Buffalo Bison
Buffalo, OK 73834
Record: 3-6 | Unranked
 | vs Boise City | L | 8-34 8/30 |
 | @ Waukomis | L | 50-14 9/6 |
 | vs Turpin | L | 6-54 9/20 |
 | @ Sharon-Mutual | W | 24-26 9/27 |
 | @ Timberlake | L | 38-0 10/4 |
 | vs Kremlin-Hillsdale | W | 15-0 10/11 |
 | @ Beaver | W | 30-50 10/17 |
 | vs Tyrone | L | 6-50 10/25 |
 | @ Balko-Forgan | L | 34-30 11/1 |
 | @ Waynoka | L | 50-0 11/8 |
Week 5 rankings
| 
Ben Johnson
(___) - previously ranked
Class 6AI
1. Owasso (1) - 4-02. Broken Arrow (2) - 3-1
3. Union (3) - 1-3
4. Jenks (4) - 1-3
5. PC North (5) - 4-0
6. Norman (6) - 4-0
7. Westmoore (7) - 4-0
8. Moore (9) - 2-2
9. Edmond Santa Fe (10) - 3-1
10. Mustang (8) - 2-2
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1) - 4-02. Stillwater (2) - 4-0
3. Booker T. Washington (4) - 2-2
4. Del City (5) - 3-1
5. Sapulpa (3) - 3-1
6. Muskogee (7) - 4-0
7. Choctaw (6) - 2-2
8. Midwest City (9) - 2-2
9. Lawton (8) - 3-1
10. Ponca City (10) - 2-2
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1) - 4-02. Bishop McGuinness (2) - 3-1
3. Edison (4) - 3-1
4. Bishop Kelley (5) - 2-2
5. Tahlequah (6) - 4-0
6. Collinsville (7) - 3-1
7. El Reno (8) - 4-0
8. Duncan (3) - 2-1
9. Pryor (9) - 3-1
10. Piedmont (NR) - 3-1
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1) - 4-0
2. Tuttle (2) - 4-0
3. Wagoner (3) - 3-1
4. Weatherford (5) - 3-1
5. Poteau (6) - 3-1
6. Bristow (7) - 3-1
7. Broken Bow (8) - 3-1
8. Clinton (4) - 2-2
9. Central (NR) - 4-0
10. Cache (NR) - 2-2
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1) - 3-02. Lincoln Christian (2) - 4-0
3. Plainview (3) - 2-1
4. John Marshall (4) - 4-0
5. Berryhill (5) - 4-0
6. Sulphur (6) - 4-0
7. Perkins-Tryon (7) - 4-0
8. Lone Grove (8) - 4-0
9. Seminole (NR) - 3-1
10. Stigler (9) - 3-1
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (1) - 4-02. Sperry (2) - 4-0
3. Vian (3) - 3-1
4. Millwood (4) - 3-1
5. Holland Hall (5) - 3-1
6. Washington (6) - 4-0
7. Jones (7) - 3-1
8. Beggs (9) - 3-1
9. Kingston (10) - 3-1
10. Adair (8) - 4-0
Class A
1. Cashion (1) - 4-02. Stroud (2) - 4-0
3. Pawhuska (3) - 5-0
4. Rejoice Christian (4) - 4-0
5. Thomas (6) - 4-1
6. Pawnee (8) - 4-0
7. Minco (9) - 5-0
8. Christian Heritage (7) - 4-1
9. Colcord (10) - 4-0
10. Tonkawa (5) - 4-1
Class B
1. Shattuck (1) - 4-02. Regent Prep (2) - 4-0
3. Cherokee (3) - 4-0
4. Davenport (4) - 3-1
5. Dewar (5) - 4-0
6. Burns Flat-Dill City (7) - 3-1
7. Laverne (8) - 3-1
8. Weleetka (6) - 2-2
9. Canadian (9) - 4-0
10. Snyder (NR) - 4-0
Class C
1. Southwest Covenant (1) - 3-02. Pond Creek-Hunter (2) - 4-0
3. Tyrone (4) - 4-0
4. Covington-Douglas (5) - 3-2
5. Maysville (6) - 4-0
6. Coyle (7) - 3-1
7. Midway (8) - 5-0
8. Boise City (9) - 4-0
9. Graham-Dustin (10) - 3-1
10. Buffalo (3) - 3-1
WEEK 4 PICKS
| Ben Johnson
Swisher is still in the lead, and blah blah blah. Whitt and I need to step it up
Week 3 picks
Michael Swisher - 9-6
Whitt Carter - 12-3
Ben Johnson - 13-2
Overall standings
Michael Swisher - 46-13
Whitt Carter - 41-18
Ben Johnson - 43-16
Broken Arrow at Jenks
Swisher: Broken Arrow
Whitt: Broken Arrow
Ben: Broken Arrow
Union at Owasso
Swisher: Owasso
Whitt: Owasso
Ben: Owasso
Del City at Choctaw
Swisher: Del City
Whitt: Del City
Ben: Del City
Sapulpa at Bixby
Swisher: Bixby
Whitt: Bixby
Ben: Bixby
Claremore at Collinsville
Swisher: Claremore
Whitt: Collinsville
Ben: Claremore
Elgin at Weatherford
Swisher: Elgin
Whitt: Elgin
Ben: Weatherford
Bethel at Sulphur
Swisher: Sulphur
Whitt: Sulphur
Ben: Sulphur
Cascia Hall at Verdigris
Swisher: Verdigris
Whitt: Cascia Hall
Ben: Verdigris
Lincoln Christian at Stigler
Swisher: Lincoln Christian
Whitt: Lincoln Christian
Ben: Lincoln Christian
Metro Christian at Adair
Swisher: Metro Christian
Whitt: Metro Christian
Ben: Metro Christian
Morris at Beggs
Swisher: Beggs
Whitt: Beggs
Ben: Beggs
Vian at Spiro
Swisher: Vian
Whitt: Vian
Ben: Vian
Barnsdall at Pawhuska
Swisher: Pawhuska
Whitt: Pawhuska
Ben: Pawhuska
Christian Heritage at Cashion
Swisher: Cashion
Whitt: Cashion
Ben: Cashion
Hooker at Thomas
Swisher: Thomas
Whitt: Thomas
Ben: Hooker
Tonkawa at Pawnee
Swisher: Tonkawa
Whitt: Tonkawa
Ben: Pawnee
Weleetka at Dewar
Swisher: Dewar
Whitt: Weleetka
Ben: Dewar
Buffalo at Boise City
Swisher: Boise City
Whitt: Buffalo
Ben: Boise City
Graham Dustin at Midway
Swisher: Midway
Whitt: Graham-Dustin
Ben: Midway
Seiling at Cherokee
Swisher: Cherokee
Whitt: Cherokee
Ben: Cherokee
**Photo by David Stacy
WEEK 4 RANKINGS
| Ben Johnson
(____) - previous rank
Week 3 scoreboard
6AI
6AII
5A
4A
3A
2A
A
B
C
Class 6AI
1. Owasso (1) - 3-0
2. Broken Arrow (2) - 2-1
3. Union (3) - 1-2
4. Jenks (4) - 1-2
5. PC North (5) - 3-0
6. Norman (6) - 3-0
7. Westmoore (7) - 3-0
8. Mustang (8) - 2-1
9. Moore (9) - 1-2
10. Edmond Santa Fe (10) - 2-1
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1) - 3-0
2. Stillwater (2) - 3-0
3. Sapulpa (3) - 3-0
4. Booker T. Washington (4) - 1-2
5. Del City (6) - 2-1
6. Choctaw (5) - 2-1
7. Muskogee (7) - 3-0
8. Lawton (9) - 3-0
9. Midwest City (8) - 1-2
10. Ponca City (10) - 2-1
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1) - 3-0
2. Bishop McGuinness (2) - 2-1
3. Duncan (3) - 2-0
4. Edison (4) - 2-1
5. Bishop Kelley (5) - 1-2
6. Tahlequah (6) - 3-0
7. Collinsville (7) - 2-1
8. El Reno (NR) - 3-0
9. Pryor (NR) - 2-1
10. Claremore (8) - 1-2
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1) - 3-0
2. Tuttle (2) - 3-0
3. Wagoner (3) - 2-1
4. Clinton (4) - 2-1
5. Weatherford (5) - 2-1
6. Poteau (7) - 2-1
7. Bristow (8) - 2-1
8. Broken Bow (9) - 2-1
9. Elgin (10) - 1-1
10. Hilldale (NR) - 2-1
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1) - 2-0
2. Lincoln Christian (2) - 3-0
3. Plainview (3) - 1-1
4. John Marshall (4) - 3-0
5. Berryhill (5) - 3-0
6. Sulphur (6) - 3-0
7. Perkins-Tryon (7) - 3-0
8. Lone Grove (9) - 3-0
9. Stigler (10) - 3-0
10. Kingfisher (8) - 1-2
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (1) - 3-0
2. Sperry (2) - 3-0
3. Vian (4) - 2-1
4. Millwood (5) - 2-1
5. Holland Hall (3) - 2-1
6. Washington (7) - 3-0
7. Jones (9) - 2-1
8. Adair (10) - 3-0
9. Beggs (6) - 2-1
10. Kingston (8) - 2-1
Class A
1. Cashion (1) - 3-0
2. Stroud (2) - 3-0
3. Pawhuska (3) - 4-0
4. Rejoice Christian (4) - 3-0
5. Tonkawa (5) - 4-0
6. Thomas (6) - 3-1
7. Christian Heritage (7) - 4-0
8. Pawnee (8) - 3-0
9. Minco (9) - 4-0
10. Colcord (NR) - 3-0
Class B
1. Shattuck (1) - 3-0
2. Regent Prep (2) - 3-0
3. Cherokee (3) - 3-0
4. Davenport (4) - 2-1
5. Dewar (7) - 3-0
6. Weleetka (8) - 2-1
7. Burns Flat-Dill City (NR) - 3-1
8. Laverne (5) - 2-1
9. Canadian (NR) - 3-0
10. Seiling (NR) - 4-0
Class C
1. Southwest Covenant (1) - 2-0
2. Pond Creek-Hunter (2) - 3-0
3. Buffalo (3) - 3-0
4. Tyrone (4) - 3-0
5. Covington-Douglas (5) - 2-2
6. Maysville (7) - 3-0
7. Coyle (8) - 2-1
8. Midway (9) - 4-0
9. Boise City (10) - 3-0
10. Graham-Dustin (NR) - 3-0
**Photo credit: Von Castor / Von Castor Photography
WEEK 3 Rankings
