Oakland-Craig takes District Crown over BRLD

The Oakland-Craig Football Team won the C2-2 District Championship over BRLD in Lyons Friday night as the Knights earned a 40-30 victory.

The Wolverines held a 30-24 lead in the 3rd quarter, but the Knights put up 16 points in the 4th quarter and held BRLD scoreless to earn the come from behind win.

The Wolverines led 12-8 at the end of one and 24-16 at halftime.

Oakland-Craig won the 3rd quarter 8-6.

Jaron Meyer had 10 carries for 124 yards and a touchdown. Ian Lundquist had 19 carries for 105 yards and two touchdowns.

Colton Thomsen was 5-8 passing for 100 yards.

Tom Maline made 9 tackles while Blake Johnson had 8. Thomsen and Laurence Brands each totaled 7.

The Knights racked up 431 yards of total offense, including 331 on the ground.

The defense gave up 405 yards of total offense, 249 coming through the air.

Head Coach Joe Anderson on the win. "It was great for our kids to be in that situation. I wanted to see how they would respond when things were not going great. I felt we played a really strong 4th quarter. We put some great drives together on offense and then got two big stops on defense. Yes, we were able to win a district title, but more importantly it made us a better team going into the playoffs. BRLD is a very talented team, and they were able to expose some weaknesses that we can now fix before next week."

Oakland-Craig (9-0) plays host to Hartington Cedar Catholic (5-4) in the opening round of the playoffs Friday night in action that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Trojans dismantled Stanton 56-7 on the road in Thursday night's regular season finale.

The Knights whooped up on Cedar Catholic 50-13 at home in the 2nd game of the season.

Anderson says the Trojans are a different team now than they were then. "Hartington CC will be a tremendous challenge. Last time we played them, they were not at full strength and things kind of snowballed on them. They now have their all-state RB back and their whole team is playing really well. They have 2 of the best players in all of C2 with their RB and their lineman. I feel they are a top 10 team again now. They are always a very well coached team and they play really physical. It will be important for us to keep them from hitting the big plays and offense we must execute well and limit our mistakes."

I feel like the Trojans are kind of hit and miss.

Cedar Catholic will play lights out in some games and win some ugly.

Case in point the Trojans hammered Norfolk Catholic 34-7 and lost 21-14 to David City Aquinas, but only beat Crofton 13-7 and David City 20-18.

Granted NC wasn't the same this year and David City is much improved, but still the Trojans have been up and down the entire season although since losing to BRLD and Oakland-Craig early in the season without their star running back they've only lost a couple of close games and won the rest.

So I really think this game hinges on which Cedar Catholic team shows up.

If it's anything like the first time around then Oakland-Craig should win big going away.

But if the Trojans have anything to say about things this time around then it will be an absolute great game and barn burner.

It really could be too.

I want to say the Knights are going to win, but if Cedar Catholic plays lights out then they could win.

The winner gets either Centennial or Doniphan-Trumbull in next Friday night's Quarterfinals, both teams Oakland-Craig has faced in the playoffs in recent years.

If the Knights win and the Broncos win then Centennial hosts Oakland-Craig next Friday night in the Quarterfinals.

That would be a dandy of a ball game, but the Knights have to worry about getting past the Trojans first, and Centennial has to beat the Cardinals as well.

Kickoff from Oakland is set for 7:00 p.m. on the Bull.

BRLD loses District Championship Showdown to Oakland-Craig

The C2-2 District Championship was on the line in Lyons Friday night with BRLD coming up short to Oakland-Craig, losing 40-30.

The Wolverines held a 30-24 lead in the 3rd quarter, but the Knights put up 16 points in the 4th quarter and held BRLD scoreless to earn the come from behind win.

The Wolverines led 12-8 at the end of one and 24-16 at halftime.

O-C won the 3rd quarter 8-6.

Will Gatzemeyer was 15-22 passing for 249 yards and two touchdowns.

Jaxon Johnson hauled in 5 passes for 121 yards, and scored once. Dylan Beutler had 5 catches for 99 yards and a score.

Gatzemeyer added 78 yards rushing on 14 carries, including two touchdowns. Kobe Lyons had 78 yards on the ground on 28 carries, and scored once.

Gatzemeyer made 22 tackles while Derek Petersen had 13. Gus Gomez and Kayden Henneman each had 8 while Luke Ronnfeldt made 7.

BRLD had 405 yards of total offense, including 249 through the air.

The defense gave up 431 yards, including 331 on the ground.

Tough loss for the Wolverines after holding the lead the entire game. BRLD still played well though I thought, it's just Oakland-Craig is that good.

BRLD (8-1) hosts Wilber-Clatonia (7-2) in the opening round of the playoffs in Bancroft Friday night.

Wilber-Clatonia shutout Malcolm 35-0 on the road in Friday night's regular season finale.

Wilber-Clatonia lost 23-21 at Fremont Bergan earlier in the season while BRLD won 42-36 over the Knights in Fremont a couple weeks back.

I think that and the fact that BRLD is at home gives them the advantage.

I'm willing to bet BRLD will be pretty upset about losing the late lead to Oakland-Craig as well.

I'm sure BRLD feels like they have some work to do in the playoffs, and have payback on their minds.

BRLD has to come out and play a complete football game from start to finish Friday night.

Wilber-Clatonia's defense has been lights out the last 6 weeks, only allowing 6 total points, including 5 shutouts.

Granted Wilber-Clatonia didn't beat any powerhouses or anything like that, but they are still a very solid team.

BRLD needs to be on top of their game to win this one.

I look for BRLD to be in full playoff mode come Friday night.

I think they will play well and win.

It would potentially set up a matchup against North Bend Central in North Bend in the Quarterfinals next Friday.

That would be a dandy of a game, but first things first, BRLD has to take care of business against Wilber-Clatonia.

I think the way BRLD has been challenged all year long will really pay off for them in this one.

Some of the best Football is played in Northeast Nebraska, and I look for BRLD to find a way to advance to the Quarterfinals.

All that matters this time of year is that you win, it doesn't matter how pretty or how ugly.

Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m. in Bancroft.

North Bend Central downs David City to win District Title

The North Bend Central Football Team won 32-25 at David City Friday night in the regular season finale to claim the C2-4 District Championship.

Here is Head Coach Ryan Stieren to break things down:

We took the first drive 69 yards for a Touchdown capped by a Breckin Peters Touchdown reception which broke the school record for touchdown catches. We stopped them on their first drive but fumbled our punt return. They took over at our 10 yard line and scored a couple plays later. Then, Allan Orellana took the ensuing kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown. We took a 25-12 lead into the half but they battled back in the 2nd half to tie it 25-25 but with 3 minutes left in the game we drove 65 yards and scored on 5 yard TD run by Austin Endorf to seal the game.

Endorf was 21-31 passing for 189 yards and a touchdown. Peters had 9 receptions for 58 yards and a TD.

Ethan Mullally had 131 yards rushing on 26 carries, and scored once.

Cody Pospisil had 10 tackles while Cole Johnson and Ian Virka made 8 apiece. Peters and Gavin Peterson totaled 7 each.

Stieren on the win. "We didn't deserve to win this game but good teams win ugly and that's what we did tonight. We had at least 8 dropped passes, 1 of which was intercepted by the opposing team. We fumbled a punt return to give them the ball deep in our territory and we allowed them to break off a big explosive play. But, at the end of the day we won the district championship which is huge for our program."

North Bend Central (8-1) plays host to North Platte St. Pat's (6-3) in the first round of the playoffs Friday night.

The Irish drilled Gordon-Rushville 62-7 at home in Friday night's regular season finale.

The two teams have one common opponent in Grand Island Central Catholic.

The Tigers beat the Crusaders 24-17 in overtime at home while North Platte St. Pat's lost 28-7 to GICC on the road.

The Irish only lost 17-7 to top seeded Sutton in their season opener though so you know they can play some football.

North Platte St. Pat's won their last 6 games after losing their first three.

With that said, North Bend Central has played and beaten some very good teams, and we all know how good Football and High School Sports are in this part of the State.

So based on that I look for the Tigers to win and advance.

North Bend Central has to play like they did against Aquinas and Shelby-Rising City though, not David City.

