Hulbert Riders

Hulbert, OK 74441

  • Volleyball
  • Wrestling
  • Football
  • Boys Basketball
  • Girls Basketball
  • Baseball
  • Slow Pitch
  • Fastpitch
    • 2024-2025 Football Schedule
    Record: 1-8 | Unranked
    vs Caney ValleyW48-28
    9/6
    @ Porter ConsolidatedL30-6
    9/13
    @ WestvilleL30-26
    9/20
    @ HartshorneL74-6
    9/27
    vs PanamaL16-62
    10/4
    @ PocolaL60-16
    10/10
    vs HaskellL34-59
    10/17
    vs WarnerL8-56
    10/25
    @ Rejoice ChristianL56-0
    11/1
    vs Chouteau - MazieL0-18
    11/8

    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.”


    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

    BRUCE IN THE RECORD BOOK: Hulbert tailback sets state mark

    |  Ben Johnson

    Jacob Bruce arrived at preseason camp in 2015, mostly eager to learn and admittedly oblivious.
    “As a freshman, I was young and didn’t know what to do,” the Hulbert running back said. “The coaches then just said I was a fast kid and to use my speed. They motivated me, and then I stuck with that I needed to do.”
    Bruce expanded on those lessons four years ago and it all culminated in a record-setting night on Friday. Bruce scored on a 64-yard touchdown run in the third quarter against Allen, and at the same time passed Luther’s Larry Dupree on the state’s all-time rushing yardage list.
    “There are so many people to give credit to, including my family for always supporting me and always telling me I can do anything I put my mind to,” Bruce said. “Then my former coach (Rusty Harris) for teaching me what I need to know to become a running back, and now Coach (Joe) Brown for never giving up on me and pushing me to become better.”
    Bruce finished with 347 yards and six touchdowns in Hulbert’s 50-19 victory over Allen, and he currently sits with 8,496 yards to his credit.

    “This season has been amazing,” Bruce said. “We have had our ups and downs, but we came out on top and now that we have advanced to the second round, we are looking to keep succeeding this season and take the gold ball.”
    It’s remarkable considering that before Bruce’s arrival, Hulbert had been to the playoffs once since the turn of the century. Now the Riders will be atop the record books for the foreseeable future.
    “The people in the community have been waiting,” Bruce said, “for a good team to come through Hulbert and make a statement.”
    And they have.
    But of course Bruce couldn’t have reached his lofty achievement without the help of the guys up front. Bruce said he couldn’t help but thank his offensive line -- Wyatt Keener, Justin Carey, Larrett Daniels, Braxton Ellis, Wyatt Keener and Preston Welch -- over and over.
    “I’m close with everyone on the team, and it was a very special moment in my life,” Bruce said. “And I got to spend it with them, and I am thankful to have such great teammates like them.”

    All-time rushing yards
    1. Jacob Bruce (Hulbert) - 8,496
    2. Larry Dupree (Luther) - 8,443
    3. Reggie Skinner (White Oak) - 8,119
    4. Sheldon Wilson (Anadarko) - 7.662
    5. Steve Tate (Luther) - 7,656

    *Photo courtesy of April Howard photography 

    Zero Week notebook: Several coaches debut at new schools, pick up victories

    |  Ben Johnson

    Wardogs win in Gardner's debut

    It took 17 years, but a Miami coach won his coaching debut on Friday night. Zach Gardner, at the helm in Miami after going 96-32 in 11 season at Afton, guided the Wardogs to a 24-10 victory over Claremore Sequoyah.

    Shawn Booth was the last Miami coach to win in his debut back in 2001.

    "Sure everyone wants to win each week, but as a staff we knew it was crucial to win early," Gardner said. "We have had these kids grinding since June. This just shows their efforts are paying off."

    Miami and Claremore Sequoyah were tied a 10 at halftime, but the Wardogs' Gavin Payton found Jordan Freeman for a 21-yard touchdown pass with 6:03 left in the third quarter.

