman in the fall, tweeting his commitment to the Sooners on Wednesday.
XXJANKEINS
“After countless phone calls from several people, mainly Coach Marley, I was able to get my film, state and accomplishments in front of Coach Hill and the staff at OU,” Crow told Skordle. “(Hill) contacted me after, and we went from there.”
Crow will serve as a walk-on for the Sooners, but it’s the goal Crow had in place all throughout his senior year at the small private school in Owasso.
“Playing at OU has always been a dream of mine,” said Crow, who rushed for 2,620 yards and 48 touchdowns his senior year. “I can’t put into words how blessed I am to be able to play at such an amazing program, and I think I’ll be able to show my skill set and make an impression when the opportunity comes.”
All of it is pretty remarkable, considering a harrowing night Crow endured in November. During the week leading up to Rejoice Christian’s Class A semifinal matchup with Christian Heritage, Crow was in a car accident that left his vehicle totaled.
Crow was able to play, but the soreness was palpable throughout the entire game against the Crusaders.
“The car wreck was very traumatic, and I still can’t believe I walked away from the crash unharmed that night,” Crow said. “I just kept trusting God that if football was meant to be in my future then it would be and he provided.”
Crow will head to OU after helping the Eagles’ basketball team with the 2A state championship. But when asked to quantify where the OU commitment ranks, Crow said it stands in a category by itself.
“It’s hard to compare this one,” he said. “My teammates and coaches were always a huge reason for my high school awards. This is an amazing accomplishment, for sure, so I feel like it’s the cherry on top to finish out my amazing high school career.”
PODCAST: Summer is coming
| Ben Johnson
It's that time of year again. Summertime has arrived, and high school sports fans are left waiting for more games in August. But fear not! The Publics and Privates OKpreps Podcast will help get you through the slow months.
This week the guys recap some state tournament baseball, including Edmond Santa Fe and Pryor winning titles for the first time for both programs. The guys also look back on the memorable moments from the 2018-2019 athletic season, including some cross country, football, basketball and much more.
The podcast closes out with Swisher breaking down this week's Skordle Shootout in Cushing. A solid field of small school hoopsters will be at Cushing Middle School, and Swisher gives you all the details you need to stop by and watch some basketball.
We'd welcome your feedback! Tweet at us - @michaelswisher & @benjohnsontul
SKORDLE ALL-STATE: Small school team and top honors
| Ben Johnson
Putting together an All-State team sounds like fun and games, but when you start narrowing down the field, you hate yourself for leaving off a player here or a player there. Trust me when I say it was not pleasant leaving off guys like Lincoln Christian’s Chase Ricke, Metro Christian’s Asher Link or Fairview’s Kade Dillard on the small school All-State list.
For the small school team, it consists of players in Class 3A through Class C. Each class also had a designated Player of the Year, Offensive MVP and Defensive MVP.
The teams were chosen by those who covered high school football for Skordle all year long: Michael Swisher, Whitt Carter and myself (Ben Johnson).
And ps, there’s some hope in doing a podcast here before too long to discuss the thought process and how we ended up picking the teams. As for now, check out this year’s small school selections…
Class superlatives
Class 3A
Player of the Year: CONNER CAREY (Heritage Hall) - A receiver by trade throughout most of his varsity career, Carey was called upon to switch to running back for his senior season. And he passed the test with flying colors. At 5 feet, 11 inches and 195 pounds, Carey rushed for 1,844 yards and 32 touchdowns on 204 carries. While leading the Chargers to another championship, Carey accounted for 163 yards on the ground and five touchdowns (four rushing, one receiving). On offense, Carey finished with 2,002 yards rushing and 1,315 yards receiving and 48 combined touchdowns. Carey was also a key contributor on defense during his senior season with 57 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions.
Heritage Hall coach Brett Bogert: “Conner had one of the best individual all-around seasons by a Charger since I’ve been coaching here. He broke (Wes) Welker’s single-season touchdown record! It was awesome to watch him grow as a player and leader while excelling on the big stage this season. We will miss him.”
Offensive MVP: JETT STERNBERGER (Kingfisher) - Despite missing two games, the Yellowjackets quarterback propelled Kingfisher all the way to the 3A semifinals. Sternberger, little brother of Texas A&M star Jace Sternberger, crushed opponents on the ground and through the air during his senior campaign. He completed 180 of 270 passes for 2,411 yards and 33 touchdowns and only five interceptions. He also ran for 481 yards and 13 touchdowns on 127 carries.
Kingfisher coach Jeff Myers: “Jett has been a tremendous asset to us the last two years. His ability to run our offense has been a big reason for our success. Add in the injuries and changes we’ve endured at running back and offensive line, and his performances are even more impressive. We will certainly miss his presence as a player and a leader next year.”
Defensive MVP: TREY KISER (Sulphur) - One of the state’s best two-way players in 2018, Kiser was a standout at 6 feet, 200 pounds. On defense, Kiser racked up 131 tackles and eight sacks for a Sulphur defense that yielded only 16.9 points per game. Kiser was also one of the state’s best ball carriers with 2,572 yards and 39 touchdowns on 293 carries. He even set a new Sulphur record with 403 yards on just 15 carries in the Bulldogs’ win over rival Davis on Sept. 7.
Sulphur coach Jim Dixon: “He’s the best player I’ve ever coached. He’s truly as good as anyone I’ve ever coached. I’m really proud of the way he worked every year and his effort each day. And he was very, very blessed with a lot of ability. He’s a great kid and was a heck of a player.”
Class 2A
Player of the Year: BEAU TEEL (Sperry) - A two-year standout for the Pirates, Teel guided Sperry to its first-ever OSSAA championship without a blowout victory over Beggs. Along the way, the senior quarterback passed for 2,305 yards and 23 touchdowns while completing 133 of 233 passes. At 6-foot-1, 185 pounds, Teel accounted for 31 tackles, two sacks and an interception at linebacker. He polished off his career with 10,046 total yards through the air (7,635) and on the ground (2,411).
Sperry coach Robert Park: “State champion quarterback for the Sperry Pirates. Nobody else can say that.”
Offensive MVP: RYAN JOHNSON (Metro Christian) - Was the closest thing to a 1,000-yard rusher and 1,000-yard receiver in Oklahoma during the 2018 season, right alongside Heritage Hall’s Billy Ross Jr. Johnson was a nightmare for opposing defenses with 2,036 yards and 28 touchdowns on 184 carries. He also hauled in 47 passes from quarterback Asher Link for 609 yards and five touchdowns. And just for the heck of it, he completed 4 of 5 passes for 70 yards and two touchdowns. Johnson helped spark the Patriots to a 2A semifinal run, which ended with a loss to eventual runner-up Beggs.
Metro Christian coach Jared McCoy: “He’s a great player. His best games were against our best competition and he did whatever he had to do to help us win. He averaged over 100 yard rushing and 100 yards receiving in our four playoff games. His kind of stats are really difficult to attain while operating in a pass-first offense where our quarterback also led 11-man football in passing yards. Ryan also had two late interceptions against Broken Bow to help us win that game and a couple of key tackles on defense in the playoffs that helped us beat Jones and Washington. I’m most proud of the type of young man Ryan is. He’s a 4.0 student that’s loved by his teachers, coaches and fellow students. He’s extremely gifted, yet very grounded and humble for the way God has gifted him.”
Defensive MVP: RIVER SIMON (Vian) - Perhaps the hardest postseason superlative to hand out goes to a soon-to-be West Point cadet. The Army signee is another in a long line of Simon standouts at Vian. The 6-foot, 215-pound middle linebacker guided the Wolverines to the 2A quarterfinals, thanks to 128 tackles and eight sacks to cap off his senior season. “He was really, really good,” an opposing 2A coach said. “A great linebacker and one of the best tacklers I have seen.” On offense, he rushed for 466 yards and scored 11 touchdowns, and he even graded at 92 percent while blocking at tight end.
Vian coach Gary Willis: “Toughest- and hardest-working player that I’ve ever coached. He’s played through a lot of pain throughout his high school career.”
