Nathan Hale is 0-7 against Claremore since September of 2016 but things could change on Friday. The Rangers will venture away from home to face off against the Zebras at 7:00 p.m. Nathan Hale's defense has only allowed 13.2 points per game this season, so Claremore's offense will have their work cut out for them.
Nathan Hale took a loss when they played away from home last Friday, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Thursday. They blew past Memorial 64-6. That 58 point margin sets a new team best for the Rangers this season.
It was another big night for Jordan Deroin, who threw for 305 yards and five touchdowns while picking up 11.7 yards per attempt, and also punched in one TD on the ground. Cameron Turner was another key player, gaining 201 total yards.
Nathan Hale was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 224 rushing yards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now rushed for at least 186 rushing yards in three consecutive matchups.
Nathan Hale didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off three passes before the game was over. The picks came courtesy of Leeroy Wells and London Hunt. Wells got in on the action too, converting a pick into a touchdown.
Meanwhile, Claremore put another one in the bag on Friday to keep their perfect season alive. They came within four points of losing the streak, but they secured a 21-17 W against Tahlequah. The score was all tied up 7-7 at the break, but the Zebras were the better team in the second half.
Nathan Hale better keep an eye on Cecil Garrett. He was instrumental in Claremore's win, rushing for 136 yards and one score. Garrett is crushing it when it comes to rushing yards: he's rushed for at least 136 every time he's taken the field this season.
Nathan Hale's record now sits at 3-1. As for Claremore, their record is now 4-0.
Friday's game might be decided on the ground. Nathan Hale has been unstoppable on the ground this season, having averaged 208.8 rushing yards per game. However, it's not like Claremore struggles in that department as they've been averaging 208 rushing yards. There's a good chance Friday's contest turns into a tough fight on the ground.
Nathan Hale might still be hurting after the 47-21 loss they got from Claremore in their previous matchup back in October of 2024. Thankfully for the Rangers, Brad Hoisington (who threw for 117 yards and three touchdowns, and also rushed for 43 yards and one TD) won't be suiting up this time. Will that be enough to change the final result? There's only one way to find out.