| Ben Johnson
(___) - previous rank
Week 2 scoreboard
6AI
6AII
5A
4A
3A
2A
A
B
C
Class 6AI
1. Owasso (2)
2. Broken Arrow (1)
3. Union (3)
4. Jenks (4)
5. PC North (5)
6. Norman (6)
7. Westmoore (8)
8. Mustang (9)
9. Moore (10)
10. Edmond Santa Fe (7)
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1)
2. Stillwater (2)
3. Sapulpa (3)
4. Booker T. Washington (3)
5. Choctaw (6)
6. Del City (4)
7. Muskogee (8)
8. Midwest City (7)
9. Lawton (9)
10. Ponca City (NR)
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1)
2. Bishop McGuinness (2)
3. Duncan (4)
4. Edison (5)
5. Bishop Kelley (3)
6. Tahlequah (7)
7. Collinsville (6)
8. Claremore (8)
9. Noble (10)
10. Lawton MacArthur (NR)
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1)
2. Tuttle (5)
3. Wagoner (2)
4. Clinton (3)
5. Weatherford (4)
6. Blanchard (6)
7. Poteau (8)
8. Bristow (7)
9. Broken Bow (9)
10. Elgin (NR)
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1)
2. Lincoln Christian (2)
3. Plainview (3)
4. John Marshall (5)
5. Berryhill (4)
6. Sulphur (6)
7. Perkins-Tryon (8)
8. Kingfisher (9)
9. Lone Grove (NR)
10. Stigler (NR)
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (1)
2. Sperry (2)
3. Holland Hall (4)
4. Vian (3)
5. Millwood (5)
6. Beggs (6)
7. Washington (7)
8. Kingston (8)
9. Jones (9)
10. Adair (10)
Class A
1. Cashion (1)
2. Stroud (2)
3. Pawhuska (4)
4. Rejoice Christian (5)
5. Tonkawa (6)
6. Thomas (3)
7. Christian Heritage (7)
8. Pawnee (9)
9. Minco (10)
10. Morrison (8)
Class B
1. Shattuck (1)
2. Regent Prep (2)
3. Cherokee (3)
4. Davenport (4)
5. Laverne (5)
6. Keota (6)
7. Dewar (7)
8. Weleetka (8)
9. Snyder (9)
10. Seiling (NR)
Class C
1. Southwest Covenant (1)
2. Pond Creek-Hunter (2)
3. Buffalo (3)
4. Tyrone (5)
5. Covington-Douglas (4)
6. Tipton (6)
7. Maysville (7)
8. Coyle (8)
9. Midway (9)
10. Boise City (10)
Photo cred: Byron Beers/Tahlequah Daily Press
Week 2 rankings
| Ben Johnson
(__) - previous rank - Week 1 result
Class 6AI
1. Broken Arrow (1) - Beat Union, 14-0
2. Owasso (3) - Beat Fayetteville (Ark.), 51-19
3. Union (2) - Lost to Broken Arrow, 14-0
4. Jenks (4) - Lost to Bixby, 57-7
5. PC North (5) - Beat Putnam City, 50-0
6. Norman (6) - Beat Norman North, 31-24
7. Edmond Santa Fe (7) - Beat Edmond North, 41-14
8. Westmoore (9) - Beat Moore, 44-35
9. Mustang (10) - Beat Yukon, 38-0
10. Moore (8) - Lost to Westmoore, 44-35
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1) - Beat Jenks, 57-7
2. Stillwater (2) - Beat Edmond Memorial, 42-7
3. Booker T. Washington (3) - Beat Bishop Kelley, 33-14
4. Del City (4) - Beat Bishop McGuinness, 20-17
5. Sapulpa (5) - Beat Edison, 21-13
6. Choctaw (7) - idle
7. Midwest City (6) - Lost to Carl Albert, 31-0
8. Muskogee (8) - Beat McAlester, 43-7
9. Lawton (9) - Beat Burkburnett (Texas), 56-21
10. Deer Creek (NR) - Beat Southmoore, 45-14
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1) - Beat Midwest City, 31-0
2. Bishop McGuinness (4) - Lost to Del City, 20-17
3. Bishop Kelley (2) - Lost to Booker T. Washington, 33-14
4. Duncan (7) - Beat Putnam West, 59-35
5. Edison (5) - Lost to Sapulpa, 21-13
6. Collinsville (3) - Lost to Oologah, 13-12
7. Tahlequah (8) - Beat Fort Gibson, 42-21
8. Claremore (10) - Beat Bartlesville, 40-28
9. Guthrie (6) - Lost to Shawnee, 33-23
10. Noble (NR) - Beat Newcastle, 41-12
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1) - Beat Elk City, 41-20
2. Wagoner (3) - Beat Coweta, 36-27
3. Clinton (4) - Beat Woodward, 49-14
4. Weatherford (5) - idle
5. Tuttle (6) - Beat Kingfisher, 41-18
6. Blanchard (2) - Lost to Elgin, 35-20
7. Bristow (7) - Beat Cushing, 19-16
8. Poteau (8) - Beat Durant, 40-13
9. Broken Bow (9) - Beat Idabel, 41-0
10. Cache (NR) - idle
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1) - Beat Millwood, 34-0
2. Lincoln Christian (2) - Beat Jones, 49-14
3. Plainview (3) - bye
4. Berryhill (4) - Beat Mannford, 35-7
5. John Marshall (5) - Beat Classen SAS, 48-0
6. Sulphur (6) - Beat Madill, 49-21
7. Seminole (8) - Beat Harrah, 40-8
8. Perkins-Tryon (10) - Beat Hennessey, 35-0
9. Kingfisher (7) - Lost to Tuttle, 41-18
10. Cascia Hall (9) - Lost to Holland Hall, 28-7
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (2) - idle
2. Sperry (3) - Beat Verdigris, 49-13
3. Vian (4) - Beat Eufaula, 14-2
4. Holland Hall (5) - Beat Cascia Hall, 28-7
5. Millwood (1) - Lost to Heritage Hall, 34-0
6. Beggs (7) - Beat Okmulgee, 39-0
7. Washington (8) - Beat Hobart, 42-7
8. Kingston (9) - Beat Hugo, 44-22
9. Jones (6) - Lost to Lincoln Christian, 49-14
10. Adair (NR) - Beat Commerce, 46-16
Class A
1. Cashion (1) - Beat Prague, 28-0
2. Stroud (2) - Beat Okemah, 40-38
3. Thomas (3) - Beat Newkirk, 41-0
4. Pawhuska (4) - Beat Okla. Union, 60-18
5. Rejoice Christian (5) - Beat Crossings Christian, 48-6
6. Tonkawa (6) - Beat Newkirk, 41-0
7. Christian Heritage (7) - Beat Mount Saint Mary, 30-7
8. Morrison (9) - Beat Crescent, 24-10
9. Pawnee (10) - idle
10. Minco (NR) - Beat Dibble, 14-6
Class B
1. Shattuck (1) - Beat Destiny Christian, 44-8
2. Regent Prep (2) - Beat Prue, 53-6
3. Cherokee (4) - Beat South Barber (Kan.), 44-8
4. Davenport (3) - Lost to Weleetka, 32-28
5. Laverne (5) - Beat Alex, 28-22
6. Keota (6) - idle
7. Dewar (7) - Beat Strother, 46-0
8. Weleetka (8) - Beat Davenport, 32-28
9. Snyder (9) - Beat Waukomis, 44-6
10. Wetumka (10) - Beat Depew, 40-6
Class C
1. SW Covenant (1) - Beat Central Marlow, 52-28
2. Pond Creek-Hunter (3) - Beat Kremlin-Hillsdale, 54-0
3. Buffalo (4) - Beat Medford, 40-12
4. Covington-Douglas (6) - Beat Garber, 64-62 (4OT)
5. Tyrone (8) - Beat Turpin, 56-22
6. Tipton (2) - Lost to Burns Flat-Dill City, 54-6
7. Maysville (NR) - Beat Paoli, 52-6
8. Coyle (5) - Lost to Pioneer, 48-20
9. Midway (NR) - Beat Gans, 64-48
10. Boise City (NR) - Beat Beaver, 48-0
Photo credit - David Stacy
CLASS PREVIEWS - 2A through C
| Ben Johnson
Rankings
2A
1. Millwood (1)
2. Metro Christian (2)
3. Sperry (3)
4. Vian (4)
5. Holland Hall (5)
6. Jones (6)
7. Beggs (7)
8. Washington (8)
9. Kingston (9)
10. Eufaula (10)
Class A
1. Cashion (1)
2. Stroud (2)
3. Thomas (3)
4. Pawhuska (4)
5. Rejoice Christian (5)
6. Tonkawa (6)
7. Christian Heritage (7)
8. Crossings Christian (9)
9. Morrison (10)
10. Pawnee (NR)
Class B
1. Shattuck (1)
2. Regent Prep (2)
3. Davenport (3)
4. Cherokee (4)
5. Laverne (5)
6. Keota (6)
7. Dewar (7)
8. Weleetka (8)
9. Snyder (9)
10. Wetumka (10)
Class C
1. SW Covenant (2)
2. Tipton (1)
3. Pond Creek-Hunter (3)
4. Buffalo (4)
5. Coyle (5)
6. Covington-Douglas (6)
7. Fox (7)
8. Tyrone (8)
9. Sharon-Mutual (9)
10. Medford (10)
Our best guess(es)…
Class 2A
Michael Swisher: Vian - I could be way off on this one, but I’m going with a wildcard. Sperry dominated everyone in the playoffs and will be salty on defense. Metro will have the flashy offense. Both of them are great picks. I’ll take Vian, which is a steady force year in and year out.
