Football Recap: Mccool Junction Takes Down Arcadia/Loup City in a Playoff Battle

It can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but McCool Junction had no problem doing just that on Thursday. They sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 44-42 win over the Arcadia/Loup City Rebels. The high-scoring effort was just what the Mustangs needed considering they were shut out in their previous contest.

Carson McDonald

Rushing Touchdowns

10/10/25 vs Centennial	4
09/26/25 @ Mead	4
09/12/25 @ Freeman	4
10/23/25 vs Arcadia/Loup City	3
10/03/25 @ Heartland	2
+ 2 more games

Carson McDonald was his usual excellent self, rushing for 138 yards and three touchdowns, while also throwing for 105 yards and a pair of TDs. McCool Junction is undefeated when McDonald posts two or more rushing touchdowns, but 1-2 otherwise. Colby Yates was another key player, picking up 55 receiving yards and a pair of scores.

McCool Junction's record is now 7-2. As for Arcadia/Loup City, their defeat dropped their record down to an identical 7-2.

Coming up, McCool Junction will head out to face off against Dundy County-Stratton at 2:00 p.m. on Friday. The Tigers' defense has only allowed 10.3 points per game this season, so the Mustangs' offense will have their work cut out for them. Arcadia/Loup City does not have any more games scheduled as of now.