Class A
Player of the Year: ZACH HALE (Christian Heritage) - The Crusaders had themselves a solid regular season, and they capped it off with a win over Crescent to steal the No. 4 spot in District A-3. That’s when the real fun started for Christian Heritage. While captivating the state as postseason darlings, the Crusaders knocked off Ringling, Thomas, Stroud and Rejoice Christian on their way finishing as Class A runners-up to Tonkawa. And leading the charge was Hale, a two-way standout at quarterback and free safety. Hale finished the season with 2,638 yards and 33 touchdowns while completing 193 of 309 passes, and he also ran for 867 yards and 11 touchdowns. On defense, he amassed 202 tackles, including 73 in the playoffs. Hale also finished his senior season with one sack and eight interceptions.
Offensive MVP: JACOB BRUCE (Hulbert) - When you finish as the state’s leading rusher for a season, you’re probably due for some accolades. When you re-write the state’s record book for rushing yards, you’re guaranteed some postseason shine. And that’s what Bruce did in 2018, finishing his senior season with 3,268 yards and 41 touchdowns on 306 carries. He capped his career with 8,586 yards, which is 143 more than the previous record holder, Luther’s Larry Dupree (8,443). Bruce also scored on two kickoff returns this season while averaging 28.6 yards per return. For good measure, he added 57 tackles and five interceptions on defense.
Defensive MVP: SIMEON SHEPARD (Tonkawa) - In a district full of offensive stalwarts, Tonkawa used defense to win the District A-5 crown -- and eventually the Class A championship. The Buccaneers gave up more than 20 points only twice, and neither one of the occurrences surfaced in the postseason. And all the while, Shepard was leading the way as the Bucs’ leading tackler, alongside fellow defensive star Braydon Hampton. Shepard’s impressive senior season included 176 tackles, 27 sacks/tackles for loss, four interceptions, including to returns for touchdowns (69 and 48 yards).
Class B
Player of the Year: GATLIN GOODSON (Shattuck) - Leading the Indians to their second consecutive title -- and third in four years -- was Goodson, who did it all for Shattuck. The senior quarterback rushed for 1,760 yards and 31 touchdowns on 124 carries. He passed on occasion and finished with 441 yards and nine touchdowns while completing 21 of 37 attempts. At free safety, he recorded 72 tackles and three interceptions.
Offensive MVP: BRADEN GILBERT (Regent Prep) - Only two other passers in the history of Oklahoma high school football have had better seasons, yardage-wise, than what Gilbert put forth for the Rams. Gilbert passed for 4,065 yards and 63 touchdowns this season, and settled just behind Locust Grove’s Mason Fine (5,006 in 2014 and 4,227 in 2015) and Norman North’s Brandon Marquardt (4,609 in 2016). Gilbert’s 63 touchdowns were third-best in a single season, and he completed 195 of 328 passes along the way. The junior quarterback also rushed 105 times for 555 yards and 14 touchdowns while leading the Rams to the Class B title game.
Defensive MVP: JAXSON WALKER (Davenport) - The junior middle linebacker made sure life was miserable for opposing offenses throughout the 2018 season. The Bulldogs gave up only 11.5 points per game prior to losing to Shattuck in the Class B semifinals, and leading the way was Walker with 98 tackles, one sack and two interceptions.
Class C
Player of the Year: SEMAJ MCBRIDE (Tipton) - The Tigers’ dynamic ball carrier finished off his varsity career by guiding Tipton to its third consecutive championship. And to help secure the Tigers’ seventh title, McBride took over in the second half of the championship game with 154 rushing yards and two touchdowns while adding in 43 receiving yards and a TD catch. He logged 128 carries for 1,654 yards during his senior campaign, and he hauled in 18 catches for 611 yards. He scored 26 total touchdowns. On defense, he collected 46 tackles, four interceptions and three fumble recoveries.
Offensive MVP: BEN WEBB (Southwest Covenant) - Junior quarterback was instrumental in getting the Patriots to the Class C title game. Capped his year off by completing 109 of 177 passes for 2,130 yards and 40 touchdowns, and he also ran for 374 yards and nine touchdowns on 63 carries.
Defensive MVP: BRYCE WAUGH (Tipton) - Senior defensive end led the Tigers’ defense throughout the season, including five shutout victories throughout the regular season. Waugh was instrumental for the Tigers while coming up with 73 tackles, five sacks and three interceptions.
SMALL SCHOOL ALL-STATE TEAM
Coach of the Year: ROBERT PARK (Sperry) - He’s spent two decades at Sperry, and in his 20th season Park claimed his first championship with the Pirates. In fact, it was Sperry’s first OSSAA championship with a 35-14 victory over Beggs in the 2A title game. Not bad for a coach of a program who most figured to have no shot at winning the gold ball. That’s because Millwood was the clear frontrunner by most who follow 2A football, but that was all derailed by Vian in the second round. The Pirates may have lost the District 2A-3 crown to Beggs with a Week 10 loss, but the Pirates rebounded and outscored opponents 252 to 55 in the playoffs, including a 56-8 thrashing of Adair to reach the state finals.
Offense
QB: Braden Gilbert (Regent Prep) - Junior quarterback logged the fourth-best season in Oklahoma history, yardage-wise. Threw for 4,065 yards and 63 touchdowns, which is the third-best among single season TD records in the Sooner State.
RB: Andrew Crow (Rejoice Christian) - Senior tailback rushed for 2,554 yards and 43 touchdowns and even had 10 catches for 192 yards and a score.
RB: Jacob Bruce (Hulbert) - Became the state’s all-time leading rusher by churning out 3,268 yards and 44 touchdowns during his senior season. Finished his career with 8,586 yards on the ground.
RB/WR: Ryan Johnson (Metro Christian) - One of the state’s best rushing-receiving players with 2,036 yards and 28 touchdowns on the ground and 47 receptions for 609 yards and five touchdowns through the air during his senior season.
WR: Jack Wright (Regent Prep) - Led the state in receiving as Gilbert’s top target. Junior wideout hauled in 81 catches for 1,840 yards and 34 touchdowns.
WR: Sam Brueggeman (Lincoln Christian) - Was quarterback Chase Ricke’s favorite target in the passing game, and Brueggeman finished with 67 receptions, 1,487 yards and 17 touchdowns during his junior season.
OL: Melvin Swindle (Heritage Hall) - Sophomore offensive lineman paved the way for the Chargers offense, which averaged 39.5 points per game, including 69 and 50 in the 3A semifinals and finals, respectively.
OL: Baylor Christy (Beggs) - Senior Missouri State signee was the key cog on the Golden Demons’ offensive line, which spearheaded Beggs’ efforts in averaging 43.3 points per contest.
OL: Eli Russ (Plainview) - Senior Oklahoma State signee received a 95 percent overall grade for his efforts along the Indians’ offensive front.
OL: Perry Lewis (Millwood) - Junior guard was instrumental in the Falcons averaging 352.3 yards and 48.3 points per game.
OL: Brandon Collier (Cashion) - Junior tackle led the Wildcats’ high-octane offense that posted 375.5 yards and 40.5 points per game.
Defense
DL: Walker Niver (Sperry) - Junior defensive end finished with 80 tackles and 10 sacks for a Pirates defense that only allowed 174 points in 15 games.
DL: Kaavn Green (Crescent) - Senior tackle had 81 tackles, 18 tackles for loss and seven sacks for the Tigers.
DL/LB: Jaden McDaniel (Heritage Hall) - Senior defensive specialist had 100 tackles and 12 sacks.
LB: Zac Anderson (Eufaula) - Finished his career with the Ironheads with 159 tackles and 12 sacks during his senior season.
LB: Trey Kiser (Sulphur) - Senior standout had 131 tackles and eight sacks on defense while also serving as one of the better running backs in the state.
LB: Laike Wilhelm (Newkirk) - Senior collected 129 tackles and two sacks on defense and also turned produced 2,243 yards and 25 touchdowns rushing on offense.
LB: Simeon Sheperd (Tonkawa) - Set a new Tonkawa record with 176 tackles during his senior season. Also had 27 sacks, four interceptions and six fumble recoveries.
DB: Conner Carey (Heritage Hall) - Senior two-way player had 57 tackles, three sacks and two interceptions. Also led the Chargers with 1,844 rushing yards and 32 TDs.
DB: Zach Hale (Christian Heritage) - The Crusaders’ sparkplug through the playoffs who finished off his senior season with 202 tackles, one sack and eight interceptions. Also passed for 2,600-plus yards and 33 touchdowns.
