Colcord Hornets
Colcord, OK 74338
Record: 10-1 | Rank: 8
@ Oklahoma Union | W | 7-40 8/30 |
vs Sequoyah Claremore | W | 13-12 9/6 |
@ Haskell | W | 7-54 9/14 |
vs Wyandotte | W | 48-0 9/27 |
@ Keys | W | 6-28 10/4 |
vs Commerce | W | 52-14 10/11 |
@ Adair | L | 28-19 10/17 |
vs Chelsea | W | 53-14 10/25 |
@ Salina | W | 13-36 11/1 |
vs Kansas | W | 49-0 11/8 |
vs Valliant OSSAA State First Round at Colcord | W | 40-0 11/15 |
vs Holdenville OSSAA State Quarterfinals at Holdenville | W | 14-36 11/22 |
vs Vian OSSAA State Semi-Finals at Wagoner HS | 11/29 7PM |
Week 8 - Top Performers
| Ben Johnson
Choctaw
Julius Pruitt - 3 sacks, 2 hurries, 5 tackles, 2 TFL
Verdigris
Reese Roller - had 5 tackles, 1tfl, 3 sacks, 1 hurry. Also had 2 catches for 80 yards and 1 TD. Gives him 21 sacks on the season and 4 straight games with at least 3 sacks.
Colcord
Stormy Odle 225 total offense 2 TDs
Bishop McGuinness
Luke Tarman - 27 carries for 244 yards / 12 of 18 passing for 168 yards / 5 Touchdowns - 4 passing 1 rushing
Berryhill
Chase Burke - 22 carries for 210 yards and 5 TD’s. 8 tackles and one sack on defense.
Broken Bow
CJ Whitfield - 12 carries for 100 yards / 13 tackles 1 int for a TD
Plainview
Morgan Pearson 3 receptions 109 yds 1 TD
Caden Pickens defense- 15 tackles 5 TFL
Del City
Sevaughn Sephus - senior defensive end - 5 sacks & 3 TFL & 13.5 total tackles
Weatherford
Ethan Downs -10 tackles / 9 carries 52 yards and a TD & 2 catches 19yards
Sam Hoffman - 8 tackles / 17 carries for 131 yards & 2 catches for 31 yards
Adair
WR Garrett Long - 8 catches 140 yds 2 TD’s
QB Nate Ratcliff - 13/20 285 5 TD’s
El Reno
Dorian Plumley - 122 yards rushing & 175 yards passing & 4 rushing tds & 1 passing
Came in on defense and got a pic and 2 pass break ups.
Mounds
Taylor Wortman - 16 carries for 174 yards and 3 TDs on offense and 8 tackles with 2 tackles for loss on defense
Mason Coddington - 58 yards passing with 1 TD, 54 yards rushing with 1 TD, 1 fumble recovery for a TD, and 2 Interceptions
Yale
Kail Williams- 4 for 6 passing for 222 yards 3 TDs / 3 carries 37 rushing 2 TD.
Dale Coffman - 1 reception, 95 yards & 1 TD / 4 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries(recovered both fumbles he caused) returned one 64 yards for a defensive TD
Eufaula
Nick jones - 2 INTs & one returned 99 yards for TD to end 2nd half with no time on clock. And another returned 38 yards to the one yard line
Beggs
CJ Brown - 1 rec 48 td / 17 rushes 127 1 td / 4 ko ret 119 / 294 all purpose yds
Hilldale
Eric virgil - 23 carries 285 yards 3TD / 2 catches 48 yards 1 TD
Wewoka
Kobey Stephens - Passing- 6 for 10 -81yds -2 TD / Rushing- 10 for 97yds 3TD / 1 punt return for 41 TD.
Okemah
Mikey Cruz - rushing 28/234 yds 5 TD
Kurtis Wilson - passing 8/14 144 yds 3 TD
Claremore
Brooks Sherl - 3catches 140 yards and 3 TD's
Kellyville
Trevor Jones - 22 carries 161 yards 1 td and 1 int on defense
Jeremy Hicks - 11 carries 132 yards and 3 tds plus had 8 tackles and a sack
Wagoner
Braden Drake - 10 carries for 210 yds and 4 TD / Also had an INT
(All in the first half)
Lawton
Donovan Dorsey - 7-9 192 yards passing 2 tds
Union
Matthias Roberson - 10 tackles 2 sacks, 3 tfl, fumble cause and recovered
Pryor
Ben Ward - 105 passing & 1 TD / 44 rushes, 265 yards, 4 TDs
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
WHAT WE'VE LEARNED SO FAR
| Ben Johnson
It’s time for most teams to embark on district games. Let’s take a look at what’s become apparent so far…
Mansfield, Texas teams stink
Everyone hypes up Texas football, but wow, the teams in Mansfield are ……. ungood. I mean, sure, Union lost in one of the only competitive games between five Oklahoma teams and the Mansfield clubs. But I watched Mansfield Legacy with my own eyes, and I watched Jenks to shove it down their throat all game long. That’s all I needed to know about the caliber of teams down there.
6AI runs through Owasso (so far)
We’ll find out who the best team is in 6AI-2 on Friday night, but it appears as though Owasso is on track for its second title in three years. And hot take: If Blankenship wins another title at Owasso, he becomes the best high school football coach this state has ever seen.
Bixby might be the best team in the state
Notice above I said “6AI-2” because the state’s best team could be in 6A Division II. Bixby is that good. If you’ve never watched Brennan Presley or any of his superstar teammates in Bixby, do yourself a favor and go see them before the Spartans’ season ends in another 6AII championship game.
Bishop Kelley has had the worst injury luck so far
The Comets had a chance to stand toe to toe with Carl Albert in Class 5A. Then Bishop Kelley lost defensive lineman Montrell Cozart, receiver Cori Lewis and Oklahoma State commit Zach Middleton to various injuries. Now Bishop Kelley will have to dig deep and grind its way through District 5A-3 until Lewis and Middleton maybe (possibly) come back.
We need to start using common sense when it comes to weather
One coach texted me and was pissed about a having a game cut short due to weather to close out non-district play. Someone happened to let the officials know that lightning was 32 -- THIRTY-TWO -- miles away. That’s outrageous. Look, I get it, safety is the name of the game. But let’s use some common sense. We all live in Oklahoma; we all know how to read radars. Just because you see lightning doesn’t always mean there’s imminent danger. Take the 6AI title game last year …. We endured a long delay and were just about to get back to the game when a stray lightning strike flashed east of Tulsa. There was no chance it was coming back toward Chapman Stadium, and yet, the clock was reset to 30 minutes before teams could warm up. All I’m asking for is some common sense to be applied.
Sam Brandt & Asher Link need to be getting more attention
Mason Williams is putting up silly numbers at Bixby, but there’s plenty of QB talent around. Sam Brandt is a menace on both sides of the ball for Bethany, and Asher Link has Metro Christian in position to be the favorite in 2A. More college coaches should be taking notice in these guys.
Dorian Plumley could lead El Reno to special things
If El Reno’s junior quarterback were two inches taller, college coaches would be knocking down his door. Some things never change on the recruiting trail.