Whitt Carter: Metro Christian - This class is wide open. Millwood will certainly have a say and I think Jones and Adair will be very good by year’s end, but I’ll go with the Patriots, who have some key pieces back including quarterback Asher Link.
Ben Johnson: Metro Christian - If the Patriots’ defense is solid, Metro Christian could be hard to beat with Asher Link leading the charge.
Class A
Michael Swisher: Cashion - The Wildcats have been good - really good - some years, but so unlucky. Other years they’ve caught some breaks, but maybe weren’t as good as the best in the class. This could be the year for Shack and the ‘Cats. He returns 21 starters from a team that won the toughest district in the class a year ago and went unbeaten in the regular season. If they stay healthy and Harman is at least productive at QB, they’ll be tough to top.
Whitt Carter: Ringling - (from the editor’s desk)… Whitt originally had Cashion. Then he got some inside intel that Ringling is really good. That’s the pick.
Ben Johnson: Stroud - I’ll go with the Elerick family to get it done and win a title this season.
Class B
Michael Swisher: Regent Prep - It’s really tough to pick against Shattuck, which just knows how to win in November and December, including last year’s 42-26 victory over Regent in last year’s title game. However, nobody will put more talent on the field than Regent this year and it will equate into a state title.
Whitt Carter: Shattuck - If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I have learned in previous years to basically auto pick these guys to win it all. Although there are some teams that can challenge, it won’t be enough.
Ben Johnson: Regent Prep - (insert what Swisher said right here)
Class C
Michael Swisher: Tipton - See Class 5A and Class 3A. Not picking against Tipton. @me,
Whitt Carter: Southwest Covenant - Crazy not to go with Tipton, but the talent coming back on offense for SW Covenant is unreal. I think that’s enough to knock off the big bad Tigers and win it all.
Ben Johnson: SW Covenant - Tipton can’t win them all. Might as well go with the Patriots.
Week 1 picks
| Ben Johnson
Zero week was all about Swisher flexing on both myself and Whitt. Let’s see if we can’t bring him back down to earth this week….
Zero Week
Michael Swisher: 11-3
Whitt Carter: 7-7
Ben Johnson: 8-6
(Should mention that my wife and Whitt’s wife are picking on the side, and once I can get these picks posted on time I’ll make sure to include Madison Carter’s picks so she doesn’t get mad at me anymore!)
Millwood at Heritage Hall
Michael Swisher: Heritage Hall
Whitt Carter: Heritage Hall
Ben Johnson: Heritage Hall
Broken Arrow at Union
Michael Swisher: Broken Arrow
Whitt Carter: Union
Ben Johnson: Union
Carl Albert at Midwest City
Michael Swisher: Carl Albert
Whitt Carter: Carl Albert
Ben Johnson: Carl Albert
Bixby at Jenks
Michael Swisher: Jenks
Whitt Carter: Bixby
Ben Johnson: Jenks
Booker T. Washington at Bishop Kelley
Michael Swisher: Booker T. Washington
Whitt Carter: Booker T. Washington
Ben Johnson: Booker T. Washington
Bishop McGuinness at Del City
Michael Swisher: Del City
Whitt Carter: Del City
Ben Johnson: Bishop McGuinness
Lincoln Christian at Jones
Michael Swisher: Lincoln Christian
Whitt Carter: Jones
Ben Johnson: Lincoln Christian
Tuttle at Kingfisher
Michael Swisher: Tuttle
Whitt Carter: Tuttle
Ben Johnson: Tuttle
Sapulpa at Edison
Michael Swisher: Sapulpa
Whitt Carter: Sapulpa
Ben Johnson: Sapulpa
Crossings Christian at Rejoice Christian
Michael Swisher: Rejoice Christian
Whitt Carter: Rejoice Christian
Ben Johnson: Rejoice Christian
Norman at Norman North
Michael Swisher: Norman
Whitt Carter: Norman North
Ben Johnson: Norman
Claremore at Bartlesville
Michael Swisher: Claremore
Whitt Carter: Claremore
Ben Johnson: Bartlesville
Broken Bow at Idabel
Michael Swisher: Broken Bow
Whitt Carter: Broken Bow
Ben Johnson: Broken Bow
Cascia Hall at Holland Hall
Michael Swisher: Holland Hall
Whitt Carter: Cascia Hall
Ben Johnson: Cascia Hall
Vian at Eufaula
Michael Swisher: Vian
Whitt Carter: Vian
Ben Johnson: Vian
Davenport at Weleetka
Michael Swisher: Davenport
Whitt Carter: Davenport
Ben Johnson: Davenport
Medford at Buffalo
Michael Swisher: Buffalo
Whitt Carter: Buffalo
Ben Johnson: Buffalo
Week 1 - Top 10 games
| Ben Johnson
An absolutely tremendous slate of games this week. Let’s get to it…
1. Millwood at Heritage Hall
One team was thought to be the preeminent favorite in its class last year until it was upset in the playoffs by Vian. That was Millwood in 2018. One team was head and shoulders above every other team in its class and coasted to a state championship. That was Heritage Hall in Class 3A, of course. Not too shabby when these two clash, and they do it again this year after Millwood won last year, 30-20.
2. Broken Arrow at Union
This one had been one-sided for quite some time, and Broken Arrow put a stop to that last season. Union still owns a 38-5 record all-time against Broken Arrow, but the Tigers took out frustration of 14 straight losses by dismantling Union, 33-10. The Tigers went on to win the state championship and finally join Union among the ranks of state champions in 6AI. One matchup to watch will be Union’s passing game against Broken Arrow’s secondary, led by the likes of Oregon commit Myles Slusher, who had an interception return for a touchdown in a blowout win over Mansfield on Saturday.
3. Carl Albert at Midwest City
This one had been all Midwest City, dating back to 1976 when the Bombers started their six-game winning streak against Carl Albert. But the Titans put a stop to that with a 28-21 victory last season. Then the Titans did what they always do – win a 5A championship.
4. Bixby at Jenks
Both were dominant last week with wins over teams in Mansfield, Texas, last week. Jenks’ defense was stout, pitching a shutout against Mansfield Legacy, while Bixby’s offense was unstoppable against Mansfield Timberview. Bixby managed to thwart Jenks in 2017, but the Trojans won this matchup last year, 28-14, and they now own a 47-13 record against Bixby.
5. Booker T. Washington at Bishop Kelley
The Hornets were shut out last week in a loss to North Little Rock (Ark.), and they’ll get another stout defensive challenge from Bishop Kelley, who lost to Booker T. Washington last year, 24-14.
6. Bishop McGuinness at Del City
Plenty of offensive firepower will be on the field for both teams, including Del City’s Quinlan Ganther and Bishop McGuinness’ Dominic Richardson. Del City won this one last year, 47-7.
7. Lincoln Christian at Jones
Bust out the calculators for this one; could be plenty of points being scored. Both teams soared on offense last week, with Lincoln Christian beating Inola, 51-19 and Jones knocking off Oklahoma Christian School, 56-8. Last year it was Lincoln Christian that prevailed over Jones, 34-19.
8. Tuttle at Kingfisher
Tuttle knocked off Kingfisher 26-14 last season, and now the reigning 4A champions will explore life without quarterback Carson Berryhill.
9. Sapulpa at Edison
The Chieftains, powered by Eli Williams, a TCU commit, at quarterback, took down Edison, 34-13, last season. But it wasn’t long after that game that Edison running back – now a Nebraska commit – Sevion Morrison started taking down every Edison rushing record that ever existed.
