The Sapulpa Chieftains play their first home game of the season this Friday against Tulsa’s Edison Eagles at Collins Stadium starting at 7 p.m., looking to bounce back after their hard-fought loss against the Sandites last week, ending in a score of 53-26.
Sapulpa’s opening bout in week zero of High School Football did not go according to the game plan, but still managed to turn some heads. Several playmakers including senior quarterback Zac Mason and big-time playmaker Tyreese Jones had great showings.
Mason threw for three touchdowns, including some long passes, and only one interception. Mason looked comfortable in the shotgun as the Chieftains’ spread offense allowed for long passes, along with delayed hand-offs to Jones who could power through any defensive line. Mason remained poised and was not afraid to throw screen passes to senior running back Jones to avoid sacks in the backfield.
Jones, at times, carried entire drives from returning the ball to receiving and running. Consistent running led to several long-yard pass completions and a breakout 61-yard touchdown by Jones himself.
Sapulpa’s defense also looked tough as they were able to get into the face of Sand Springs star senior Quarterback Ty Pennington. A few clutch sacks and a goalline stand led to several key stops keeping the Chieftains in the game going into the fourth quarter. The defensive side of the ball only struggled as the Sandites starting running a quicker pace offense and methodically running short passes and runs which could wear out anyone in the hot humid Oklahoma summer.
Sapulpa will continue their game plan on both sides of the ball while tightening up certain areas against Edison. Their main struggle was special teams, except a beautifully executed onside kick in the second half, with several misplayed punts that handed Sandites positive field position and crucial drive extending penalties including a key pass interference call. Penalties also hurt the offensive side of the ball that led to an early safety in the first quarter.
Edison will be opening their season this week. Sapulpa beat Edison last season 61-14 in Edison.
