Class 4A notebook: Weatherford is No. 1, but there's not really a true favorite

Weatherford has moved up to No. 1 in the rankings and is undefeated, the only team in Class 4A to navigate the regular season without stumbling. But that doesn’t mean the Eagles are a lock to win it all. Legitimate contenders can be found in the brutal 4A-2 district that features Star Spencer (8-2), Glenpool (9-1) and Tecumseh (8-2). Sallisaw (9-1) and Bishop McGuinness (8-2) are always tough outs in the playoffs as well. Still, with a defense that gave up just 13 points per game while its offense is averaging 31, Weatherford has earned the right to be called the favorite.

Douglass (7-3) heads to Glenpool (9-1) for its first-round game. Of all the first-round matchups, this one seems to hold the most potential for a surprise. Glenpool has been steady all year long, but Douglass has been plagued by inconsistency at times. Still, the Trojans have loads of firepower with players like running back Quinten Neil, who has 1,200 yards rushing and 13 touchdowns this season, along with quarterback Antyoun Smith. Douglass can leave Glenpool with a win if it can limit penalties and turnovers.

Strange as it may seem, McGuinness has been a little bit under the radar this season. With Weatherford, Sallisaw and Glenpool holding down the roles of favorites, the Irish are capable of sneaking up on someone.

Weatherford’s Kale Sawatzky has been a force on defense this year with 109 tackles, but he’s also effective on offense, averaging 5.3 yards per carry as a running back. Star Spencer RB Darwin Rideau has more than 1,200 yards rushing this season and is averaging 13 yards per carry. He’s also dangerous on kickoff returns and defense, where he has three interceptions. Elk City QB Will Davis leads 4A with 2,300 yards passing and is also a threat on the ground with eight rushing touchdowns.

By Matt Patterson

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