Anyone can be beat on any given night, and the Tigers have to realize and understand that.

The winner gets either BRLD or Wilber-Clatonia in the Quarterfinals next Friday night.

It would be a tough game against either Wolverine team, but North Bend Central has to focus on and worry about beating North Platte St. Pat's first.

The Tigers have to defend their home field and beat the Irish.

It's a long road trip and bus ride to North Bend from North Platte, and the Tigers have to make sure it's a long trip home for the Irish Friday night.

NBC has to get pumped and fired up and try and go out there and win a playoff game this year.

The Tigers got there last year, now North Bend Central has to take that next step and win a game.

It will be really interesting to see how this one goes.

I think the Tigers could win big, or it could be a close game, but either way I look for NBC to find a way to win.

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. in North Bend.

GACC routs Winnebago in regular season finale

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Football Team routed Winnebago 80-16 at home Friday night in the regular season finale.

The win propelled the Bluejays to the playoffs as the 15 seed in the East.

GACC (4-4) takes on BDS (8-0) in the first round of the playoffs in Shickley Thursday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Eagles concluded the regular season with a 60-12 win at Thayer Central Friday night.

BDS is kind of a strange team in that some of their wins have been blowouts and some have been close games/wins.

This isn't your typical 2/15 matchup either.

I feel the Bluejays have been playing their best football of the year over the last 3-4 weeks.

GACC has a lot of momentum coming into this game, and has to be feeling pretty good about where they're at right now.

If there's a team that can go on the road and pull off a monumental upset it is the Bluejays.

GACC has to feel very optimistic about their chances of doing so on Thursday.

I'm excited to go down to Shickley and call the game with Joel.

I look for the Bluejays to hold their own and put forth a great, amazing, and fantastic effort.

GACC has to play an incredible game and give it their all and all they got Thursday night.

Win or lose, I look for the Bluejays to play well and with class.

Casey Doernemann has to create some huge lanes in the run game, and blow some BDS Eagles off the ball.

GACC has to be very physical up front, and must be able to run the ball as well as stop the run.

BDS is notoriously a very good team, and this year is no exception.

The Bluejays' record is deceiving though.

GACC is a much better team than their 4-4 record.

If the Bluejays had played the way they did in the second half of the season in the first part of the season then I feel GACC could of and would of won a couple more games in the regular season.

Better late than never though as the Bluejays are playing good Football right now.

Kickoff from Shickley is set for 6:00 p.m. on the Bull.

Wisner-Pilger drops regular season finale to Wakefield

The Wisner-Pilger Football Team fell 62-26 at home to Wakefield Friday night in the D1-4 District Championship and Regular Season Finale.

The Trojans led 20-18 at the end of one and 48-18 at halftime.

The Gators won the 3rd quarter 8-6 to make it a 54-26 game at the end of three.

Wakefield shutout Wisner-Pilger 8-0 in the 4th quarter.

I thought this game would be closer than it was. The loss shouldn't diminish the good regular season the Gators had though.

Wisner-Pilger (7-1) plays host to Creighton (5-3) in the first round of the playoffs Thursday night.

The Bulldogs won 68-20 at home over Boyd County Thursday night to end the regular season.

Creighton lost 28-22 to Wakefield in the regular season.

I feel the Gators can definitely win this game, but it won't be easy.

The Bulldogs beat Wisner-Pilger in the playoffs last year, winning 66-12 in Creighton.

The Bulldogs were better last year than they are this year though, and I feel the Gators are better this year than they were last year.

Still though that didn't make a difference against the Trojans, and Creighton is the defending D-1 State Champs.

Definitely a difficult matchup for Wisner-Pilger in this one.

The Gators have a lot of seniors though.

Wisner-Pilger has put in a lot of hard work the last couple of years, and has turned around their program with the drop to 8-man.

The Gators are a former 11-man team and that has to mean something and weigh on Wisner-Pilger's shoulders.

The Gators have come a long ways over the last couple of years, and have to do everything in their power to make a playoff run.

Many are probably thinking the Bulldogs could make a playoff run, and they might, but so can Wisner-Pilger, in my opinion.

The Gators have to be loose and confident, and must come out and play their game and brand of football.

Wisner-Pilger has to overcome and forget about the loss and wipe the slate clean so to speak.

The Gators have to get fired up and be thrilled about hosting in the first round of the playoffs.

Wisner-Pilger has to play physical, and has to get ready to blow Creighton off the ball.

The Gators have to run and throw the ball effectively, but more importantly stop the run.

Kickoff is set for 6:00 p.m. in Wisner.

Howells-Dodge blanks Madison to conclude regular season

The Howells-Dodge Football Team shutout Madison 42-0 at home Friday night to conclude the regular season.

Here is the scoring summary from the game::

First Quarter
HD - 8:27 Levi Belina 10 Yd Run (Failed Two-Point Conversion)
HD - 1:04 Levi Belina 37 Yd Run (Blake Sindelar Run For Two-Point Conversion)

Second Quarter
HD - 9:08 Levi Belina 36 Yd Run (Blake Sindelar Run For Two-Point Conversion)
HD - 8:46 RJ Bayer 16 Yd Pass From Jacob Tomcak (Levi Belina Run For Two-Point Conversion)
HD - 6:52 Levi Belina 37 Yd Run (Failed Two-Point Conversion)

Third Quarter
HD - :27 Levi Belina 7 Yd Run (Failed Two-Point Conversion)

Belina had 211 yards rushing on 17 carries, including 5 touchdowns.

Belina made 14 tackles while Bayer and Trevor Schumacher notched 10 apiece. Sindelar, Lance Brester, and Aandy Dominguez registered 8 each.

Howells-Dodge had 317 yards of total offense, including 279 on the ground.

What a big deal for the Jaguars to finish the regular season undefeated.

Howells-Dodge (8-0) plays host to Homer (4-4) in the first round of the playoffs in Howells Thursday night.

The Knights destroyed Omaha Nation 72-8 at home to conclude the regular season Friday night.

Homer started the year off strong and then kind of tapered off at the end.

If the Knights continue their play as of late the Jaguars should have no problem in this one.

However, if Homer gets back to playing the way they did earlier in the season when they beat Pender 47-20 and Emerson-Hubbard 52-18 then it could be interesting.

Granted those two teams are in D-2 though and Howells-Dodge has played a gauntlet of a schedule.

I'm honestly expecting the Jaguars to come out and dominate and win in blowout fashion.

I look for Luke Rocheford and others to have big games for Howells-Dodge.

The Jaguars have good depth at Running Back with Belina stepping in and performing admirably as well.

I look for Howells-Dodge to make a deep playoff run and have a shot at winning the State Championship.

The Jaguars are the No. 1 seed in the East, and hopefully it sets up as to where Howells-Dodge can host in the Semifinals if they make it that far.

The winner gets either Nebraska City Lourdes or Lutheran High Northeast in the second round of the playoffs, and what a rematch Howells-Dodge and LHNE would be.

The Jaguars need to come out and play well on Thursday, and come out and dominate Homer.

I'm sure the Knights are just happy to be in the playoffs, whereas Howells-Dodge expects to win and make a deep run.

I look for the Jaguars to dominate from the opening kickoff, and post a big win.

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. in Howells.

It's playoff time for Howells-Dodge, and a very exciting time for the Jaguars for sure.

It would be awesome to see Howells-Dodge at Memorial Stadium come the Monday before Thanksgiving.

Clarkson/Leigh routs Emerson-Hubbard to conclude regular season

The Clarkson/Leigh Football Team concluded the regular season Friday night with a resounding 69-18 home win over Emerson-Hubbard.

The Patriots led 22-0 at the end of one and 54-6 at halftime.

Clarkson/Leigh won the 3rd quarter 8-6 to go up 62-12 at the end of three.

The Patriots won the 4th quarter 7-6.

Eli Hays had 10 carries for 132 yards and scored three times while Drew Beeson had 6 carries for 89 yards and a score, and Lance Paprocki 7 carries for 78 yards and two scores.

Carter Hanel and Mitchel Beeson made 9 tackles apiece while Isaak Wiese had 7.