    Caden Folks punctuated Miami's scoring with a 2-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. Folks, Payton and Freeman combined to rush for 192 yards and two touchdowns.

    "Our skill guys played very well throughout the night," Gardner said. "I strongly felt we were winning in the trenches through the way our kids took over in the second half."

    Miami will host Jay on Friday night, and Claremore Sequoyah will be at Hilldale.


    Guthrie wins big

    Guthrie's defense made life miserable for Enid in the Bluejays' 57-19 rout at D. Bruce Selby Stadium on Friday night.

    Guthrie jumped out in front early on Campbell Leach's 46-yard fumble return for a touchdown. Then Cale Coffman cashed in a 70-yard fumble return for a score, after Leach stripped Enid's Will Phillips of the ball.

    Leading the way for Guthrie (1-0) was strong safety J.D. Coonfield, who had a 74-yard interception return for a touchdown to go along with one sack, one tackle for loss, two pass break-ups and 16 tackles.

    On offense, Brody Hinkle had six catches for 121 yards and a touchdown for Guthrie.

    "Good team win," Guthrie coach Kelly Beeby said. "But you can't read too much into week zero non-district games."


    Riggs, Trojans take down Bixby

    Keith Riggs became the second Jenks head coach to lead the Trojans since 1996. After Allan Trimble's 22-year run of going 251-42, Riggs took over for his mentor and led Class 6A No. 4 Jenks to a 28-14 victory over Bixby at Lee Snider Stadium.

    The Trojans (1-0), who started 0-4 last season, scored the game's first two touchdowns on a 65-yard score by Dreysen Watters and a 25-yard TD strike from Ian Corwin to Braden Phipps.

    Bixby (0-1) answered with Mason Williams' 34-yard touchdown pass to Cade Cavender, and the Spartans were with 14-7 at halftime.

    But Jenks struck again for two more score to increase its lead in the second half.

    Noah Hernandez had a 15-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, and he followed with a 13-yard TD scamper in the fourth.

    Bixby's final score came on Williams' 17-yard TD strike to Cavender.

    Watters and Hernandez combined for 163 yards on 25 carries for the Trojans.


    Pirates double up El Reno

    Poteau and El Reno were in desperate need of a game to fill out their 2018 schedule. And just like that, a matchup was born.

    Turns out, Class 4A No. 3 Poteau benefited the most with a 38-19 victory over El Reno at Costner Stadium.

    "We both had scheduling issues and we both needed a game so I said what the heck, might as well play," Poteau coach Forrest Mazey said. "I would rather do that then play nine games."

    The Pirates (1-0) claimed a victory thanks to quarterback Jace Pitchford going 13 of 24 for 259 yards and three touchdowns. He had touchdown throws of 62, 37 and 17 yards to Todd Mattox, Easton Francis and Cameron Duncan, respectively.

    "I think our kids found a way to win with guts," Mazey said. "We didn't play great in all facets of the game, but they found a way to get it done when it counted."

    Poteau made El Reno (0-1) pay by forcing three Indian turnovers on fumbles.

    "Very impressive," Mazey said of his defense. "They always have a good game plan, and they did a great job executing it."


    Sirleaf, Conquerors coast past McLain

    Josh Sirleaf knows how work. Victory Christian coach Dub Maddox can easily verify that.

    Sirleaf, a senior wideout for Victory Christian, caught three passes for 185 yards and two touchdowns in the Conquerors' 52-6 win over McLain on Friday night.

    "Josh showed up every day in the summer for workouts, and then went to work every day with his family landscaping and cleaning business," Maddox said of Sirleaf, who also recorded three interceptions on defense. "He knows how to work and that carries over on the football field. He's pound for pound one of the strongest players I have coached."

