ZERO WEEK PICKS

8/30/2019 |  Ben Johnson

Union at Mansfield (Lake Ridge)

Michael Swisher: Union
Whitt Carter: Union
Ben Johnson: Union

North Little Rock vs. Booker T. Washington (in Bentonville, Ark.)

Michael Swisher: North Little Rock
Whitt Carter: Booker T. Washington
Ben Johnson: Booker T. Washington

Broken Bow at Metro Christian

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

Oklahoma Christian School at Jones

Michael Swisher: Jones
Whitt Carter: Jones
Ben Johnson: Jones

Owasso at Bentonville (West)

Michael Swisher: Owasso
Whitt Carter: Owasso
Ben Johnson: Owasso

Bixby at Mansfield (Timberview)

Michael Swisher: Timberview
Whitt Carter: Bixby
Ben Johnson: Bixby

Minco at Wynnewood

Michael Swisher: Minco
Whitt Carter: Wynnewood
Ben Johnson: Wynnewood

Altus at Cache

Michael Swisher: Altus
Whitt Carter: Cache
Ben Johnson: Altus

Poteau at El Reno

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

Community Christian at Crossings Christian

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

Jenks at Mansfield (Legacy)

Michael Swisher: Jenks
Whitt Carter: Mansfield
Ben Johnson: Mansfield

Fairview at Perry

Michael Swisher: Perry
Whitt Carter: Fairview
Ben Johnson: Perry

Weatherford at Chisholm

Michael Swisher: Weatherford
Whitt Carter: Weatherford
Ben Johnson: Weatherford

Chr. Heritage at Coalgate

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

ZERO WEEK: Top 10 games

8/29/2019 |  Ben Johnson

1. Union at Mansfield (Lake Ridge)
Union won the matchup between the two clubs last year 36-30, thanks to Darius Boone’s 26-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Union went on to be a Class 6AI semifinalist, and Lake Ridge was a Region 1 semifinalist in Texas’ 6A Division II.

2. North Little Rock vs. Booker T. Washington (in Bentonville, Ark.)
A classic game last year ended with North Little Rock’s Oscar Adaway scoring on a 7-yard run with 1:28 left. Booker T. Washington led 28-15 with 9:14 left in the fourth quarter, but North Little Rock scored twice to seal the game.

3. Broken Bow at Metro Christian
Metro Christian quarterback Asher Link scored on a touchdown run and an 18-yard TD pass to Junior Simpson, and the Patriots defense took over from there in a 28-22 victory last season. Metro Christian is 8-3 all-time against Broken Bow -- with all 11 meetings happening since 2008.

4. Oklahoma Christian School at Jones
Jones ran its winning streak against OCS to four straight with last year’s 27-10 victory. Jones is 7-1 against OCS since 2006.

5. Owasso at Bentonville (West)
A high-scoring affair last year saw Owasso prevail 56-40. Owasso QB Will Kuehne threw for 343 yards and five touchdowns to beat Bentonville West.

6. Bixby at Mansfield (Timberlake)
It was a tight one last year, but the Spartans knocked off Mansfield Timberlake 36-33 to kick-start another championship season.

7. Minco at Wynnewood
Minco beat Wynnewood 27-14 last season, and is now 4-1 against Wynnewood in the past five seasons.

8. Altus at Cache
Both teams finished 8-3 last year and only makes sense that the Highway 62 foes would clash for the first time, despite only being separated by 41 miles.

9. Poteau at El Reno
Poteau’s defense was all over El Reno last year with four sacks and three fumble recoveries in last year’s 38-19 contest. Now the scene shifts to El Reno this year.

10. Community Christian at Crossings Christian
Community Christian scored first, but Crossings Christian followed with 29 straight points to dominate the rest of the way.