10. Crossings Christian at Rejoice Christian
Two heavy favorites in Class A, and for good reason. Rejoice Christian won both matchups last season – 21-20 in the regular season and 33-14 in the playoffs. In fact, Rejoice has won the past four showdowns with Crossings, dating back to 2016.
Honorable mentions
Norman at Norman North
Claremore at Bartlesville
Broken Bow at Idabel
Cascia Hall at Holland Hall
Vian at Eufaula
Davenport at Weleetka
Medford at Buffalo
WEEK 1 RANKINGS
| Ben Johnson
Class 6AI
1. Broken Arrow (2)
2. Union (1)
3. Owasso (3)
4. Jenks (4)
5. PC North (5)
6. Norman (6)
7. Edmond Santa Fe (7)
8. Moore (8)
9. Westmoore (9)
10. Mustang (10)
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1)
2. Stillwater (2)
3. Booker T. Washington (3)
4. Del City (4)
5. Sapulpa (5)
6. Midwest City (6)
7. Choctaw (7)
8. Muskogee (8)
9. Lawton (9)
10. Bartlesville (10)
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1)
2. Bishop Kelley (2)
3. Collinsville (3)
4. Bishop McGuinness (4)
5. Edison (5)
6. Guthrie (6)
7. Duncan (7)
8. Tahlequah (8)
9. Ardmore (9)
10. Claremore (10)
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1)
2. Blanchard (2)
3. Wagoner (3)
4. Clinton (4)
5. Weatherford (5)
6. Tuttle (6)
7. Bristow (7)
8. Poteau (8)
9. Broken Bow (9)
10. Cache (NR)
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1)
2. Lincoln Christian (2)
3. Plainview (3)
4. Berryhill (4)
5. John Marshall (5)
6. Sulphur (6)
7. Kingfisher (7)
8. Seminole (8)
9. Cascia Hall (9)
10. Perkins-Tryon (10)
Class 2A
1. Millwood (1)
2. Metro Christian (2)
3. Sperry (3)
4. Vian (4)
5. Holland Hall (5)
6. Jones (6)
7. Beggs (7)
8. Washington (8)
9. Kingston (9)
10. Eufaula (10)
Class A
1. Cashion (1)
2. Stroud (2)
3. Thomas (3)
4. Pawhuska (4)
5. Rejoice Christian (5)
6. Tonkawa (6)
7. Christian Heritage (7)
8. Crossings Christian (9)
9. Morrison (10)
10. Pawnee (NR)
Class B
1. Shattuck (1)
2. Regent Prep (2)
3. Davenport (3)
4. Cherokee (4)
5. Laverne (5)
6. Keota (6)
7. Dewar (7)
8. Weleetka (8)
9. Snyder (9)
10. Wetumka (10)
Class C
1. SW Covenant (2)
2. Tipton (1)
3. Pond Creek-Hunter (3)
4. Buffalo (4)
5. Coyle (5)
6. Covington-Douglas (6)
7. Fox (7)
8. Tyrone (8)
9. Sharon-Mutual (9)
10. Medford (10)
*** Big thanks to Caleb Williams, whose work is the cover photo for this post. Check out his work here: https://www.photosbycaleb.com/
PLAYOFF PREVIEW: Classes 2A, A & B QUARTERFINALS and C FINALS
| Ben Johnson
Christian Heritage’s coaching staff wanted to give Zach Hale a break. The Crusaders’ senior quarterback/safety had Christian Heritage leading Stroud late in the second quarter, so his coaching staff wanted to give him a moment to catch his breath.
That’s when Stroud’s Colby Davis returned a kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown. Needless to say, Hale didn’t come off the field the rest of the night.
“Funny story now, but it wasn’t funny at the time,” Christian Heritage coach Tony Merrell said. “One of our coaches asked if we could get him off our kickoff team for one play, because he looked tired or something. They immediately ran the next kick back, and Zach let me know -- as it was being returned for a touchdown -- that he is never coming off the field again.”
Then Merrell had a quick second to think.
“I agreed with him,” he said.
And once again, it was Hale and Co. crashing the Class A playoff scene last week. Hale passed for 214 yards and four touchdowns, and he also ran for 52 yards. After four of Christian Heritage’s five touchdowns, Hale also had a hand in the successful two-point conversions.
On defense, Hale recorded 13 tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery to guide the Crusaders into their first semifinal appearance.
“He has been so good, and he’s an All-State safety and he keeps getting better as a quarterback,” Merrell said. “We have so many guys that are playing at a high level, and it’s just fun to be part of.”
Up next for Christian Heritage (9-4) is a date with third-ranked Rejoice Christian at Cushing High School in the semifinals. The Crusaders are a game away from the title game after taking down Ringling, Thomas and Stroud to this point.
“Oh man, what a run,” Merrell said. “And really, you have to throw Crescent in there after playing them in Week 10. Those are really good football teams with great coaches. We are playing at a really high level, and to be honest, we are still getting better. We have guys playing their best games of the year these last few weeks.”
Class 2A
No. 5 Sperry vs. Adair
Where: Lantow Field (Claremore High School)
Last week
- Sperry 44, Eufaula 13: Beau Teel passed for 132 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 73 yards and two more touchdowns for the Pirates. Joe Whiteley added three sacks on defense, and he caught four passes for 96 yards for a touchdown for Sperry.
- Adair 38, Vian 27: Austin Hines passed for 360 yards and four touchdowns, and Barrett Bradbury caught 12 passes for 147 yards and three touchdowns. Bradbury then added 18 tackles on defense.
Need to know
- The all-time series is tied at 3-3. The last meeting was last season -- a 50-26 win for Sperry.
- Adair appeared in back-to-back semifinals in 2015 and 2016, going 1-1 with a win over Chisholm in 2015. The Warriors went on to win their only title the same season.
- Sperry has gone 1-5 in semifinal games. The Pirates’ only win was in 1968 -- 8-0 against Marietta.
Metro Christian vs. No. 3 Beggs
Where: Collins Stadium (Sapulpa High School)
Last week
- Beggs 36, Kingston 31: TJ Austin scored the game-winning touchdown with 50 seconds left as Beggs rallied to knock off the Redskins.
- Metro Christian 34, Washington 28: Ryan Johnson rushed for 130 yards and caught nine passes for 130 yards. The Patriots turned back Washington on fourth-and-goal late in the fourth quarter to preserve the victory.
Need to know
- The all-time series is 1-1. The last meeting was in 2003 -- a 48-13 win for Metro Christian.
- The Patriots are 1-1 in the semifinals. The lone win was in 2010 against Anadarko.
- Beggs is 3-1 in the semifinals. The Demons beat Sulphur 37-28 in the semifinals last year before losing to John Marshall in the Class 3A playoffs.
Class A
No. 7 Tonkawa vs. Fairview
Where: Ranger Field (Northwest Oklahoma State University in Alva)
Last week
- Tonkawa 20, Hobart 13: Braydon Hampton scored on a 3-yard TD run with 22 seconds left to propel Tonkawa to the win.
- Fairview 54, Commerce 21: Quarterback Kade Dillard completed 8 of 14 for 232 yards and four touchdowns. He also added 21 carries for 219 yards and three touchdowns for the Yellowjackets.
Need to know
- Tonkawa is 6-4 all-time against Fairview. The last meeting was in 2013 -- a 17-7 win for Tonkawa.
- Tonkawa is 8-2 in the semifinals. The Buccaneers’ last semifinal appearance was in 2009 - a 24-22 win over Hennessey.
- Fairview is 2-2 in the semifinals. Fairview’s last semifinal appearance was 1999 -- a 36-17 win over Haskell.
No. 3 Rejoice Christian vs. Christian Heritage
Where: Cushing High School
Last week
- Christian Heritage 39, Stroud 22
- Rejoice Christian 33, Crossings Christian 14: Andrew Crow rushed for 247 yards and three touchdowns for the Eagles.
Need to know
- This is the first meeting between the two teams.
- Rejoice Christian is 0-2 in the semifinals -- both losses occurring in Class B in 2013 and 2012.
- This is Christian Heritage’s first appearance in the semifinals.
Class B
No. 2 Davenport vs. No. 1 Shattuck
Where: D. Bruce Selby Stadium (Enid)
Last week: Davenport 52, Waurika 0; Shattuck 67, Dewar 20
Need to know
- Shattuck is 2-0 all-time against Davenport. These two met in last year’s semifinals -- a 48-16 win for Shattuck.
- Davenport is 6-4 in the semifinals. The Bulldogs last semifinal win was 40-14 over Dewar in 2015.
- Shattuck sports a 12-3 record in the semifinals. The Indians have appeared in a championship game every year since 2015.
No. 3 Regent Prep vs. No. 8 Wetumka
Where: Bill Jensen Field (Choctaw High School)
Last week: Regent Prep 68, Laverne 52; Wetumka 51, Burns Flat-Dill City 6
Need to know
- These two are meeting for the first time.
- Regent Prep wideout Jack Wright had 17 receptions for 351 yards and seven touchdowns in the Rams’ win over Laverne last week.
- This is Regent Prep’s first appearance in a semifinal game.
- Wetumka is 2-0 in semifinal games -- last appearance was a 32-14 win over Kiefer in 2010.