DB: Gatlin Goodson (Shattuck) - Senior free safety had 72 tackles and three interceptions. Also served as quarterback and ran for 17,60 yards during his senior season.
DB: Dawson James (Berryhill) - Sophomore snagged 12 interceptions while also recording 30 tackles for the Chiefs.
Special teams
K: Alex Felkins (Holland Hall) - Columbia signee was the state’s leader with 15 field goals. Senior kicker’s longest in 2018 was 41 yards.
P: Zach Ramay (Fairview) - Senior averaged 39.7 yards per punt for the Yellowjackets in 2018.
KR/PR: DeMariyon Houston (Millwood) - Finished the season with three kickoff returns for 184 yards and one touchdown, and also had four punt returns for 145 yards and a touchdown. Senior wideout also caught 35 passes for 772 yards and 11 TDs.
ATH: Beau Teel (Sperry) - Passed for 2,305 yards and 23 touchdowns and rushed for 14 touchdowns. Senior linebacker also had 31 tackles, two sacks and one interception.
ATH: Jett Sternberger (Kingfisher) - Senior quarterback completed 180 of 270 passes for 2,411 yards and 33 touchdowns. Also ran for 481 yards and 13 touchdowns on the ground.
And let us know what you think. Tweet at Skordle or email Ben Johnson at benjohnsontdp@gmail.com.
*Photo credit: Russell Stitt
CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEWS: CLASSES 2A, A & B
| Ben Johnson
When Sperry and Beggs met the first time this season, it was an extremely emotion affair. News broke the day before the two met that Beggs running back Kayson Tolliver has been gunned down in his bed.
It was as tragic as it gets.
But Beggs opted to play and honor the life that Tolliver had lived. The scene on the field was highly irregular, as Sperry quarterback Beau Teel tells it.
“I can remember being in eighth grade, and Sperry had a player pass away and we had to play Claremore Sequoyah and emotions were so high,” Teel recalled. “That’s how that game was against Beggs.
“Players were crying on the field and everything. Makes you realize that football isn’t the most important thing in the world.”
Now the two teams will meet again -- and emotions will be high again. This time, it’ll be for the Class 2A championship at Owasso Stadium on Thursday.
“It means a lot, but not just to me, but our team and town have been waiting for an opportunity like this for a long time,” Sperry’s Bryce Carter said. “We want to make the most of it.”
Third-ranked Beggs beat Sperry 35-21 on Nov. 2. The Pirates led 14-0 at halftime, but the Golden Demons went on a torrid rally in the second half, including scoring 28 points in the third quarter.
“Our first time playing Beggs made us realize that you have to play your best football for all four quarters,” Teel said. “Beggs is a great second half team that plays with a lot of heart. They know what it takes to win big games. We can not let up any this time around.”
For No. 5 Sperry, it’s the Pirates first appearance in a championship game since 1968. That’s created a considerable amount of buzz around the small town on the western edge of Tulsa County.
“The town is so excited to be in this game,” Teel said. “It’s been over 50 years since this town has been in the championship game, and it’s just really awesome. People we’ve never seen before have started coming out just to watch us play. It’s great.”
Class 2A
No. 5 Sperry (13-1) vs. No. 3 Beggs (13-1)
Where: Owasso Stadium (Owasso High School)
Road to the title game
- Sperry: 68-13 vs. Salina in the first round; 49-7 vs. Kellyville in the second round; 44-13 vs. Eufaula in the quarterfinals; 56-8 vs. Adair in the semifinals.
- Beggs: 56-13 vs. Wyandotte in the first round; 49-22 vs. Oklahoma Christian School in the second round; 36-31 vs. Kingston in the quarterfinals; 33-28 vs. Metro Christian in the semifinals.
What to watch for
- Rematch adjustments: The District 2A-3 winner (Beggs) and 2A-3 runner-up (Sperry) met in Week 10, and the Golden Demons claimed a 35-21 victory, a day after Beggs player Kayson Tolliver was shot and killed. Sperry controlled the entire first half and owned a 14-0 lead at halftime. But Beggs rallied for four touchdowns in the third quarter to take control. The Golden Demons ended up out-gaining Beggs 265-121 in the final 24 minutes. This time around, it’ll be a matter of who makes the most adjustments from a month ago.
- Emotional wave: When the teams met the first time this season, emotions were on overload. Players were brought to tears while on the field after the tragic death of Tolliver. Both teams are a month removed from that, and while emotions still remain raw, the emotions on both sides should be closer to even keel. Instead, emotions will be through the roof because what’s at stake. By the end of the game, both teams will have mentally spent with the season coming to a close.
- Be the better QB: The quarterback clash on display is one of the best of any of the championship games. Both Beggs’ Dalton Spring and Sperry’s Beau Teel are dangerous dual-threat players. Both will tuck and run, but both have plenty of weapons if they opt to throw the ball. Perhaps it’s over-simplification, but odds are the better quarterback in the game should end up hoisting the gold ball with his teammates.
Random facts
- Sperry is 5-4 all-time against Beggs. Prior to this season’s first matchup, Sperry had won the previous four games, dating back to 1989.
- Sperry head coach Robert Park took over in 2000, and his record is 117-94; Beggs head coach David Tenison took over prior to the start of the season, and he is 13-1.
- Sperry is 0-1 in championship games -- the lone appearance was a 35-14 loss to Minco in the 1968 Class C title game.
- Beggs is 1-2 in championship games -- The Golden Demon’s last championship appearance was last season, a 14-7 loss to John Marshall in the 3A title game.
- Beggs’ lone championship was in 1975 with a 21-0 victory over Millwood in the Class A championship game.
- Beggs is 13-0 against Oklahoma teams this season. The Golden Demons’ lone loss was a 28-21 setback against Shiloh Christian (Ark.).
Prediction sure to go wrong…
Sperry 27, Beggs 26: We all had Millwood making it to the final week of the season, but Vian saw to it that it didn’t happen. Instead, two teams from District 2A-3 are left standing, ready for a rematch of Week 10. I picked Sperry then, and I haven’t learned my lesson, so I’m going with Sperry again. Beggs might be able to win the battle up front, but there’s something about Sperry that I just can’t quit. But the good news for Beggs is I’ve been terrible at picks all year long, so why stop this week?
Class A
Christian Heritage (10-4) vs. No. 7 Tonkawa (13-1)
Where: Pioneer Stadium (Stillwater High School)
Road to the title game
- Christian Heritage: 28-22 vs. Ringling in the first round; 42-36 vs. Thomas in the second round; 39-22 vs. Stroud in the quarterfinals; 34-13 vs. Rejoice Christian in the semifinals.
- Tonkawa: 55-12 vs. Colcord in the first round; 23-14 vs. Wayne in the second round; 20-13 vs. Hobart in the quarterfinals; 28-13 vs. Fairview in the semifinals.
What to watch for
- Hale of a season: Christian Heritage senior quarterback Zach Hale has been an unstoppable force, including last week’s five-touchdown performance against Rejoice Christian. And he’s been a tackling machine on defense, and he’s even mixed in some interceptions here and there.
- Heckuva year, Hampton: Tonkawa’s senior quarterback Braydon Hampton has been stride for stride with Hale and his production this season. Hampton has passed for 1,671 yards and 17 touchdowns, and he’s rushed for 1,634 yards and 25 touchdowns. On defense, he’s racked up 107 tackles, 25 sacks and four forced fumbles.
Random facts
- These two clubs are meeting for the first time.
- Christian Heritage head coach Tony Merrell took over in 2014, and he’s gone 38-21; Tonkawa head coach Mike Kirtley took over in 2003, and he’s gone 137-55.
- This is Christian Heritage’s first appearance in a championship game.
- Christian Heritage’s four playoff wins have come against teams with a combined record of 42-8.
- Tonkawa is 6-2 in championship games -- the Buccaneers’ last state title appearance was a 7-6 win over Stroud in the Class A title game.
Prediction sure to go wrong…
Christian Heritage 23, Tonkawa 20: I had Cashion winning the title, but do I get half credit for taking someone that’s in Cashion’s district? No? Well, OK then. The Crusades have undoubtedly been the hottest team in the playoffs -- in any class. The run the Crusaders have been on since Oct. 26, when they beat Watonga to start a six-game winning streak. Christian Heritage has surpassed hurdle after hurdle, so I’ll just stick with the Crusaders since they’ve come this far.