    With 10 seconds left in the first quarter, Sirleaf scored Victory Christan's first touchdown on a 54-yard pass from Garrett Williams. Sirleaf would later score on a touchdown grab of 98 yards late in the second quarter.

    Williams finished with 355 yards and five touchdowns while completing 7 of 11 passes.

    "Have a week zero game can pose some challenges with losing an extra week of practice," Maddox said. "I thought our players handled it well."

    The victory is Maddox's first after he left his offensive coordinator job at Jenks to replace Ron Smith in south Tulsa.

    "I never focused on that going into the game," Maddox said of getting his first head-coaching victory. "I was just excited to see some of our hard work and preparation come to life on the field."


    Pauls Valley prevails

    With time running down, Pauls Valley's Tyce Davidson came up with an interception to secure the Panthers' 19-18 win over Lindsay on Friday.

    The win was Pauls Valley's first under first-year head coach Dusty Raper.

    Quarterback Jack Grimmett paced Pauls Valley's offense with 28 carries for 205 yards and a touchdown. The Panthers rushed for 329 yards as a team on 56 carries.

    The Panthers' other two touchdowns were courtesy of runs by Jacob McElhaney.

    Pauls Valley was forced to punt with a minute left in the game, but Lindsay picked up only one first down before the Panthers logged back-to-back sacks before Davison's interception.


    Hipp, Hominy hold on

    Jacob Bruce was a one-man wrecking crew for Hulbert at Rider Field on Friday night. The senior tailback rushed for 321 yards and four touchdowns on 24 carries, in addition to two touchdowns on kickoff returns.

    But Class A No. 4 Hominy managed to hang on and beat Hulbert 58-41 in a high-scoring affair.

    "Hulbert is a good football team," Hominy coach Caleb Christian said. "We are blessed and fortunate to leave with a win."

    Luckily for Hominy (1-0), it had Blake Hipp leading the way. The senior quarterback completed 7 of 14 passes for 290 yards and five touchdowns, plus 84 yards and three touchdowns on 11 carries.

    "Blake Hipp is a coach's dream at quarterback," Christian said. "Tough player that knows the offense and leads the team at a high level."

    Bruce scored on a 6-yard touchdown run with 1:13 left before halftime to trim Hominy's lead to 32-29, but that's as close at Hulbert (0-1) would get the rest of the way.

    Hipp responded 57 seconds later with a 51-yard touchdown pass to Clifford Hayes to give the Bucks a 40-29 halftime lead.

    In the end, Hominy had 583 yards on offense.

    "Our offensive line is the backbone of our offense," Christian said. "They hang their hat on being physical and being in shape."

    Week 0 Player of the Week

    |  Korry Rogers

    Skordle will be hosting a player of the week poll each week for the 2018 football season. The poll will be open until midnight each Tuesday night. You can vote once per hour, so vote for your favorite candidate and tell your friends!

    Week 0 Player of the week is sponsored by


    To nominate a player for player of the week tweet their name, school, and game stats to @Skordle or email information to benjohnsondp@gmail.com 

    Here are the Week 0 Player of the Week candidates in no particular order:

    Gavin Potter (Broken Arrow) - 16 total tackles, 6 tackles for loss (31 yards), tackle for safety

    J.D. Coonfield (Guthrie) - 16 total tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, 2 pass break-ups, 1 interception return for touchdown

    Carson Berryhill (Tuttle) - 16 of 18 passing for 309 yards and 3 touchdowns. Also had a rushing touchdown

    Grant Elerick (Stroud) - 23 of 27 passing, 274 yards, 3 TDs

    Jacob Graham (Chouteau) - 3 of 3 passing for 116 yards, 1 TD | 1 rushing TD | On defense, 7 total tackles & 1 INT for a 35-yard touchdown

    Jacob Bruce (Hulbert) - 24 carries, 321 yards, 4 TDs

    Bryson Gore (Seiling) - Rushed for 212 yards, 3 TDs | Passed for 107 yards, 1 TD (all in the first half)

    Tayden Lucero (Haskell) - 12 of 20 passing, 148 yards | 19 carries, 212 yards | 3 total touchdowns

    Blake Hipp (Hominy) - 7 of 14 passing, 290 yards, 5 TDS | 11 carries, 84 yards, 3 TDs

    Honorable Mention

    These guys also had great weeks and it would be right to at least give them a little love. 