Class C Championship
No. 2 Tipton vs. No. 1 Southwest Covenant
Where: Milam Stadium (Southwest Oklahoma State University, Weatherford)
Last week: Tipton 50, Pond Creek-Hunter 28; Southwest Covenant 42, Buffalo 20
Need to know
- Tipton is 3-0 against Southwest Covenant -- last meeting was last season, a 52-12 win for the Tigers
- Tipton is 6-2 in title games. The two-time defending champion in Class C beat Pond Creek-Hunter 56-8 in last year’s title game.
- This is Southwest Covenant’s first appearance in a championship game.
PLAYOFF PICKS: Week 3 edition
| Ben Johnson
Time to schedule the Randy Turney championship parade. He's all but wrapped up the Skordle picking crown for 2018.
Playoff picks - Week 2 - Coach Turney 16-9 | Whitt 16-9 | Swisher 15-10 | Ben 15-10
Overall - Turney 197-68 | Whitt 181-84 | Ben 174-91 | Swisher 180-85
Now I present picks for the third round of the playoffs:
Carl Albert vs. Collinsville
Michael Swisher: Carl Albert 24, Collinsville 20
Ben Johnson: Carl Albert 23, Collinsville 17
Whitt Carter: Carl Albert 34, Collinsville 28
Randy Turney: Carl Albert 28, Collinsville 21
Bishop Kelley vs. Ardmore
Michael Swisher: Ardmore 28, Bishop Kelley 14
Ben Johnson: Bishop Kelley 20, Ardmore 19
Whitt Carter: Ardmore 28, Bishop Kelley 17
Randy Turney: Ardmore 24, Bishop Kelley 14
Bethany vs. Clinton
Michael Swisher: Bethany 28, Clinton 24
Ben Johnson: Bethany 29, Clinton 24
Whitt Carter: Clinton 28, Bethany 20
Randy Turney: Clinton 21, Bethany 20
Poteau vs. Tuttle
Michael Swisher: Poteau 19, Tuttle 17
Ben Johnson: Poteau 32, Tuttle 21
Whitt Carter: Tuttle 35, Poteau 21
Randy Turney: Tuttle 23, Poteau 14
Heritage Hall vs. Lincoln Christian
Michael Swisher: Heritage Hall 34, Lincoln Christian 24
Ben Johnson: Heritage Hall 30, Lincoln Christian 20
Whitt Carter: Heritage Hall 41, Lincoln Christian 27
Randy Turney: Heritage Hall 28, Lincoln Christian 21
Kingfisher vs. Sulphur
Michael Swisher: Sulphur 33, Kingfisher 20
Ben Johnson: Kingfisher 21, Sulphur 18
Whitt Carter: Sulphur 34, Kingfisher 27
Randy Turney: Sulphur 30, Kingfisher 21
Adair at Vian
Michael Swisher: Vian 23, Adair 18
Ben Johnson: Vian 23, Adair 14
Whitt Carter: Adair 28, Vian 27
Randy Turney: Vian 30, Adair 22
Eufaula at Sperry
Michael Swisher: Sperry 30, Eufaula 12
Ben Johnson: Sperry 20, Eufaula 13
Whitt Carter: Sperry 34, Eufaula 21
Randy Turney: Sperry 27, Eufaula 14
Kingston at Beggs
Michael Swisher: Beggs 42, Kingston 24
Ben Johnson: Beggs 31, Kingston 21
Whitt Carter: Beggs 41, Kingston 27
Randy Turney: Beggs 31, Kingston 18
Washington at Metro Christian
Michael Swisher: Washington 34, Metro Christian 33
Ben Johnson: Washington 33, Metro Christian 31
Whitt Carter: Metro Christian 42, Washington 35
Randy Turney: Washington 21, Metro Christian 14
Commerce at Fairview
Michael Swisher: Fairview 35, Commerce 28
Ben Johnson: Fairview 24, Commerce 23
Whitt Carter: Fairview 34, Commerce 14
Randy Turney: Fairview 35, Commerce 14
Rejoice Christian at Crossings Christian
Michael Swisher: Rejoice Christian 34, Crossings Christian 18
Ben Johnson: Rejoice Christian 21, Crossings Christian 19
Whitt Carter: Rejoice Christian 35, Crossings Christian 31
Randy Turney: Rejoice Christian 22, Crossings Christian 21
Stroud at Christian Heritage
Michael Swisher: Stroud 38, Christian Heritage 31
Ben Johnson: Stroud 26, Christian Heritage 21
Whitt Carter: Stroud 28, Christian Heritage 20
Randy Turney: Stroud 20, Christian Heritage 14
Tonkawa at Hobart
Michael Swisher: Hobart 27, Tonkawa 21
Ben Johnson: Tonkawa 22, Hobart 21
Whitt Carter: Hobart 27, Tonkawa 21
Randy Turney: Hobart 32, Tonkawa 22
Shattuck at Dewar
Michael Swisher: Shattuck 40, Dewar 24
Ben Johnson: Shattuck 43, Dewar 37
Whitt Carter: Shattuck 52, Dewar 24
Randy Turney: Shattuck 46, Dewar 6
Waurika at Davenport
Michael Swisher: Davenport 48, Waurika 30
Ben Johnson: Davenport 55, Waurika 15
Whitt Carter: Davenport 48, Waurika 28
Randy Turney: Davenport 52, Waurika 12
Wetumka at Burns Flat-Dill City
Michael Swisher: Wetumka 31, Burns Flat-Dill City 18
Ben Johnson: Wetumka 38, Burns Flat-Dill City 33
Whitt Carter: Burns Flat-Dill City 42, Wetumka 40
Randy Turney: Wetumka 38, Burns Flat-Dill City 14
Regent Prep at Laverne
Michael Swisher: Regent Prep 22, Laverne 16
Ben Johnson: Regent Prep 44, Laverne 41
Whitt Carter: Regent Prep 48, Laverne 34
Randy Turney: Regent Prep 26, Laverne 20
Buffalo vs. Southwest Covenant
Michael Swisher: Southwest Covenant 42, Buffalo 36
Ben Johnson: Southwest Covenant 51, Buffalo 47
Whitt Carter: Buffalo 42, Soutuwest Covenant 36
Randy Turney: Southwest Covenant 28, Buffalo 26
Tipton vs. Pond Creek-Hunter
Michael Swisher: Tipton 33, Pond Creek-Hunter 22
Ben Johnson: Tipton 39, Pond Creek-Hunter 28
Whitt Carter: Tipton 48, Pond Creek-Hunter 44
Randy Turney: Tipton 48, Pond Creek-Hunter 14
Let us know what you think. Tweet your predictions to us at @Skordle.
PLAYOFF PREVIEW: Class A & B QUARTERFINALS & CLASS C SEMIFINALS
| Ben Johnson
Class A
Quarterfinal matchups
No. 3 Rejoice Christian (12-0) at No. 8 Crossings Christian (10-2)
Last week: Rejoice Christian 40, Gore 14; Crossings Christian 28, Hooker 0
Players to watch
- Andrew Crow (Rejoice Christian): Senior tailback has run for 2,029 yards and 36 touchdowns on 170 carries for the Eagles.
- Owen Crotts (Crossings Christian): Sophomore quarterback has thrown for 1,574 yards and 20 touchdowns for the Knights.
Need to know
- This is a rematch from earlier this season. Rejoice Christian beat Crossings Christian 21-20 on Aug. 31.
- The teams have met five times with Rejoice Christian winning three of the five. Combined score of all five matchups is: Rejoice Christian 139, Crossings Christian 117.
- Rejoice Christian last advanced beyond the quarterfinals in 2013 in Class B.
- This is Crossings Christian’s first quarterfinal appearance.
No. 5 Stroud (11-1) at Christian Heritage (8-4)
Last week: Stroud 16, Morrison 12; Christian Heritage 42, Thomas 36
Players to watch
- Grant Elerick (Stroud): Junior quarterback has completed 149 of 218 passes for 2,445 yards and 29 touchdowns.
- Zach Hale (Christian Heritage): Senior quarterback/safety has passed for 2,145 yards and 26 touchdowns while rushing for 655 yards and eight touchdowns.
Need to know
- Former District 2A-2 members from last season have met four times before. The all-time series is split 2-2 with Christian Heritage winning last year, 38-20.
- Christian Heritage’s only quarterfinal appearance was in 2008 -- a 48-10 loss to Morrison.
- Stroud last advanced beyond the quarterfinals in 2009 -- same year the Tigers lost to Tonkawa in the Class A title game.
No. 7 Tonkawa (11-1) at No. 10 Hobart (10-2)
Last week: Tonkawa 23, Wayne 14; Hobart 30, Minco 23
Player to watch
- Alec Meinert (Hobart): Senior QB has completed 92 of 149 passes for 1,604 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Tonkawa is back in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2009 -- the same year as the Buccaneers’ last state championship.
- This is Hobart’s last quarterfinal appearance since 1997 -- the same year as Hobart’s last championship.
Commerce (9-3) at Fairview (9-3)
Last week: Commerce 41, Hulbert 13; Fairview 34, Cashion 27
Players to watch
- Chris Ibarra (Commerce): Senior tailback has rushed for 1,757 yards and 23 touchdowns, and he’s also caught 23 passes for 426 yards and three scores. Also has a team-high four interceptions on defense.
- Kade Dillard (Fairview): Senior QB threw for 217 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 81 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s win over Cashion.