Class B
No. 1 Shattuck (13-0) vs. No. 3 Regent Prep (14-0)
Where: Charles W. Scheid Stadium (Western Heights High School)
Road to the title game
- Shattuck: 48-0 vs. Ringwood in the first round; 55-6 vs. Alex in the second round; 67-20 vs. Dewar in the quarterfinals; 54-30 vs. Davenport in the semifinals.
- Regent Prep: 49-0 vs. Prue in the first round; 59-24 vs. Keota in the second round; 68-52 vs. Laverne in the quarterfinals; 69-22 vs. Wetumka in the semifinals.
What to watch for
- Gilbert’s gains: Regent Prep quarterback Braden Gilbert has been on point all season long, and he’s up to 3,758 yards and 62 touchdowns through 14 games. He’s completing 59.7 percent (169 of 283) of his passes, and 75 of those passes have gone to Jack Wright, who has hauled in 1,773 yards and 33 touchdowns.
Random facts
- These two teams are meeting for the first time.
- Google Maps says these two schools are separated by 249 miles -- or a little more than a four-hour drive.
- Regent Prep head coach Adam Bishop navigated the Rams into OSSAA play in 2012, and the Rams have gone 40-9 since that time; Shattuck head coach Troy Bullard took over prior to this season and hasn’t lost in 13 games.
- This Regent Prep’s first championship game appearance.
- Shattuck is 10-2 with state championships on the line. The Indians are making their third straight appearance in the Class B title game, going 1-1 against Laverne over the span. Shattuck won last year’s championship game, 30-16.
Prediction sure to go wrong…
Shattuck 37, Regent Prep 27: What a surprise, my pick to win the championship (Davenport) didn’t make to the title game. Instead, Whitt and Swisher are both 2-for-2 on teams making it to the title game, and both have Shattuck winning the championship. I think Regent Prep will score some points against Shattuck -- something a lot of teams haven’t done -- but ultimately it’ll be Shattuck finishing atop Class B again.
PLAYOFF PREVIEW: Classes 2A, A & B QUARTERFINALS and C FINALS
| Ben Johnson
Christian Heritage’s coaching staff wanted to give Zach Hale a break. The Crusaders’ senior quarterback/safety had Christian Heritage leading Stroud late in the second quarter, so his coaching staff wanted to give him a moment to catch his breath.
That’s when Stroud’s Colby Davis returned a kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown. Needless to say, Hale didn’t come off the field the rest of the night.
“Funny story now, but it wasn’t funny at the time,” Christian Heritage coach Tony Merrell said. “One of our coaches asked if we could get him off our kickoff team for one play, because he looked tired or something. They immediately ran the next kick back, and Zach let me know -- as it was being returned for a touchdown -- that he is never coming off the field again.”
Then Merrell had a quick second to think.
“I agreed with him,” he said.
And once again, it was Hale and Co. crashing the Class A playoff scene last week. Hale passed for 214 yards and four touchdowns, and he also ran for 52 yards. After four of Christian Heritage’s five touchdowns, Hale also had a hand in the successful two-point conversions.
On defense, Hale recorded 13 tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery to guide the Crusaders into their first semifinal appearance.
“He has been so good, and he’s an All-State safety and he keeps getting better as a quarterback,” Merrell said. “We have so many guys that are playing at a high level, and it’s just fun to be part of.”
Up next for Christian Heritage (9-4) is a date with third-ranked Rejoice Christian at Cushing High School in the semifinals. The Crusaders are a game away from the title game after taking down Ringling, Thomas and Stroud to this point.
“Oh man, what a run,” Merrell said. “And really, you have to throw Crescent in there after playing them in Week 10. Those are really good football teams with great coaches. We are playing at a really high level, and to be honest, we are still getting better. We have guys playing their best games of the year these last few weeks.”
Class 2A
No. 5 Sperry vs. Adair
Where: Lantow Field (Claremore High School)
Last week
- Sperry 44, Eufaula 13: Beau Teel passed for 132 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 73 yards and two more touchdowns for the Pirates. Joe Whiteley added three sacks on defense, and he caught four passes for 96 yards for a touchdown for Sperry.
- Adair 38, Vian 27: Austin Hines passed for 360 yards and four touchdowns, and Barrett Bradbury caught 12 passes for 147 yards and three touchdowns. Bradbury then added 18 tackles on defense.
Need to know
- The all-time series is tied at 3-3. The last meeting was last season -- a 50-26 win for Sperry.
- Adair appeared in back-to-back semifinals in 2015 and 2016, going 1-1 with a win over Chisholm in 2015. The Warriors went on to win their only title the same season.
- Sperry has gone 1-5 in semifinal games. The Pirates’ only win was in 1968 -- 8-0 against Marietta.
Metro Christian vs. No. 3 Beggs
Where: Collins Stadium (Sapulpa High School)
Last week
- Beggs 36, Kingston 31: TJ Austin scored the game-winning touchdown with 50 seconds left as Beggs rallied to knock off the Redskins.
- Metro Christian 34, Washington 28: Ryan Johnson rushed for 130 yards and caught nine passes for 130 yards. The Patriots turned back Washington on fourth-and-goal late in the fourth quarter to preserve the victory.
Need to know
- The all-time series is 1-1. The last meeting was in 2003 -- a 48-13 win for Metro Christian.
- The Patriots are 1-1 in the semifinals. The lone win was in 2010 against Anadarko.
- Beggs is 3-1 in the semifinals. The Demons beat Sulphur 37-28 in the semifinals last year before losing to John Marshall in the Class 3A playoffs.
Class A
No. 7 Tonkawa vs. Fairview
Where: Ranger Field (Northwest Oklahoma State University in Alva)
Last week
- Tonkawa 20, Hobart 13: Braydon Hampton scored on a 3-yard TD run with 22 seconds left to propel Tonkawa to the win.
- Fairview 54, Commerce 21: Quarterback Kade Dillard completed 8 of 14 for 232 yards and four touchdowns. He also added 21 carries for 219 yards and three touchdowns for the Yellowjackets.
Need to know
- Tonkawa is 6-4 all-time against Fairview. The last meeting was in 2013 -- a 17-7 win for Tonkawa.
- Tonkawa is 8-2 in the semifinals. The Buccaneers’ last semifinal appearance was in 2009 - a 24-22 win over Hennessey.
- Fairview is 2-2 in the semifinals. Fairview’s last semifinal appearance was 1999 -- a 36-17 win over Haskell.
No. 3 Rejoice Christian vs. Christian Heritage
Where: Cushing High School
Last week
- Christian Heritage 39, Stroud 22
- Rejoice Christian 33, Crossings Christian 14: Andrew Crow rushed for 247 yards and three touchdowns for the Eagles.
Need to know
- This is the first meeting between the two teams.
- Rejoice Christian is 0-2 in the semifinals -- both losses occurring in Class B in 2013 and 2012.
- This is Christian Heritage’s first appearance in the semifinals.
Class B
No. 2 Davenport vs. No. 1 Shattuck
Where: D. Bruce Selby Stadium (Enid)
Last week: Davenport 52, Waurika 0; Shattuck 67, Dewar 20
Need to know
- Shattuck is 2-0 all-time against Davenport. These two met in last year’s semifinals -- a 48-16 win for Shattuck.
- Davenport is 6-4 in the semifinals. The Bulldogs last semifinal win was 40-14 over Dewar in 2015.
- Shattuck sports a 12-3 record in the semifinals. The Indians have appeared in a championship game every year since 2015.
No. 3 Regent Prep vs. No. 8 Wetumka
Where: Bill Jensen Field (Choctaw High School)
Last week: Regent Prep 68, Laverne 52; Wetumka 51, Burns Flat-Dill City 6
Need to know
- These two are meeting for the first time.
- Regent Prep wideout Jack Wright had 17 receptions for 351 yards and seven touchdowns in the Rams’ win over Laverne last week.
- This is Regent Prep’s first appearance in a semifinal game.
- Wetumka is 2-0 in semifinal games -- last appearance was a 32-14 win over Kiefer in 2010.