The Patriots racked up 365 yards of total offense, all on the ground.

Head Coach Jim Clarkson says the win was sweet. "It was a pretty awesome night last Friday. We only have one Senior not only was it special for him it was important for our whole team. Especially after losing the District title to them the year before."

Clarkson/Leigh (6-2) plays host to Riverside (5-3) in the first round of the playoffs in Leigh Thursday night.

The Chargers defeated Osmond 60-16 at home in Thursday night's regular season finale.

Clarkson on the matchup. "The Chargers are a good looking squad. They have some real nice athletes especially their QB he looks like a difference maker. They are a similar team to us in the fact that they are pretty young. Should be an exciting game, it will take our best effort for us to advance."

Riverside is known for their 6-man prowess, having won a bunch of titles there under former Head Coach Joe Imus.

He is gone now though, but the Chargers are still a very good 8-man team.

How about Clarkson/Leigh's story this year though? Lose Tommy McEvoy and find different players to step up and win the District Title.

Hats off to the Patriots for figuring it out.

Clarkson says this has allowed his team to learn they don't have to rely on him to do everything. "The loss of Tommy has been very significant, but it has given us a chance to find some other play makers and develop some young guys that will be very important to us in the next few years and learning that they do not only have to lean on Tommy but that together we have great potential."

Imagine how good Clarkson/Leigh figures to be next year.

This game is big for the Patriots though with the winner getting Falls City Sacred Heart or Diller-Odell in the second round next Wednesday.

Clarkson talks about the keys to beating Riverside. "Like any team this time of year it comes down to two very basic things, blocking and tackling. O-Line has been clicking and really improved throughout the season and we will need a great game from them guys and our Defense also has been playing at a high level and Riverside likes to play in space so we will need to be solid tacklers in order to advance."

I think the Patriots will also need to run the ball the way they have the last six games.

Clarkson/Leigh is so multi-dimensional in the backfield and has a number of different kids who can put up yards and scores.

This versatility is the biggest reason why the Patriots are where they are right now, in my opinion.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. in Leigh.

Pender shuts out Omaha Christian Academy

The Pender Football Team shutout Omaha Christian Academy 61-0 on the road Thursday night to conclude the regular season.

The Pendragons led 41-0 at the end of one and 48-0 at halftime.

Pender increased their lead to 55-0 at the end of three and blanked the Eagles 6-0 in the 4th quarter to make up the final score.

Dylan Vogt had 15 carries for 194 yards and four touchdowns. Jaxon Mrsny added 51 yards on 7 carries, and scored once.

Vogt had 8 tackles while Jacob Bruns made 7.

The Pendragons had 328 yards of offense, all on the ground.

The defense gave up just 85 yards of total offense, including -3 in the passing game.

Very strong performance from Pender, and it turns out the Pendragons are in the playoffs after all!

Pender (4-4) takes on Bloomfield (8-0) on the road in the first round of the playoffs Thursday night.

The Bees defeated Hartington-Newcastle 46-36 in their regular season finale at home Thursday night.

Bloomfield appears to be the real deal, beating 6-2 Allen 42-26 on the road earlier this season.

The Pendragons definitely have their work cut out for them, but Pender can definitely hold their own I feel.

I think the Pendragons got better as the season progressed, and this playoff berth is a culmination of their hard work, determination, and perseverance.

I would say Pender was relentless all regular season, and really wanted to get to the playoffs badly.

I'm very proud of the Pendragons as I'm sure they are thrilled just to be in the playoffs.

Pender has to want more and has to want to be the best they can be though.

The Pendragons have to go out there and try and spring the upset.

Pender can compete and keep this thing close I feel, but I would say a fast start is key.

The Pendragons have to get off to a good and solid start on Thursday and build a lead, and can't fall behind big if at all possible.

Pender has to play good defense, and play the way they have the last two games.

I feel the Pendragons really came on after the loss to Mead, and we'll see if Pender can continue the momentum Thursday night.

The Pendragons have to go out there with absolutely nothing to lose and this us against the world mentality.

Not a lot of people are probably giving Pender any shot in this game, but as long as the players and coaches in the locker room believe, and they have the support of the parents and their fans, that's really all that matters.

Exciting week for Pender Athletics with the Volleyball Team in a Sub-District Final tonight as well.

Lots to be excited about and look forward to for the Pendragons.

I hope Pender has a good crowd and contingent on Thursday to be loud and proud.

Kickoff on Thursday is set for 6:00 p.m. in Bloomfield.

Tekamah-Herman falls to Fremont Bergan in season finale

The Tekamah-Herman Football Team saw their season come to an end Friday night as the Tigers lost 64-20 at Fremont Bergan in the season finale.

The game was tied at 6 in the 1st quarter before the Knights went up 45-6 at halftime.

Bergan shutout Tekamah-Herman 12-0 in the 3rd quarter to lead 57-6 at the end of three.

The Tigers doubled up the Knights 14-7 in the 4th quarter.

Luke Wakehouse had 143 yards rushing on 28 carries, including two touchdowns.

Garrison Potadle had 10 tackles while Kody Bitter made 7.

Tekamah-Herman had 243 yards of total offense, including 199 on the ground.

The defense gave up 483 yards of total offense, including 301 rushing.

The game was close for a while, but the Knights ultimately proved to be a little too much.

The Tigers end the season at 3-6.

It was a year of improvement for Tekamah-Herman for sure.

Head Coach Graig McElmuray says the team is slowly getting better. "We keep improving year by year. We are not taking giant leaps but we do continue to take steps. We were competitive in all but two games this year with our halftime scores. That translated to 6 really good games that we had opportunities to win. Against BRLD the halftime score was 21-20. While they proved they were the team that will make it deep into the playoffs in the second half we had our opportunities. We were up on Stanton and Twin River at halftime."

The Tigers should be proud of how far they have come.

McElmuray says this team and these seniors took Tekamah-Herman Football to new heights this season. "All of my Seniors meant a lot to me this season. A young man like SR. Gabe Garcia that ended up playing right tackle for us, gave Luke and Clay the opportunity run the Triple option really really well. I learned a lot this season running the offense for the second year. Luke ended the season with 20 rushing Touchdowns and 1401 yards on 171 carries.  We scored more points this year then any Tekamah Team since 2005 and the second most since 1993. Luke set the schools rushing yards in a season, and may have set the rushing TD record. We are looking into that record this week. "

McElmuray admits it will be hard to replace their Seniors...Chauncey (Rogers), Luke, Clay, Kasey (Snyder), Jayden, Jordan (Derra), and Gabe, but he felt the same way about losing the class before. He will miss his seven seniors, adding words may do the amount that he will miss them justice.

McElmuray is excited about next year though."The future does not dim anytime soon we can and will take more steps next year with our offense. We will make more strides with the triple option. We have a good young group of Sophomores and Juniors that are hungry to win. There will be a great QB battle and Cody Bitter who lead our team in tackles as a Sophomore will step into a battle with Logan Burt to replace Luke Wakehouse. Both of those two love to run the ball. Bitter and Burt at the B back position will be tough to handle. We should also be in a better position to use our schemes to complete passes next fall. That is a place we have to get better. We dropped 7 TD passes in the first three games."

As with anything, time and repetition leads to improvement.

I have no doubts that the Tigers will improve over the offseason and comeback even better and stronger next year.

McElmuray adds he's excited about the defense. "Our defense was primarily made up of Juniors and Sophomores this past season. We only had one OL man that was a senior and we have a great group of slots and WR's returning."

I look for Tekamah-Herman to get to 4-5, maybe 5-4 at the very least if not better.

I think a lot of it will depend on the Tigers' offensive execution and who they draw from a schedule standpoint with the new 2-year cycle.

Stanton ends year with loss to Hartington Cedar Catholic

The Stanton Football Team fell 56-7 at home to Hartington Cedar Catholic in their final game of the season Thursday night.

Gage Tighe had 128 yards rushing on 29 carries, including a touchdown.

The Mustangs had 182 yards of offense, including 173 on the ground.

Tough end to the year for Stanton.

The Mustangs wrap up the 2019 campaign at 2-7.

Tighe was the team's leading rusher for the season with 820 yards and 6 touchdowns.

