The Republic Tigers will take on the Webb City Cardinals at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Republic will aim to continue their four-game streak of scoring more points each matchup than the last.
Republic is on a roll after a high-stakes playoff matchup on Thursday. They blew past Willard, posting a 62-14 win. Republic's offense stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most points they've scored all season.
Matthew Pelfrey
| 10/30/25 vs Willard | 96 |
| 10/23/25 vs Willard | 39 |
| 10/17/25 vs Neosho | 43 |
| 10/03/25 @ Webb City | 17 |
| 09/26/25 vs Joplin | 22 |
| + 6 more games |
Republic got their victory on the backs of several key players, but it was Matthew Pelfrey out in front who rushed for 96 yards and a pair of TDs on only eight carries. That's the most rushing yards Pelfrey has posted since back in November of 2024. Izaiah Hull was in the mix too, providing Republic with three touchdowns.
Another reason for the win was Republic's imposing defense, which managed to get into the backfield for three sacks. The team can thank three different players for their defensive prowess: Ethan Montiel, Brentley Lahey, and Cooper White, who each picked up one sack apiece. Keiran Govan got in on the action too, converting a pick into a touchdown.
Meanwhile, Webb City humbled Parkview with a 52-21 victory. With the Cardinals ahead 31-7 at the half, the contest was all but over already.
Republic better keep an eye on Braden Strickland. He was instrumental in Webb City's win, rushing for 71 yards and one score, while also throwing for 82 yards and one TD.
Webb City didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off three passes before the game was over. It was truly a group effort as Karsen Myers, Mason Young, and Ben Wallace picked up one apiece. Webb City got some further help from Ethan Keller: he made 13 total tackles (2.0 for loss).
Republic's win was their fifth straight at home, which pushed their record up to 8-2. Those home victories came thanks in part to their offensive performance across that stretch, as they averaged 52.6 points over those games. As for Webb City, their record now sits at 7-3.
Friday's game might be decided on the ground. Republic has been unstoppable on the ground this season, having averaged 356 rushing yards per game. However, it's not like Webb City struggles in that department as they've been averaging 343.7 rushing yards. There's a good chance Friday's matchup turns into a tough fight on the ground.
Republic didn't have too much breathing room in their contest against Webb City in their previous matchup back in October, but they still walked away with a 27-21 win. Do the Tigers have another victory up their sleeve, or will the Cardinals turn the tables on them? We'll have the answer soon enough.