Dae Dae Leathers might be the best RB you don’t know about
Dominic Richardson, Sevion Morrison, Qwontrel Walker and Tristan Truelove are notable running backs in this state, but Leathers is putting up solid numbers every week in far eastern Oklahoma.
Bristow & Mannford have a fantastic rivalry trophy
The Battle for the Boat trophy played for between the two Keystone Lake rivals KICKS ASS!
Heritage Hall remains good
Take a moment, allow the shock to wear off. OK, let’s continue….
Mike Snyder is about to be the king of coaching in Oklahoma
Might not be another guy in the state who remains so quiet and just continues to get the job done. And he’s a win shy of tying the state’s record for all-time coaching wins.
Classes 2A & A are extremely deep
As many as a dozen teams (if not more) could win the gold balls in 2A or A.
A really good team from District A-5 will miss the playoffs
Pawhuska, Barnsdall, Pawnee and Tonkawa are all unbeaten. Hominy is 3-1 and Morrison is 2-2. Only four of these teams will escape A-5 and venture into the playoffs. Buckle up!
WEEK 4 RANKINGS
| Ben Johnson
(____) - previous rank
Week 3 scoreboard
6AI
6AII
5A
4A
3A
2A
A
B
C
Class 6AI
1. Owasso (1) - 3-0
2. Broken Arrow (2) - 2-1
3. Union (3) - 1-2
4. Jenks (4) - 1-2
5. PC North (5) - 3-0
6. Norman (6) - 3-0
7. Westmoore (7) - 3-0
8. Mustang (8) - 2-1
9. Moore (9) - 1-2
10. Edmond Santa Fe (10) - 2-1
Class 6AII
1. Bixby (1) - 3-0
2. Stillwater (2) - 3-0
3. Sapulpa (3) - 3-0
4. Booker T. Washington (4) - 1-2
5. Del City (6) - 2-1
6. Choctaw (5) - 2-1
7. Muskogee (7) - 3-0
8. Lawton (9) - 3-0
9. Midwest City (8) - 1-2
10. Ponca City (10) - 2-1
Class 5A
1. Carl Albert (1) - 3-0
2. Bishop McGuinness (2) - 2-1
3. Duncan (3) - 2-0
4. Edison (4) - 2-1
5. Bishop Kelley (5) - 1-2
6. Tahlequah (6) - 3-0
7. Collinsville (7) - 2-1
8. El Reno (NR) - 3-0
9. Pryor (NR) - 2-1
10. Claremore (8) - 1-2
Class 4A
1. Bethany (1) - 3-0
2. Tuttle (2) - 3-0
3. Wagoner (3) - 2-1
4. Clinton (4) - 2-1
5. Weatherford (5) - 2-1
6. Poteau (7) - 2-1
7. Bristow (8) - 2-1
8. Broken Bow (9) - 2-1
9. Elgin (10) - 1-1
10. Hilldale (NR) - 2-1
Class 3A
1. Heritage Hall (1) - 2-0
2. Lincoln Christian (2) - 3-0
3. Plainview (3) - 1-1
4. John Marshall (4) - 3-0
5. Berryhill (5) - 3-0
6. Sulphur (6) - 3-0
7. Perkins-Tryon (7) - 3-0
8. Lone Grove (9) - 3-0
9. Stigler (10) - 3-0
10. Kingfisher (8) - 1-2
Class 2A
1. Metro Christian (1) - 3-0
2. Sperry (2) - 3-0
3. Vian (4) - 2-1
4. Millwood (5) - 2-1
5. Holland Hall (3) - 2-1
6. Washington (7) - 3-0
7. Jones (9) - 2-1
8. Adair (10) - 3-0
9. Beggs (6) - 2-1
10. Kingston (8) - 2-1
Class A
1. Cashion (1) - 3-0
2. Stroud (2) - 3-0
3. Pawhuska (3) - 4-0
4. Rejoice Christian (4) - 3-0
5. Tonkawa (5) - 4-0
6. Thomas (6) - 3-1
7. Christian Heritage (7) - 4-0
8. Pawnee (8) - 3-0
9. Minco (9) - 4-0
10. Colcord (NR) - 3-0
Class B
1. Shattuck (1) - 3-0
2. Regent Prep (2) - 3-0
3. Cherokee (3) - 3-0
4. Davenport (4) - 2-1
5. Dewar (7) - 3-0
6. Weleetka (8) - 2-1
7. Burns Flat-Dill City (NR) - 3-1
8. Laverne (5) - 2-1
9. Canadian (NR) - 3-0
10. Seiling (NR) - 4-0
Class C
1. Southwest Covenant (1) - 2-0
2. Pond Creek-Hunter (2) - 3-0
3. Buffalo (3) - 3-0
4. Tyrone (4) - 3-0
5. Covington-Douglas (5) - 2-2
6. Maysville (7) - 3-0
7. Coyle (8) - 2-1
8. Midway (9) - 4-0
9. Boise City (10) - 3-0
10. Graham-Dustin (NR) - 3-0
**Photo credit: Von Castor / Von Castor Photography
Andrew Crow commits to OU
| Ben Johnson
Brent Marley worked tirelessly to circulate Andrew Crow’s game film. Rejoice Christian’s head coach wanted Crow, his star running back and defensive back, to receive the attention he was due.
It finally paid off Wednesday.
Crow’s accomplishments landed in the lap of Drew Hill, director of player personnel at the University of Oklahoma. From there, it didn’t take much time for OU to extend an invitation Crow’s way.
Now Crow will head to Norman in the fall, tweeting his commitment to the Sooners on Wednesday.
XXJANKEINS
“After countless phone calls from several people, mainly Coach Marley, I was able to get my film, state and accomplishments in front of Coach Hill and the staff at OU,” Crow told Skordle. “(Hill) contacted me after, and we went from there.”
Crow will serve as a walk-on for the Sooners, but it’s the goal Crow had in place all throughout his senior year at the small private school in Owasso.
“Playing at OU has always been a dream of mine,” said Crow, who rushed for 2,620 yards and 48 touchdowns his senior year. “I can’t put into words how blessed I am to be able to play at such an amazing program, and I think I’ll be able to show my skill set and make an impression when the opportunity comes.”
All of it is pretty remarkable, considering a harrowing night Crow endured in November. During the week leading up to Rejoice Christian’s Class A semifinal matchup with Christian Heritage, Crow was in a car accident that left his vehicle totaled.
Crow was able to play, but the soreness was palpable throughout the entire game against the Crusaders.
“The car wreck was very traumatic, and I still can’t believe I walked away from the crash unharmed that night,” Crow said. “I just kept trusting God that if football was meant to be in my future then it would be and he provided.”
Crow will head to OU after helping the Eagles’ basketball team with the 2A state championship. But when asked to quantify where the OU commitment ranks, Crow said it stands in a category by itself.
“It’s hard to compare this one,” he said. “My teammates and coaches were always a huge reason for my high school awards. This is an amazing accomplishment, for sure, so I feel like it’s the cherry on top to finish out my amazing high school career.”
CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEWS: CLASSES 2A, A & B
| Ben Johnson
When Sperry and Beggs met the first time this season, it was an extremely emotion affair. News broke the day before the two met that Beggs running back Kayson Tolliver has been gunned down in his bed.
It was as tragic as it gets.
But Beggs opted to play and honor the life that Tolliver had lived. The scene on the field was highly irregular, as Sperry quarterback Beau Teel tells it.
“I can remember being in eighth grade, and Sperry had a player pass away and we had to play Claremore Sequoyah and emotions were so high,” Teel recalled. “That’s how that game was against Beggs.
“Players were crying on the field and everything. Makes you realize that football isn’t the most important thing in the world.”
Now the two teams will meet again -- and emotions will be high again. This time, it’ll be for the Class 2A championship at Owasso Stadium on Thursday.
“It means a lot, but not just to me, but our team and town have been waiting for an opportunity like this for a long time,” Sperry’s Bryce Carter said. “We want to make the most of it.”
Third-ranked Beggs beat Sperry 35-21 on Nov. 2. The Pirates led 14-0 at halftime, but the Golden Demons went on a torrid rally in the second half, including scoring 28 points in the third quarter.
“Our first time playing Beggs made us realize that you have to play your best football for all four quarters,” Teel said. “Beggs is a great second half team that plays with a lot of heart. They know what it takes to win big games. We can not let up any this time around.”
For No. 5 Sperry, it’s the Pirates first appearance in a championship game since 1968. That’s created a considerable amount of buzz around the small town on the western edge of Tulsa County.
“The town is so excited to be in this game,” Teel said. “It’s been over 50 years since this town has been in the championship game, and it’s just really awesome. People we’ve never seen before have started coming out just to watch us play. It’s great.”
Class 2A
No. 5 Sperry (13-1) vs. No. 3 Beggs (13-1)
Where: Owasso Stadium (Owasso High School)
Road to the title game
- Sperry: 68-13 vs. Salina in the first round; 49-7 vs. Kellyville in the second round; 44-13 vs. Eufaula in the quarterfinals; 56-8 vs. Adair in the semifinals.
- Beggs: 56-13 vs. Wyandotte in the first round; 49-22 vs. Oklahoma Christian School in the second round; 36-31 vs. Kingston in the quarterfinals; 33-28 vs. Metro Christian in the semifinals.
What to watch for
- Rematch adjustments: The District 2A-3 winner (Beggs) and 2A-3 runner-up (Sperry) met in Week 10, and the Golden Demons claimed a 35-21 victory, a day after Beggs player Kayson Tolliver was shot and killed. Sperry controlled the entire first half and owned a 14-0 lead at halftime. But Beggs rallied for four touchdowns in the third quarter to take control. The Golden Demons ended up out-gaining Beggs 265-121 in the final 24 minutes. This time around, it’ll be a matter of who makes the most adjustments from a month ago.
- Emotional wave: When the teams met the first time this season, emotions were on overload. Players were brought to tears while on the field after the tragic death of Tolliver. Both teams are a month removed from that, and while emotions still remain raw, the emotions on both sides should be closer to even keel. Instead, emotions will be through the roof because what’s at stake. By the end of the game, both teams will have mentally spent with the season coming to a close.
- Be the better QB: The quarterback clash on display is one of the best of any of the championship games. Both Beggs’ Dalton Spring and Sperry’s Beau Teel are dangerous dual-threat players. Both will tuck and run, but both have plenty of weapons if they opt to throw the ball. Perhaps it’s over-simplification, but odds are the better quarterback in the game should end up hoisting the gold ball with his teammates.
Random facts
- Sperry is 5-4 all-time against Beggs. Prior to this season’s first matchup, Sperry had won the previous four games, dating back to 1989.
- Sperry head coach Robert Park took over in 2000, and his record is 117-94; Beggs head coach David Tenison took over prior to the start of the season, and he is 13-1.
- Sperry is 0-1 in championship games -- the lone appearance was a 35-14 loss to Minco in the 1968 Class C title game.
- Beggs is 1-2 in championship games -- The Golden Demon’s last championship appearance was last season, a 14-7 loss to John Marshall in the 3A title game.
- Beggs’ lone championship was in 1975 with a 21-0 victory over Millwood in the Class A championship game.
- Beggs is 13-0 against Oklahoma teams this season. The Golden Demons’ lone loss was a 28-21 setback against Shiloh Christian (Ark.).
Prediction sure to go wrong…
Sperry 27, Beggs 26: We all had Millwood making it to the final week of the season, but Vian saw to it that it didn’t happen. Instead, two teams from District 2A-3 are left standing, ready for a rematch of Week 10. I picked Sperry then, and I haven’t learned my lesson, so I’m going with Sperry again. Beggs might be able to win the battle up front, but there’s something about Sperry that I just can’t quit. But the good news for Beggs is I’ve been terrible at picks all year long, so why stop this week?
Class A
Christian Heritage (10-4) vs. No. 7 Tonkawa (13-1)
Where: Pioneer Stadium (Stillwater High School)
Road to the title game
- Christian Heritage: 28-22 vs. Ringling in the first round; 42-36 vs. Thomas in the second round; 39-22 vs. Stroud in the quarterfinals; 34-13 vs. Rejoice Christian in the semifinals.
- Tonkawa: 55-12 vs. Colcord in the first round; 23-14 vs. Wayne in the second round; 20-13 vs. Hobart in the quarterfinals; 28-13 vs. Fairview in the semifinals.
What to watch for
- Hale of a season: Christian Heritage senior quarterback Zach Hale has been an unstoppable force, including last week’s five-touchdown performance against Rejoice Christian. And he’s been a tackling machine on defense, and he’s even mixed in some interceptions here and there.
- Heckuva year, Hampton: Tonkawa’s senior quarterback Braydon Hampton has been stride for stride with Hale and his production this season. Hampton has passed for 1,671 yards and 17 touchdowns, and he’s rushed for 1,634 yards and 25 touchdowns. On defense, he’s racked up 107 tackles, 25 sacks and four forced fumbles.
Random facts
- These two clubs are meeting for the first time.
- Christian Heritage head coach Tony Merrell took over in 2014, and he’s gone 38-21; Tonkawa head coach Mike Kirtley took over in 2003, and he’s gone 137-55.
- This is Christian Heritage’s first appearance in a championship game.
- Christian Heritage’s four playoff wins have come against teams with a combined record of 42-8.
- Tonkawa is 6-2 in championship games -- the Buccaneers’ last state title appearance was a 7-6 win over Stroud in the Class A title game.
Prediction sure to go wrong…
Christian Heritage 23, Tonkawa 20: I had Cashion winning the title, but do I get half credit for taking someone that’s in Cashion’s district? No? Well, OK then. The Crusades have undoubtedly been the hottest team in the playoffs -- in any class. The run the Crusaders have been on since Oct. 26, when they beat Watonga to start a six-game winning streak. Christian Heritage has surpassed hurdle after hurdle, so I’ll just stick with the Crusaders since they’ve come this far.