Class C Championship
No. 2 Tipton vs. No. 1 Southwest Covenant
Where: Milam Stadium (Southwest Oklahoma State University, Weatherford)
Last week: Tipton 50, Pond Creek-Hunter 28; Southwest Covenant 42, Buffalo 20
Need to know
- Tipton is 3-0 against Southwest Covenant -- last meeting was last season, a 52-12 win for the Tigers
- Tipton is 6-2 in title games. The two-time defending champion in Class C beat Pond Creek-Hunter 56-8 in last year’s title game.
- This is Southwest Covenant’s first appearance in a championship game.
PLAYOFF PICKS: Week 3 edition
| Ben Johnson
Time to schedule the Randy Turney championship parade. He's all but wrapped up the Skordle picking crown for 2018.
Playoff picks - Week 2 - Coach Turney 16-9 | Whitt 16-9 | Swisher 15-10 | Ben 15-10
Overall - Turney 197-68 | Whitt 181-84 | Ben 174-91 | Swisher 180-85
Now I present picks for the third round of the playoffs:
Carl Albert vs. Collinsville
Michael Swisher: Carl Albert 24, Collinsville 20
Ben Johnson: Carl Albert 23, Collinsville 17
Whitt Carter: Carl Albert 34, Collinsville 28
Randy Turney: Carl Albert 28, Collinsville 21
Bishop Kelley vs. Ardmore
Michael Swisher: Ardmore 28, Bishop Kelley 14
Ben Johnson: Bishop Kelley 20, Ardmore 19
Whitt Carter: Ardmore 28, Bishop Kelley 17
Randy Turney: Ardmore 24, Bishop Kelley 14
Bethany vs. Clinton
Michael Swisher: Bethany 28, Clinton 24
Ben Johnson: Bethany 29, Clinton 24
Whitt Carter: Clinton 28, Bethany 20
Randy Turney: Clinton 21, Bethany 20
Poteau vs. Tuttle
Michael Swisher: Poteau 19, Tuttle 17
Ben Johnson: Poteau 32, Tuttle 21
Whitt Carter: Tuttle 35, Poteau 21
Randy Turney: Tuttle 23, Poteau 14
Heritage Hall vs. Lincoln Christian
Michael Swisher: Heritage Hall 34, Lincoln Christian 24
Ben Johnson: Heritage Hall 30, Lincoln Christian 20
Whitt Carter: Heritage Hall 41, Lincoln Christian 27
Randy Turney: Heritage Hall 28, Lincoln Christian 21
Kingfisher vs. Sulphur
Michael Swisher: Sulphur 33, Kingfisher 20
Ben Johnson: Kingfisher 21, Sulphur 18
Whitt Carter: Sulphur 34, Kingfisher 27
Randy Turney: Sulphur 30, Kingfisher 21
Adair at Vian
Michael Swisher: Vian 23, Adair 18
Ben Johnson: Vian 23, Adair 14
Whitt Carter: Adair 28, Vian 27
Randy Turney: Vian 30, Adair 22
Eufaula at Sperry
Michael Swisher: Sperry 30, Eufaula 12
Ben Johnson: Sperry 20, Eufaula 13
Whitt Carter: Sperry 34, Eufaula 21
Randy Turney: Sperry 27, Eufaula 14
Kingston at Beggs
Michael Swisher: Beggs 42, Kingston 24
Ben Johnson: Beggs 31, Kingston 21
Whitt Carter: Beggs 41, Kingston 27
Randy Turney: Beggs 31, Kingston 18
Washington at Metro Christian
Michael Swisher: Washington 34, Metro Christian 33
Ben Johnson: Washington 33, Metro Christian 31
Whitt Carter: Metro Christian 42, Washington 35
Randy Turney: Washington 21, Metro Christian 14
Commerce at Fairview
Michael Swisher: Fairview 35, Commerce 28
Ben Johnson: Fairview 24, Commerce 23
Whitt Carter: Fairview 34, Commerce 14
Randy Turney: Fairview 35, Commerce 14
Rejoice Christian at Crossings Christian
Michael Swisher: Rejoice Christian 34, Crossings Christian 18
Ben Johnson: Rejoice Christian 21, Crossings Christian 19
Whitt Carter: Rejoice Christian 35, Crossings Christian 31
Randy Turney: Rejoice Christian 22, Crossings Christian 21
Stroud at Christian Heritage
Michael Swisher: Stroud 38, Christian Heritage 31
Ben Johnson: Stroud 26, Christian Heritage 21
Whitt Carter: Stroud 28, Christian Heritage 20
Randy Turney: Stroud 20, Christian Heritage 14
Tonkawa at Hobart
Michael Swisher: Hobart 27, Tonkawa 21
Ben Johnson: Tonkawa 22, Hobart 21
Whitt Carter: Hobart 27, Tonkawa 21
Randy Turney: Hobart 32, Tonkawa 22
Shattuck at Dewar
Michael Swisher: Shattuck 40, Dewar 24
Ben Johnson: Shattuck 43, Dewar 37
Whitt Carter: Shattuck 52, Dewar 24
Randy Turney: Shattuck 46, Dewar 6
Waurika at Davenport
Michael Swisher: Davenport 48, Waurika 30
Ben Johnson: Davenport 55, Waurika 15
Whitt Carter: Davenport 48, Waurika 28
Randy Turney: Davenport 52, Waurika 12
Wetumka at Burns Flat-Dill City
Michael Swisher: Wetumka 31, Burns Flat-Dill City 18
Ben Johnson: Wetumka 38, Burns Flat-Dill City 33
Whitt Carter: Burns Flat-Dill City 42, Wetumka 40
Randy Turney: Wetumka 38, Burns Flat-Dill City 14
Regent Prep at Laverne
Michael Swisher: Regent Prep 22, Laverne 16
Ben Johnson: Regent Prep 44, Laverne 41
Whitt Carter: Regent Prep 48, Laverne 34
Randy Turney: Regent Prep 26, Laverne 20
Buffalo vs. Southwest Covenant
Michael Swisher: Southwest Covenant 42, Buffalo 36
Ben Johnson: Southwest Covenant 51, Buffalo 47
Whitt Carter: Buffalo 42, Soutuwest Covenant 36
Randy Turney: Southwest Covenant 28, Buffalo 26
Tipton vs. Pond Creek-Hunter
Michael Swisher: Tipton 33, Pond Creek-Hunter 22
Ben Johnson: Tipton 39, Pond Creek-Hunter 28
Whitt Carter: Tipton 48, Pond Creek-Hunter 44
Randy Turney: Tipton 48, Pond Creek-Hunter 14
Let us know what you think. Tweet your predictions to us at @Skordle.
PLAYOFF PREVIEW: Class A & B QUARTERFINALS & CLASS C SEMIFINALS
| Ben Johnson
Class A
Quarterfinal matchups
No. 3 Rejoice Christian (12-0) at No. 8 Crossings Christian (10-2)
Last week: Rejoice Christian 40, Gore 14; Crossings Christian 28, Hooker 0
Players to watch
- Andrew Crow (Rejoice Christian): Senior tailback has run for 2,029 yards and 36 touchdowns on 170 carries for the Eagles.
- Owen Crotts (Crossings Christian): Sophomore quarterback has thrown for 1,574 yards and 20 touchdowns for the Knights.
Need to know
- This is a rematch from earlier this season. Rejoice Christian beat Crossings Christian 21-20 on Aug. 31.
- The teams have met five times with Rejoice Christian winning three of the five. Combined score of all five matchups is: Rejoice Christian 139, Crossings Christian 117.
- Rejoice Christian last advanced beyond the quarterfinals in 2013 in Class B.
- This is Crossings Christian’s first quarterfinal appearance.
No. 5 Stroud (11-1) at Christian Heritage (8-4)
Last week: Stroud 16, Morrison 12; Christian Heritage 42, Thomas 36
Players to watch
- Grant Elerick (Stroud): Junior quarterback has completed 149 of 218 passes for 2,445 yards and 29 touchdowns.
- Zach Hale (Christian Heritage): Senior quarterback/safety has passed for 2,145 yards and 26 touchdowns while rushing for 655 yards and eight touchdowns.
Need to know
- Former District 2A-2 members from last season have met four times before. The all-time series is split 2-2 with Christian Heritage winning last year, 38-20.
- Christian Heritage’s only quarterfinal appearance was in 2008 -- a 48-10 loss to Morrison.
- Stroud last advanced beyond the quarterfinals in 2009 -- same year the Tigers lost to Tonkawa in the Class A title game.