    Noah Cortes (Broken Arrow) - 25 carries, 157 yards, 2 touchdowns in the Tigers' 33-10 win over Union

    Will Kuehne (Owasso) - Passed for 343 yards and scored five touchdowns

    Deyseaon Moore (Chcotaw) - Started at safety, shifted to RB - had the game-winning TD in overtime - rushed for 107 yards and two touhdowns

    Ben Ward (Cleveland) - 15 of 25 passing for 265 yards and four touchdowns

    Asher Link (Metro Christian) - 21 of 36 passing for 265 yards and two touchdowns. Had 60 yards and 2 touchdowns on 16 carries.

    Ethan Downs (Weatherford) - 18 carries, 199 yards, 2 touchdowns | 1 reception for 25 yards, 1 TD

    Jaxon Henderson (Cascia Hall) - 15 of 23 passing for 210 yards, 3 touchdowns | 2 carries for 11 yards

    Chase Ricke (Lincoln Christian) - 16 of 24 passing for 288 yards, 3 TDs

    Jack Grimmett (Pauls Valley) - 28 carries, 205 yards, 1 TD

    Coby Davis (Stroud) - 14 receptions, 121 yards, 2 Tds

    Barrett Bradbury (Adair) - 2 receptions, 106 yards, 2 TDs

    Jarron Sebert (Jones) - 10 total tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble

    Griffin Lamb (Cashion) - 11 of 11 passing, 219 yards, 4 TDs | 7 carries, 67 yards

    Hunter Bowers (Crescent) - Passed for 200 yards, 3 TDs | Rushed for 100 yards, 1 TD

    James Overton (Minco) - 10 total tackles, 2 INTs

    Zero Week picks

    |  Ben Johnson

    High school football is back. Check out this week's picks from Michael Swisher, Whitt Carter, Randy Turney and myself.

