It can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but the Nemaha Central Thunder had no problem doing just that on Friday. They put the hurt on Osage City with a sharp 53-27 victory. The victory was just business as usual for Nemaha Central, who after 11 games remain undefeated this season.
Nemaha Central found their leader in underclassman Carter Hajek, who rushed for 242 yards and three touchdowns while picking up 8.3 yards per carry, and also threw for 55 yards and a touchdown. Hajek is absolutely dominating the rushing touchdown category: he's posted at least two every time he's taken the field this season. Cooper Kramer made the highlight reel by snagging an interception and taking it all the way to the house.
Despite the loss, Osage City still got an impressive performance from Cooper Parsons, who rushed for 49 yards and two touchdowns, and also picked up 31 receiving yards.
Nemaha Central has yet to lose a matchup at home this season, leaving them with a 11-0 record. They've been dominating during the matchups in that stretch too, as they've won by an average of 41.46 points. As for Osage City, their loss ended a three-game streak of away wins and brought them to 9-2.
Nemaha Central will play host again and welcome Sabetha, where kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Sabetha is also coming in off of a big victory, so somebody is in for a big reversal of fortune. Osage City does not have any more games scheduled as of now.