No. 7 Tonkawa (11-1) at No. 10 Hobart (10-2)
Last week: Tonkawa 23, Wayne 14; Hobart 30, Minco 23
Player to watch
- Alec Meinert (Hobart): Senior QB has completed 92 of 149 passes for 1,604 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Tonkawa is back in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2009 -- the same year as the Buccaneers’ last state championship.
- This is Hobart’s last quarterfinal appearance since 1997 -- the same year as Hobart’s last championship.
Commerce (9-3) at Fairview (9-3)
Last week: Commerce 41, Hulbert 13; Fairview 34, Cashion 27
Players to watch
- Chris Ibarra (Commerce): Senior tailback has rushed for 1,757 yards and 23 touchdowns, and he’s also caught 23 passes for 426 yards and three scores. Also has a team-high four interceptions on defense.
- Kade Dillard (Fairview): Senior QB threw for 217 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 81 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s win over Cashion.
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Commerce has gone 0-11 in the quarterfinals since 1998. Last semifinal appearance was 1991.
- Since 2000, Fairview has been in the quarterfinals once, and it ended up being a 32-0 loss to Hominy.
Class B
Quarterfinal matchups
No. 1 Shattuck (11-0) at No. 6 Dewar (11-1)
Last week: Shattuck 55, Alex 6; Dewar 32, Yale 6
Need to know
- Only one previous meeting between these two -- a 32-7 victory for Shattuck in 1991.
- This is Shattuck’s third year in Class B. The Indians have advanced to the championship game the past two seasons.
- Dewar won its previous two quarterfinal appearances in 2015 and 2014.
No. 7 Waurika (11-0) at No. 2 Davenport (12-0)
Last week: Waurika 58, Cherokee 14; Davenport 48, Weleetka 0
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Waurika’s last quarterfinal victory was in 1996.
- Davenport has a four-year winning streak in the quarterfinals.
No. 8 Wetumka (9-3) at Burns Flat-Dill City (7-5)
Last week: Wetumka 16, Depew 14; Burns Flat-Dill City 34, Pioneer 26
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Wetumka’s last quarterfinal victory was in 2010.
- Burns Flat-Dill City last won a quarterfinal game in 2005.
No. 3 Regent Prep (11-0) at No. 5 Laverne (10-2)
Last week: Regent Prep 59, Keota 24; Laverne 26, Snyder 20
Player to watch
- Braden Gilbert (Regent Prep): Junior quarterback has thrown for 2,755 yards and 46 touchdowns while completing 119 of 202 passes this season.
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Regent Prep has never advanced past the quarterfinals in Class B or C.
- In 2017 and 2016, Laverne won in the quarterfinals by a combined score of 106-8 against Prue and Weleetka.
Class C
*Both games start at 7 p.m. Friday
No. 3 Buffalo (12-0) vs. No. 1 Southwest Covenant (11-0)
Where: Northwest Oklahoma State University (Alva)
Last week: Buffalo 36, Medford 28; Southwest Covenant 56, Tyrone 16
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Buffalo is 0-3 in the semifinals. It’s last appearance was a 38-16 loss to Fox in 2004.
- This is Southwest Covenant’s first appearance in the semifinals.
No. 2 Tipton (10-2) vs. No. 5 Pond Creek-Hunter (11-1)
Where: Southwest Oklahoma State University (Weatherford)
Last week: Tipton 62, Coyle 26; PC-Hunter 54, Paoli 8
Need to know
- Pond Creek-Hunter owns a 3-2 edge in the all-time series. The last meeting was in last year’s title game -- a 56-8 victory for Tipton.
- Tipton has gone 2-0 in its last semifinal games and won those games by a combined score of 102-22.
- Tipton also beat PC-Hunter 28-26 in the 2016 Class C title game.
Week 7 picks
| Ben Johnson
Well, what we have here is two hotly-contested showdowns for first and third place. Swisher and Coach Turney are locked in a battle for first place, while Whitt and myself charge hard after the bronze.
Week 6 picks - Coach Turney 14-4 | Whitt 13-5 | Ben 13-5 | Swisher 13-5
Overall - Swisher 91-35 | Turney 91-35 | Ben 84-42 | Whitt 84-42
And per usual, my apologies in advance to the teams I pick below:
Carl Albert at Guthrie
Michael Swisher: Carl Albert 33, Guthrie 17
Ben Johnson: Carl Albert 30, Guthrie 16
Whitt Carter: Carl Albert 28, Guthrie 21
Randy Turney: Carl Albert 31, Guthrie 14
Broken Arrow at Edmond Santa Fe
Michael Swisher: Broken Arrow 38, Edmond Santa Fe 14
Ben Johnson: Broken Arrow 41, Edmond Santa Fe 19
Whitt Carter: Broken Arrow 34, Edmond Santa Fe 14
Randy Turney: Broken Arrow 28, Edmond Santa Fe 7
Stillwater at Lawton
Michael Swisher: Stillwater 35, Lawton 21
Ben Johnson: Stillwater 23, Lawton 22
Whitt Carter: Stillwater 42, Lawton 34
Randy Turney: Stillwater 35, Lawton 20
Cascia Hall at Berryhill
Michael Swisher: Berryhill 24, Cascia Hall 12
Ben Johnson: Berryhill 20, Cascia Hall 19
Whitt Carter: Cascia Hall 32, Berryhill 28
Randy Turney: Berryhill 28, Cascia Hall 20
Victory Christian at Beggs
Michael Swisher: Beggs 28, Victory Christian 10
Ben Johnson: Beggs 33, Victory Christian 24
Whitt Carter: Beggs 35, Victory Christian 27
Randy Turney: Beggs 21, Victory Christian 20
Plainview at Sulphur
Michael Swisher: Plainview 24, Sulphur 22
Ben Johnson: Plainview 29, Sulphur 23
Whitt Carter: Sulphur 28, Plainview 24
Randy Turney: Sulphur 34, Plainview 31
Buffalo at Pond Creek-Hunter
Michael Swisher: PC-Hunter 30, Buffalo 14
Ben Johnson: PC-Hunter 43, Buffalo 22
Whitt Carter: PC-Hunter 31, Buffalo 12
Randy Turney: PC-Hunter 34, Buffalo 22
Booker T. Washington at Sapulpa
Michael Swisher: Booker T. Washington 31, Sapulpa 30
Ben Johnson: Booker T. Washington 27, Sapulpa 24
Whitt Carter: Booker T. Washington 42, Sapulpa 28
Randy Turney: Booker T. Washington 31, Sapulpa 22
Stigler at Seminole
Michael Swisher: Seminole 34, Stigler 17
Ben Johnson: Seminole 23, Stigler 20
Whitt Carter: Seminole 34, Stigler 21
Randy Turney: Seminole 34, Stigler 20
Tonkawa at Morrison
Michael Swisher: Morrison 18, Tonkawa 14
Ben Johnson: Morrison 26, Tonkawa 16
Whitt Carter: Morrison 27, Tonkawa 21
Randy Turney: Morrison 38, Tonkawa 14
Yukon at Westmoore
Michael Swisher: Yukon 17, Westmoore 16
Ben Johnson: Yukon 21, Westmoore 17
Whitt Carter: Westmoore 21, Yukon 20
Randy Turney: Westmoore 24, Yukon 17
El Reno at Duncan
Michael Swisher: Duncan 24, El Reno 21
Ben Johnson: Duncan 32, El Reno 17
Whitt Carter: Duncan 28, El Reno 14
Randy Turney: El Reno 28, Duncan 21
Bethany at Cushing
Michael Swisher: Bethany 31, Cushing 17
Ben Johnson: Bethany 33, Cushing 27
Whitt Carter: Bethany 35, Cushing 13
Randy Turney: Bethany 30, Cushing 24
Catoosa at Cleveland
Michael Swisher: Catoosa 36, Cleveland 25
Ben Johnson: Catoosa 28, Cleveland 18
Whitt Carter: Catoosa 37, Cleveland 21
Randy Turney: Catoosa 20, Cleveland 14
Kingfisher at Perkins-Tryon
Michael Swisher: Kingfisher 31, Perkins-Tryon 28
Ben Johnson: Kingfisher 27, Perkins-Tryon 21
Whitt Carter: Kingfisher 35, Perkins-Tryon 21
Randy Turney: Kingfisher 34, Perkins-Tryon 20
Okemah at Meeker
Michael Swisher: Meeker 33, Okemah 21
Ben Johnson: Meeker 34, Okemah 24
Whitt Carter: Okemah 33, Meeker 24
Randy Turney: Meeker 28, Okemah 12
Stratford at Washington
Michael Swisher: Washington 27, Stratford 23
Ben Johnson: Washington 32, Stratford 19
Whitt Carter: Washington 28, Stratford 20
Randy Turney: Washington 38, Stratford 20
Hooker at Okeene
Michael Swisher: Hooker 31, Okeene 13
Ben Johnson: Hooker 29, Okeene16
Whitt Carter: Hooke 35, Okeene 13
Randy Turney: Hooker 34, Okeene 7
Covington-Douglas at Southwest Covenant
Michael Swisher: SW Covenant 48, Covington-Douglas 30
Ben Johnson: SW Covenant 44, Covington-Douglas 25
Whitt Carter: SW Covenant 45, Covington-Douglas 31
Randy Turney: SW Covenant 42, Covington-Douglas 20
Let us know what you think. Tweet your predictions to us at @Skordle.