    Union at Broken Arrow

    Michael Swisher: Union 27, Broken Arrow 13

    Ben Johnson: Union 24, Broken Arrow 17

    Whitt Carter: Union 20, Broken Arrow 17

    Randy Turney: Union 24, Broken Arrow 17


    Booker T. Washington vs. North Little Rock

    Michael Swisher: N. Little Rock 24, Booker T. Washington 21

    Ben Johnson: Booker T. Washington 32, N. Little Rock 30

    Whitt Carter: Booker T. Washington 24, N. Little Rock 26

    Randy Turney: Booker T. Washington 28, N. Little Rock 7


    Midwest City at Bentonville

    Michael Swisher: Bentonville 27, Midwest City 24

    Ben Johnson: Midwest City 29, Bentonville 24

    Whitt Carter: Midwest City 28, Bentonville 24

    Randy Turney: Midwest City 17, Bentonville 7


    Wynnewood at Minco

    Michael Swisher: Minco 21, Wynnewood 14

    Ben Johnson: Minco 20, Wynnewood 17

    Whitt Carter: Minco 20, Wynnewood 16

    Randy Turney: Wynnewood 20, Minco 18


    Bentonville West at Owasso

    Michael Swisher: Owasso 22, Bentonville West 14

    Ben Johnson: Owasso 30, Bentonville West 21

    Whitt Carter: Owasso 34, Bentonville West 21

    Randy Turney: Owasso 24, Bentonville West 10


    Jenks at Bixby

    Michael Swisher: Jenks 30, Bixby 24

    Ben Johnson: Jenks 34, Bixby 23

    Whitt Carter: Jenks 28, Bixby 17

    Randy Turney: Jenks 27, Bixby 10


    Choctaw at Shawnee

    Michael Swisher: Shawnee 27, Choctaw 23

    Ben Johnson: Choctaw 28, Shawnee 20

    Whitt Carter: Choctaw 41, Shawnee 37

    Randy Turney: Choctaw 14, Shawnee 13


    Shattuck at Tipton

    Michael Swisher: Shattuck 45, Tipton 35

    Ben Johnson: Shattuck 43, Tipton 22

    Whitt Carter: Shattuck 41, Tipton 36

    Randy Turney: Tipton 36, Shattuck 22


    Hominy at Hulbert

    Michael Swisher: Hominy 29, Hulbert 27

    Ben Johnson: Hominy 20, Hulbert 19

    Whitt Carter: Hulbert 28, Hominy 22

    Randy Turney: Hominy 28, Hulbert 6


    Chisholm at Weatherford

    Michael Swisher: Weatherford 31, Chisholm 14

    Ben Johnson: Weatherford 30, Chisholm 28

    Whitt Carter: Weatherford 35, Chisholm 20

    Randy Turney: Weatherford 27, Chisholm 14


    Jones at Oklahoma Christian School

    Michael Swisher: Jones 27, OCS 20

    Ben Johnson: OCS 33, Jones 31

    Whitt Carter: Jones 34, OCS 24

    Randy Turney: Jones 35, OCS 21


    Metro Christian at Broken Bow

    Michael Swisher: Broken Bow 23, Metro Christian 21

    Ben Johnson: Broken Bow 24, Metro Christian 13

    Whitt Carter: Broken Bow 32, Metro Christian 28

    Randy Turney: Metro Christian 28, Broken Bow 10


    Plainview at Elgin

    Michael Swisher: Plainview 28, Elgin 17

    Ben Johnson: Plainview 34, Elgin 22

    Whitt Carter: Plainview 34, Elgin 14

    Randy Turney: Elgin 14, Plainview 13


    Gore at Haskell

    Michael Swisher: Gore 30, Haskell 20

    Ben Johnson: Gore 39, Haskell 23

    Whitt Carter: Gore 21, Haskell 18

    Randy Turney: Haskell 21, Gore 14


    Watonga at Okeene

    Michael Swisher: Watonga 42, Okeene 12

    Ben Johnson: Watonga 26, Okeene 23

    Whitt Carter: Okeene 28, Watonga 23

    Randy Turney: Watonga 21, Okeene 14


    Morrison at Kiefer

    Michael Swisher: Morrison 28, Kiefer 14


    Ben Johnson:Morrison 27, Kiefer 12


    Whitt Carter: Morrison 38, Kiefer 27


    Randy Turney: Morrison 28, Kiefer 14


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

    Zero Week: Top 10 games

    |  Ben Johnson

    The calendar hasn't flipped to September yet, but high schools across Oklahoma are officially footballing this week.

    Zero Week is here, and it's offering up some solid matchups to get the season rolling.

    Here are this week's top 10 games:

    1. 6AI No. 1 Union at 6AI No. 3 Broken Arrow: There will be talent all over the field on Friday night at Memorial Stadium. The running back matchup, featuring Broken Arrow's Noah Cortes and Union's Darius Boone Jr., will be fun to watch. This one could come down to quarterback play, and Union has the advantage there with Peyton Thompson. Also helps that Union holds a 39-3 record over the Tigers since 1983.

    2. 6AII No. 1 Booker T. Washington vs. North Little Rock (Ark.) at Bentonville High School: Clash of two state champions from 2017. The Hornets will deploy Thomas Grayson, a Nebraska commit, at running back, and they'll also feature one of the nation's top recruits in Dax Hill, who figures to play on both sides of the ball. North Little Rock, Class 7A title winner in Arkansas, will counter with North Texas commit Oscar Adaway and plenty of other talented players across the field. The game is part of the Rumble in the Ozarks, played in Northwest Arkansas.