Key returners lost to graduation include Christian Flood, Ben Wilke, and Jackson Benson.

Three seniors...that's all Stanton loses although they were all very valuable players.

Key returners figure to be Sutton Pohlman, Devyn Farrier, Parker Krusemark, Brennan Wragge, Jason Claussen, Matthew Reese, Damien Erickson, Nathan Wragge, Drew Chase, Thomas Cunningham, Mason Bruggeman, Jordan Gartner, Troy Elbert, Cole Rutten, and Ben Butterfield.

I feel there's lots of talent in next year's upperclassmen, and feel the Mustangs will be improved.

Stanton was young this year and were without the services of Pohlman for much of the season so hopefully he's back next year.

I think you will see the Mustangs turn this year's close losses into close wins next year.

I look for Stanton to eventually get back to their old selves and roots.

I think it's a matter of time before the Mustangs get back to their winning ways.

Stanton has to really want it and must work hard this offseason though.

The Mustangs have to have the drive and determination to have a successful offseason, and get ready for next year.

Stanton has to get after it as soon as possible.

The more work these returning players and newcomers put in between now and August the better they will be next season.

The Mustangs have to put in the work and work hard though.

Not showing up to weights over the summer is unacceptable.

Weighlifting should be a mandatory thing for these players.

Stanton has to have a good offseason, and must enjoy working hard and working out.

The Mustangs have to feel the burn, and add muscle and burn fat all while having as much fun as possible.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder drops season finale to West Point-Beemer

The Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Football Team lost 21-0 at West Point-Beemer to end the season Friday night.

Tough end to a difficult season for the Raiders.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder ends the campaign at 0-9.

Players lost to graduation include Martin Valencia, Gavin Nielsen, Brant Schuler, Alex Wagner, Isaac Gahner, and Alex Miller.

Some big losses for sure. All 6 of these players were very valuable members of the team for sure.

Key returners include Roberto Valdivia, Garrett Palmer, Riley Hoetfelker, Connor Larson, Keaton Bushlow, Jacob Purdy, Jayden Korman, Logan Booth, Brett Uhing, and Eli Pilmore.

I feel the Raiders can be very improved next year with all the talent they return. There will be a lot of seniors for LVSS next season.

The Raiders really have to get after it this offseason though.

I feel Logan View/Scribner-Snyder is still transitioning into playing C-1 Football, and the last couple of years have been rough to say the least.

With a new schedule and fresh start next year I look for the Raiders to be improved.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder was very competitive this year, they just came up a little short every week.

I think offensive consistency is important for the Raiders.

LVSS has to be effective on offense week in and week out and the defense has to be stout and solid as well.

The Raiders have to really get after it in the weightroom and on the playing field.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has to work harder than everyone else.

The Raiders have to find that edge that puts them over the top and gives them the advantage.

LVSS has to workout hard and intense this offseason, and do everything with 110% effort.

The players need to be Gladiators or Iron Men, and the Raiders need great participation numbers in the weightroom and at summer camps.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder also needs success in basketball, wrestling, and track to sort of set the tone for next football season so to speak.

Champions are made between December and January, not between August and November.

West Point-Beemer wins final game of season over Logan View/Scribner-Snyder

The West Point-Beemer Football Team won 21-0 at home over Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Friday night.

Good season ending win for the Cadets.

West Point-Beemer concludes the year with a 4-5 record.

Not quite the same type of season the Cadets had last year or the year before, but still a good year nonetheless.

All 5 teams West Point-Beemer lost to are in the playoffs, and none have a record worse than 6-3.

The Cadets were young and raw this year, and with a lot of weightlifting and skill honing I feel West Point-Beemer can and will be a force to be reckoned with next year.

Seniors lost to graduation include Korbin Hardenbrook, Steven Ornelas, Gavin Voelker, Jesus Ramirez, Jacob Reimers, Gary Walker, Garret Kaup, Jose Silverio, Bailey Hickey, David Garcia, Jesus Martinez, and Fred Spalder.

All these players played big roles over the last four years for the Cadets.

Key returners include Jesus Barragan, Keegan Doggett, Manny Barragan, Harrison Jordan, Arturo Barrios, Alejandro Edeza, Riley Penrose, Drake Repschlaeger, Zach Vander Griend, and Miguel Perez.

I think the future is very bright for West Point-Beemer.

Lots of young players who got very valuable experience this season.

The Cadets have to work and play hard this offseason.

West Point-Beemer has to get bigger, faster, and stronger.

I feel there's a lot of room for growth and improvement among these young men.

I feel the Cadets have a chance to do well next year and get back to the playoffs.

West Point-Beemer has to work extremely hard this offseason and get ready to go at it again next year.

The returning players and newcomers need to try and have good winter and spring sports seasons to kind of set the tone for success next fall so to speak.

I really do believe that success in other sports leads to more success on the gridiron, whether it's basketball, wrestling, track, golf, or baseball.

The Cadets have to really get after it this offseason, and comeback better next year than they were this year.

Winnebago ends year with loss to GACC

The Winnebago Football Team lost 80-16 at GACC Friday night to end the season.

Tough loss for the Indians no doubt about it.

Winnebago's season ends at 1-7.

Difficult year for the Indians. I'm sure Winnebago had very high aspirations coming in.

Things just didn't materialize for the Indians like they had hoped.

I think the game winning field goal Pender hit in the opener kind of set the tone in the wrong direction for Winnebago.

The Indians say goodbye to Ed Payer, Jeriah Greyowl, Lourde Kearnes, Robbie Lovejoy, Jeremy Bear, Ricky Suarez, and Ronald Painter.

Some talented seniors lost for sure.

Key returners for next year include Javon Price, Raul Loera, and BJ Proctor.

It will be interesting to see who steps up and plays big roles for Winnebago next season.

The Indians have to work really hard in the offseason in the weightroom and on the field.

Winnebago's returning players and newcomers have to wake up excited and anxious to tackle each and every day during the summer.

Getting up and playing ball and lifting weights and running are all important for the Indians.

The only way you can be successful at something is by working hard, and that's what these boys need to do.

Winnebago has to be the hardest working team out there, and must improve and hone their skills.

The Indians have to be driven to be great each and every day.

Winnebago's players have to make it a goal to be lifter of the year and must max out in every lift they do.

Eating healthy and laying off things like pop and stuff of that sort is all important for a healthy diet as well.

I realize these kids are teenagers and will likely drink pop anyways, but the healthier they eat and drink the more in shape their bodies figure to be in.

The Indians have to really get after it this offseason, and try and get back to where they were prior to this season.

Emerson-Hubbard ends season with loss to Clarkson/Leigh

The Emerson-Hubbard Football Team saw their season come to an end Friday night, losing 69-18 at Clarkson/Leigh.

The Patriots led 22-0 at the end of one and 54-6 at halftime.

Clarkson/Leigh won the 3rd quarter 8-6 to go up 62-12 at the end of three.

The Patriots won the 4th quarter 7-6.

The defense gave up 365 yards of total offense, all on the ground.

Tough season and tough way to go out for the Pirates, but it is what it is.

Emerson-Hubbard's season ends at 2-6.

The Pirates struggled in a lot of their games, especially at the beginning of the season.

I thought Emerson-Hubbard got better with the start of district play, but not enough to make the playoffs this year.

It's too bad the Pirates couldn't make the playoffs and win a postseason game this year because I know they really wanted to.

Seniors lost to graduation include Hunter Schock, Drake Steele, Nolan Belt, and Tyler Stark.

Some good and key players lost to graduation, but plenty of returners to help carry and shoulder the load next year.

Key returners include Colton Stallbaum, TJ Gunderson, Brock Mackling, Anthony Lawrence, Cameron Ahlers, Ethan Eriksen, Mason Hall, Garrett Blanke, and Zach Shanks.

The future looks bright and promising for Emerson-Hubbard.

The program will continue as there will be no co-op with Wakefield and Allen.

I think that's honestly a good thing for the time being.

While it would probably benefit the Pirates in Girls Sports, I don't think it would really benefit Boys Sports at Emerson-Hubbard or any sports at Wakefield or Allen.