Class B
No. 1 Shattuck (13-0) vs. No. 3 Regent Prep (14-0)
Where: Charles W. Scheid Stadium (Western Heights High School)
Road to the title game
- Shattuck: 48-0 vs. Ringwood in the first round; 55-6 vs. Alex in the second round; 67-20 vs. Dewar in the quarterfinals; 54-30 vs. Davenport in the semifinals.
- Regent Prep: 49-0 vs. Prue in the first round; 59-24 vs. Keota in the second round; 68-52 vs. Laverne in the quarterfinals; 69-22 vs. Wetumka in the semifinals.
What to watch for
- Gilbert’s gains: Regent Prep quarterback Braden Gilbert has been on point all season long, and he’s up to 3,758 yards and 62 touchdowns through 14 games. He’s completing 59.7 percent (169 of 283) of his passes, and 75 of those passes have gone to Jack Wright, who has hauled in 1,773 yards and 33 touchdowns.
Random facts
- These two teams are meeting for the first time.
- Google Maps says these two schools are separated by 249 miles -- or a little more than a four-hour drive.
- Regent Prep head coach Adam Bishop navigated the Rams into OSSAA play in 2012, and the Rams have gone 40-9 since that time; Shattuck head coach Troy Bullard took over prior to this season and hasn’t lost in 13 games.
- This Regent Prep’s first championship game appearance.
- Shattuck is 10-2 with state championships on the line. The Indians are making their third straight appearance in the Class B title game, going 1-1 against Laverne over the span. Shattuck won last year’s championship game, 30-16.
Prediction sure to go wrong…
Shattuck 37, Regent Prep 27: What a surprise, my pick to win the championship (Davenport) didn’t make to the title game. Instead, Whitt and Swisher are both 2-for-2 on teams making it to the title game, and both have Shattuck winning the championship. I think Regent Prep will score some points against Shattuck -- something a lot of teams haven’t done -- but ultimately it’ll be Shattuck finishing atop Class B again.
High School Football rankings
| Michael Swisher
6A Division-I
- Owasso (10-0)
- Jenks (7-3)
- Norman (9-1)
- Bixby (8-2)
- Edmond Memorial (8-2)
- Union (7-3)
- Deer Creek (7-3)
- Moore (6-4)
- Norman North (3-7)
- Broken Arrow (4-6)
6A Division-II
- Muskogee (10-0)
- Choctaw (8-2)
- Stillwater (8-2)
- Sand Springs (7-3)
- Piedmont (6-4)
- Putnam City (6-4)
- Putnam City North (7-3)
- Bartlesville (3-7)
- Lawton Ike (4-6)
- Sapulpa (4-6)
Class 5A
- Carl Albert (10-0)
- Del City (9-1)
- Booker T. Washington (8-2)
- Newcastle (7-3)
- Guthrie (7-3)
- McAlester (8-2)
- Bishop McGuinness (7-3)
- Bishop Kelley (5-5)
- Lawton Mac (7-3)
- Pryor (7-3)
Class 4A
- Wagoner (10-0)
- Elgin (10-0)
- Tuttle (10-0)
- Blanchard (9-1)
- Bethany (8-2)
- Ada (7-3)
- Weatherford (8-2)
- Sallisaw (8-2)
- Clinton (8-2)
- Miami (8-2)
Class 3A
- Lincoln Christian (10-0)
- Heritage Hall (9-1)
- Sulphur (9-1)
- Cascia Hall (9-1)
- Plainview (9-1)
- Perkins-Tryon (8-2)
- Pauls Valley (7-3)
- Bristow (6-4)
- North Rock Creekl (6-4)
- Idabel (7-3)
Class 2A Division-I
- Washington (10-0)
- Millwood (9-1)
- Metro Christian (10-0)
- Kingston (9-1)
- Marlow (8-2)
- Jones (8-2)
- Kiefer (7-3)
- Chandler (7-3)
- Chisholm (6-4)
- OCS (7-3)
Class 2A Division-II
- Vian (10-0)
- Adair (10-0)
- Stroud (10-0)
- Holdenville (10-0)
- Alva (8-2)
- Davis (6-4)
- Beggs (8-2)
- Colcord (9-1)
- Henryetta (8-2)
- Salina (6-4)
Class A Division-I
- Hooker (9-1)
- Fairview (9-1)
- Rejoice Christian (9-1)
- Walters (9-1)
- Pawnee (7-3)
- Pawhuska (8-2)
- Christian Heritage (7-3)
- Pocola (8-2)
- Wynnewood (8-2)
- Minco (7-3)
Class A Division-II
- Woodland (10-0)
- Regent Prep (9-1)
- Hominy (8-2)
- Thomas (9-1)
- Mangum (9-1)
- Talihina (9-1)
- Central Sallisaw (7-3)
- Velma-Alma (8-2)
- Texhoma (7-3)
- Mooreland (7-3)
Class B Division-I
- Laverne (9-1)
- Dewar (8-1)
- Yale (9-0)
- Turpin (9-1)
- Hollis (7-2)
- Drumright (7-3)
- Empire (9-1)
- Garber (7-3)
- Caddo (8-2)
- Keota (7-3)
Class B Division-II
- Seiling (9-1)
- Weleetka (10-0)
- Covington-Douglas (10-0)
- Okeene (9-1)
- Wilson-Henryetta (8-1)
- Waukomis (8-2)
- Copan (8-2)
- Shattuck (6-3)
- Webbers Falls (6-4)
- Alex (6-4)
Class C
- Tipton (10-0)
- Timberlake (10-0)
- Ryan (9-1)
- Medford (7-2)
- Welch (9-1)
- Tyrone (7-2)
- Maysville (8-2)
- Paoli (7-3)
- Geary (7-3)
- Waynoka (5-5)
SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 10 (2024): Sunrise Cafe in Kingfisher
| Michael Swisher
In Kingfisher, Oklahoma, there is a great little food place called Sunrise Cafe.
I have had breakfast here a few times over the years, but my most recent trip had me giving the incredible looking "Gravy Train" a try after scanning over the menu.
When it comes to breakfast dining out, I normally tend to migrate towards some combination that includes biscuits and this morning would be no different with the Gravy Train selection I was making.
