By Audrey Dodgen/Staff Writer

After losing a must-win ball game to the Bishop McGuinness Irish, the Indians have an opportunity to re-establish a winning record with wins over Noble and Western Heights.

Noble (5-6 in 2004) lost last week to Western Heights, a team with the same record as the Indians.

The Bears fell to the Jets 23-15.
Noble is led by an experienced backfield, including senior quarterback Kyle Hallmark (5-10, 170).

He is joined by fullback Stephen Lewis and tailback Lance Rainbow.

The Bears offense is primarily a straight-ahead running game, El Reno head coach Dal Nichols said.

“They have some big guys and they’re strong. They like to run right up the middle. We’re going to have to use our speed against them,” he said.

Noble’s offensive line is anchored by linemen Dakota Wilson (6-1, 305) and Jason Glover (6-0, 225).

Defensive coordinator Steve Edmonson said the defense will have to work to be able to take on the Noble offense.

Nichols said if his team is mentally prepared, they can win their remaining games.

“I think we’re every bit as good as Noble and every bit as good as Western Heights,” he said.

“If we don’t come ready to play, it won’t make a bit of difference.”

If the Indians defeat both Noble and Western Heights, they will end the season 6-4, doubling the number of wins they tallied in 2004.

Defensive end Dylan Hughey, who picked up two sacks against McGuinness, said the team is playing for pride, a sentiment echoed by Edmonson.

“Now it’s just a matter of having pride in yourself as an athlete, and playing the best you can,” he said.