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Commerce has gone 0-11 in the quarterfinals since 1998. Last semifinal appearance was 1991.
- Since 2000, Fairview has been in the quarterfinals once, and it ended up being a 32-0 loss to Hominy.
Class B
Quarterfinal matchups
No. 1 Shattuck (11-0) at No. 6 Dewar (11-1)
Last week: Shattuck 55, Alex 6; Dewar 32, Yale 6
Need to know
- Only one previous meeting between these two -- a 32-7 victory for Shattuck in 1991.
- This is Shattuck’s third year in Class B. The Indians have advanced to the championship game the past two seasons.
- Dewar won its previous two quarterfinal appearances in 2015 and 2014.
No. 7 Waurika (11-0) at No. 2 Davenport (12-0)
Last week: Waurika 58, Cherokee 14; Davenport 48, Weleetka 0
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Waurika’s last quarterfinal victory was in 1996.
- Davenport has a four-year winning streak in the quarterfinals.
No. 8 Wetumka (9-3) at Burns Flat-Dill City (7-5)
Last week: Wetumka 16, Depew 14; Burns Flat-Dill City 34, Pioneer 26
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Wetumka’s last quarterfinal victory was in 2010.
- Burns Flat-Dill City last won a quarterfinal game in 2005.
No. 3 Regent Prep (11-0) at No. 5 Laverne (10-2)
Last week: Regent Prep 59, Keota 24; Laverne 26, Snyder 20
Player to watch
- Braden Gilbert (Regent Prep): Junior quarterback has thrown for 2,755 yards and 46 touchdowns while completing 119 of 202 passes this season.
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Regent Prep has never advanced past the quarterfinals in Class B or C.
- In 2017 and 2016, Laverne won in the quarterfinals by a combined score of 106-8 against Prue and Weleetka.
Class C
*Both games start at 7 p.m. Friday
No. 3 Buffalo (12-0) vs. No. 1 Southwest Covenant (11-0)
Where: Northwest Oklahoma State University (Alva)
Last week: Buffalo 36, Medford 28; Southwest Covenant 56, Tyrone 16
Need to know
- First meeting between these two teams.
- Buffalo is 0-3 in the semifinals. It’s last appearance was a 38-16 loss to Fox in 2004.
- This is Southwest Covenant’s first appearance in the semifinals.
No. 2 Tipton (10-2) vs. No. 5 Pond Creek-Hunter (11-1)
Where: Southwest Oklahoma State University (Weatherford)
Last week: Tipton 62, Coyle 26; PC-Hunter 54, Paoli 8
Need to know
- Pond Creek-Hunter owns a 3-2 edge in the all-time series. The last meeting was in last year’s title game -- a 56-8 victory for Tipton.
- Tipton has gone 2-0 in its last semifinal games and won those games by a combined score of 102-22.
- Tipton also beat PC-Hunter 28-26 in the 2016 Class C title game.
Class B & C playoff preview
| Ben Johnson
Players to watch
- Braden Gilbert (Regent Prep): Junior quarterback has passed for 2,176 yards and 37 touchdowns this season.
- Tatton Anderson (Alex): Sophomore tailback has rushed 137 times for 1,350 yards and 26 touchdowns, he's also caught 51 passes for 827 yards and 11 touchdowns.
- Stevie Orr (Davenport): Senior QB has passed for 2,112 yards and 24 touchdowns while completing 108 of 178 passes.
- Coleton Hudson (Weleetka): Senior running back has compiled 922 yards and 16 touchdowns for the Outlaws.
- Jace Horton (Prue): Junior quarterback has passed for 1,212 yards and 18 touchdowns, and he's also rushed for 649 yards on nine touchdowns. On defense, he leads the Rockets with 111 tackles.
Prediction time
Michael Swisher: Shattuck over Regent Prep - The Indians will need to slip past Davenport in the semifinals, but I expect them to do just that. Their closest game this season was a 30-point victory in the season opener over last year’s Class C champ Tipton. Their lowest scoring total is 36 points in Week 9 when they shutout Seiling. That said, Regent Prep has been every bit of dominant, if not more, beating foes by an average of 53-7. However, I give the nod to Shattuck for two reasons: Troy Bullard and experience.
Ben Johnson: Davenport over Regent Prep - I've been high on Davenport all season long, and the Bulldogs haven't given me a reason not to be. That said, I think the semifinal winner of Shattuck-Davenport wins it all, so keep an eye out for that matchup.
Whitt Carter: Shattuck over Regent Prep - Whoo, boy. There are some stellar teams atop Class B, which should make for a fun semifinals week on down the road. Shattuck has been the clear favorite all year long, although aa semifinal matchup with Davenport is certainly something to get excited about. Regent Prep has dominated the east side of things this year and have a really talented squad, but Shattuck will be too much. They win ANOTHER state title in 2018.
Players to watch
- Robert Taylor and Brendon Weathers): Pair of senior running backs have both eclipsed 700 yards apiece on the ground this season. They've contributed to Coyle's 2,373 yards and 32 touchdowns on the ground as a team this year.
- Cory Cunningham (Paoli): The Pugs' leading rusher with 808 yards and 11 touchdowns this season. As a team, Paoli has rushed for 2,570 yards and 38 TDs.
- Derrick Jennings (Graham-Dustin): Junior QB has passed for 1,398 yards and 27 touchdowns and has rushed for 689 yards and 14 TDs.
Prediction time
Michael Swisher: Buffalo over Tipton - This class has the potential for some dynamite semifinal matchups featuring Buffalo vs. Southwest Covenant on the top half and then a rematch of last year’s title game between Tipton and Pond Creek-Hunter on the bottom side. Tipton took a couple lumps early on but has returned to championship form with five shutouts in its last six games. However, it’s tough to ignore what Buffalo did against Tyrone (44-0) and Pond Creek-Hunter (38-6) in back-to-back weeks earlier this year. It will be a battle with Southwest Covenant in the semis, but I’m picking the Bison to emerge victorious and then bring home gold.
Ben Johnson: Southwest Covenant over Tipton - I've liked Buffalo all season long in Class C. but I'll go with Southwest Covenant anyway. But the way my picks have gone this season, that means Buffalo will skate to the title.
Whitt Carter: Tipton over Buffalo - Another fun class with some great teams at the top should make for a lot of fun in the playoffs. Tipton has been dominant as of late on defense, which is obviously tough to do in 8-man football. They could meet up with Pond-Creek in the semis, making for an awesome rematch of the title game a year ago. A popular pick in Buffalo will be tough to beat on the other side of the bracket, as the have rolled to a 10-0 record. They'll have to get past top ranked SW Covenant in the semis and I think they do. But I'll go with Tipton to win its' third straight Class C state championship.
Week 7 picks
| Ben Johnson
Well, what we have here is two hotly-contested showdowns for first and third place. Swisher and Coach Turney are locked in a battle for first place, while Whitt and myself charge hard after the bronze.