Week 10 High School Football Rankings
| Michael Swisher
6A Division-I
- Owasso (9-0)
- Bixby (8-1)
- Union (7-2)
- Jenks (6-3)
- Norman (8-1)
- Edmond Memorial (7-2)
- Deer Creek (6-3)
- Moore (5-4)
- Mustang (5-4)
- Norman North (2-7)
6A Division-II
- Muskogee (9-0)
- Choctaw (7-2)
- Stillwater (7-2)
- Sand Springs (6-3)
- Putnam City (6-3)
- Putnam City North (7-2)
- Piedmont (5-4)
- Southmoore (4-5)
- Bartlesville (2-7)
- Lawton Ike (3-6)
Class 5A
- Carl Albert (9-0)
- Del City (8-1)
- Booker T. Washington (7-2)
- Newcastle (6-3)
- Guthrie (6-3)
- Lawton Mac (7-2)
- McAlester (7-2)
- Bishop McGuinness (6-3)
- Pryor (7-2)
- Bishop Kelley (4-5)
Class 4A
- Wagoner (9-0)
- Elgin (9-0)
- Tuttle (9-0)
- Blanchard (8-1)
- Sallisaw (8-1)
- Bethany (7-2)
- Weatherford (7-2)
- Ada (6-3)
- Clinton (7-2)
- Miami (7-2)
Class 3A
- Lincoln Christian (9-0)
- Heritage Hall (8-1)
- Sulphur (8-1)
- Cascia Hall (8-1)
- Plainview (8-1)
- Perkins-Tryon (7-2)
- Idabel (7-2)
- Pauls Valley (6-3)
- Berryhill (6-3)
- Holland Hall (6-3)
Class 2A Division-I
- Washington (9-0)
- Millwood (8-1)
- Metro Christian (8-0)
- Kingston (8-1)
- Marlow (7-2)
- Jones (7-2)
- Kiefer (6-3)
- Chandler (6-3)
- Chisholm (5-4)
- Lindsay (6-3)
Class 2A Division-II
- Vian (9-0)
- Adair (9-0)
- Stroud (9-0)
- Holdenville (9-0)
- Alva (7-2)
- Davis (5-4)
- Beggs (7-2)
- Colcord (8-1)
- Henryetta (7-2)
- Kansas (6-3)
Class A Division-I
- Hooker (8-1)
- Fairview (8-1)
- Rejoice Christian (8-1)
- Walters (8-1)
- Pawnee (6-3)
- Pawhuska (7-2)
- Wynnewood (8-1)
- Christian Heritage (6-3)
- Pocola (7-2)
- Cashion (7-2)
Class A Division-II
- Woodland (9-0)
- Regent Prep (8-1)
- Hominy (7-2)
- Thomas (8-1)
- Mangum (8-1)
- Mooreland (7-2)
- Talihina (8-1)
- Central Sallisaw (6-3)
- Velma-Alma (7-2)
- Texhoma (6-3)
Class B Division-I
- Laverne (8-1)
- Dewar (7-1)
- Yale (8-0)
- Turpin (8-1)
- Caddo (8-1)
- Hollis (6-2)
- Drumright (6-3)
- Empire (8-1)
- Garber (6-3)
- Pond Creek-Hunter (7-2)
Class B Division-II
- Seiling (8-1)
- Weleetka (9-0)
- Covington-Douglas (9-0)
- Okeene (8-1)
- Wilson-Henryetta (7-1)
- Waukomis (7-2)
- Cherokee (5-4)
- Alex (6-3)
- Copan (7-2)
- Shattuck (5-3)
Class C
- Tipton (9-0)
- Timberlake (9-0)
- Ryan (8-1)
- Tyrone (7-1)
- Medford (6-2)
- Welch (8-1)
- Maysville (7-2)
- Paoli (6-3)
- Geary (6-3)
- Waynoka (4-5)
SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 9 (2024): Revisiting Our Top Candy Picks, Good Soup & Happy Birthday Adam
| Michael Swisher
Since it is Halloween today, I thought it would be fun and timely to run back some previous SKORDLE Halloween Candy Blogs from 2021 and 2022.
I discuss many important topics related to candy preference, secretly stealing lots of candy from my children and my love for the old days of homemade Halloween treats.
If you are fortunate enough to come across a Popcorn Ball, Brownie, Candy Apple, or Rice Krispies Treats, rather than a full-sized candy bar (what's really special about that?), you are truly one of the lucky ones tonight!
I have also included - in the 2021 blog - an incredible Minestrone Soup recipe courtesy of Mr. SKORDLE himself Adam Diesselhorst.
Speaking of Adam, today is his birthday, so tell him Happy Birthday!
Week 9 Pay Dirt Picks & Results
| Korry Rogers
MARK 11-1 |
JACOB 9-3 |
TOM 9-2 |
TONY 10-2 |
|
Anadarko @ Kingfisher | ||||
Chandler @ Sperry | ||||
Crossings @ Washington | ||||
Hinton @ Cashion | ||||
Minco @ Christian Heritage | ||||
Keota @ Dewar | ||||
Piedmont @ Stillwater | ||||
Perry @ Chisholm | ||||
Norman @ Mustang | ||||
Sand Springs @ Putnam City North | ||||
Carl Albert @ Guthrie | ||||
Bishop McGuinness @ Newcastle |
Week 9 High School Football Rankings
| Michael Swisher
6A Division-I
- Owasso (8-0)
- Bixby (7-1)
- Union (6-2)
- Jenks (5-3)
- Norman (7-1)
- Edmond Memorial (6-2)
- Mustang (5-3)
- Deer Creek (6-2)
- Norman North (2-6)
- Moore (4-4)
6A Division-II
- Muskogee (8-0)
- Choctaw (6-2)
- Stillwater (6-2)
- Sand Springs (5-3)
- Putnam City North (7-1)
- Southmoore (4-4)
- Piedmont (5-3)
- Putnam City (5-3)
- Lawton Ike (3-5)
- Sapulpa (4-4)
Class 5A
- Carl Albert (8-0)
- Del City (7-1)
- Guthrie (6-2)
- Booker T. Washington (6-2)
- Newcastle (5-3)
- Bishop McGuinness (6-2)
- Lawton Mac (6-2)
- McAlester (6-2)
- Shawnee (6-2)
- Pryor (6-2)
Class 4A
- Wagoner (8-0)
- Elgin (8-0)
- Tuttle (8-0)
- Blanchard (7-1)
- Clinton (7-1)
- Sallisaw (7-1)
- Bethany (6-2)
- Weatherford (6-2)
- Ada (5-3)
- Miami (6-2)
Class 3A
- Lincoln Christian (8-0)
- Heritage Hall (7-1)
- Sulphur (7-1)
- Cascia Hall (7-1)
- Plainview (7-1)
- Perkins-Tryon (6-2)
- Idabel (6-2)
- North Rock Creek (5-3)
- Pauls Valley (5-3)
- Berryhill (5-3)
Class 2A Division-I
- Washington (8-0)
- Millwood (7-1)
- Metro Christian (8-0)
- Kingston (7-1)
- Marlow (6-1)
- Jones (6-2)
- Kiefer (5-3)
- Perry (6-2)
- Hugo (6-2)
- Chandler (5-3)
Class 2A Division-II
- Vian (8-0)
- Adair (8-0)
- Stroud (8-0)
- Davis (5-3)
- Holdenville (8-0)
- Alva (6-2)
- Beggs (6-2)
- Colcord (7-1)
- Wyandotte (6-2)
- Salina (5-3)
Class A Division-I
- Hooker (7-1)
- Fairview (7-1)
- Rejoice Christian (7-1)
- Christian Heritage (6-2)
- Walters (7-1)
- Pawnee (5-3)
- Pawhuska (6-2)
- Pocola (6-2)
- Wynnewood (7-1)
- Cashion (6-2)
Class A Division-II
- Woodland (8-0)
- Mangum (8-0)
- Regent Prep (7-1)
- Hominy (6-2)
- Talihina (8-0)
- Thomas (7-1)
- Ketchum (6-2)
- Mooreland (6-2)
- Central Sallisaw (5-3)
- Velma-Alma (6-2)
Class B Division-I
- Laverne (7-1)
- Dewar (6-1)
- Yale (7-0)
- Turpin (7-1)
- Caddo (7-1)
- Hollis (5-2)
- Garber (6-2)
- Keota (6-2)
- Drumright (4-2)
- Waurika (4-4)
Class B Division-II
- Seiling (7-1)
- Weleetka (8-0)
- Covington-Douglas (8-0)
- Okeene (7-1)
- Wilson-Henryetta (6-1)
- Waukomis (6-2)
- Copan (7-1)
- Shattuck (5-2)
- Cherokee (4-4)
- Wetumka (5-3)
Class C
- Tipton (8-0)
- Timberlake (8-0)
- Ryan (7-1)
- Tyrone (6-1)
- Medford (5-2)
- Geary (6-2)
- Welch (7-1)
- Maysville (6-2)
- Paoli (5-3)
- Sasakwa (6-1)
Week 8 Pay Dirt Picks & Results
| Korry Rogers
MARK 9-3 |
JACOB 9-3 |
TOM 9-3 |
DOUG 10-2 |
|
Okeene @ Boise City | ||||
Kingfisher @ North Rock Creek | ||||
Tulsa Central @ Chandler | ||||
Lincoln Christian @ Checotah | ||||
Texhoma-Goodwell @ Mangum | ||||
Southwest Covenant @ Thomas-Fay-Custer | ||||
Blanchard @ Tuttle | ||||
Turpin @ Garber | ||||
Sequoyah Claremore @ Cascia Hall | ||||
Muskogee @ Sand Springs | ||||
Jenks @ Moore | ||||
McAlester @ Booker T Washington |
SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 8 (2024): Flamingo Lounge
| Michael Swisher
If you haven’t had a burger at the Flamingo Lounge in Enid, you really need to because they are absolutely delicious!