    3. 6AII No. 2 Midwest City at Bentonville (Ark.): This will be the nightcap of the Rumle in the Ozarks on Saturday. Bentonville lost to North Little Rock in last year's title game, and Midwest City was dispatched from the Class 6AII playoffs in the semifinals. Look for Midwest City's Preston Colbert to get off to a roaring start for the Bombers this season.

    4. A No. 6 Wynnewood at A No. 5 Minco: Both teams shared a district (A-4) in the past four seasons, and Minco ended up winning three of those four matchups. Now they've gone their separate ways in Class A, so they'll meet up in Zero Week. Minco quarterback Daxton Williams graduated, so they Bulldogs will have to find his replacement. Meanwhile, Wynnewood has Tyler Grove who passed for nearly 1,000 yards as a sophomore last season.

    5. Bentonville West (Ark.) at 6AI No. 2 Owasso: Will Kuehne and Co. get the 2018 season kicked off against one of the newest programs in Arkansas. Bentonville West is led by former McAlester head coach Bryan Pratt, who led the Wolverines to a 9-2 record in 2017. For Owasso, the Rams will look for Bryce Cabrera's replacement at tailback and Josh Proctor's replacementin the defensive backfield.

    6. 6AI No. 4 Jenks at 6AII No. 4 Bixby: This one-sided rivalry leveled out in 2017 with the Spartans ending a 26-game losing streak to Jenks with a 35-18 victory. Jenks' winning ways over Bixby had dated back to 1977. The Trojans return quarterback Ian Corwin and Mr. Do Everything Noah Hernandez, but they'll have a new look on the sidelines under first-year head coach Keith Riggs. For Bixby, there's a lot of newcomers after Tucker Pawley and Staton King graduated following the Spartans' runner-up finish in Class 6AII.


    7. Choctaw at 6AII No. 10 Shawnee: These two haven't met since 1999, despite only being 30 miles apart. Now they're both members of Class 6AII with Shawnee bumping up a class this season. The Yellowjackets are coming off a 6-4 season, where Jake Corbin was in his first year as head coach. On the other side, Shawnee was 6-5 before leaving 5A. Now Heath Hunter and the Wolves get to show what they're made of in a new classification.

    8. B. No. 2 Shattuck at C No. 1 Tipton: A rematch of the 2011 Class C state championship. Also a clash of last year's Class B (Shattuck) and Class C (Tipton) champions. The winner gets to claim the title of "best eight-man team" until the playoffs start.

    9. A No. 4 Hominy at Hulbert: Perhaps the best running back matchup in the state, outside of Union-Broken Arrow. Hominy will feature move-in Dylan Roach, who torched opponents at Prue last season to the tune of 2,264 yards and 31 touchdowns. Then there's Hulbert's Jacob Bruce, who has posted back-to-back 2,000-yard rushing seasons for the Riders in 2016 and 2017.

    10. 2A No. 7 Chisholm at 4A No. 7 Weatherford: This one features a solid matchup of quarterbacks. Chisholm's signal caller, Braden Meek, passed for 1,552 yards and 20 touchdowns as a junior in 2017, and Weatherford's Jaxon Ratterree will begin his junior season after tossing for 1,274 yards and nine touchdowns last year.

    Honorable mention

    Jones at Oklahoma Christian School

    Metro Christian at Broken Bow

    Plainview at Elgin

    Gore at Haskell

    Watonga at Okeene

    Morrison at Kiefer


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

    High School Football rankings

    |  Michael Swisher

    6A Division-I

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

    6A Division-II

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

    Class 5A

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

    Class 4A

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

    Class 3A

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

    Class 2A Division-I

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

    Class 2A Division-II

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

    Class A Division-I

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

    Class A Division-II

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

    Class B Division-I

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

    Class B Division-II

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

    Class C

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

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

    |  Michael Swisher

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

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

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


    So what is the Gravy Train?

