Andrew Crow commits to OU

6/6/2019 |  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

1/11/2019 |  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

11/12/2018 |  Ben Johnson

*Photo courtesy of April Howard photography 

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

8/27/2018 |  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

8/25/2018 |  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:

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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

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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

8/23/2018 |  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

8/21/2018 |  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.

6A Soccer Playoff Preview

5/5/2025 |  Michael Swisher

6A GIRLS – FINAL RANKINGS

1 Edmond North (14-0) (7-0) – 25

2 Norman North (12-1) (7-0) – 23

3 Jenks (12-2) (7-0) – 22

4 Bixby (12-1) (7-0) – 17

5 Deer Creek (8-2) (6-1) – 17

6 Westmoore (11-3) (6-1) – 13

7 Edmond Memorial (9-3) (5-2) – 14

8 Broken Arrow (7-3) (5-2) – 15

9 Norman (9-4) (5-2) – 11

10 Tulsa Union (9-4) (5-2) – 10

11 Edmond Santa Fe (7-5) (5-2) – 11

12 Piedmont (9-3) (5-2) – 10

13 Yukon (9-4) (5-2) – 10

14 Mustang (12-3) (4-3) – 6

15 Moore (6-7) (4-3) – 5

16 Enid (7-7) (4-3) – 2

Oklahoma 6A Girls Soccer Playoff Bracket – 2025

#2 Norman North vs. #15 Moore

#6 Westmoore vs. #12 Piedmont

#3 Jenks vs. #14 Mustang

#5 Deer Creek vs. #11 Edmond Santa Fe

#4 Bixby vs. #16 Enid

#9 Norman vs. #7 Edmond Memorial

#1 Edmond North vs. #13 Yukon

#10 Tulsa Union vs. #8 Broken Arrow

MATCHUPS, DISCUSSION AND PICKS

#2 Norman North (-3.5) should advance past #15 Moore and host the winner of #12 Piedmont at #6 Westmoore (-1). We expect a close matchup, but Westmoore should prevail, setting up a quarterfinal between #6 Westmoore and #2 Norman North on Friday night.

#3 Jenks dominated District 6A-4 and faces a tough draw in #14 Mustang. Assuming Jenks (-1.5) wins, they will host the winner of one of the most intriguing 1st round matchups: #5 Deer Creek vs. #11 Edmond Santa Fe. We see Deer Creek (-1) sneaking out a win thanks to home field advantage, setting up a quarterfinal of #5 Deer Creek at #3 Jenks.

#4 Bixby navigated a brutal 6A-3 schedule and should beat #16 Enid (+3). Bixby would then host the winner of a PICK-EM game: #9 Norman vs. #7 Edmond Memorial. We picked Edmond Memorial, setting up #4 Bixby vs. #7 Edmond Memorial in the quarterfinals.

#1 Edmond North rides a 24-game win streak and should beat #13 Yukon (+4), advancing to face the winner of another PICK-EM: #8 Broken Arrow vs. #10 Tulsa Union. We’re picking Broken Arrow, leading to a quarterfinal of #1 Edmond North vs. #8 Broken Arrow.

6A BOYS – FINAL RANKINGS

1 Owasso (13-2) (7-0) – 22

2 Tulsa Union (14-1) (7-0) – 13

3 Edmond Memorial (12-1) (7-0) – 20

4 Broken Arrow (13-2) (6-1) – 17

5 Norman North (13-1) (6-1) – 13

6 Yukon (11-3) (6-1) – 6

7 Northwest Classen (9-4) (5-2) – 10

8 Deer Creek (9-5) (5-2) – 8

9 Putnam City West (8-6) (5-2) – 6

10 Stillwater (8-7) (5-2) – 6

11 Jenks (6-8) (5-2) – 9

12 Southmoore (9-6) (4-3) – 5

13 Edmond North (9-5) (4-3) – 4

14 Mustang (9-6) (4-3) – 4

15 Piedmont (9-5) (3-4) – 0

16 Bartlesville (6-6) (4-3) – 3

Oklahoma 6A Boys Soccer Playoff Bracket – 2025

#6 Yukon vs. #13 Edmond North

#4 Broken Arrow vs. #11 Jenks

#2 Tulsa Union vs. #16 Bartlesville

#7 Northwest Classen vs. #9 Putnam City West

#1 Owasso vs. #15 Piedmont

#5 Norman North vs. #8 Deer Creek

#3 Edmond Memorial vs. #12 Southmoore

#10 Stillwater vs. #14 Mustang

MATCHUPS, DISCUSSION AND PICKS

#6 Yukon, winners of the 6A-1 District, host #13 Edmond North. We see Yukon (-1) advancing to face the winner of #11 Jenks at #4 Broken Arrow (-1), a rematch from the regular season. Expect another close one, but Broken Arrow moves on, setting up a quarterfinal of #6 Yukon vs. #4 Broken Arrow.