Honorable mention games
Jenks at Mansfield (Legacy)

Fairview at Perry

Weatherford at Chisholm

Chr. Heritage at Coalgate

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

CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEWS: CLASSES 2A, A & B

12/5/2018 |  Ben Johnson

When Sperry and Beggs met the first time this season, it was an extremely emotion affair. News broke the day before the two met that Beggs running back Kayson Tolliver has been gunned down in his bed.
It was as tragic as it gets.
But Beggs opted to play and honor the life that Tolliver had lived. The scene on the field was highly irregular, as Sperry quarterback Beau Teel tells it.
“I can remember being in eighth grade, and Sperry had a player pass away and we had to play Claremore Sequoyah and emotions were so high,” Teel recalled. “That’s how that game was against Beggs.
“Players were crying on the field and everything. Makes you realize that football isn’t the most important thing in the world.”
Now the two teams will meet again -- and emotions will be high again. This time, it’ll be for the Class 2A championship at Owasso Stadium on Thursday.
“It means a lot, but not just to me, but our team and town have been waiting for an opportunity like this for a long time,” Sperry’s Bryce Carter said. “We want to make the most of it.”
Third-ranked Beggs beat Sperry 35-21 on Nov. 2. The Pirates led 14-0 at halftime, but the Golden Demons went on a torrid rally in the second half, including scoring 28 points in the third quarter.
“Our first time playing Beggs made us realize that you have to play your best football for all four quarters,” Teel said. “Beggs is a great second half team that plays with a lot of heart. They know what it takes to win big games. We can not let up any this time around.”
For No. 5 Sperry, it’s the Pirates first appearance in a championship game since 1968. That’s created a considerable amount of buzz around the small town on the western edge of Tulsa County.
“The town is so excited to be in this game,” Teel said. “It’s been over 50 years since this town has been in the championship game, and it’s just really awesome. People we’ve never seen before have started coming out just to watch us play. It’s great.”
 

Class 2A

No. 5 Sperry (13-1) vs. No. 3 Beggs (13-1)

Where: Owasso Stadium (Owasso High School)

Road to the title game

- Sperry: 68-13 vs. Salina in the first round; 49-7 vs. Kellyville in the second round; 44-13 vs. Eufaula in the quarterfinals; 56-8 vs. Adair in the semifinals.
- Beggs: 56-13 vs. Wyandotte in the first round; 49-22 vs. Oklahoma Christian School in the second round; 36-31 vs. Kingston in the quarterfinals; 33-28 vs. Metro Christian in the semifinals.

What to watch for

- Rematch adjustments: The District 2A-3 winner (Beggs) and 2A-3 runner-up (Sperry) met in Week 10, and the Golden Demons claimed a 35-21 victory, a day after Beggs player Kayson Tolliver was shot and killed. Sperry controlled the entire first half and owned a 14-0 lead at halftime. But Beggs rallied for four touchdowns in the third quarter to take control. The Golden Demons ended up out-gaining Beggs 265-121 in the final 24 minutes. This time around, it’ll be a matter of who makes the most adjustments from a month ago.
- Emotional wave: When the teams met the first time this season, emotions were on overload. Players were brought to tears while on the field after the tragic death of Tolliver. Both teams are a month removed from that, and while emotions still remain raw, the emotions on both sides should be closer to even keel. Instead, emotions will be through the roof because what’s at stake. By the end of the game, both teams will have mentally spent with the season coming to a close.
- Be the better QB: The quarterback clash on display is one of the best of any of the championship games. Both Beggs’ Dalton Spring and Sperry’s Beau Teel are dangerous dual-threat players. Both will tuck and run, but both have plenty of weapons if they opt to throw the ball. Perhaps it’s over-simplification, but odds are the better quarterback in the game should end up hoisting the gold ball with his teammates.

Random facts

- Sperry is 5-4 all-time against Beggs. Prior to this season’s first matchup, Sperry had won the previous four games, dating back to 1989.
- Sperry head coach Robert Park took over in 2000, and his record is 117-94; Beggs head coach David Tenison took over prior to the start of the season, and he is 13-1.
- Sperry is 0-1 in championship games -- the lone appearance was a 35-14 loss to Minco in the 1968 Class C title game.
- Beggs is 1-2 in championship games -- The Golden Demon’s last championship appearance was last season, a 14-7 loss to John Marshall in the 3A title game.
- Beggs’ lone championship was in 1975 with a 21-0 victory over Millwood in the Class A championship game.
- Beggs is 13-0 against Oklahoma teams this season. The Golden Demons’ lone loss was a 28-21 setback against Shiloh Christian (Ark.).

