The Jayton Jaybirds entered their State Semifinal game against the Follett Panthers with a clear understanding of their opponents. The Panthers were not out to surprise anybody with their game plan; Follett would do what they’ve done all season — rely on their running game. Instead of scoring at a fast pace like many six-man teams, the Panthers would do their best to keep the electric Jaybird offense off of the field as much as possible. The Panthers game plan was effective as they wore down the Jaybirds 52-32 to advance to the 1A Division 2 State Championship against Strawn at Cowboys Stadium on Dec. 19.
There were several key penalties and missed catches that opened the door for the Panthers to gain the advantage. In the opening drive, the Jaybird defense allowed short runs by the Panthers but kept things under control. On the first pass attempt from the Panthers at the goal line, Aaron Hernandez intercepted the pass and took the ball all the way down the field for a touchdown. This play would prove all for naught as the referee indicated that the Jaybird defense was offsides, keeping the ball under Panther control. Two plays later, the Panthers would score their opening touchdown.
Pecos Smith scored on a Hernandez pass as the 2nd-quarter clock expired, giving the Jaybirds life. Jayton entered the 2nd half behind 24-8. While Jayton moved the ball successfully, their drive stalled when Follett intercepted a Hernandez pass and scored, making the game 30-8. It was at this point that most teams would have rolled over and given up. The Jaybirds proved that they are not most teams.
Tye Scogin and Hernandez each scored rushing touchdowns and Cameron Benavides added a touchdown reception of his own. Tripp Scott was perfect in all of his PAT attempts. The defense refused to allow the Follett rushing attack an easy yard and kept the game from getting out of hand. The Jayton fans cheered loudly until the clock expired to end the 4th quarter. While Follett handled Jayton, they were unable to extend the gap in their lead.
The 2018 Jayton Jaybird football team accomplished great things this year, going further in the playoffs than any other Jayton team since 2007. While the team will lose capable starters in Kaden Awe and Keldan Moorhead to graduation, the Jaybirds will still have lots of firepower next year as they get bigger, faster and stronger over the off-season. The community of Jayton is proud of this team and their coaches. Well done Birds!
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