#2 Tulsa Union, riding a 13-game win streak, should handle #16 Bartlesville and face the winner of the PICK-EM matchup between #7 Northwest Classen and #9 PC West. We give the edge to Northwest Classen, setting up a quarterfinal: #2 Tulsa Union vs. #7 Northwest Classen.

#1 Owasso, winners of 12 straight, should get past #15 Piedmont. They’ll then face the winner of the marquee 1st round matchup: #5 Norman North (-1) vs. #8 Deer Creek. We see Norman North pulling out a narrow win, setting up a heavyweight quarterfinal: #1 Owasso vs. #5 Norman North.

#3 Edmond Memorial, undefeated in district play, should beat battle-tested #12 Southmoore. They’ll then host the winner of the final PICK-EM: #10 Stillwater vs. #14 Mustang. We’re picking Stillwater in a revenge win, setting up a quarterfinal of #3 Edmond Memorial vs. #10 Stillwater.

6A Soccer Rankings and Playoff Projections

4/21/2025 |  Michael Swisher

6A Girls

1. Edmond North (12-0) (5-0)
2. Norman North (9-1) (4-0)
3. Bixby (10-1) (5-0)
4. Jenks (10-2) (5-0)
5. Deer Creek (7-1) (5-0)
6. Westmoore (10-2) (5-0)
7. Edmond Memorial (8-2) (4-1)
8. Norman (8-3) (4-1)
9. Broken Arrow (5-3) (3-2)
10. Tulsa Union (7-3) (3-1)
11. Edmond Sante Fe (6-4) (4-1)
12. Yukon (7-4) (3-2)

Games of the Week

• Tuesday 4/22:  #1 Edmond North at #5 Deer Creek – the 6A-2 District championship will most likely be decided in this cross-town matchup of 2 red hot teams and rematch of last year’s State Semi-Final that EN won 1-0 on its way to the State title. 
• Friday 4/25:  #3 Bixby at #6 Westmoore – Assuming both teams take care of business Tuesday, this match will decide the 6A-3 District Title.
• Friday 4/25:  #7 Edmond Memorial at #1 Edmond North – regardless of the outcome of EN-DC Tuesday, this game will have a lot riding on it - as an EDLAM rivalry and since EM was the last team to beat EN last season in non-district play.

District Playoff Discussion and Projections

In District 6A-1 - Norman North, riding a 9-game winning streak, play 3 games this week and control their own destiny for the District title with a win at #11 Edmond Santa Fe on Friday. Norman, despite an ugly loss to NN, can secure the 2-seed with a road win at #12 Yukon on Friday.  Edmond Santa Fe is safely the 3-seed but can still win the District title and 1-seed with a win at Choctaw Tuesday and an upset of #2 Norman North at home on Friday night. As for the 4-seed, Yukon needs a home win over Southmoore Tuesday to lock in the final playoff spot.

Projection:

1. Norman North
2. Norman
3. Edmond Sante Fe
4. Yukon

In District 6A-2, Edmond North, the defending champs, are steamrolling teams, but face their toughest tests of the regular season this week with matches at #5 DC on Tuesday and vs. #7 EM on Friday. Deer Creek is coming off an impressive 2-0 win at #7 EM last week and have not conceded a goal in the run of play yet this season. DC is all but a lock to be the 2-seed but can win the District title outright with a home victory over #1 EN Tuesday night. Similarly, if EN beats DC Tuesday they will win the District Title regardless of the results of EN-EM Friday due to their large lead in Margin Points. However, Edmond Memorial can still get the 2-seed with a win over EN Friday, if DC beats EN on Tuesday night as well. Otherwise, EM is likely safely the 3-seed. For the 4-seed, Moore can secure the last playoff spot in 6A-2 with a home win over Putnam City Tuesday night.

Projection:

1. Edmond North
2. Deer Creek
3. Edmond Memorial
4. Moore

In District 6A-3, the Friday matchup of #3 Bixby at #6 Westmoore will most likely decide the District champion and the 2-seed – assuming Bixby can hold serve at home against a dangerous Owasso team Tuesday night. From there, Broken Arrow (3-2), Owasso (2-3), Mustang (2-3) and Bartlesville (2-3) all remain alive for the final 2 playoff spots. BA at 3-2 is in the best shape, but play 2 tough games this week at Bartlesville Tuesday and at Owasso on Friday. Mustang should get to (3-3) with a win at home vs. Sand Springs Tuesday and then face Bartlesville on the road Friday. Owasso at 2-3 and with 3 margin points faces the toughest road with games at Bixby Tuesday and home vs. BA Friday – but could jump to the 3-seed with a pair of wins. Bartlesville will need to score upsets at home vs. BA Tuesday and at Mustang Friday and hope for some more luck to end up 4th in 6A-3.

