Both Motley County and Strawn are familiar with competing on the big stage, having made multiple appearances in the state title game in the past decade.
Strawn last won the title in a 48-0 victory over Follett in 2018, while Motley County suffered defeats to Richland Springs the last two times it has played for a state title. The Matadors have only won one state title in their history, back in 2007 against Woodson.
Here is what to watch for in the 1A Division II State Title Game on Wednesday at 2:00.
Tale of the Tape
Motley County Matadors
Head Coach: Mike Bigham
Distance from AT&T Stadium: 277 miles
2021 Playoff Results
Bi-District: W 52-6 vs. Rule
Area: W 68-44 vs. Balmorhea
Regional Final: W 60-8 vs. Jayton
State Semifinal: W 66-20 vs. Klondike
Key Players and Storylines
Motley County was blown out by Richland Springs 62-16 when it was in the state title game two years ago.
This year, the Matadors have been dominant with an average margin of victory of 49.7 points in their 14 games. They are led by running back Jake Richards, who was an integral part of the 2019 team and has rushed for 2,240 yards and 51 touchdowns on the season.
“Jake Richards is an extremely hard worker and has a love for the game,” Motley County head coach Mike Bigham said. “Jake is a team captain and has made others buy into how we run our program at Motley County by the example he has set for them. He is a true leader on and off the field.”
When it’s not Richards making plays on the ground with his speed and vision for the Matadors, keep an eye on Kason Degan who has been a formidable number two running back with 892 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns this year.
The Matadors don’t turn to the passing game too often, but sophomore quarterback Kadyn Roys has proven to be reliable when called upon, throwing for 898 yards and 20 touchdowns.
Degan has also been an impact playmaker on defense from his cornerback position. He scored two defensive touchdowns against Klondike in the state semifinal.
Up front, defensive end Wyatt Perryman has been a threat to opposing offenses with 56 solo tackles on the season.
Strawn Greyhounds
Head Coach: Dewaine Lee
Distance from AT&T Stadium: 90 miles
2021 Playoff Results
Bi-District: W 72-7 vs. Morgan
Area: W 61-8 vs. Throckmorton
Regional Final: W 66-16 vs. Gordon
State Semifinal: W 100-54 vs. Richland Springs
Key Players and Storylines
It has been all about the offense in Strawn this year. The Greyhounds are coming off a triple-digit outburst against Richland Spring in the state semifinals.
Much of the Greyhound offense this year has run through the Rigdon brothers. Freshman quarterback Grayson Rigdon rushed for 292 yards and six touchdowns against Richland Springs and added 93 yards through the air. His brother Griffin Rigdon added 191 yards and four touchdowns on the ground.
When it’s not the Rigdon brothers, senior Lorenzo Garcia has been another key part of the Strawn rushing attack. He added 57 yards and two touchdowns against Richland Springs.
Final Thoughts
Motley County has been regarded by many as the favorite in 1A Division II all year long, but Strawn will be a formidable test.
And with the rushing attacks both teams possess, this one could very well end up being a battle between Jake Richards and the Rigdon brothers to see which team comes out on top.
One thing is for sure on Wednesday afternoon. If you love offensive fireworks, this is a game you won’t want to miss.
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