ADVANCE TO REGIONAL QUARTERFINAL!  EAST AT ST. X FRIDAY!

The Lakota East Thunderhawks showcased their offensive prowess this past Friday, tying an all-time scoring record with an explosive 59-47 victory over the Oak Hills Highlanders in the first round of the OHSAA Playoffs. This win marks the second consecutive season that Lakota East has advanced to the regional quarterfinals.

In a thrilling Halloween matchup, both teams combined for a staggering total of 1,129 yards and 106 points, with 15 touchdowns scored throughout the game. The last time Lakota East reached 59 points in a game was back in the 2005 season against Middletown.

Despite trailing for most of the game, Oak Hills fought back in the second half, narrowing the Thunderhawk lead to just 49-47 with 7:45 left on the clock. However, Lakota East extended its lead with a 20-yard field goal at the 4:58 mark, making it 52-47. The final nail in the coffin came when Ryder Hooks sprinted 52 yards for a touchdown, sealing the victory for the Thunderhawks.

Ryder Hooks delivered an outstanding performance, rushing for 275 yards on 16 carries and scoring four touchdowns, bringing his season total to 2,008 yards and 19 touchdowns. His career rushing record at East now stands at 4,279 yards over three seasons, with more opportunities ahead.

Quarterback Nile Knutson also had a stellar game, completing 16 of 21 passes for 293 yards, with four touchdowns and one interception. Patrick MacFarlane contributed to the offense with three receptions for 111 yards and two touchdowns, while Hooks added 90 receiving yards and another touchdown.

Looking ahead, No. 6 Lakota East will travel to face No. 3 St. Xavier on November 7 for the Regional Semi-Final. St. Xavier, with a record of 7-2 and a recent victory over St. Ignatius, has not faced Lakota East on the field previously. The anticipation builds as the Thunderhawks aim for continued success in the postseason!