Prediction sure to go wrong…

Sperry 27, Beggs 26: We all had Millwood making it to the final week of the season, but Vian saw to it that it didn’t happen. Instead, two teams from District 2A-3 are left standing, ready for a rematch of Week 10. I picked Sperry then, and I haven’t learned my lesson, so I’m going with Sperry again. Beggs might be able to win the battle up front, but there’s something about Sperry that I just can’t quit. But the good news for Beggs is I’ve been terrible at picks all year long, so why stop this week?

Class A

Christian Heritage (10-4) vs. No. 7 Tonkawa (13-1)

Where: Pioneer Stadium (Stillwater High School)

Road to the title game

- Christian Heritage: 28-22 vs. Ringling in the first round; 42-36 vs. Thomas in the second round; 39-22 vs. Stroud in the quarterfinals; 34-13 vs. Rejoice Christian in the semifinals.
- Tonkawa: 55-12 vs. Colcord in the first round; 23-14 vs. Wayne in the second round; 20-13 vs. Hobart in the quarterfinals; 28-13 vs. Fairview in the semifinals.

What to watch for

- Hale of a season: Christian Heritage senior quarterback Zach Hale has been an unstoppable force, including last week’s five-touchdown performance against Rejoice Christian. And he’s been a tackling machine on defense, and he’s even mixed in some interceptions here and there.
- Heckuva year, Hampton: Tonkawa’s senior quarterback Braydon Hampton has been stride for stride with Hale and his production this season. Hampton has passed for 1,671 yards and 17 touchdowns, and he’s rushed for 1,634 yards and 25 touchdowns. On defense, he’s racked up 107 tackles, 25 sacks and four forced fumbles.

Random facts

- These two clubs are meeting for the first time.
- Christian Heritage head coach Tony Merrell took over in 2014, and he’s gone 38-21; Tonkawa head coach Mike Kirtley took over in 2003, and he’s gone 137-55.
- This is Christian Heritage’s first appearance in a championship game.
- Christian Heritage’s four playoff wins have come against teams with a combined record of 42-8.
- Tonkawa is 6-2 in championship games -- the Buccaneers’ last state title appearance was a 7-6 win over Stroud in the Class A title game.

Prediction sure to go wrong…

Christian Heritage 23, Tonkawa 20: I had Cashion winning the title, but do I get half credit for taking someone that’s in Cashion’s district? No? Well, OK then. The Crusades have undoubtedly been the hottest team in the playoffs -- in any class. The run the Crusaders have been on since Oct. 26, when they beat Watonga to start a six-game winning streak. Christian Heritage has surpassed hurdle after hurdle, so I’ll just stick with the Crusaders since they’ve come this far.

Class B

No. 1 Shattuck (13-0) vs. No. 3 Regent Prep (14-0)

Where: Charles W. Scheid Stadium (Western Heights High School)

Road to the title game

- Shattuck: 48-0 vs. Ringwood in the first round; 55-6 vs. Alex in the second round; 67-20 vs. Dewar in the quarterfinals; 54-30 vs. Davenport in the semifinals.
- Regent Prep: 49-0 vs. Prue in the first round; 59-24 vs. Keota in the second round; 68-52 vs. Laverne in the quarterfinals; 69-22 vs. Wetumka in the semifinals.

What to watch for

- Gilbert’s gains: Regent Prep quarterback Braden Gilbert has been on point all season long, and he’s up to 3,758 yards and 62 touchdowns through 14 games. He’s completing 59.7 percent (169 of 283) of his passes, and 75 of those passes have gone to Jack Wright, who has hauled in 1,773 yards and 33 touchdowns.