The Flamingo is located right at the main intersection of town (U.S. 81 and U.S. 412 or Van Buren and Garriott for the locals).
It’s a classic dive joint that has been a favorite for many for a really long time.
Simple is why they are great.
The burgers are incredible and what I love the most is the melty cheese and warm greasy bun.
I would highly recommend the Double Meat, Double Cheeseburger.
You can even add chili if you’re brave enough or have arteries made of steel.
Regulars normally get some Chili Cheese Nachos as an appetizer or side.
If you’re wanting to try something truly unique, follow the lead of Mr. SKORDLE Adam Diesselhorst and order the Pickled Eggs.
I have never brought myself to try them (I stick to the nachos and burgers), but Adam loves them and you might too.
The place has a shuffleboard, pool and video games for the kids.
The next time you are in Enid, I would strongly suggest a stop at the Flamingo for an awesome burger!!!
Week 8 High School Football Rankings
| Michael Swisher
6A Division-I
- Owasso
- Bixby
- Union
- Jenks
- Deer Creek
- Norman
- Edmond Memorial
- Mustang
- Moore
- Broken Arrow
6A Division-II
- Muskogee
- Stillwater
- Choctaw
- Sand Springs
- Piedmont
- Putnam City North
- Putnam City
- Sapulpa
- Southmoore
- Lawton Ike
Class 5A
- Carl Albert
- Del City
- Lawton Mac
- McAlester
- Guthrie
- Bishop McGuinness
- Collinsville
- Booker T. Washington
- Newcastle
- Shawnee
Class 4A
- Wagoner
- Elgin
- Tuttle
- Blanchard
- Broken Bow
- Clinton
- Poteau
- Sallisaw
- Bethany
- Weatherford
Class 3A
- Lincoln Christian
- Heritage Hall
- Sulphur
- Cascia Hall
- North Rock Creek
- Plainview
- Perkins-Tryon
- Sequoyah-Claremore
- Pauls Valley
- Idabel
Class 2A Division-I
- Washington
- Millwood
- Metro Christian
- Kingston
- Marlow
- Jones
- Kiefer
- Perry
- Crossings Christian
- Hugo
Class 2A Division-II
- Vian
- Adair
- Stroud
- Davis
- Holdenville
- Alva
- Beggs
- Colcord
- Kansas
- Community Christian
Class A Division-I
- Hooker
- Fairview
- Rejoice Christian
- Christian Heritage
- Walters
- Pawnee
- Pawhuska
- Pocola
- Hartshorne
- Wynnewood
Class A Division-II
- Woodland
- Mangum
- Regent Prep
- Hominy
- Talihina
- Thomas
- Texhoma
- Ketchum
- Central Sallisaw
- Velma-Alma
Class B Division-I
- Laverne
- Dewar
- Yale
- Turpin
- Garber
- Caddo
- Empire
- Hollis
- Keota
- Drumright
Class B Division-II
- Seiling
- Weleetka
- Covington-Douglas
- Okeene
- Wilson-Henryetta
- Copan
- Boise City
- Waukomis
- Shattuck
- Cyril
Class C
- Tipton
- Timberlake
- Ryan
- Welch
- Tyrone
- Maysville
- Geary
- Medford
- Paoli
- Sasakwa
Week 7 Pay Dirt Picks
| Korry Rogers
MARK 5-7 |
TOM 10-1 |
CHRIS 8-4 |
HUNTER 8-4 |
|
Ardmore @ Blanchard | ||||
Oklahoma Christian School @ Perry | ||||
Minco @ Walters | ||||
Thomas-Fay-Custer @ Texhoma-Goodwell | ||||
Waynoka @ Timberlake | ||||
Garber @ Pond Creek-Hunter | ||||
Marlow @ Washington | ||||
Fairview @ Hooker | ||||
Deer Creek @ Jenks | ||||
Stillwater @ Choctaw | ||||
Colcord @ Adair | ||||
Norman @ Moore |
SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 7 (2024): Fun Facts on Win Streaks and Mr. Burger
| Michael Swisher
Week 7 High School Football Rankings
| Michael Swisher
6A Division-I
- Owasso
- Bixby
- Deer Creek
- Union
- Jenks
- Edmond Memorial
- Broken Arrow
- Moore
- Mustang
- Norman
6A Division-II
- Muskogee
- Stillwater
- Choctaw
- Sand Springs
- Piedmont
- Putnam City North
- Putnam City
- Sapulpa
- Lawton Ike
- Southmoore
Class 5A
- Carl Albert
- Del City
- Lawton Mac
- Collinsville
- McAlester
- Guthrie
- Bishop McGuinness
- Booker T. Washington
- Newcastle
- Shawnee
Class 4A
- Wagoner
- Elgin
- Tuttle
- Blanchard
- Broken Bow
- Grove
- Weatherford
- Clinton
- Poteau
- Cushing
Class 3A
- Lincoln Christian
- Heritage Hall
- Sulphur
- Plainview
- Cascia Hall
- North Rock Creek
- Bristow
- Perkins-Tryon
- Checotah
- Sequoyah-Claremore
Class 2A Division-I
- Washington
- Millwood
- Metro Christian
- Marlow
- Kingston
- Jones
- Hugo
- OCS
- Kiefer
- Chisholm
Class 2A Division-II
- Vian
- Adair
- Stroud
- Davis
- Holdenville
- Colcord
- Luther
- Salina
- Alva
- Beggs
Class A Division-I
- Fairview
- Hooker
- Rejoice Christian
- Hartshorne
- Christian Heritage
- Walters
- Pawnee
- Pawhuska
- Pocola
- Wynnewood
Class A Division-II
- Woodland
- Mangum
- Texhoma
- Regent Prep
- Hominy
- Talihina
- Thomas
- Ketchum
- Central Sallisaw
- Velma-Alma
Class B Division-I
- Laverne
- Turpin
- Dewar
- Yale
- Garber
- Caddo
- Empire
- Hollis
- Keota
- Pond Creek-Hunter
Class B Division-II
- Seiling
- Weleetka
- Covington-Douglas
- Okeene
- Wilson-Henryetta
- Shattuck
- Copan
- Cherokee
- Thackerville
- Boise City
Class C
- Tipton
- Ryan
- Timberlake
- Welch
- Tyrone
- Maysville
- Geary
- Sasakwa
- Medford
- Balko-Forgan
Week 6 Pay Dirt Picks
| Korry Rogers
MARK 10-2 |
JACOB 9-3 |
TOM 8-4 |
SHANE 9-3 |
|
Tonkawa @ Pawhuska | ||||
Beggs @ Holdenville | ||||
Crossings @ Marlow | ||||
Millwood @ Oklahoma Christian School | ||||
Wynnewood @ Minco | ||||
Waukomis @ Covington-Douglas | ||||
Perry @ Mount St. Mary | ||||
Hooker @ Cashion | ||||
Moore @ Deer Creek | ||||
North Rock Creek @ Pauls Valley | ||||
Tuttle @ Bethany | ||||
Alva @ Stroud |
SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 6 (2024) Part I: Flour and Fennel
| Michael Swisher
SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 6 (2024) Part II - REVISITING AUBURN 25 YEARS LATER
| Michael Swisher
Great food experiences are often tied to core memories.