    It's two open-faced homemade biscuits with sausage gravy and hash browns on top. I then added cheese, two runny medium eggs and bacon.



    The Gravy Train is so good and covers all the bases when it comes to breakfast.

    It's one of those breakfast plates that when you're done you either (A) feel like you should go build a fence or chop wood in the snow or (B) head on back to the couch for a morning nap.

    The Gravy Train is definitely not a "light breakfast" by any measure, but rather a heavy and hearty breakfast that is extremely satisfying for those not afraid of a big breakfast. 

    I'm sure local Kingfisher icon Micheal Swisher would have strong recommendations for Sunrise Cafe as well and probably not just for breakfast either.

    It's the kind of small-town cafe that I really enjoy and probably has an excellent hamburger or chicken fried steak meal if i was guessing.

    So the next time you are rolling through Kingfisher in the morning, stop in at the Sunrise Cafe and give the Gravy Train a try because it's a really solid breakfast all the way around!

    Week 10 High School Football Rankings

    |  Michael Swisher

    6A Division-I

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

    6A Division-II

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

    Class 5A

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

    Class 4A

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

    Class 3A

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

    Class 2A Division-I

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

    Class 2A Division-II

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

    Class A Division-I

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

    Class A Division-II

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

    Class B Division-I

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

    Class B Division-II

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

    Class C

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

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

    |  Michael Swisher

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

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

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

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

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

    Week 9 Pay Dirt Picks & Results

    |  Korry Rogers


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

    Week 9 High School Football Rankings

    |  Michael Swisher

    6A Division-I

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

    6A Division-II

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

    Class 5A

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

    Class 4A

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

    Class 3A

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

    Class 2A Division-I

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

    Class 2A Division-II

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

    Class A Division-I

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

    Class A Division-II

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

    Class B Division-I

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

    Class B Division-II

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

    Class C

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

    Week 8 Pay Dirt Picks & Results

    |  Korry Rogers


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

    SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 8 (2024): Flamingo Lounge

    |  Michael Swisher

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


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


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


    Simple is why they are great. 


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


    I would highly recommend the Double Meat, Double Cheeseburger.




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


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


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


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


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


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

    Week 8 High School Football Rankings

    |  Michael Swisher

    6A Division-I

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

    6A Division-II

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

    Class 5A

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

    Class 4A

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

    Class 3A

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

    Class 2A Division-I

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

    Class 2A Division-II

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

    Class A Division-I

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

    Class A Division-II

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

    Class B Division-I

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

    Class B Division-II

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

    Class C

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

    Week 7 Pay Dirt Picks

    |  Korry Rogers


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

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

    |  Michael Swisher

    SKORDLE has two MASSIVE Games of the Week on the SKORDLE.TV network for Week 7.

    Class 2A Division 1's fourth-ranked Marlow will be at #1 Washington and Class A Division 1 #1 Fairview will be at #2 Hooker.

    The winner of both games will have a big leg up on the district races and these could be a preview of future playoff matchups down the road.

    I asked Chis Wilfong of Iwasatthegame.com for some "fun facts" related to both of these matchups and he had some very interesting ones to share. 

    In the Marlow-Washington game, the all-time head-to-head matchup favors Marlow by a 5-2 margin.

    Do you know who Washington's last loss in a game was?

    You guessed it, Marlow in the 2021 state championship. 

    In the Fairview-Hooker game, the all-time head-to-head matchup favors Fairview by an 11-4 margin.

    This is a rematch of last year's Class A State Championship game won by Fairview. Currently in Class A Division I, when it comes to scoring, Fairview is No. 3 while Hooker is No. 4 so the scoreboard operator could be very busy Thursday night. 

    As mentioned in an earlier Sampler this season, Washington and Fairview are both riding 30-plus game winning streaks and now they have company in this lofty club. It is the Carl Albert Titans, who have won 31 games in a row.