Week 7: Top 10 games
| Ben Johnson
Some rock-solid games this week as district races tighten up.
Here's what's on tap this week:
1. 5A No. 1 Carl Albert (6-0) at 5A No. 7 Guthrie (6-0): Bluejays beat Carl Albert every year from 2010 to 2015, but the Titans have posted back-to-back blowouts over Guthrie, including last year's 55-10 contest. Carl Albert running back Dadrion Taylor is also expected back after suffering a knee injury earlier in the season.
2. 6AI No. 1 Broken Arrow (6-0) at 6AI No. 4 Edmond Santa Fe (6-0): Tigers have been machine-like all season long. The Wolves pulling the upset would be one to send shockwaves throughout 6AI.
3. 6AII No. 1 Stillwater (6-0) at 6AII No. 5 Lawton (4-2): Pioneers are 0-4 against Lawton since the two clubs started playing district contests in 2014. And this one was going to feature a stellar running back showcase, but Stillwater tailback Qwontrel Walker was ejected in the fourth quarter against Choctaw last week, leaving his status for this week up in the air. Meanwhile, the Wolverines will ride the hot hand of Miles Davis at tailback.
4. 3A No. 8 Cascia Hall (5-1) at 3A No. 2 Berryhill (6-0): These two teams have met 10 times since 1999 and Cascia Hall is one nine of those games. The Chiefs' lone victory in the series was in 2004. Winner all but locks up the District 3A-4 crown.
5. 2A No. 9 Victory Christian (6-0) at 2A No. 5 Beggs (5-1): Former district mates are reunited in 2A-3 play this year. From 2010 to 2015, the two teams split the series 3-3. Winner here still has to tangle with Sperry to claim the district title.
6. 3A No. 4 Plainview (5-1) at 3A No. 5 Sulphur (5-1): Sulphur beat Plainview 35-12 last season, but prior to that Plainview had won the last eight clashes between the two teams.
7. C No. 4 Buffalo (6-0) at C No. 1 Pond Creek-Hunter (6-0): Winner all but wraps up the District C-1 championship. And to this point, Pond Creek-Hunter opponents are averaging four points per game.
8. 6AII No. 6 Booker T. Washington (3-3) at 6AII No. 7 Sapulpa (5-1): Chieftains came up with an overtime win over Muskogee last week, and a win over the Hornets would be a massive statement. One advantage Sapulpa does have is at the quarterback position with Eli Williams.
9. Stigler (5-1) at 3A No. 6 Seminole (5-1): All of a sudden everyone in District 3A-3 is chasing after Idabel. And it's looking more and more like a quality team will be left out of the playoff picture in the suddenly-deep 3A-3. The winner here at least feels somewhat more at ease with a postseason spot more obtainable.
10. Tonkawa (6-1) at A No. 3 Morrison (6-0): Tonkawa has a two-game winning streak going against Morrison, but it's the Wildcats who are ranked heading into this one. District A-5 is deep, so a win here moves one of these two closer to the district title.
Honorable mention
Yukon at Westmoore: Top three spots in 6AI-1 appear to be spoken for among Broken Arrow, Jenks and Edmond Santa Fe. So for a regular season matchup, it all but serves as a "win and you're in; lose and you're out" tilt. And Westmoore is 6-0 against Yukon since 2006.
El Reno at Duncan: The Demons are unbeaten but now the schedule tightens up. A win for Duncan sets up an epic showdown against Ardmore next week for 5A-1 supremacy. A win for El Reno has the Indians feeling better about securing a postseason spot. El Reno beat Duncan 41-40 last season.
Bethany at Cushing: Despite a minus-nine scoring margin in six games this season, the Tigers are 3-0 in District 4A-2. A win for Cushing could work toward some must-see games against Blanchard and Tuttle to close out the regular season in a few weeks.
Catoosa at Cleveland: District 4A-3 looks like it'll come down to Bristow or Wagoner at the top. So that leaves three -- maybe four (Catoosa, Cleveland, Grove and Oologah) -- competing for the final two playoff spots.
Kingfisher at Perkins-Tryon: We're finding out that a lot of districts have some solid depth, and 3A-1 falls in that category. Heritage Hall and John Marshall are locks for playoffs spots, so it's up to Kingfisher, Perkins, Mannford and Mount Saint Mary to challenge for the final two spots.
Okemah at Meeker: Since 2008, Okemah has won seven of the last eight matchups. Both of these clubs need a win to have a shot at possibly winning or finishing in the top two spots of 2A-2.
Stratford at Washington: Washington pushed Millwood to the limit last week. And despite a 1-2 mark in 2A-7, Stratford has to be taken seriously in the playoff mix.
Hooker at Okeene: Winner here gets a chance to challenge Oklahoma Bible Academy for District A-1 bragging
Covington-Douglas at Southwest Covenant: Winner all but wraps up the C-3 title.
So who wins all the matchups? Check back for our weekly picks on Thursday.
*Photo courtesy of Guthrie Booster Club
Week 4 picks
| Ben Johnson
Well, I can't lie, my performance in Week 3 was disgraceful. It's been a rough go of it for myself and Whitt this season. But we're just waiting for district play to kick it into gear.