Projection:

1. Westmoore
2. Bixby
3. Broken Arrow
4. Mustang

In District 6A-4, Jenks wil likely coast to another District title and 1-seed with winnable home games vs. US Grant and Sapulpa this week. Union (3-1) plays 3 games this week and can likely lock in the 2-seed with a win at Stillwater Tuesday. From there, Stillwater (3-2), Piedmont (3-2) and Enid (3-2) all remain in the mix for the 3rd and 4th playoff spots, depending on the outcome of this week’s games. Piedmont hosts Enid Tuesday and can likely lock up the 3-seed with a win there. Stillwater hosts Union Tuesday and then plays at Enid Friday night with the last playoff spot likely on the line.

Projection:

1. Jenks
2. Union
3. Piedmont
4. Stillwater

6A Boys

1. Tulsa Union (11-1) (4-0)
2. Broken Arrow (11-1) (4-0)
3. Edmond Memorial (10-1) (5-0)
4. Owasso (11-2) (5-0)
5. Yukon (10-2) (5-0)
6. Norman North (10-1) (3-1)
7. NW Classen (8-3) (4-1)
8. Edmond North (9-3) (4-1)
9. Stillwater (8-5) (5-0)
10. Deer Creek (7-4) (3-2)
11. Bartlesville (6-4) (4-1)
12. Bixby (9-3) (3-2)

Games of the Week

• Tuesday 4/22:  #3 Edmond Memorial at #7 NW Classen - the 6A-2 District Title will be at stake in this game at Taft Stadium.
• Tuesday 4/22:  #1 Union at #9 Stillwater - the last 2 undefeated teams still standing in 6A-4 will likely decide the District champ in this Tuesday match in Stillwater.
• Friday 4/25:  #2 Broken Arrow at #4 Owasso - when these top 2 teams, both currently unbeaten in District, play Friday night it will likely be for all the marbles in 6A-3.

District Playoff Discussion and Projections

In 6A-1, Yukon, coming of their OT win over previously undefeated Norman North, controls its own destiny and can win the District with either a sweep or just a split of their games at Southmoore Tuesday and home vs. Norman Friday. NN plays 3 games this week but against the teams currently occupying the bottom 3 spots in District and appear poised to secure the 2-seed. From there Norman hosts PC West, both 3-2, Tuesday and the winner is a safe bet for the 3-seed with the loser the 4.

Projection:

1. Yukon
2. Norman North
3. Putnam City West
4. Norman

In 6A-2, Edmond Memorial (5-0) plays atNW Classen (4-1) Tuesday with the winner in the drivers’ seat for the District title and the loser likely the 2. However, Edmond North (4-1) can also still win the District with 2 wins this week at DC Tuesday and hosting EM on Friday - with a EM win over NWC Tuesday. But, DC can still swipe the 3-seed from EN by winning their match-up Tuesday and holding serve Friday vs. PCO. 

Projection:

1. Edmond Memorial
2. NW Classen
3. Deer Creek
4. Edmond North

In 6A-3, the top 5 teams play a round-robin of sorts this week to decide the final District standings and champ. However, the outcome of Friday’s matchup of BA at Owasso will most likely determine who is the District Champ and who is the 2-seed. As for the final 2 spots, Bartlesville’s OT win over Bixby may likely prove to be decisive, even if Mustang tries to play spoiler by beating Bartlesville at home Friday.

Projection:

1. Broken Arrow
2. Owasso
3. Bartlesville
4. Bixby

In 6A-4, the Stillwater-Union game Tuesday likely determines the District Champ and the 2-seed. Jenks appears locked in as the 3-seed while Enid and U.S. Grant will matchup this week (and hope for some luck) for the winner to secure the last playoff spot - but U.S. Grant holds the advantage due to its prior 2-1 win over Enid.

Projection:

1. Union
2. Stillwater
3. Jenks
4. US Grant

6A Soccer Rankings and Games to Look Out For

4/15/2025 |  Michael Swisher

6A Girls

1. Edmond North (10-0) (3-0)
2. Norman North (7-1) (2-0)
3. Bixby (8-1) (3-0)
4. Jenks (8-2) (3-0)
5. Deer Creek (5-1) (3-0)
6. Edmond Memorial (7-1) (3-0)
7. Norman (7-2) (3-0)
8. Westmoore (8-2) (3-0)
9. Broken Arrow (4-2) (2-1)
10. Tulsa Union (6-2) (2-0)
11. Mustang (9-2) (2-1)
12. Yukon (6-3) (2-1)

6A Girls Games of the Week

• 4/15 - #7 Norman at #2 Norman North - Cross-town rivalry with 6A-1 District Title likely on the line.
• 4/15 - #10 Tulsa Union at #4 Jenks - Cross-town rivalry with huge 6A-4 District Title implications.
• 4/17 - #5 Deer Creek at #6 Edmond Memorial - EDLAM rivalry game with 6A-2 District home field advantage on the line.
• 4/17 - #3 Bixby at #9 Broken Arrow - Green County battle with 6A-3 District home field advantage implications.