We enjoyed a great meal as part of a bigger experience and often linked them together.
Sometimes, sadly, that great memory inflates the actual quality of the meal.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been disappointed to revisit a restaurant on my own - after having previously experienced a fantastic meal there before - only to discover the meal was….just….OK.
It was the overall time I had that was fantastic.
So that was my concern as I was driving into Auburn, Ala., early in the afternoon of Sept. 27.
I was headed there for a showdown between MY two teams.
I grew up in Oklahoma, was lured in by Barry Switzer’s OU teams of the 1980s and have never been able to shake a love and a pride of the crimson and cream ever since.
However, I also moved to Alabama in 1989. Lived there for eight years. I went to high school in Muscle Shoals and, after a stellar academic career in JUCO, went to Auburn to pursue a journalism degree.
Eventually, I landed back in Oklahoma, but I grew to truly love Auburn, the Tigers, War Eagle, Toomer’s Corner and everything that came with it.
But it’s not easy to return to a place that’s 865 miles away.
I went once for a few days in 1999.
Then I flew in and flew out in 2018 when Auburn hosted Jace Sternberger and Texas A&M.
That’s it.
It had been 25 years since I’d spent an measurable time in a place that holds a big spot in my heart.
When OU was announced to be joining the SEC, I was ecstatic. When it was announced OU would be visiting Auburn this season, I. HAD. TO. GO.
So I did.
Lots of people stepped up for me to make it happen, but it did.
Anyone who has followed me through the years knows I love food. I’m not some big connoisseur of fine dining. I just love to find cool spots with great food.
And there were two places in Auburn that I insisted on revisiting: Momma Goldberg’s and Guthrie’s.
Both were Auburn staples when I was there in the mid- to late-1990s and both remain today.
I pulled into Auburn at about 1 p.m. on that Wednesday prior to the OU game.
By 2 p.m., me and my buddy Elk were sitting inside Momma Goldberg’s with three Momma’s Love sandwiches and a pitcher sitting in front of us.
Yes, three. Elk loves to eat, too.
You can read about Momma Goldberg’s and its history here.
They have multiple “signature” sandwiches but their signature of signatures is the “Momma’s Love.”
It’s roast beef, ham, hickory smoked turkey with muenster cheese served on a seeded hoagie bun. All signature sandwiches there have spicy brown mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomato and “Momma’s sauce.”
And they’re also steamed before they are served which, to me, is the kicker.
Yes, it’s simple. Yes, it’s just a sandwich.
Which had me wondering….did I really love the Momma’s Love or did I just love being at Auburn and the Momma’s Love is part of that.
My first bite into one in over a quarter-century told me I did, in fact, love the Momma’s Love.
It was all that I had remembered.
A couple days later, it was time to revisit Guthrie’s.
Now I know what you’re thinking. It’s a chicken finger restaurant. How original. There’s 20 different franchises and 100 locations in Oklahoma City.
True.
But Guthrie’s is truly the original chicken finger restaurant. It opened its first location in Auburn in 1982.
When I actually had some money in my pocket while in college, Guthrie’s was a must-stop for me.
The order: Box, no slaw, extra fries, extra sauce.
Sounds like Raising Cane’s, right?
Just think Cane’s before there was Cane’s.
That was - and is - Guthrie’s.
But did it live up to my hype?
Now imagine this….
Just think Cane’s chicken…..but SEASONED. Guthrie’s actually has flavor WITHOUT using the dipping sauce.
But you also can’t not (double negative alert) use their signature sauce which was Cane’s sauce before there was Cane’s sauce!!!!!
Needless to say, Guthrie’s - like Momma Goldberg’s - wasn’t just about great memories at Auburn.
It was great food and remains so today….almost 30 years after I first fell in love.