Not that these schools won't co-op in the future, but for the time being it is still the Emerson-Hubbard Pirates.

I think knowing they're staying as Emerson-Hubbard for the foreseeable future gives them a clear outlook on things.

The Pirates now don't have to worry about is this going to be our last year as Emerson Hubbard.

The Pirates can go back out there and play and perform like before.

Hopefully knowing they're staying as Emerson-Hubbard leads to a good offseason.

The Pirates have to be like iron men in the weightroom this offseason, and must get bigger, faster, and stronger.

Emerson-Hubbard has to work extremely hard and dedicate themselves to what they hope is a successful 2020 campaign.

Wisner-Pilger shuts out Omaha Nation

The Wisner-Pilger Football Team shutout Omaha Nation 70-0 on the road Friday night.

The Gators led 31-0 at the end of one and 44-0 at halftime.

Wisner-Pilger won the 3rd quarter 12-0 to go up 56-0 at the end of three.

The Gators blanked the Chiefs 14-0 in the 4th quarter.

This game went about how I figured it would for Wisner-Pilger.

The Gators (7-0) host Wakefield (6-1) for the District Championship Friday night in action that will be aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Trojans won 86-22 at Winnebago last week.

Wakefield won last year's game 50-8 in Wakefield, but I feel Wisner-Pilger is a lot better this year than they were last year.

I feel Wakefield is about as good this year as last.

Of course the Trojans are ineligible for the playoffs so the Gators certainly have more to play for.

This is a huge game for Wisner-Pilger from the standpoint of a win gives them the District Championship and likely a 3 seed for the playoffs.

A loss means 7-1 heading into the postseason, no district title, and something like a 5 seed in the playoffs.

This is an absolute monster game, and it will be all kinds of fun bringing it to you on the Bull.

This might be the biggest game the Gators have had in quite some time.

A lot is at stake for Wisner-Pilger, and it's honestly the type of game you want to be playing in if you are the Gators.

This is what you practice and play for as a player.

These are the types of games coaches and broadcasters and fans and players live for as well.

This type of game is why we all do what we do, and it should be a dandy of a contest in Wisner Friday night.

The Gators can definitely come out on top, in my opinion, and if they do I think it will be in thrilling fashion.

I feel the pressure of a close game will all be on Wakefield.

Wisner-Pilger will be the team that is more loose and relaxed I feel.

The Trojans no doubt really want that District Title knowing this is basically their playoff game and there are no playoffs for them next week while the Gators know either way they're headed to the playoffs.

So while Wisner-Pilger obviously wants to win this game, it's not do or die for them as they are still headed to the playoffs.

A District Championship would be great, but if the Gators lose they're still headed to the postseason.

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. in Wisner with pregame beginning at 6:30 on the Bull.

Winnebago loses final home game to Wakefield

The Winnebago Football Team lost 86-22 at home to Wakefield Friday night.

Tough way to go out for the seniors in their final ever home game.

The Indians (1-6) conclude their season at GACC (3-4) Friday night.

The Bluejays shutout Homer 46-0 at home last week.

The Knights downed Winnebago 82-22, but that was when Homer was a different team.

This is it for the Indians....this is the season for Winnebago.

This is essentially the Indians' playoff game.

And this game is special too.

Reason being GACC needs a win to qualify for the playoffs.

A Bago win eliminates the Bluejays from playoff contention in all likelihood.

So the Indians' philosophy has to be if we're going home after this game then so are you.

Winnebago has to get extra jacked and motivated for this game, and try and do their best to knock GACC out of the playoffs.

Tall task being the game is in Beemer and the Bluejays are arguably playing their best football of the season right now, but anything can certainly happen.

The Indians have to go out there and play loose and relaxed.

Winnebago has to try and force turnovers, and get GACC into some uncomfortable positions offensively.

If the Indians can create some 3rd and longs for the Bluejay offense and create some short fields for their own offense then who knows what will happen.

This isn't the type of game that jumps out at you and says big GACC win like in the past.

This is not the same Bluejay team we're accustomed to seeing.

It could be argued Winnebago is down this year too though so we will see what happens.

The Indians just have to go out there and fight hard and make big plays and hope it's enough to spring and pull off the upset.

A win would be very sweet for Winnebago I'm sure knowing it would likely knock GACC out of the playoffs.

GACC blanks Homer

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Football Team shutout Homer 46-0 at home Friday night.

Cody Steffen had 187 yards rushing on 11 carries and scored 5 touchdowns. Noah Hass had 84 yards rushing on 5 carries.

Coy Kreikemeier was 3-4 passing for 52 yards with a touchdown.

Casey Doernemann had 10 tackles while Noah Kreikemeier made 9.

The Bluejays had 358 yards of total offense, including 306 rushing.

The defense gave up just 79 yards of total offense, including 32 passing.

Probably GACC's best performance of the season.

The Bluejays (3-4) host Winnebago (1-6) in the regular season finale Friday night.

The Indians lost 86-22 at home to Wakefield last week.

This should be a win for GACC, but the Bluejays can't take anything for granted.

GACC has to win this game in order to qualify for the playoffs.

If they lose, they will likely be sitting at home.

It appears the Bluejays have moved Coy Kreikemeier to QB and Steffen to receiver and/or RB and I think that has made a huge difference.

I thought GACC's offense really excelled with that move.

Perhaps the Bluejays have found something that works, and if so they should continue to roll with it.

Whatever GACC does though they have to make sure they win this one.

This is one of those games where the Bluejays should score a lot of points and gain confidence for the playoffs should they win and make it.

GACC's defense has to dominate as well, and be a major force.

All that matters in this game is win and advance your season.

A loss is completely unacceptable and shouldn't happen.

The Bluejays have very high standards, and this isn't a position GACC is used to being in at the end of the regular season.

That is of course needing a win in the regular season finale to qualify for the playoffs.

Usually at this point the Bluejays are 7-0 or 6-1 and jockeying for playoff positioning or resting starters because they already have the No. 1 seed locked up.

Not the case this year though.

Bago has absolutely nothing to lose in this game as it is their final game of the season win or lose, and I'm sure their philosophy is if we're going home after this game, which they would regardless of how they or GACC is doing due to being ineligible for the playoffs, then so are the Bluejays.

GACC has to be wary of the Indians, who will no doubt try and throw the Bluejays off their game.

Howells-Dodge holds off Laurel-Concord-Coleridge; wins District

The Howells-Dodge Football Team won 28-20 at Laurel-Concord-Coleridge Friday night.

Here is the scoring summary:

Second Quarter
HD - 3:29 Levi Belina 21 Yd Run (Failed Two-Point Conversion)
HD - :06 Levi Belina 13 Yd Run (Jacob Tomcak Run For Two-Point Conversion)

Third Quarter
HD - :50 Charlie Dvorak 21 Yd Pass From Jacob Tomcak (Failed Two-Point Conversion)

Fourth Quarter
LCC - 10:21 Noah Schutte 9 Yd Pass From Ty Erwin (Failed Two-Point Conversion)
LCC - 8:41 Kaleb Heitman 11 Yd Pass From Ty Erwin (Failed Two-Point Conversion)
HD - 6:02 Levi Belina 52 Yd Run (Levi Belina Run For Two-Point Conversion)
LCC - 4:00 Noah Schutte 15 Yd Pass From Ty Erwin (Noah Schutte Run For Two-Point Conversion)

Belina had 23 carries for 200 yards, and scored three touchdowns.

Tomcak was 7-13 passing for 86 yards with a touchdown and an interception.

Trevor Schumacher had 12 tackles while Belina and R.J. Bayer each made 11.

Howells-Dodge had 332 yards of total offense, including 246 on the ground.

Things got a little close for comfort at the end of the game.

The Jaguars (7-0) host Madison (2-5) in the regular season finale Friday night.

The Dragons lost 76-28 at home to Lutheran High Northeast last week.

This should be an easy, routine win for Howells-Dodge.

This is one of those games where the Jaguars should play starters for maybe a quarter or two, and then rest players for the playoffs.

I would also even consider resting some starters the whole game depending on their health.

Howells-Dodge has gotten through every challenge on their schedule, and are currently sit atop the power points standings in D-1.

