By Sandy Anderberg
They dreamt of it and they worked for it and now the Broncos’ dream of a playoff spot is real life because of a strong surge in the final two games of the season.
The Broncos had to win their last two District games to have a chance at post-season play and they achieved their goal against two very tough teams. Friday night in Bronco Stadium, the Broncos defeated a long-time foe 34-20 in front of their hometown fans. The team finished at 4-5 overall and 3-2 in District play for third place behind Stratford and Panhandle; two teams that the Broncos played tough in regular season play.
The win was overwhelming for all involved.
“I am so proud of our kids for finishing like they did,” head coach Gary Jack said. “We battled against two very tough teams to get the wins. It is crazy how the season ended, but we are playing some of our best football right now.”
The Broncos struck first when Charles Mason scored on a 12-yard run and JoJo Cartwright added the kick to go up by seven. Mason scored two more times in the second quarter on a huge 71-yard run and a three-yard run. Zack Laroe added a two-point run for a bonus.
“Charles had a big night for us,” Jack said.
Mason carried the ball 23 times and racked up 201 yards and three touchdowns.
“Chance McAnear also had a solid game and Cedrick McCampbell and Zack Laroe made some big catches,” Jack said.
Caleb Cobb and McCampbell finished out the scoring for the Broncos.
“Our line blocked well, too.” Offensively, the Broncos were on target with 399 total yards, but defensively, the Broncos stood their ground. “Our kids made things happen on defense,” Jack said. “We came up with three interceptions and caused a fumble. We stopped them when we needed to.”
Jack noted that the Broncos’ district was one of the toughest around.
“We had to battle every week,” Jack said. “Our district is so tough. But we gave ourselves a shot and we have a chance. Making the play offs is a bonus and now we have to play week to week. It is a great way to end our regular season and I am very pleased with the players and coaches. We are a young team and we have fought numbers and injuries, but we finished on a high note. It’s been a challenging year; up and down, but our kids responded well.”
The Broncos will take on New Deal at Highland Park in Amarillo on Friday, November 15, at 7:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast live on 105.3 FM KLSR.
“New Deal were ranked number six in the state last week, and they had their first loss of the season on Friday, so they will be tough,” Jack said. “They will be favored to win, but we have a good shot. Our tough district has made us better.”
The Broncos have gotten tougher, and they are up for the challenge Friday night.
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