Week 6 High School Football Rankings
| Michael Swisher
6A Division-I
- Owasso
- Bixby
- Deer Creek
- Union
- Jenks
- Edmond Memorial
- Moore
- Mustang
- Norman
- Broken Arrow
6A Division-II
- Muskogee
- Stillwater
- Choctaw
- Sand Springs
- Piedmont
- Putnam City North
- Putnam City
- Sapulpa
- Lawton Ike
- Southmoore
Class 5A
- Carl Albert
- Del City
- Bishop McGuinness
- Lawton Mac
- Collinsville
- McAlester
- Guthrie
- Claremore
- Booker T. Washington
- Newcastle
Class 4A
- Wagoner
- Elgin
- Tuttle
- Blanchard
- Broken Bow
- Grove
- Weatherford
- Bethany
- Clinton
- Poteau
Class 3A
- Lincoln Christian
- Heritage Hall
- Sulphur
- Plainview
- Cascia Hall
- Pauls Valley
- Bristow
- Seminole
- North Rock Creek
- Checotah
Class 2A Division-I
- Washington
- Millwood
- Metro Christian
- Marlow
- Kingston
- OCS
- Jones
- Crossings Christian
- Hugo
- Kiefer
Class 2A Division-II
- Vian
- Adair
- Stroud
- Davis
- Holdenville
- Colcord
- Kansas
- Alva
- Beggs
- Luther
Class A Division-I
- Fairview
- Hooker
- Rejoice Christian
- Hartshorne
- Tonkawa
- Christian Heritage
- Walters
- Pawnee
- Pawhuska
- Minco
Class A Division-II
- Woodland
- Hominy
- Mangum
- Regent Prep
- Texhoma
- Thomas
- Talihina
- Central Sallisaw
- Mooreland
- Ringling
Class B Division-I
- Laverne
- Turpin
- Dewar
- Yale
- Garber
- Pond Creek-Hunter
- Caddo
- Hollis
- Empire
- Keota
Class B Division-II
- Seiling
- Weleetka
- Okeene
- Covington-Douglas
- Wilson-Henryetta
- Shattuck
- Webbers Falls
- Thackerville
- Waukomis
- Copan
Class C
- Tipton
- Ryan
- Timberlake
- Welch
- Tyrone
- Maysville
- Waynoka
- Geary
- Paoli
- Sasakwa
Week 5 Pay Dirt Picks
| Korry Rogers
MARK 9-3 | JACOB 9-3 | TOM 8-3 | NICK 7-5 | |
Blackwell @ Perry | ||||
Bethany @ Blanchard | ||||
El Reno @ Carl Albert | ||||
Jones @ Millwood | ||||
Mooreland @ Texhoma-Goodwell | ||||
Cashion @ Watonga | ||||
Mount St. Mary @ Chisholm | ||||
Davis @ Beggs | ||||
Owasso @ Union | ||||
Putnam City @ Choctaw | ||||
Pocola @ Rejoice Christian | ||||
Pauls Valley @ Plainview |
SKORDLE SAMPLER - Week 5 (2024): Taco Stop in Ponca City
| Michael Swisher
This week the Blackwell vs. Perry football game is on the SKORDLE PayDirt Pick’em Show as well as SKORDLE PayDirt.
When these two schools meet, it must be one of, if not the only, Maroons vs. Maroons game in America and by all accounts a heck of rivalry.
In between the two towns and just slightly east is Ponca City and for many years I have heard numerous folks rave about Taco Stop.
When I was rolling through Ponca City this year, the time had come for me to try this popular place myself.
I decided my best bet was to get the favorites of two people who are big fans of Taco Stop, my wife Amanda and food expert Mark Rodgers.
Amanda’s favorite item on the menu is the Taco Salad while Mark’s go-to the is Casadia.
Both Amanda and Mark stated that the famous taco sauce - and a lot of it - is what really made the meals at Taco Stop.
I went to the counter and placed my order of a Taco Salad and Casadia along with a refreshing fountain drink to wash it all down. I also made sure that some taco sauce would be readily available at the table.
When I got my food and sat down, I could immediately tell this was going to be a solid lunch!
The Taco Salad had all the markings of being great, most notably the paper-thin crunch taco shell and pile of shredded cheese.
The Casadia had a generous layer of taco meat topping and melted shredded cheese on top of a corn tortilla.
I also added a ton of taco sauce as I devoured my food and found myself generously adding some more to every single bite.
Quite frankly, Taco Stop was fantastic!
It is easy to see why Taco Stop, with its great food and extremely reasonable prices, is such a popular place to eat in Ponca City.
I would highly recommend stopping in any time you are in town and remember to put a lot of the famous taco sauce on everything you order because it makes everything even better.
Week 5 High School Football Rankings
| Michael Swisher
6A Division-I
- Owasso
- Bixby
- Union
- Deer Creek
- Jenks
- Moore
- Norman
- Edmond Memorial
- Mustang
- Broken Arrow
6A Division-II
- Muskogee
- Stillwater
- Choctaw
- Sand Springs
- Putnam City
- Putnam City North
- Piedmont
- Southmoore
- Sapulpa
- Bartlesville
Class 5A
- Carl Albert
- Del City
- Bishop McGuinness
- Lawton Mac
- Collinsville
- McAlester
- Guthrie
- Claremore
- Shawnee
- Booker T. Washington
Class 4A
- Wagoner
- Elgin
- Tuttle
- Blanchard
- Sallisaw
- Poteau
- Bethany
- Cushing
- Grove
- Weatherford
Class 3A
- Lincoln Christian
- Heritage Hall
- Sulphur
- Pauls Valley
- Plainview
- Seminole
- Cascia Hall
- Idabel
- Anadarko
- Muldrow
Class 2A Division-I
- Washington
- Millwood
- Metro Christian
- Jones
- Marlow
- Kingston
- OCS
- Mount St. Mary
- Chandler
- Crossings Christian
Class 2A Division-II
- Vian
- Adair
- Stroud
- Davis
- Holdenville
- Beggs
- Colcord
- Kansas
- Alva
- Luther
Class A Division-I
- Fairview
- Hooker
- Rejoice Christian
- Pocola
- Pawhuska
- Wynnewood
- Hartshorne
- Tonkawa
- Christian Heritage
- Walters
Class A Division-II
- Woodland
- Regent Prep
- Hominy
- Mooreland
- Mangum
- Thomas
- Velma-Alma
- Texhoma
- Talihina
- Central Sallisaw
Class B Division-I
- Laverne
- Turpin
- Dewar
- Yale
- Garber
- Pond Creek-Hunter
- Keota
- Caddo
- Hollis
- Empire
Class B Division-II
- Seiling
- Weleetka
- Okeene
- Covington-Douglas
- Wilson-Henryetta
- Shattuck
- Webbers Falls
- Thackerville
- Waukomis
- Copan
Class C
- Tipton
- Ryan
- Timberlake
- Welch
- Tyrone
- Maysville
- Mt. View-Gotebo
- Waynoka
- Paoli
- Sasakwa
Oklahoma State Fair Trip 2024 - Where is the Beef?
| Michael Swisher
This past weekend my family made our annual trip to the Oklahoma State Fair. We go mainly to eat our favorite fair foods which are the corn dog and roasted corn. Funnel cake normally makes the rotation, especially for the kids, but for some reason it took a year off this time. Here are some pictures of our trip and man these were great!
Also, the Brown’s Lemonade
stands never disappoint because they only serve actual real hand squeezed
lemonade. Multiple lemonade refills were needed on our trip because it was hot!
The Indian Taco used to ALWAYS be in the rotation until this
year. The last couple of years I noticed that my Indian Tacos were severely
lacking in beef. From my estimation the “chili mix” as described on the menu was
about 99.9% beans and 0.1% beef. Last year I even went into the State Fair with
a gameplan to only order meat and cheese so the lack of beef couldn’t be hidden
under a pile of toppings. My suspicion of no beef was only confirmed even
further, and I was disappointed.
I made the decision this year that I would do some
reconnaissance of the Indian Taco hoping for improvements. Unfortunately, I saw
none, so I just passed on the Indian Taco this year. As I looked at several
Indian Tacos passing by, I saw the delicious fry bread, piles of beans, heaps
of lettuce, and a handful of shredded cheese, but no noticeable beef.
It is a sad day at the State Fair when the Indian Taco is no
longer in the line-up! Has anyone else felt the same way or had a similar
experience? This will be my final comments on the matter until actual beef
topping makes its triumphant return to the Indian Taco at the State Fair. Until
then I will remember the days of old when this great State Fair food staple was
at its peak.