    According to Chris Wilfong, this is the first time ever in state history that we have had three 30-plus-game winning streaks going on at the same time in 11-man football.

    Now that is a truly "fun fact" heading into these big games this week. 

    As for food recommendations, if you are heading to Washington there are plenty of quality stops on the way, including my favorites of Victoria's Pasta Shop in Norman (Shrimp Lasagna Rolls) or Purcell at the Original Jo's Famous Pizza (any of it). 

    For those of you heading way out west to Hooker, I highly suggest you stop and eat at the Mr. Burger in Guymon or Hooker. 

    I randomly stumbled across this gem in the panhandle coming home from a ski trip in 2023. I ended up having a really great Bacon Cheeseburger, 13 tater tots and a delicious Cherry Limeade.

    Local insider (Todd Kerr) also highly recommends the Jalapeno Chicken and onion rings, which also sounds fantastic.

    Good luck to all the teams this week as it is starting to feel like actual Fall outside and keep a close eye on these two big matchups on SKORDLE.TV

    Week 7 High School Football Rankings

    |  Michael Swisher

    6A Division-I

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

    6A Division-II

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

    Class 5A

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

    Class 4A

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

    Class 3A

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

    Class 2A Division-I

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

    Class 2A Division-II

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

    Class A Division-I

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

    Class A Division-II

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

    Class B Division-I

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

    Class B Division-II

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

    Class C

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

    Week 6 Pay Dirt Picks

    |  Korry Rogers


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

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

    |  Michael Swisher

    The Game of the Week this Friday night is Hooker at Cashion.

    For this week's installment of the Sampler Blog we revisit my column from Week 3 last year when I shared the excellence that is Flour and Fennel Pizza in Cashion.

    If you're traveling to Cashion for the game this week, I highly recommend going to Flour and Fennel for some of the best pizza you can find in the entire Sooner State!

    Recently our go-to meal has been Salad (Shareable), Cheesy Bread (Incredible) and Arby's Pizza (Meat lovers). I would also encourage you to check the specials menu and consider the homemade meatballs! 

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

    |  Michael Swisher

    Great food experiences are often tied to core memories.


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


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


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


    It was the overall time I had that was fantastic.


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



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


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


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


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


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


    I went once for a few days in 1999.


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


    That’s it.


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


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


    So I did.


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


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


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


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


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


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


    Yes, three. Elk loves to eat, too.


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


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


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


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



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


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


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


    It was all that I had remembered.


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


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


    True.


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


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


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



    Sounds like Raising Cane’s, right?


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


    That was - and is - Guthrie’s.


    But did it live up to my hype?


    Now imagine this….


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


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


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


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

    Week 6 High School Football Rankings

    |  Michael Swisher

    6A Division-I

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

    6A Division-II

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

    Class 5A

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

    Class 4A

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

    Class 3A

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

    Class 2A Division-I

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

    Class 2A Division-II

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

    Class A Division-I

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

    Class A Division-II

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

    Class B Division-I

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

    Class B Division-II

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

    Class C

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


    Week 5 Pay Dirt Picks

    |  Korry Rogers


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

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

    |  Michael Swisher


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

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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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



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


    Quite frankly, Taco Stop was fantastic! 


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


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

    Week 5 High School Football Rankings

    |  Michael Swisher

    6A Division-I

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

    6A Division-II

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

    Class 5A

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

    Class 4A

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

    Class 3A

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

    Class 2A Division-I

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

    Class 2A Division-II

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

    Class A Division-I

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

    Class A Division-II

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

    Class B Division-I

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

    Class B Division-II

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

    Class C

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


    Oklahoma State Fair Trip 2024 - Where is the Beef?

    |  Michael Swisher

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


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

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

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

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

    loggedin: True
    loginemail:
    lastpage:
    userid:
    auditionid:
    auditiontimeid:
    year:
    disciplineid: