(Lander, WY) – Friday was a special night in Lander, as the Tigers rolled over Jackson 55-35, marking the first time the Tigers have won a playoff football game since 2004, according to coaches.
Senior running back Cody West got the Tigers started in the scoring category with a touchdown run in the first, but he was only getting started, totaling 206 yards on the ground for the Tigers and another touchdown run in the 4th.
Behind the gun, Paxon Hollingshead had an excellent game for Lander, completing 15 of 22 passes for 309 yards, 4 touchdowns, and no interceptions. Finn McFadden was his favorite target of the night, hauling in two long touchdown catches to contribute to his 149 total yards receiving.
The Jackson Broncs’ offense had moments of clarity, throwing for 439 yards, but throughout the game, the Tigers’ defensive pressure proved to be too much.
The Tigers were able to hold the Broncs to just 25 net yards, running the ball. Barrett Moffat stood out for the Tigers with six tackles and a pick-six to lock down Jackson’s offense. Darion Hereford and Finn McFadden were making tackles in the open field for the Tigers, and linemen Gavin Romer and Kaleb Hamilton were forcing quick throws as they got through to the quarterback constantly.
h/t Carl Cote, County 10
Lander will have the weekend to enjoy their huge playoff win before they prepare to head to Afton for a tough matchup against #1 Star Valley. Star Valley is coming off a 54-7 romping of Buffalo in their first round game on Friday. The Tigers will look to upset undefeated Star Valley as the Braves look to win their 4th consecutive state championship.