Going into last Friday’s contest against the Wilson Mustangs, the 2–0 Jayton Jaybirds looked to make improvements from their previous games.
Senior Tripp Scott, who starts at receiver, safety and kicker, knew that he and his teammates would need to make adjustments as they progress through the season. “We came out flat against Aspermont earlier in the season,” said Scott. “We know that every team we play requires a dedication to remain focused.”
The Jaybirds certainly left an impression on the spectators who witnessed Jayton defeat the Mustangs 56–0. Senior running back Pecos Smith, the unquestioned leader of the team, spent the game on the sidelines recuperating from a minor injury. The Jayton rushing attack utilized senior back Caleb Valerio and sophomore Jaydon Rivera, who accounted for 5 rushing touchdowns between them. Junior quarterback Joel Williams and sophomore Ben Blankenship each passed for touchdowns, proving that the Jayton passing game is continuing to improve.
Defensively, sophomore defensive end Kaden Valerio led with 13 total tackles. Seniors Mason Long and Devon Jones controlled the line of scrimmage, never allowing the Mustangs to make headway during the contest. Caleb Valerio recovered a fumble to record Jayton’s lone takeaway of the game. All in all, the Jayton defense allowed Wilson’s offense to gain 21 total yards.
The story of the game was the special teams accomplishment from Scott. Out of his eight kickoff attempts, seven sailed through the back of the end zone for touchbacks. As a result, the Mustangs were unable to gain decent field position the entire game, putting continued pressure on their offense. Scott also converted seven out of seven PAT attempts. To score 14 points from PAT attempts in a game will allow the Jaybirds to achieve great success this season.
Jayton’s next game will be an away matchup against the Valley Patriots. Fans for both teams will notice that the head coaches of both squads share the same physical likenesses. Josh’s brother John Stanaland is in his second season as Valley head coach. Two seasons ago, the brothers played against one another when John coached in Rotan. KCBD called the game the “Brother Bowl.”
Jayton was able to win two seasons ago, so the younger Stanaland and the Patriots will look to even the score. Both brothers and their communities will be excited for the competition. The one exception to the rule will be their father and mother who will be there to cheer for both of her sons.
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