This is one of those games where you want to rest everyone and get everybody healthy for the playoffs.

I feel this game comes at a good time for the Jaguars given who they've played and where they are at.

This might be an opportunity to get some players, and in particular seniors, who don't get a ton of playing time, a lot of playing time.

There's a lot in front of Howells-Dodge yet in terms of the playoffs, and the Jaguars should be able to handle the Dragons fairly easily I would think.

Belina needs to have a big game running the ball and Tomcak has to be big as well.

Howells-Dodge has to go out there and dominate, and put the game away early.

I don't know if a win over Madison will cause the Jaguars' power points to drop a whole lot, but hopefully Howells-Dodge is able to lock up the number one seed in the East.

BDS is 2nd right now and they are always very tough.

The Jaguars need to play well and work out any kinks in the armor in this game.

Howells-Dodge has to shore up any areas or things of struggle prior to the playoffs.

The Jaguars have had a great regular season now Howells-Dodge just has go out there and finish the job and task of going undefeated in the regular season.

The Jaguars have gotten through murderers row so to speak so this game with the Dragons should be a nice change of pace so to speak.

Clarkson/Leigh routs Mead; wraps up District Title

The Clarkson/Leigh Football Team routed Mead 44-8 on the road Friday night, and wrapped up the District Championship.

The Patriots led 14-0 at the end of one and 20-8 at halftime.

Clarkson/Leigh won the 3rd quarter 8-0 to go up 28-8 at the end of three.

The Patriots blanked the Raiders 16-0 in the 4th quarter.

Eli Hays had 15 carries for 176 yards and four touchdowns while Drew Beeson carried the ball 11 times for 110 yards and scored once. Lance Paprocki added 73 yards rushing on 16 carries, including a score.

Mitchel Beeson had 7 tackles.

Clarkson/Leigh had 357 yards of total offense, all on the ground.

The defense surrendered just 78 yards of total offense, including 13 rushing.

Great win for the Patriots. Dominant performance and a great way to win the District Title.

Clarkson/Leigh (5-2) plays host to Emerson-Hubbard (2-5) Friday night in the regular season finale.

The Pirates fell 43-16 at home to Pender last week.

The Patriots beat the Pendragons 60-6.

Clarkson/Leigh should go out there and roll to a big win once again.

The Patriots have to build a huge lead early and get starters out and save and rest them for the playoffs.

Clarkson/Leigh has to put Emerson-Hubbard away early, and in the process eliminate the Pirates from playoff contention and improve their playoff seeding.

Right now it looks like the Patriots may host a first round playoff game if they cap off the regular season with a win.

That's why Clarkson/Leigh has to go out there and smash Emerson-Hubbard early, and get payback for the District Title Showdown loss last year.

The game is in Leigh, and the Patriots have to go out there and play a great and amazing game.

I've been so impressed with Clarkson/Leigh this year given all the adversity they've been hit and had to deal with.

Now the Patriots have to go out there and finish and seal the deal in the regular season.

A 6-2 record with a 6-game winning streak heading into the playoffs would be quite the run and streak.

I don't know about you, but I don't think I would want to play Clarkson/Leigh right now.

I feel the Patriots are a huge threat to do something in the playoffs, and perhaps pull off an upset and make a run with the right matchup (s).

Clarkson/Leigh has to wrap the regular season up in style first though.

The Patriots have to worry about the Pirates first and then they can focus on the playoffs.

I will admit though it is probably not easy to contain the excitement level that has to be surrounding the team and program with the playoffs looming.

There's a lot left for Clarkson/Leigh to achieve and accomplish yet this season.

Emerson-Hubbard falls at home to Pender

The Emerson-Hubbard Football Team lost 43-16 at home to Pender Friday night.

The Pendragons led 7-0 after one, and 14-8 at halftime.

Pender won the 3rd quarter 14-8 to go up 28-16 at the end of three.

The Pendragons blanked the Pirates 15-0 in the 4th quarter.

The defense gave up 428 yards of total offense, including 378 on the ground.

Tough to lose to a rival this way.

Emerson-Hubbard (2-5) travels to Clarkson/Leigh (5-2) to take on the Patriots Friday night in the regular season finale.

Clarkson/Leigh won 44-8 at Mead last week.

The Raiders defeated the Pirates 20-6 at home on October 4th.

Emerson-Hubbard beat the Patriots for the District Title last year though when most thought the Patriots would win.

Clarkson/Leigh already has the District wrapped up, but Emerson-Hubbard is still playing for a potential playoff berth.

The Pirates currently sit 38th in power point standings, but a win could possibly get them into the playoffs.

Emerson-Hubbard has a tall task in front of them and probably needs some help, but anything can certainly happen.

This do or die time for the Pirates.

Win and the season possibly continues, lose and the season is over.

Emerson-Hubbard has to go out there and gut things out and give it their all.

The Pirates haven't had the kind of season they would have liked so far I'm sure, but there is still time to make amends possibly.

Emerson-Hubbard hasn't had an easy schedule by any means.

Going into Leigh and winning is certainly asking a lot, but it can be done.

It's win or go home time for the Pirates, and Emerson-Hubbard needs to come out and play a great game.

The Pirates received some news recently, and that is they will not be combining with Wakefield and Allen now.

That co-op is not happening now as Wakefield shot it down.

So that means for at least the immediate future that Emerson-Hubbard will continue to be on their own.

And for right now, I'm not so sure if that's a bad thing, at least for boys sports.

BRLD uses goal line stand to hold off Fremont Bergan

The BRLD Football Team downed Fremont Bergan 42-36 in overtime on the road Friday night.

The Wolverines used a goal line stand on 4th down to win the game.

The Knights led 7-6 after one, and 21-12 at halftime.

BRLD outscored Bergan 16-7 in the 3rd quarter to tie the game at 28 at the end of three.

Both teams scored 8 points in the 4th quarter and the game went to OT tied at 36.

The Wolverines blanked the Knights 6-0 in the extra session.

Will Gatzemeyer was 14-29 passing for 236 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Jaxon Johnson hauled in 6 passes for 67 yards and scored twice. Dylan Beutler made 3 catches for 66 yards while Caden Hansen had 2 receptions for 66 yards.

Gatzemeyer had 225 yards rushing on 32 carries, and scored twice. Kobe Lyons added 62 yards on 20 carries and had four touchdowns.

Gus Gomez made 12 tackles while Colten Briggs registered 8. Johnson and Gatzemeyer each had 7.

BRLD had 523 yards of total offense, including 287 rushing.

The defense gave up 405 yards of total offense, including 327 on the ground.

Head Coach Dan Maresh says his team has a flare for the dramatic. "Our kids really enjoy being in those big moments as they have shown in their success in other sports. They have been in those situations before and have come out on the right end of those more often than not. The defense stood tall we needed a stop because if they scored a TD they would be able to kick the extra point for the win. "

The Wolverines (8-0) host Oakland-Craig (8-0) Friday night for the District Title.

The Knights routed Yutan 66-7 on the road last week.

Maresh says O-C is the complete package. "Tough matchup for us on Friday going against a very physical well coached team. Their defense is very aggressive and will take advantage of any mistakes. Offensively they are very good at what they do. Tough ground game to stop and efficient through the air. They have done a nice job developing their players throughout the season. We will need to create some turnovers and and generate some big plays on offense outside of Will."

Perhaps Johnson, Beutler, and Hansen will step up in the passing game again, and Lyons in the running game.

If they do I feel their contributions will need to be increased for BRLD to win.

I think Gatzemeyer will need to have the game of his life. He has over 1700 yards passing and more than 1200 rushing this season.

Maresh says Gatzemeyer is the glue to the team. "Will makes us go on offense, he acts like the point guard and gets the ball where it needs to be. He has been grown into a bigger role as a ball carrier this year when we need some tough yardage. "

I feel like a close game would be an advantage for the Wolverines, but a double digit margin of victory would favor the Knights.

It will be really interesting to see what happens because BRLD owns close wins over Norfolk Catholic and Bergan and Oakland-Craig hasn't really been in any close games or dog fights this year.

This game figures to be absolutely bonkers and nuts.

Maresh says the playoffs are more important. "It is a huge game for us but will not define our season. We understand that the playoffs are ahead of us and that is where we really want to be playing our best football. I think last years playoff game against Centennial High School was a bigger game because it really showed our kids how good they could be and motivated them this offseason to see themselves as a top team."

This game figures to be big from the standpoint of playoff seeding and momentum.

The Wolverines lost last year's game 21-20 in Oakland as Gatzemeyer slipped on a two-point conversion that would have probably won the game for BRLD.

Maresh says the team hasn't really dwelled on that game. "We haven't really talked about it much, been a new season and have had a lot of new faces play vital roles for us that weren't out there last year."

We'll see if Will and the Wolverines can get revenge and payback this year.

Oakland-Craig blasts Yutan

The Oakland-Craig Football Team routed Yutan 66-7 on the road Friday night.

Jaron Meyer had 162 yards rushing on 7 carries, and scored two touchdowns. Coulter Thiele had a 60-yard rushing touchdown.

Colten Thomsen was 5-8 passing for 77 yards with 2 touchdowns and an interception.

Ian Lundquist had 7 tackles.

The Knights had 634 yards of total offense, including 517 on the ground.

Crazy and amazing numbers/stats/results for Oakland-Craig.

The Knights (8-0) take on BRLD (8-0) on the road Friday night for the District Title.

The Wolverines used a goal line stand on 4th and goal to defeat Fremont Bergan 42-36 in overtime on the road last week.

Head Coach Joe Anderson talks about the keys to beating a dynamic team like the Wolverines. "Our kids are looking forward to a very hard fought game. BRLD is a great football team, that has a ton of talent. They have a bunch of weapons, so they can attack you in so many different ways. We are going to have to be very sound in our assignments and techniques for us to get a win."

The Wolverines are led by star Quarterback Will Gatzemeyer, who has over 1700 yards passing and 1200 rushing for the season.

Anderson says Gatzemeyer is really difficult to defend. "Will is one of the top QB's in the state. He has always been a great athlete that is almost impossible to tackle in space, but now he is an elite passer as well. He runs their system very well, so we have to find a way to limit their big plays."

Anderson adds this game will serve as a great playoff prep game. "Winning a district title is one of the goals our group set this year. IF you win your district in this area, you know you have put yourself in a great position for the playoffs.  However, it is not their ultimate goal for the season. This game comes at a great time. It is the kind of game that will get you ready for playoff football, win or lose. There will be a great crowd and a playoff type atmosphere."

You have to wonder if these two teams will meet in the playoffs as well.

The Knights are averaging 55 points a game offensively. Anderson says it's been more than one player who has contributed to Oakland-Craig's dynamic offense this season. "The best part of our offense is that we are very multiple. We have 4 or 5 guys that carry the football and can attack you in different ways. Jaron has really stepped up for us lately and has been our homerun threat.  Coulter Thiele and Ian Lundquist have also had big games for us. Colten Thomsen has done a great job of running our offense. He has really been throwing the ball well."

Oakland-Craig has obliterated pretty much everyone they've played this year. Anderson says his team's preparation is to credit for that. "Our guys do a great job of preparing each week. They have done a good job of taking this season one game at a time, and have really come out and executed the game plan each week. We have gotten off to some very fast starts, which allowed us to put the game away early."

If the Knights get off to the same type of start they have since the Crofton game I think they will win.

However, if the game is close at the end then I feel the Wolverines could win.

It will be very interesting to follow this one and see how things turn out.

Tekamah-Herman picks up 3rd win of year over Louisville

The Tekamah-Herman Football Team defeated Louisville 32-22 at home Friday night.

The Tigers went up 14-6 at the end of one before leading 20-14 at halftime.

Tekamah-Herman shutout the Lions 6-0 in the 3rd quarter to go up 26-14 at the end of three.

Louisville won the 4th quarter 8-6.

Luke Wakehouse had 222 yards rushing on 21 carries, and scored four touchdowns.

Clay Beaumont completed 1-2 passes for a 65-yard touchdown to Chauncey Rogers.

Kody Bitter and Garrison Potadle each had 15 tackles while Connor Feiling notched 10.

The Tigers had 317 yards of total offense, including 252 on the ground.

Great win for Tekamah-Herman. To get to 3 wins is a big deal for the Tigers.

Tekamah-Herman (3-5) closes out the season at Fremont Bergan (6-2) Friday night.

The Knights lost 42-36 at home in overtime to BRLD last week.

Tough game for the Tigers, but I fully expect Tekamah-Herman to go in there and play well.

These seniors have had quite the ride for the Tigers over the last four years.

They've been hit and dealt with so much adversity, and should be very proud of themselves.

The way Tekamah-Herman has conducted themselves and gone about their business has been very impressive.

The Tigers have improved every season the last 5 years, and should be very proud of their efforts.

This is the best season Tekamah-Herman has had in recent years, and they should take great pride in that.

It all comes to an end on Friday though, and that's why the Tigers have to go out there and play the game of their lives.

Tekamah-Herman went into Yutan and won last year, and I think this game is similar in many ways.

The Tigers have to take care of the ball and can't turn it over.

Tekamah-Herman has to play a perfect and flawless game if they want to come out on top.

The Tigers can definitely win too, but they have to get very physical and hit hard.

Bergan has a lot to play for in terms of the playoffs and seeding, but Tekamah-Herman has a lot to play for in terms of pride.

The Tigers have to play with a lot of hard and run the ball well on the Knights.

Tekamah-Herman has to play with the heart of a champion, and take the fight to Bergan for four quarters.

This is it, this is the final game of the season, and the final high school football game of these seniors' careers.

It's most likely the last organized football game most if not all of these seniors will ever play in their lives.

Forever is about to happen on Friday, and the Tigers have to go out there and play like there is no tomorrow because there's not.

North Bend Central edges Shelby-Rising City

The North Bend Central Football Team defeated Shelby-Rising City 16-13 at home Friday night.

Here is Head Coach Ryan Stieren with the recap:

We scored all of our points in the first half which included a score on the first drive and a field goal by Jarrett Poessnecker right before halftime. Offensively, we were led by Ethan Mullally who had 185 yards on 34 carries and 2 Touchdowns. Austin Endorf was 12-24 passing for 135 yards. Cody Prohaska caught 4 passes for 89 yards. Defensively, Ian Virka had 8 tackles and a Sack. Cody Prohaska and Allan Orellana each had an interception. We held them to under 200 yards of total offense.

The Tigers had 338 yards of total offense, including 203 yards rushing.

Stieren says his defense was tough as nails once again. "It was an outstanding effort by our defense tonight. We are playing at an elite level defensively right now as we have held two outstanding offenses to under 200 yards of total offense each of the last two weeks. Next week we play a really tough David City team with an opportunity to win the district."

The Tigers are 7-1 on the year while the Scouts come in at 4-4.

David City lost 33-14 at Centennial last week.

North Bend Central has an opportunity to earn the 4 seed in the playoffs and win the District with a win.

A lot is at stake for the Tigers, and this is what you play and practice for if you are North Bend Central.

Sure, the loss to the Broncos a few weeks back was disappointing, but the Tigers have followed that loss up with two outstanding performances.

It's a huge game for North Bend Central, and this program has a chance to be in a place it hasn't been in quite some time.

The Tigers are having an incredible season, and need to finish things off.

David City is no slouch though.

North Bend Central can't take them lightly or think they have a win in the bag.

The Tigers need to play the same way they did against Aquinas and Shelby-Rising City.

The defense has to be spectacular once again, and Endorf and the offense has to be on point.

North Bend Central needs good offensive balance once again this week.

The Tigers have to run and throw the ball well to keep the Scouts on their heels and guessing.

This is arguably one of the biggest games in recent program history from the standpoint of a District Title and playoff seeding.

North Bend Central has knocked off a couple of absolute juggernauts in their last two games and now need to finish and seal the deal on Friday.

Hopefully a great and tremendous crowd turns out to support this team and program.

The Tigers are having a great and special season, and need to keep it rolling and on track Friday night.

North Bend Central has to jump out to a lead and keep adding to it while relying on their defense to slam the door shut on David City.