6A Boys

1. Norman North (9-0) (2-0)
2. Tulsa Union (9-1) (2-0)
3. Broken Arrow (9-1) (2-0)
4. Edmond Memorial (8-1) (3-0)
5. Owasso (9-2) (3-0)
6. Bixby (9-1) (3-0)
7. Deer Creek (7-2) (3-0)
8. Yukon (8-2) (3-0)
9. Southmoore (7-4) (2-1)
10. Edmond North (7-3) (2-1)
11. NW Classen (6-3) (2-1)
12. Stillwater (6-5) (3-0)

6A Boys Games of the Week

• 4/15 - #2 Tulsa Union at Jenks - When these two teams get together, need we say more?
• 4/17 - #1 Norman North at #8 Yukon - #1 Norman North has tough 6A-1 District week, hosting rival Norman and #8 Yukon.
• 4/17 - #7 Deer Creek at #4 Edmond Memorial - EDLAM rivalry game with 6A-2 District title and home field advantage implications.
• 4/17 - #6 Bixby at #3 Broken Arrow - Green County rivalry game with 6A-3 District title and home field advantage at stake.

High School Football rankings

11/14/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

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

6A Division-II

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

Class 5A

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

Class 4A

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

Class 3A

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

Class 2A Division-I

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

Class 2A Division-II

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

Class A Division-I

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

Class A Division-II

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

Class B Division-I

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

Class B Division-II

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

Class C

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

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

11/7/2024 |  Michael Swisher

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

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

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

Week 10 High School Football Rankings

11/5/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

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

6A Division-II

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

Class 5A

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

Class 4A

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

Class 3A

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

Class 2A Division-I

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

Class 2A Division-II

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

Class A Division-I

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

Class A Division-II

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

Class B Division-I

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

Class B Division-II

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

Class C

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

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

10/31/2024 |  Michael Swisher

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

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

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

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

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

Week 9 Pay Dirt Picks & Results

10/31/2024 |  Korry Rogers

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

Week 9 High School Football Rankings

10/30/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

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

6A Division-II

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

Class 5A

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

Class 4A

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

Class 3A

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

Class 2A Division-I

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

Class 2A Division-II

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

Class A Division-I

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

Class A Division-II

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

Class B Division-I

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

Class B Division-II

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

Class C

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

Week 8 Pay Dirt Picks & Results

10/24/2024 |  Korry Rogers

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

SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 8 (2024): Flamingo Lounge

10/23/2024 |  Michael Swisher

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

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

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

Simple is why they are great. 

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

I would highly recommend the Double Meat, Double Cheeseburger.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Week 8 High School Football Rankings

10/20/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

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

6A Division-II

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

Class 5A

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

Class 4A

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

Class 3A

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

Class 2A Division-I

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

Class 2A Division-II

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

Class A Division-I

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

Class A Division-II

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

Class B Division-I

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

Class B Division-II

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

Class C

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

Week 7 Pay Dirt Picks

10/16/2024 |  Korry Rogers

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

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

10/16/2024 |  Michael Swisher

Week 7 High School Football Rankings

10/15/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

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

6A Division-II

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

Class 5A

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

Class 4A

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

Class 3A

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

Class 2A Division-I

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

Class 2A Division-II

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

Class A Division-I

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

Class A Division-II

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

Class B Division-I

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

Class B Division-II

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

Class C

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

Week 6 Pay Dirt Picks

10/9/2024 |  Korry Rogers

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

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

10/9/2024 |  Michael Swisher

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

10/9/2024 |  Michael Swisher

Great food experiences are often tied to core memories.

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

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

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

It was the overall time I had that was fantastic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

I went once for a few days in 1999.

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

That’s it.

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

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

So I did.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yes, three. Elk loves to eat, too.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It was all that I had remembered.

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

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

True.

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

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

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

Sounds like Raising Cane’s, right?

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

That was - and is - Guthrie’s.

But did it live up to my hype?

Now imagine this….

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

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

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

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

Week 6 High School Football Rankings

10/7/2024 |  Michael Swisher

6A Division-I

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

6A Division-II

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

Class 5A

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

Class 4A

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

Class 3A

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

Class 2A Division-I

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

Class 2A Division-II

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

Class A Division-I

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

Class A Division-II

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

Class B Division-I

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

Class B Division-II

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

Class C

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

Week 5 Pay Dirt Picks

10/4/2024 |  Korry Rogers

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