Football Recap: Sutherland Skates Past Morrill with Ease

Sutherland's game last Thursday was a loss, but they didn't let that memory haunt them on Friday. They simply couldn't be stopped as they easily beat the Morrill Lions 76-16. The Sailors have beaten the Lions the last nine times they've met, but they better watch out: this was the closest the Lions has come to flipping the script.

Sutherland's victory was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Jackson Saner, who rushed for 52 yards and a pair of touchdowns on only six carries, and also threw for 30 yards and one TD. What's more, Saner racked up 177.1 passer rating, the most he's had since back in September of 2024. Another rusher making a difference was Jack Wallace, who rushed for 72 yards and a pair of scores.

They were just one part of a punishing run game: Sutherland was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 248 rushing yards. That's the most rushing yards they've managed all season.

Another reason for the win was Sutherland's imposing defense, which managed to get into the backfield for three sacks. The team can thank three different players for their defensive prowess: Wallace, Reid Dempcy, and Mason Mortimer, who each picked up one sack apiece. Sutherland received some extra help from Saner, whose fumble return for a touchdown made for one of the most unforgettable moments.

Sutherland's first win this season bumped their record up to 1-3. As for Morrill, their loss dropped their record down to 0-4.

Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Sutherland will face off against Perkins County on Friday. The Sailors will be up against the Plainsmen's rather soft defense (which has allowed 35.5 points per matchup), so fans could be in store for a big offensive performance. As for Morrill, they will head out on the road to face off against Hemingford at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. The Bobcats will aim to continue their three-game streak of scoring more points each game than the last.