West Point-Beemer routed at Pierce

The West Point-Beemer Football Team lost 60-6 at Pierce Friday night.

The Bluejays led 14-0 at the end of one and 40-0 at halftime.

Pierce went up 53-0 at the end of three, and won the 4th quarter 7-6.

The defense gave up 430 yards of total offense, including 387 on the ground.

Not the way the Cadets wanted or hoped the game would go that's for sure.

West Point-Beemer (3-5) hosts Logan View/Scribner-Snyder (0-8) to round out the season Friday night.

This is pretty much the end of the season for the Cadets as it does not appear likely that they are going to qualify for the playoffs.

West Point-Beemer has to go out there and try and pick up win number four for pride purposes.

The Cadets figure to get a hungry, motivated, and angry Logan View/Scribner-Snyder team so they have to be ready.

The Raiders are going to give West Point-Beemer their best shot, that you can bet on.

The Cadets have to be ready to take Logan View/Scribner-Snyder's best shot, and must match their physicality and toughness.

West Point-Beemer has to come through in the clutch and find a way to win the close game.

The Raiders have struggled in close games all season so we'll see if Friday night's season finale is any different.

The Cadets have to be motivated and have to want to be there though.

I'm a bit concerned about West Point-Beemer's motivation and want to given the only thing they're playing for at this point is pride.

This game is important though as it goes a long ways in building for next season.

The Cadets are a very young team, and winning this game would create some positive momentum heading into the offseason I feel.

A loss would set West Point-Beemer back in a negative direction I feel.

I think 4-5 would feel better than 3-6.

I think the Cadets can definitely win, and if they do it figures to be a close win.

I could also see a scenario in which Logan View/Scribner-Snyder comes out and routs West Point-Beemer just because I feel the Raiders have underperformed and underachieved all season long.

And if the Cadets do get blown out I think that would be more of a testament to how good Logan View/Scribner-Snyder really is as opposed to West Point-Beemer struggling.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder falls at home to Columbus Scotus

The Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Football Team lost 42-22 at home to Columbus Scotus Friday night in action aired on 107.9 the Bull.

The Raiders trailed 21-14 at one point in the game, but that was as close as they would get.

I thought LVSS did a nice job of competing and making the game close for a while.

The Raiders (0-8) take on West Point-Beemer (3-5) on the road Friday night to wrap up the season.

The Cadets lost 60-6 at Pierce last week.

I wouldn't be shocked if Logan View/Scribner-Snyder went in there and found a way to win.

The Raiders have to want it more though, and must play harder with more sense of urgency and purpose than the Cadets.

West Point-Beemer may not want it as much as Logan View/Scribner-Snyder, and may not care as much.

I look for the Raiders to fight for a big win, and try and pick up their first and only win of the season.

It has been a season of frustrating close calls for Logan View/Scribner-Snyder, and the Raiders have to take a full season's frustration out on the Cadets.

LVSS has to throw the kitchen sink at West Point-Beemer.

The Raiders have to be like a caged animal ready to burst and breakout.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has to hit hard and lay the smackdown on the Cadets.

Pancake blocks and big decleating blocks will be big and important I feel.

This is essentially like a playoff game for the Raiders as it is their season finale.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder has absolutely nothing to lose in this one so they need to come out and play well.

The Raiders have to grind and pound the ball right at West Point-Beemer, and wear down the Cadets.

A victory would be very sweet for Logan View/Scribner-Snyder no doubt, but it won't come easy you wouldn't think.

Still though West Point-Beemer has really struggled the last couple of weeks so you have to wonder how much motivation they have right now.

I feel the Raiders could be more hungry and motivated than what the Cadets will be, but we will see.

I fully expect it to be a close game and for both teams to really get after one another and fight hard until the very end.

Pender routs Emerson-Hubbard on road

The Pender Football Team won 43-16 at Emerson-Hubbard Friday night.

The Pendragons led 7-0 after one, and 14-8 at halftime.

Pender won the 3rd quarter 14-8 to go up 28-16 at the end of three.

The Pendragons blanked the Pirates 15-0 in the 4th quarter.

Dylan Vogt had 28 carries for 167 yards and two scores. Caleb Trimble ran the ball 16 times for 119 yards and scored three times. Jaxon Mrsny had 84 yards rushing on 15 carries.

Vogt had 12 tackles while Larry McManigal had 8.

Pender had 428 yards of total offense, including 378 on the ground.

Great win for the Pendragons over a rival.

Pender (3-4) takes on Omaha Christian Academy (0-7) on the road Thursday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Eagles fell 62-19 at home to Cedar Bluffs last week.

Honestly shouldn't be much of a game, but the Pendragons still have to go out there and play well.

Despite possibly finishing 4-4, it looks like Pender could very well miss the playoffs.

It's too bad too because there are a bunch of two win teams and a one win team from the West that could make the playoffs and teams like Pender and Wynot get left home.

It is what it is, but I'm willing to bet the Pendragons and Blue Devils are better than those teams.

It's frustrating, but all Pender can do is go out there and rout Omaha Christian Academy.

The Pendragons have to take their frustrations out on the Eagles, and make it a memorable potential last game.

Pender has to go out there and annihilate Omaha Christian Academy.

The Pendragons have to score early and often, and leave their mark in and on this game.

Pender has to go out there and play a great and amazing contest, and must take the fight to the Eagles.

The Pendragons have to look to score early and often and play shutdown defense.

If there's a silver lining to Pender possibly not making the playoffs it's their win over Emerson-Hubbard nearly knocked the Pirates out of the playoffs.

Emerson-Hubbard will need to beat Clarkson/Leigh in Friday night's regular season finale to hope to get in, and that is a very tall and daunting task for the Pirates for sure.

It will really be too bad if the Pendragons don't get into the playoffs because they are definitely worthy of making it in.

Pender hasn't played the toughest schedule though, and that's what it ultimately is going to come to if they don't get in.

It could ultimately be the demise for the Pendragons and cost them a trip to the postseason.

Thursday night's game is slated to kickoff at 7:00 p.m. with pregame beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the Bull.

Stanton blanked at Norfolk Catholic

The Stanton Football Team fell 42-0 at Norfolk Catholic Friday night.

Gage Tighe had 100 yards rushing on 20 carries to lead the Mustangs.

Parker Krusemark made 10 tackles while Tighe had 8. Mason Bruggeman made 7.

Stanton had 169 yards of total offense, including 142 on the ground.

Valiant effort by the Mustangs, but it just wasn't enough to beat a powerhouse and quality team like the Knights.

Stanton (2-6) concludes the year at home against Hartington Cedar Catholic (4-4) Thursday night.

The Trojans fell 21-18 at home to Battle Creek last week.

Cedar Catholic also won 34-7 at Norfolk Catholic the first Friday of the month.

So the Mustangs definitely have their work cut out for them once again, but it's the last game of the year so Stanton has to throw everything they have at the Trojans.

Stanton has to throw every play, every trick play in the playbook at Cedar Catholic, throw the kitchen sink at them if you may.

The Mustangs have absolutely nothing to lose in this game and should have no fear at all.

Stanton has to be the more physical team at the line of scrimmage and has to run the ball well and play good run defense.

Last week's loss was disappointing and disheartening from a final score standpoint I'm sure as the only real lone bright spot was Tighe's running.

It's something the Mustangs can build off of and improve on for sure though.

Stanton has to come out and be the aggressor Thursday night.

The Mustangs have to run the ball right at the Trojans and challenge Cedar Catholic in the trenches.

Stanton has to get low and have excellent technique and must continue to open up the running lanes for Tighe.

The Mustangs have to stuff the run in the backfield as well and get fired up when they do it.

Chest and fist bumping and butting shoulder pads should be something Stanton does often.

The Mustangs have to come out and play with a lot of pride Friday night.

Stanton has nothing to play for in terms of the playoffs, but this game still matters, especially to the seniors.

The seniors have worked their tails off the last four years to get to where they are, and now their High School Football careers are just about over.

The Mustang Seniors have one final game to go out there and do their thing.

And so Christian Flood, Ben Wilke, Jackson Benson, and Issiah Borgmann need to go out there and play their game and play as if there is no tomorrow because there's not.