Random facts

- These two teams are meeting for the first time.
- Google Maps says these two schools are separated by 249 miles -- or a little more than a four-hour drive.
- Regent Prep head coach Adam Bishop navigated the Rams into OSSAA play in 2012, and the Rams have gone 40-9 since that time; Shattuck head coach Troy Bullard took over prior to this season and hasn’t lost in 13 games.
- This Regent Prep’s first championship game appearance.
- Shattuck is 10-2 with state championships on the line. The Indians are making their third straight appearance in the Class B title game, going 1-1 against Laverne over the span. Shattuck won last year’s championship game, 30-16.

Prediction sure to go wrong…

Shattuck 37, Regent Prep 27: What a surprise, my pick to win the championship (Davenport) didn’t make to the title game. Instead, Whitt and Swisher are both 2-for-2 on teams making it to the title game, and both have Shattuck winning the championship. I think Regent Prep will score some points against Shattuck -- something a lot of teams haven’t done -- but ultimately it’ll be Shattuck finishing atop Class B again.

PLAYOFF PREVIEW: Classes 2A, A & B QUARTERFINALS and C FINALS

11/30/2018 |  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

11/21/2018 |  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

11/21/2018 |  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.

PLAYOFF PICKS: Week 2 edition

11/16/2018 |  Ben Johnson

At this point, Randy Turney is just showing off. He went 23-7 last week and has all but sewn up his title as Skordle's premier picker this year. The rest of us are not worthy! And spinzone: I wasn't horrendous at picking games last week, so baby steps.

Playoff picks - Week 1 - Coach Turney 23-7 | Ben 19-11 | Whitt 17-13 | Swisher 14-16

Overall - Turney 181-59 | Swisher 165-75 | Whitt 165-75 | Ben 159-81

Now I present picks for the second round of the playoffs:

Broken Arrow vs. Owasso

Michael Swisher: Broken Arrow 38, Owasso 18

Ben Johnson: Broken Arrow 42, Owasso 10

Whitt Carter: Broken Arrow 42, Owasso 17

Randy Turney: Broken Arrow 38, Owasso 17

Jenks vs. Union

Michael Swisher: Union 34, Jenks 33

Ben Johnson: Jenks 27, Union 24

Whitt Carter: Jenks 31, Union 28

Randy Turney: Jenks 24, Union 14

Bixby vs. Midwest City

Michael Swisher: Bixby 30, Midwest City 24

Ben Johnson: Bixby 37, Midwest City 21

Whitt Carter: Bixby 27, Midwest City 21

Randy Turney: Bixby 32, Midwest City 22

Stillwater vs. Booker T. Washington

Michael Swisher: Stillwater 24, Booker T. Washington 18

Ben Johnson: Stillwater 16, Booker T. Washington 14

Whitt Carter: Stillwater 31, Booker T. Washington 28

Randy Turney: Stillwater 32, Booker T. Washington 20

Bishop McGuinness at Bishop Kelley

Michael Swisher: Bishop McGuinness 21, Bishop Kelley 20

Ben Johnson: Bishop Kelley 20, Bishop McGuinness 19

Whitt Carter: Bishop McGuinness 35, Bishop Kelley 31

Randy Turney: Bishop McGuinness 24, Bishop Kelley 10

Guthrie at Collinsville

Michael Swisher: Collinsville 31, Guthrie 20

Ben Johnson: Collinsville 23, Guthrie 17

Whitt Carter: Collinsville 27, Guthrie 20

Randy Turney: Collinsville 24, Guthrie 14

Bethany at Wagoner

Michael Swisher: Wagoner 22, Bethany 22

Ben Johnson: Bethany 24, Wagoner 21

Whitt Carter: Wagoner 27, Bethany 24

Randy Turney: Wagoner 17, Bethany 14

Blanchard at Poteau

Michael Swisher: Poteau 19, Blanchard 18

Ben Johnson: Poteau 20, Blanchard 16

Whitt Carter: Poteau 28, Blanchard 21

Randy Turney: Poteau 21, Blanchard 20

Broken Bow at Clinton

Michael Swisher: Clinton 21, Broken Bow 20

Ben Johnson: Broken Bow 14, Clinton 9

Whitt Carter: Clinton 31, Broken Bow 27

Randy Turney: Clinton 34, Broken Bow 28

Hilldale at Tuttle

Michael Swisher: Tuttle 30, Hilldale 18

Ben Johnson: Hilldale 27, Tuttle 26

Whitt Carter: Tuttle 35, Hilldale 21

Randy Turney: Tuttle 35, Hilldale 14

Kingfisher at Berryhill

Michael Swisher: Berryhill 32, Kingfisher 24

Ben Johnson: Berryhill 27, Kingfisher 22

Whitt Carter: Kingfisher 28, Berryhill 27

Randy Turney: Berryhill 28, Kingfisher 21

Plainview at Lincoln Christian

Michael Swisher: Lincoln Christian 35, Plainview 31

Ben Johnson: Lincoln Christian 29, Plainview 27

Whitt Carter: Plainview 38, Lincoln Christian 31

Randy Turney: Lincoln Christian 42, Plainview 38

Metro Christian at Jones

Michael Swisher: Metro Christian 24, Jones 20

Ben Johnson: Metro Christian 27, Jones 23

Whitt Carter: Jones 35, Metro Christian 28

Randy Turney: Jones 27, Metro Christian 21

Vian at Millwood

Michael Swisher: Millwood 35, Vian 30

Ben Johnson: Millwood 30, Vian 16

Whitt Carter: Millwood 34, Vian 21

Randy Turney: Millwood 42, Vian 21

Washington at Holland Hall

Michael Swisher: Holland Hall 27, Washington 20

Ben Johnson: Holland Hall 20, Washington 18

Whitt Carter: Washington 27, Holland Hall 24

Randy Turney: Washington 35, Holland Hall 20

OCS at Beggs

Michael Swisher: Beggs 31, OCS 21

Ben Johnson: Beggs 37, OCS 29

Whitt Carter: Beggs 42, OCS 31

Randy Turney: Beggs 34, OCS 24

Fairview at Cashion

Michael Swisher: Cashion 34, Fairview 28

Ben Johnson: Cashion 30, Fairview 13

Whitt Carter: Cashion 34, Fairview 21

Randy Turney: Cashion 26, Fairview 20

Christian Heritage at Thomas

Michael Swisher: Christian Heritage 22, Thomas 14

Ben Johnson: Christian Heritage 27, Thomas 25

Whitt Carter: Christian Heritage 30, Thomas 27

Randy Turney: Christian Heritage 21, Thomas 14

Crossings Christian at Hooker

Michael Swisher: Hooker 35, Crossings Christian 18

Ben Johnson: Hooker 26, Crossings Christian 22

Whitt Carter: Hooker 28, Crossings Christian 14

Randy Turney: Hooker 19, Crossings Christian 14

Morrison at Stroud

Michael Swisher: Morrison 22, Stroud 19

Ben Johnson: Morrison 23, Stroud 21

Whitt Carter: Stroud 27, Morrison 24

Randy Turney: Morrison 28, Stroud 20

Commerce at Hulbert

Michael Swisher: Commerce 36, Hulbert 33

Ben Johnson: Commerce 41, Hulbert 37

Whitt Carter: Hulbert 35, Commerce 28

Randy Turney: Commerce 31, Hulbert 21

Laverne at Snyder

Michael Swisher: Synder 34, Laverne 22

Ben Johnson: Snyder 44, Laverne 29

Whitt Carter: Snyder 38, Laverne 36

Randy Turney: Snyder 38, Laverne 28

Keota at Regent Prep

Michael Swisher: Regent Prep 48, Keota 18