Week 6 picks - Coach Turney 14-4 | Whitt 13-5 | Ben 13-5 | Swisher 13-5
Overall - Swisher 91-35 | Turney 91-35 | Ben 84-42 | Whitt 84-42
And per usual, my apologies in advance to the teams I pick below:
Carl Albert at Guthrie
Michael Swisher: Carl Albert 33, Guthrie 17
Ben Johnson: Carl Albert 30, Guthrie 16
Whitt Carter: Carl Albert 28, Guthrie 21
Randy Turney: Carl Albert 31, Guthrie 14
Broken Arrow at Edmond Santa Fe
Michael Swisher: Broken Arrow 38, Edmond Santa Fe 14
Ben Johnson: Broken Arrow 41, Edmond Santa Fe 19
Whitt Carter: Broken Arrow 34, Edmond Santa Fe 14
Randy Turney: Broken Arrow 28, Edmond Santa Fe 7
Stillwater at Lawton
Michael Swisher: Stillwater 35, Lawton 21
Ben Johnson: Stillwater 23, Lawton 22
Whitt Carter: Stillwater 42, Lawton 34
Randy Turney: Stillwater 35, Lawton 20
Cascia Hall at Berryhill
Michael Swisher: Berryhill 24, Cascia Hall 12
Ben Johnson: Berryhill 20, Cascia Hall 19
Whitt Carter: Cascia Hall 32, Berryhill 28
Randy Turney: Berryhill 28, Cascia Hall 20
Victory Christian at Beggs
Michael Swisher: Beggs 28, Victory Christian 10
Ben Johnson: Beggs 33, Victory Christian 24
Whitt Carter: Beggs 35, Victory Christian 27
Randy Turney: Beggs 21, Victory Christian 20
Plainview at Sulphur
Michael Swisher: Plainview 24, Sulphur 22
Ben Johnson: Plainview 29, Sulphur 23
Whitt Carter: Sulphur 28, Plainview 24
Randy Turney: Sulphur 34, Plainview 31
Buffalo at Pond Creek-Hunter
Michael Swisher: PC-Hunter 30, Buffalo 14
Ben Johnson: PC-Hunter 43, Buffalo 22
Whitt Carter: PC-Hunter 31, Buffalo 12
Randy Turney: PC-Hunter 34, Buffalo 22
Booker T. Washington at Sapulpa
Michael Swisher: Booker T. Washington 31, Sapulpa 30
Ben Johnson: Booker T. Washington 27, Sapulpa 24
Whitt Carter: Booker T. Washington 42, Sapulpa 28
Randy Turney: Booker T. Washington 31, Sapulpa 22
Stigler at Seminole
Michael Swisher: Seminole 34, Stigler 17
Ben Johnson: Seminole 23, Stigler 20
Whitt Carter: Seminole 34, Stigler 21
Randy Turney: Seminole 34, Stigler 20
Tonkawa at Morrison
Michael Swisher: Morrison 18, Tonkawa 14
Ben Johnson: Morrison 26, Tonkawa 16
Whitt Carter: Morrison 27, Tonkawa 21
Randy Turney: Morrison 38, Tonkawa 14
Yukon at Westmoore
Michael Swisher: Yukon 17, Westmoore 16
Ben Johnson: Yukon 21, Westmoore 17
Whitt Carter: Westmoore 21, Yukon 20
Randy Turney: Westmoore 24, Yukon 17
El Reno at Duncan
Michael Swisher: Duncan 24, El Reno 21
Ben Johnson: Duncan 32, El Reno 17
Whitt Carter: Duncan 28, El Reno 14
Randy Turney: El Reno 28, Duncan 21
Bethany at Cushing
Michael Swisher: Bethany 31, Cushing 17
Ben Johnson: Bethany 33, Cushing 27
Whitt Carter: Bethany 35, Cushing 13
Randy Turney: Bethany 30, Cushing 24
Catoosa at Cleveland
Michael Swisher: Catoosa 36, Cleveland 25
Ben Johnson: Catoosa 28, Cleveland 18
Whitt Carter: Catoosa 37, Cleveland 21
Randy Turney: Catoosa 20, Cleveland 14
Kingfisher at Perkins-Tryon
Michael Swisher: Kingfisher 31, Perkins-Tryon 28
Ben Johnson: Kingfisher 27, Perkins-Tryon 21
Whitt Carter: Kingfisher 35, Perkins-Tryon 21
Randy Turney: Kingfisher 34, Perkins-Tryon 20
Okemah at Meeker
Michael Swisher: Meeker 33, Okemah 21
Ben Johnson: Meeker 34, Okemah 24
Whitt Carter: Okemah 33, Meeker 24
Randy Turney: Meeker 28, Okemah 12
Stratford at Washington
Michael Swisher: Washington 27, Stratford 23
Ben Johnson: Washington 32, Stratford 19
Whitt Carter: Washington 28, Stratford 20
Randy Turney: Washington 38, Stratford 20
Hooker at Okeene
Michael Swisher: Hooker 31, Okeene 13
Ben Johnson: Hooker 29, Okeene16
Whitt Carter: Hooke 35, Okeene 13
Randy Turney: Hooker 34, Okeene 7
Covington-Douglas at Southwest Covenant
Michael Swisher: SW Covenant 48, Covington-Douglas 30
Ben Johnson: SW Covenant 44, Covington-Douglas 25
Whitt Carter: SW Covenant 45, Covington-Douglas 31
Randy Turney: SW Covenant 42, Covington-Douglas 20
Let us know what you think. Tweet your predictions to us at @Skordle.
Week 7: Top 10 games
| Ben Johnson
Some rock-solid games this week as district races tighten up.
Here's what's on tap this week:
1. 5A No. 1 Carl Albert (6-0) at 5A No. 7 Guthrie (6-0): Bluejays beat Carl Albert every year from 2010 to 2015, but the Titans have posted back-to-back blowouts over Guthrie, including last year's 55-10 contest. Carl Albert running back Dadrion Taylor is also expected back after suffering a knee injury earlier in the season.
2. 6AI No. 1 Broken Arrow (6-0) at 6AI No. 4 Edmond Santa Fe (6-0): Tigers have been machine-like all season long. The Wolves pulling the upset would be one to send shockwaves throughout 6AI.
3. 6AII No. 1 Stillwater (6-0) at 6AII No. 5 Lawton (4-2): Pioneers are 0-4 against Lawton since the two clubs started playing district contests in 2014. And this one was going to feature a stellar running back showcase, but Stillwater tailback Qwontrel Walker was ejected in the fourth quarter against Choctaw last week, leaving his status for this week up in the air. Meanwhile, the Wolverines will ride the hot hand of Miles Davis at tailback.
4. 3A No. 8 Cascia Hall (5-1) at 3A No. 2 Berryhill (6-0): These two teams have met 10 times since 1999 and Cascia Hall is one nine of those games. The Chiefs' lone victory in the series was in 2004. Winner all but locks up the District 3A-4 crown.
5. 2A No. 9 Victory Christian (6-0) at 2A No. 5 Beggs (5-1): Former district mates are reunited in 2A-3 play this year. From 2010 to 2015, the two teams split the series 3-3. Winner here still has to tangle with Sperry to claim the district title.
6. 3A No. 4 Plainview (5-1) at 3A No. 5 Sulphur (5-1): Sulphur beat Plainview 35-12 last season, but prior to that Plainview had won the last eight clashes between the two teams.
7. C No. 4 Buffalo (6-0) at C No. 1 Pond Creek-Hunter (6-0): Winner all but wraps up the District C-1 championship. And to this point, Pond Creek-Hunter opponents are averaging four points per game.
8. 6AII No. 6 Booker T. Washington (3-3) at 6AII No. 7 Sapulpa (5-1): Chieftains came up with an overtime win over Muskogee last week, and a win over the Hornets would be a massive statement. One advantage Sapulpa does have is at the quarterback position with Eli Williams.
9. Stigler (5-1) at 3A No. 6 Seminole (5-1): All of a sudden everyone in District 3A-3 is chasing after Idabel. And it's looking more and more like a quality team will be left out of the playoff picture in the suddenly-deep 3A-3. The winner here at least feels somewhat more at ease with a postseason spot more obtainable.
10. Tonkawa (6-1) at A No. 3 Morrison (6-0): Tonkawa has a two-game winning streak going against Morrison, but it's the Wildcats who are ranked heading into this one. District A-5 is deep, so a win here moves one of these two closer to the district title.
Honorable mention
Yukon at Westmoore: Top three spots in 6AI-1 appear to be spoken for among Broken Arrow, Jenks and Edmond Santa Fe. So for a regular season matchup, it all but serves as a "win and you're in; lose and you're out" tilt. And Westmoore is 6-0 against Yukon since 2006.
El Reno at Duncan: The Demons are unbeaten but now the schedule tightens up. A win for Duncan sets up an epic showdown against Ardmore next week for 5A-1 supremacy. A win for El Reno has the Indians feeling better about securing a postseason spot. El Reno beat Duncan 41-40 last season.
Bethany at Cushing: Despite a minus-nine scoring margin in six games this season, the Tigers are 3-0 in District 4A-2. A win for Cushing could work toward some must-see games against Blanchard and Tuttle to close out the regular season in a few weeks.
Catoosa at Cleveland: District 4A-3 looks like it'll come down to Bristow or Wagoner at the top. So that leaves three -- maybe four (Catoosa, Cleveland, Grove and Oologah) -- competing for the final two playoff spots.
Kingfisher at Perkins-Tryon: We're finding out that a lot of districts have some solid depth, and 3A-1 falls in that category. Heritage Hall and John Marshall are locks for playoffs spots, so it's up to Kingfisher, Perkins, Mannford and Mount Saint Mary to challenge for the final two spots.
Okemah at Meeker: Since 2008, Okemah has won seven of the last eight matchups. Both of these clubs need a win to have a shot at possibly winning or finishing in the top two spots of 2A-2.
Stratford at Washington: Washington pushed Millwood to the limit last week. And despite a 1-2 mark in 2A-7, Stratford has to be taken seriously in the playoff mix.
Hooker at Okeene: Winner here gets a chance to challenge Oklahoma Bible Academy for District A-1 bragging
Covington-Douglas at Southwest Covenant: Winner all but wraps up the C-3 title.
So who wins all the matchups? Check back for our weekly picks on Thursday.
*Photo courtesy of Guthrie Booster Club
Week 6 picks
| Ben Johnson
Phew,
what a relief for myself and Whitt in week 5. Swisher and Coach Turney
were leaving us in the dust. But we were able to gain a little bit of
ground in the overall standings. Just have to ride the wave of momentum
now.