Week 3 picks - Swisher 11-3 | Coach Turney 10-4 | Whitt 9-5 | Ben 8-6
Overall - Swisher 51-22 | Turney 48-25 | Ben 43-30 | Whitt 42-31
Week 4 picks comin' at ya:
Jenks at Broken Arrow
Michael Swisher: Broken Arrow 23, Jenks 14
Ben Johnson: Broken Arrow 24, Jenks 17
Whitt Carter: Broken Arrow 27, Jenks 17
Randy Turney: Broken Arrow 21, Jenks 20
Blanchard at Bethany
Michael Swisher: Blanchard 34, Bethany 25
Ben Johnson: Blanchard 32, Bethany 27
Whitt Carter: Blanchard 34, Bethany 31
Randy Turney: Blanchard 28, Bethany 7
Lawton at Midwest City
Michael Swisher: Midwest City 35, Lawton 30
Ben Johnson: Lawton 21, Midwest City 20
Whitt Carter: Midwest City 27, Lawton 17
Randy Turney: Midwest City 35, Lawton 31
Owasso at Union
Michael Swisher: Owasso 38, Union 30
Ben Johnson: Union 34, Owasso 28
Whitt Carter: Union 42, Owasso, 40
Randy Turney: Union 28, Owasso 24
Thomas at Hooker
Michael Swisher: Hooker 21, Thomas 18
Ben Johnson: Hooker 25, Thomas 24
Whitt Carter: Thomas 21, Hooker 14
Randy Turney: Hooker 20, Thomas 14
Noble at Duncan
Michael Swisher: Duncan 22, Noble 7
Ben Johnson: Duncan 28, Noble 24
Whitt Carter: Duncan 28, Noble 14
Randy Turney: Duncan 24, Noble 13
Wagoner at Catoosa
Michael Swisher: Wagoner 24, Catoosa 22
Ben Johnson: Catoosa 20, Wagoner 17
Whitt Carter: Wagoner 27, Catoosa 24
Randy Turney: Wagoner 34, Catoosa 20
Bixby at Sapulpa
Michael Swisher: Bixby 29, Sapulpa 20
Ben Johnson: Bixby 33, Sapulpa 31
Whitt Carter: Bixby 42, Sapulpa 21
Randy Turney: Bixby 30, Sapulpa 14
Lawton MacArthur at Ardmore
Michael Swisher: Ardmore 31, Lawton MacArthur 22
Ben Johnson: Ardmore 32, Lawton MacArthur 23
Whitt Carter: Ardmore 34, Lawton MacArthur 21
Randy Turney: Ardmore 22, Lawton MacArthur 7
Cashion at Christian Heritage
Michael Swisher: Cashion 33, Christian Heritage 14
Ben Johnson: Cashion 41, Christian Heritage 17
Whitt Carter: Cashion 37, Christian Heritage 27
Randy Turney: Cashion 34, Christian Heritage 14
Guthrie at Piedmont
Michael Swisher: Guthrie 28, Piedmont 21
Ben Johnson: Guthrie 30, Piedmont 20
Whitt Carter: Guthrie 21, Piedmont 13
Randy Turney: Guthrie 31, Piedmont 13
Stigler at Lincoln Christian
Michael Swisher: Lincoln Christian 31, Stigler 24
Ben Johnson: Lincoln Christian 22, Stigler 20
Whitt Carter: Lincoln Christian 38, Stigler 28
Randy Turney: Lincoln Christian 38, Stigler 20
Chandler at Jones
Michael Swisher: Jones 30, Chandler 19
Ben Johnson: Chandler 17, Jones 16
Whitt Carter: Jones 32, Chandler 20
Randy Turney: Jones 42, Chandler 14
Haskell at Sperry
Michael Swisher: Sperry 34, Haskell 10
Ben Johnson: Sperry 27, Haskell 20
Whitt Carter: Sperry 34, Haskell 13
Randy Turney: Sperry 20, Haskell 14
Meeker at Kellyville
Michael Swisher: Kellyville 19, Meeker 14
Ben Johnson: Kellyville 22, Meeker 18
Whitt Carter: Kellyville 21, Meeker 17
Randy Turney: Kellyville 18, Meeker 14
Spiro at Vian
Michael Swisher: Vian 33, Spiro 23
Ben Johnson: Vian 29, Spiro 21
Whitt Carter: Vian 42, Spiro 21
Randy Turney: Vian 31, Spiro 20
Pawnee at Tonkawa
Michael Swisher: Tonkawa 24, Pawnee 18
Ben Johnson: Tonkawa 20, Pawnee 16
Whitt Carter: Tonkawa 37, Pawnee 26
Randy Turney: Tonkawa 28, Pawnee 20
Davenport at Strother
Michael Swisher: Davenport 55, Strother 20
Ben Johnson: Davenport 61, Strother 12
Whitt Carter: Davenport 50, Strother 14
Randy Turney: Davenport 58, Strother 12
Let us know what you think. Tweet your predictions to us at @Skordle.
Week 4: Top 10 games
| Ben Johnson
District play has arrived in full force, and there are great games all over the state this week.
Narrowing down the list to the top 10 games wasn't easy, but here it is:
1. 6AI No. 2 Jenks (3-0) at 6AI No. 1 Broken Arrow (3-0): This game was an offensive showcase for both teams last year, despite a relatively low-scoring 26-13 final, which was won by Jenks. Both teams accumulated more than 400 yards on offense, and Noah Cortes rushed for 164 yards on 22 carries. But it was Jenks quarterback Ian Corwin who passed for 365 yards and three scores. And thus Jenks' domination of Broken Arrow throughout the years continued. The Trojans have gone 14-2 against Broken Arrow since the Tigers won back-to-back seasons against Jenks in 2002 and '03.
2. 4A No. 1 Blanchard (3-0) at 4A No. 5 Bethany (3-0): Heck of a way to get things started in 4A-2. Blanchard is 6-3 against Bethany since 2008, but the two club have altered wins in the series since 2013. And it was Blanchard who won last year, 17-0.
3. 6AII No. 6 Lawton at 6AII No. 2 Midwest City (2-1): Expect points aplenty. Between Lawton's Miles Davis and Midwest City's Preston Colbert, there should be plenty of offensive fireworks. Midwest City has won the last two meetings, including a 41-35 victory last season.
4. 6AI No. 3 Owasso (1-2) at 6AI No. 4 Union (1-2): The Rams have scored at will this season with Will Kuehne at quarterback, but Owasso's defense has failed to stop anyone. Owasso is yielding an average of 44 points per game, and that's exactly how much Union scored against the Rams in last year's regular-season showdown. But then Owasso got its revenge with a 21-14 victory in the 6AI title game.
5. A No. 5 Thomas (2-1) at A No. 1 Hooker (3-0): Hooker has punished some out-of-state teams recently with wins over Booker (Texas) and Clayton (New Mexico). But now the Bulldogs return the the Sooner State and get fifth-ranked Thomas in District 1 play. Thomas won last year's game, 20-0, and expect another moderately low-scoring game again this year.
6. 5A No. 10 Noble (2-1) at 5A No. 8 Duncan (3-0): Talk a one-sided matchup throughout history. Since 1999, Duncan is 8-0 against Noble and the closest result along the way a 21-0 win for Duncan in 2006. The rest have been routs, including the last meeting between the two -- a 41-0 pummeling in 2011.
7. 4A No. 2 Wagoner (3-0) at Catoosa (3-0): Copy and paste the Noble-Duncan series information here. Only it's Wagoner owning the series for more than two decades. Since 1996, Wagoner is 10-1 against Catoosa, with the Indians' lone victory in 2011 (45-27). The two clubs have shared District 4A-3 real estate since 2010, and this one will go a long way in determining who finishes atop 4A-3 this year.
8. 6AII No. 3 Bixby (2-1) at 6AII No. 8 Sapulpa (3-0): Eli Williams and Co. have posted some impressive wins over Edison, Claremore and East Central and are off to a 3-0 start -- the best start to a Chieftains' season since going 4-0 to begin the 2013 campaign. The winning streak in 2013 was snapped by Jenks in Week 5 and Bixby followed with a win over the Chieftains. That actually began a current five-game winning streak for the Spartans over Sapulpa, including last year's 48-10 rout.
9. Lawton MacArthur (1-1) at 5A No. 2 Ardmore (3-0): The Tigers may be the higher-ranked team here, but it's been Lawton MacArthur with all the wins in this series dating back to 2005. The Highlanders won last season against Ardmore, 36-7, but the games in 2016 and 2015 were both decided by one point apiece.
10. A No. 2 Cashion (4-0, 1-0 A-3) at Christian Heritage (2-1, 1-0): These two reunite for the first time since 2009. The Wildcats' offense gets its rightful share of attention, but so far it's been the Cashion defense that has been dominant, allowing a total of 18 points through four games. And in an incredibly-deep District A-3, every victory is important.
Honorable mention
5A No. 9 Guthrie at Piedmont: Bluejays are 7-1 since the two started playing each other in 2006.
Stigler at 3A No. 4 Lincoln Christian: District 3A-3 is going to be deep, and someone among Lincoln Christian, Seminole, Stigler, Checotah and Idabel is going to miss the playoffs. Look for plenty of offensive fireworks in this one.
Chandler at 2A No. 4 Jones: Jones is 4-0 against Chandler since 1999, including a 58-6 victory in last year's playoffs.
Haskell at 2A No. 2 Sperry: The last time these two met was 2007 -- a 20-7 win for Sperry.
Meeker at Kellyville: Both clubs are off to surprising 3-0 starts, and they meet for the first time.
Spiro at 2A No. 3 Vian: Wolverines are 4-0 against Spiro since 2006, including a 32-14 win in the last meeting in 2013.
Pawnee at Tonkawa: Playoffs spots in District A-5 look like they will be difficult to come by with the likes of Barnsdall, Morrison, Pawhuska, Tonkawa and Pawnee off to solid starts. Since 2008, Tonkawa has won seven of eight meetings against the Black Bears.
B No. 2 Davenport at Strother: The Bulldogs have mercy-ruled Strother the past two seasons, but Strother is coming off solid wins of its own against Bowlegs and Sasakwa. One problem for Strother: Davenport posted 80 points last week!
So who wins all the matchups? Check back for our weekly picks on Thursday.