Ben Johnson: Regent Prep 33, Keota 22

Whitt Carter: Regent Prep 42, Keota 32

Randy Turney: Regent Prep 42, Keota 42

Coyle at Tipton

Michael Swisher: Tipton 38, Coyle 33

Ben Johnson: Coyle 43, Tipton 41

Whitt Carter: Tipton 48, Coyle 38

Randy Turney: Tipton 42, Coyle 14

Pond Creek-Hunter at Paoli

Michael Swisher: PC-Hunter 41, Paoli 35

Ben Johnson: PC-Hunter 55, Paoli 23

Whitt Carter: PC-Hunter 42, Paoli 36

Randy Turney: PC-Hunter 26, Paoli 14

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

Chisholm meets Fairview for series bragging rights

Football | 8/31/2018 | Tim Godfrey | Enid News & Eagle

After an season-opening loss to Weatherford last week, the Chisholm Longhorns are happy to be at home for Friday night's 7 p.m. game against Fairview. “The stands will be packed on our side,” Chisholm head football coach Joey Reinart said Thursday. “We know whenever we’re here, (the fans) are going to be loud and our kids are going to feed off of that. Looking forward to that part of it.”

Class A preview

7/6/2018 |  Ben Johnson

Look back at 2017

2017 district champs

A-1: Thomas - The Terriers hit the half-century mark in district titles with an unbeaten run against A-1 foes. A 20-0 win over Hooker set the stage for a district crown, and that was part of the Terriers' 10-game winning streak, which continued into December. But Afton derailed Thomas' playoff run in the semifinals.

A-2: Watonga - A September win over Cordell proved to be the deciding factor for the A-2 crown for Watonga. The Eagles went on to avenge a season-opening loss against Okeene with a win to open the playoffs, but then Watonga was dispatched from the postseason in the next round against Oklahoma Christian Academy.

A-3: Ringling - The Blue Devils knocked off Apache to begin district play, and they rolled the rest of the way against A-3 opponents. Ringling's playoff run lasted until the second round when Hooker moved on to the quarterfinals.

A-4: Minco - Led by Cole Burchfield in the backfield, Minco motored to the district title last year. Eleven straight wins, including six in district play, preceded Minco's run to the Class A quarterfinals, where the Bulldogs were beaten by Afton.

A-5: Crescent - Cashion, Pawnee and Morrison were no match for the Tigers during district play. Crescent manhandled every opponent it faced in its first 14 games, including wins over Cashion (54-14), Morrison (51-24) and Pawnee (35-14) during the regular season. The Tigers' unbeaten run, though, came to a halt in the Class A title game, which ended with a 44-12 loss to Afton.

A-6: Kiefer - The Trojans started the season 0-4, but a 34-14 win over Woodland in late September turned Kiefer's season around. Kiefer, Woodland and Hominy all finished atop the district at 5-1, but it was the Trojans who prevailed, thanks to district points. Kiefer, though, was bounced quickly from the playoffs, a 28-0 loss to Morrison in the opening round of the postseason.

A-7: Afton - The Eagles labored through a stout district -- that included Rejoice Christian, Barnsdall and Hulbert -- and emerged unscathed. A 22-20 victory over Rejoice Christian in mid October propelled Afton a district title, and from there the Eagles went into cruise control the rest of the season. In the playoffs, Afton outscored its opponents 214 to 46.

A-8: Talihina - Led by seniors Heath Humphreys and Sooner Box, the Tigers coasted to the A-8 crown. Talihina dismantled Central Sallisaw, 36-0, in a showdown of the district's top two teams. The Tigers finished the regular season 9-1 and beat Barnsdall in the opening round of the playoffs before being upset by Hominy in the second round.

Talking title game: Afton 44, Crescent 12

Afton quarterback Wil Amos put on a show for the ages. Crescent had no answer for Amos on either side of the ball, with the Eagles' senior signal caller racking up 418 yards and six touchdowns on 39 carries to lead Afton to its first football championship. Amos added an interception on defense, while the Eagles held Crescent to 196 yards of offense.

On to 2018...

Players to watch

- Landon McCracken (Apache): An offensive stalwart during his junior season in 2017. He passed for 2,591 yards and 29 touchdowns while completing 202 of 309 passes. He also ran for 776 yards and eight touchdowns on 92 carries.

- Griffin Lamb (Cashion): While leading Cashion to a 9-3 season, Lamb was the Wildcats' offensive catalyst. He racked up 2,250 yards and 31 touchdowns through the air while completing 66.3 percent (138 of 208) of his passes. 

- Hunter Bowers (Crescent): The Tigers' junior quarterback was a driving force in getting Crescent to the Class A championship game. An ankle injury limited his output in the title game, but his numbers all season long were outstanding. He passed for 2,250 yards and 34 touchdowns with 121 completions on 195 attempts. He also mixed in 1,052 yards and 22 touchdowns on 129 carries.

- Tanner McBee (Hooker): A difference maker on both sides of the ball. He amassed 1,165 yards and 17 touchdowns on 207 carries, and on defense he collected 68 tackles and three interceptions.

- Karder Neville (Hooker): As a junior, Neville reeled in 40 receptions for 731 yards and eight touchdowns. He also totaled 80 tackles and three sacks on defense.

- Nathan Malchaski and Garrett Malchaski (Dibble): Defensive pair racked up a ton of tackles in 2017. Nathan, a sophomore last season, had 126 tackles and four tackles, while Garrett notched 115 tackles and four tackles as a junior.

- Tyler Grove (Wynnewood): Sophomore season saw Grove blossom into a solid contributor with 882 yards and 10 touchdowns passing. On defense, he hauled in four interceptions, and he also punted 15 times with a 35.8 yard average.

- Josh Harvey (Healdton): There were 121 tackles on defense during his sophomore campaign to go with 440 yards and seven touchdowns on 69 carries on offense.

- Dylan Roach (Hominy): Burst onto the scene during his junior season. He racked up 2,264 yards and 31 touchdowns on 155 carries. However, he did that while leading Prue to an 11-3 season, and he's transferred to Hominy for his senior season.

- Blake Hipp (Hominy): The signal caller alongside Roach in the backfield. A 6-foot-2, 180-pound senior who passed for 1,753 yards and 22 touchdowns last season, on top of rushing for 547 yards and nine touchdowns on 101 carries.

- Joe Smith (Barnsdall): Came up just short of 1,000 yards during his junior season. He piled up 951 yards and 12 touchdowns on 91 carries.

- Tommy Smith (Gore): The 5-foot-11, 210-pound senior was a key cog on both sides of the ball as a junior in 2017. He ran the ball 210 times for 1,409 yards and 20 touchdowns, and he added 79 tackles and an interception.

- Josh Factor (Kiefer): At middle linebacker, Factor racked up 103 tackles as a sophomore last season for the Trojans.

- Andrew Crow (Rejoice Christian): Emerged as the Eagles' primary threat out of the backfield with 1,054 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2017. 

- Jacob Bruce (Hulbert): Capped his junior season in 2017 with his second straight 2,000-yard rushing campaign. He ran the ball 227 times for 2,105 yards and 27 touchdowns while leading the Riders into the second round of the Class A playoffs.
- Collin Seaton (Stroud): Had nearly 200 carries during the 2017 campaign. Logged 198 rushes for 1,015 yards and 11 touchdowns for the Tigers.

District debriefs

A-1: Thomas headlines the district again and will be in search of its 51st district championship. Hooker will challenge the Terriers while going after its first district title since 1985. Mooreland, Fairview, Beaver, Okeene and Texhoma return to the same district, and they all welcome Oklahoma Bible Academy, which moves over from A-5.

A-2: Watonga's out and in a different district, so there will be a new A-2 champion in 2018. Cordell, who finished tied atop the district but finished in second place, returns as the favorite. Mangum, Merritt, Sayre, Hollis and Hinton all return for another year of A-2 competition, and Hobart and Frederick slide down from 2A-3 to the Class A ranks.