Week 5 picks - Whitt 14-3 | Ben 14-3 | Coach Turney 13-4 | Swisher 12-5
Overall - Swisher 78-30 | Turney 77-31 | Ben 71-37 | Whitt 71-37
And per usual, my apologies in advance to the teams I pick below:
Collinsville at Tahlequah
Michael Swisher: Collinsville 21, Tahlequah 18
Ben Johnson: Collinsville 17, Tahlequah 10
Whitt Carter: Tahlequah 35, Collinsville 31
Randy Turney: Collinsville 21, Tahlequah 14
Washington at Millwood
Michael Swisher: Millwood 45, Washington 14
Ben Johnson: Millwood 32, Washington 19
Whitt Carter: Millwood 36, Washington 21
Randy Turney: Millwood 41, Washington 14
Tuttle at Bethany
Michael Swisher: Tuttle 24, Bethany 22
Ben Johnson: Tuttle 21, Bethany 17
Whitt Carter: Tuttle 24, Bethany 20
Randy Turney: Tuttle 24, Bethany 13
Coyle at Southwest Covenant
Michael Swisher: SW Covenant 48, Coyle 14
Ben Johnson: SW Covenant 43, Coyle 38
Whitt Carter: SW Covenant 42, Coyle 40
Randy Turney: SW Covenant 38, Coyle 28
Stillwater at Choctaw
Michael Swisher: Stillwater 30, Choctaw 23
Ben Johnson: Stillwater 33, Choctaw 21
Whitt Carter: Stillwater 41, Choctaw 13
Randy Turney: Stillwater 34, Choctaw 14
Putnam City North at Union
Michael Swisher: Union 35, PC North 14
Ben Johnson: Union 42, PC North 9
Whitt Carter: Union 37, PC North 14
Randy Turney: Union 38, PC North 14
Muskogee at Sapulpa
Michael Swisher: Muskogee 24, Sapulpa 20
Ben Johnson: Muskogee 39, Sapulpa 29
Whitt Carter: Muskogee 42, Sapulpa 28
Randy Turney: Muskogee 28, Sapulpa 20
Ardmore at El Reno
Michael Swisher: Ardmore 28, El Reno 7
Ben Johnson: Ardmore 24, El Reno 9
Whitt Carter: Ardmore 32, El Reno 24
Randy Turney: Ardmore 31, El Reno 20
Seminole at Idabel
Michael Swisher: Seminole 27, Idabel 21
Ben Johnson: Seminole 45, Idabel 27
Whitt Carter: Seminole 42, Idabel 28
Randy Turney: Seminole 42, Idabel 20
Tyrone at Buffalo
Michael Swisher: Tyrone 34, Buffalo 24
Ben Johnson: Buffalo 35, Tyrone 26
Whitt Carter: Buffalo 41, Tyrone 34
Randy Turney: Buffalo 34, Tyrone 26
Westmoore at Broken Arrow
Michael Swisher: Broken Arrow 38, Westmoore 18
Ben Johnson: Broken Arrow 49, Westmoore 13
Whitt Carter: Broken Arrow 52, Westmoore 14
Randy Turney: Broken Arrow 42, Westmoore 14
Stigler at Checotah
Michael Swisher: Checotah 31, Stigler 29
Ben Johnson: Checotah 34, Stigler 28
Whitt Carter: Checotah 28, Stigler 24
Randy Turney: Stigler 24, Checotah 14
Haskell at Victory Christian
Michael Swisher: Victory Christian 30, Haskell 15
Ben Johnson: Victory Christian 37, Haskell 22
Whitt Carter: Victory Christian 42, Haskell 16
Randy Turney: Victory Christian 31, Haskell 20
Okemah at Prague
Michael Swisher: Okemah 33, Prague 21
Ben Johnson: Okemah 30, Prague 20
Whitt Carter: Prague 32, Okemah 21
Randy Turney: Okemah 21, Prague 20
Wynnewood at Stroud
Michael Swisher: Stroud 29, Wynnewood 24
Ben Johnson: Wynnewood 29, Stroud 23
Whitt Carter: Wynnewood 28, Stroud 14
Randy Turney: Wynnewood 20, Stroud 14
Prue at Yale
Michael Swisher: Yale 35, Prue 17
Ben Johnson: Yale 43, Prue 22
Whitt Carter: Yale 47, Prue 38
Randy Turney: Prue 38, Yale 30
Regent Prep at Watts
Michael Swisher: Regent Prep 34, Watts 28
Ben Johnson: Regent Prep 55, Watts 41
Whitt Carter: Regent Prep 49, Watts 34
Randy Turney: Regent Prep 48, Watts 12
Tipton at Mountain View-Gotebo
Michael Swisher: Tipton 24, Mt. View-Gotebo 19
Ben Johnson: Tipton 56, Mt. View-Gotebo 22
Whitt Carter: Tipton 47, Mt. View-Gotebo 28
Randy Turney: Tipton 48, Mt. View-Gotebo 6
Week 6: Top 10 games
| Ben Johnson
There are some quality games to be had in week 6, but nothing like the run of games recently.
Here's what's on tap this week:
1. 5A No. 3 Collinsville (5-0) at 5A No. 5 Tahlequah (5-0): District 5A-4 supremacy is on the line, and another big game on tap for Tahlequah, who knocked off Skiatook last week. Meanwhile, Collinsville put the clamps on Memorial running back Jamoni Jones, who was coming off a 300-yard rushing game the week prior. Both Collinsville and Tahlequah can play some defense, so points could be at a premium here. And the matchup of Tahlequah tailback Dae Dae Leathers against Collinsville should be must-see theater. Also, these clubs have met every year since 2012, and the Cardinals are 5-1. Tahlequah did manage to win last year's game, 31-21.
2. 2A No. 6 Washington (4-1) at 2A No. 1 Millwood (5-0): Rematch of last year's Class 2A title game, but now there is District 2A-7 positioning at stake. The Falcons labored through a victory over Community Christian last week, so can Washington pounce on the Falcons? Should mention Millwood is 3-0 all-time against Washington.
3. 4A No. 3 Tuttle (5-0) at 4A No. 4 Bethany (5-0): A win for Bethany all but wraps up the 4A-2 crown. That would give the Bronchos wins over both Tuttle and Blanchard. Tuttle had been 1-5 against Bethany since 2006, but the Tigers won last year's game, 21-12.
4. B No. 5 Coyle (3-1) at B No. 2 Southwest Covenant (6-0): Southwest Covenant has beaten Coyle two years in a row. And the winner here keeps pace with Covington-Douglas for the C-3 crown.
5. 6AII No. 1 Stillwater (5-0) at 6AII No. 8 Choctaw (3-2): It appears a good football team will be left out of the playoff picture in District 6AII-1. Stillwater and Del City sit atop the district, but teams like Choctaw, Midwest City and Lawton all figure to be there in the final week competing for postseason spots. A win for Choctaw here creates a large mess in 6AII-1. But first, Choctaw would have to shut down the Pioneers' offense, which has generated 234 games in five contests so far. Since 2008, Stillwater has beaten Choctaw five out of six times.
6. 6AI No. 6 Putnam City North (5-0) at 6AI No. 3 Union (3-2): The Panthers have risen to the top -- along with Edmond Santa Fe -- as the two Oklahoma City-area teams in 6AI to challenge the likes of Broken Arrow, Jenks and Union this season. Perhaps this is PC North's chance to upend Union -- something the Panthers haven't done since 2001.
7. 6AII No. 7 Muskogee (4-1) at 6AII No. 9 Sapulpa (4-1): Should be plenty of offensive fireworks in this one, especially for a Chieftains team that score 63 last week against Bartlesville. The winner here puts Bixby in its crosshairs in an attempt to go after the 6AII-2 title. The Roughers have won the past four games in this match, including last season's 27-14 victory.
8. 5A No. 2 Ardmore (2) at El Reno (4-1): El Reno has posted some quality wins over Piedmont, Chickasha and Noble. But now comes a stout test against the Tigers and a stingy defense. Through five games, Ardmore is giving up an average of 6.8 points per contest. Since 2000, Ardmore is 5-3 against El Reno, and that includes a current five-game winning streak after last season's 37-13 win.
9. 3A No. 4 Seminole (5-0) at Idabel (4-1): Seminole running back Cameron Gunville has been stellar through five games, racking up 1,107 yards and 16 touchdowns on 111 carries. Averaging 10 yards per rush will usually get the job done, and in this case it has the Chieftains 5-0 after a statement win over Lincoln Christian. Idabel has allowed a lot of points (134), but the Warriors can score, too, posting 214 to this point. Expect an offensive barrage in this one. Oh, and Seminole is 3-0 against Idabel in the all-time series.
10. C No. 6 Tyrone (4-0) at C No. 4 Buffalo (5-0): It's a three-team race to the C-1 title, and the winner here has to like its chances with Pond Creek-Hunter as the final district hurdle. Tyrone is 7-17 against Buffalo since 1980, but the Bobcats own a four-game winning streak over Buffalo after last year's 30-6 win.
Honorable mention
Westmoore at Broken Arrow: Westmoore has been solid, but can it figure out a way to slow down Noah Cortes and the Tigers?
Stigler at Checotah: Last time these two met was a 22-15 win for Stigler in 2013. Expect a lot of points on the scoreboard in this one.
Haskell at Victory Christian: Tayden Lucero continues to turn in one spectacular performances after another for Haskell. But Garrett Williams, Josh Sirleaf and Gabe Byrams have the Conquerors' offense humming along.
Okemah at Prague: District 2A-2 is providing some quality depth early on. The winner here could potentially challenge Jones for the district title.
Wynnewood at Stroud: District A-7 is on the line in this one. Winner faces very few speed bumps the rest of the way.
Prue at Yale: These two haven't met since 2003, and Yale was 4-1 from 1999 to 2003 against Prue. The winner here can shift its focus to Davenport for the B-7 crown.
Regent Prep at Watts: The Engineers (superb team nickname, by the way) have been a pleasant surprise in Class B. They can prove they're Class B title contenders by taking down the high-powered Rams.
Tipton at Mountain View-Gotebo: A throwback matchup to late 1950's here. These two haven't met since 1991 despite only being one hour apart from each other. Winner here as the inside track to the C-2 title.
So who wins all the matchups? Check back for our weekly picks on Thursday.