The Dexter Bearcats claimed a decisive victory against the Park Hills Central Rebels with a final score of 35-12. The game was anticipated to be challenging, akin to their encounter with Southern Boone, but the Bearcats managed to control the game effectively through key plays and strategic gameplay. This was also the 'Cats annual pink night for breast cancer awareness.
The game began dramatically as Park Hills' kickoff returner fumbled; Dexter's Jackson Miller #1 recovered, but couldn't advance due to the muff rule.
"We couldn't advance the ball on a kickoff. I've seen that happen a couple times over the 20 years, and there was one time, actually, it didn't get called," commented Dexter Bearcat Football Coach Chad Jamerson. It got the crowd going into the game and really, it really fueled that next drive that we had.
The Bearcats capitalized early, scoring a touchdown with a 4-yard run by Nolan Alford #12. The extra point failed, leaving the score at 6-0 in favor of Dexter.
The only other score in the first half was early in the second quarter, starting from their 2-yard line, Dexter advanced, but were stopped to set up a 28-yard field goal by Parker King, increasing the lead to 9-0 at halftime.
"I mean, how huge has Parker King been this year in big time games, guys, he's come out and he's performed not only on the extra points, but he's also performed when his number was called on field goals," continued Jamerson. "So, I mean, no doubt Parker has shown up and shown out for us and he's done a great job of taking care of our kicking in."
The third quarter saw significant defensive play from the Bearcats, highlighted by an interception from Houston Neely, which shifted the game’s momentum. This led to the Bearcats scoring another touchdown and a successful extra point, bringing the score to 16-6.
Attempting a comeback, the Rebels scored, but another interception by Neely thwarted further advances. This was promptly followed by another touchdown by Jett Grams, which kept the lead firm for the Bearcats at 22-6, despite a missed extra point. Neely's interceptions played a pivotal role in maintaining the Bearcats' lead, neutralizing Park Hills’ advances and setting up opportunities for the Bearcats to build on their lead.
Park Hills fought back with a touchdown by quarterback Jackson Jones but failed the two-point conversion, leaving the score at 22-12.
The Bearcats extended their lead with a 43-yard touchdown pass from Jackson Howard to Lee Michael McDonald. Extra point was good by King. Then another rushing touchdown by Devin Turnbo.
Parker King, on special teams, played a crucial roll in both extra points and field goals, showcased reliability by successfully kicking a 28-yard field goal.
Lee Michael McDonald drew admiration for his elusive playing style highlighting his agility and unpredictability.
"Any time that Lee Michael is on the field, we've said this for I don't know how many weeks, how many years by now, but he's lightning in a bottle. He's just running," stated Jamerson. "I mean, I would say trying to tackle Lee Michael is like trying to eat tomato soup with a fork. You're just not going to be able to do it effectively. He just finds a way. I mean, goodness sakes, that pass play wasn't even the initial route. He just found an opening and streaked across. And those are the things that Lee Michael brings to this offense that really kind of opens it up.
Jett Grams and other offensive players were credited for their explosiveness and agility, stressing the depth in Dexter's lineup.
"Clearly tonight, Park Hill's goal was to take away Jett Gram's ability" continued Jamerson. "They struggled at times to do that, but, you know, we're fortunate enough to have other weapons."
Houston Neely made significant contributions with two interceptions, pivotal for the team's second-half success.
"He is a leader through and through. Obviously, he's a great tight end. Two time all conference tight end. Should have been an all-state last year. You know, his production hasn't been what it's been in the past because he has sacrificed to make sure other parts of the offense work. I think that's a testament to his leadership is he realizes the weapons that we have and what kind of offense we are. So he is sacrificing the production that he's had these last couple years. I think that speaks. I think that's a testament to his character, to his leadership, that at the end of the day, he just wants the team to be successful."
Logan Pulliam and Langston Wernick stood out for their solid performances and capacity to make crucial plays. Langston was particularly noted for filling the role of the injured Lee Michael McDonald earlier in the season..
The Bearcats enjoyed a commanding victory at home against a challenging opponent. The dynamic start, coupled with robust mid-game defensive plays and consistent offensive execution, ensured their success against the Rebels. Securing a top seed in the district could lead to home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, providing significant strategic benefits.
Next week, the Bearcats aim to finish a perfect regular season against Scott City, a team with a solid reputation. It's also SENIOR NIGHT for the Bearcats and 17 football seniors will take the field in their last regular season home game!