A-3: Here's a district that looks vastly different from the past two seasons -- and wow is it deep. Cashion and Crescent -- the top two teams from A-5 -- venture into A-3 with seven other newcomers (Crossings Christian, Minco, Northeast, Oklahoma Christian Academy, Watonga, Wellston and Christian Heritage). That's three district champions from last year -- Minco, Watonga and Crescent -- along with four other teams (Cashion, Crossings Christian, OCA and Christian Heritage) that made the playoffs. Both Northeast and Christian Heritage will drop down a class after spending time in 2A-2 the last two seasons.

A-4: This is pretty much A-3 from last year with Ringling, Apache, Healdton, Rush Springs, Elmore City and Velma-Alma sticking together. Now they'll welcome Dibble (8-4 and a playoff team) and Walters into the mix with both moving from 2A-3.

A-5: Pawnee, Morrison and Drumright stay put while everyone around them is new. Hominy and Woodland -- who tied for the top spot in A-6 last season -- slide over, and Pawhuska and Tonkawa move down a class. Then factor in Langston Hughes, which will drop its independent status this season. This and A-3 are the only nine-team districts in Class A.

A-6: This is essentially A-7 from 2016 and 2017. Defending state champion Afton headlines the new A-6 group, which also includes Rejoice Christian, Fairland and Quapaw from A-7. Ketchum, Colcord, Commerce and Oklahoma Union round out the rest of the district.

A-7: A true hodgepodge district that spans from Mounds to Wynnewood. It's a catch-all district with seven new clubs. Wewoka and Stroud are former Class 2A participants, and Allen will move up from Class B. Konawa, Liberty, Mounds and Wayne are all clubs that won four or fewer games last year, and Wynnewood leads the pack as a team that went 6-5 with a first-round playoffs exit in Class A last season.

A-8: Talihina, Sallisaw Central, Gore and Savanna -- the four playoff teams from A-8 last season -- return this year, and Hulbert is dropped into the mix after finishing third in a deep A-7 last season. Warner and Quinton also return for two more years in A-8, and both sported one victory during the 2017 campaign.

What’s new? (coaching moves)

- Yale has a new coach in Johnny Ray, who led Prue to a 10-3 record and the state quarterfinals last season.

- Matt Hennesy stepped down at Locust Grove to take over at Pawhuska. In his six years at Locust Grove Hennesy went 52-18 -- which was more victories than the combined wins of the 10 coaches before him, dating back to 1957.

- Fred Peery takes over reigning Class A champion, Afton. Peery was previous at McLoud as a assistant head coach and defensive coordinator.

- Bob Pool returns to his alma mater, Savanna, who had been under the leadership of James Bond since 2003.

- Like Pool, Eric Bradley takes over at his alma mater, Wewoka.

- Prentice Joseph was promoted to head coach at Porter after Zac Ross was named the new head coach at Wyandotte.

- Gerald Hammond takes over at Liberty, a program that hasn't won a game since 2015.

- Konawa's new head coach is Dusty Newberry.

- Previous Ringling coaches -- Steve Justus, Tracy Gandy and Rick Gandy -- have made a habit of winning and winning often. Now Phil Koons takes over at Ringling after a tumultuous ending to his tenure at Clinton.

The More You Know:

- Afton had never appeared in a championship game before last season. The Eagles had gone 0-2 in the semifinals before breaking through in 2017.

- The loss to Afton in the title game dropped Crescent to 1-4 in championship games. 

Prediction time

Ben - Hulbert's Jacob Bruce becomes a household name | Matt Hennesy provides a jolt for Pawhuska | Hominy makes a serious charge for its second title in three years | Commerce in prime position to win its first championship | I'll take Thomas to win the title.

Swisher - At least one good team, probably more, will miss the playoffs in A-3 | Not that the Wildcats have been down, but this is the beginning of another really strong stretch for Cashion | We will miss Wil Amos | Defensive coaches will not miss Wil Amos | I'm going with a wildcard and picking Hooker to claim the 2018 crown. Sorry, Hooker. I always get Class A wrong.

Whitt Carter - Taking Ringling to win it all.

Guest picker - Hall of Fame coach Randy Turney - Going with Thomas to take the Class A title.