By: Trevor Tustian, Jayden Deister, Cody Bunce and Jeremy Gentry Jr., Buhler High School Sports Writing
On Friday, November 15, the Buhler Crusaders (8-2) will battle the Wamego Red Raiders (9-1) in a rematch of an earlier matchup that was carried out at Buhler’s home stadium. Last time they met, the Red Raiders won 29-16.
The game will be played at 7:00 in Wamego. No Passes are allowed Fans can follow along at 95.9 KWHK.
During the last contest between the two schools, Buhler held a small 9-0 lead going into halftime, however, the Crusaders lost their spark somewhere during the 4th quarter. Multiple mistakes seeped through the Buhler offense, but the most crucial were the turnovers. Wamego capitalized on those turnovers and sealed the game with a pick-six.
The Crusaders aren’t hung up on the past and are eager for their matchup this Friday. Head coach, Steve Warner had this to say about the team’s energy coming into this week's match-up:
“Our players are ready for revenge. The players’ attitude and work ethic has been outstanding,” said Warner.
The players have also noticed this change in the team's drive to win.
“I think we have that fire in our hearts saying that we aren’t going to lose to them again,” said senior utility player Carter Jones.
Last week's playoff matchup between Buhler and the Mulvane Wildcats (7-3) ended in a decisive win in the Crusaders’ favor.
With a final score of 62-21, running back Mitchel McDaniel led the offense with 21 carries for 226 yards and 4 rushing touchdowns.
After taking over for starting running back Ben Clouse due to a shoulder injury; senior Mitchel McDaniel stepped up to fill the position.
“I think it’s opened up our playbook a little bit. Since I'm a senior, I've had more playing time in that spot. I understand how to be patient and read holes. I think Ben’s a good running back; I just have more experience at the position,” said McDaniel.
The Crusaders hope to have a healthy Clouse back for next season.
Buhler’s offensive line played a major role in their win over Mulvane last Friday.
“The offensive line has really come on strong. Very physical. Mulvane didn’t have an answer for it,” said Warner.
The 4A State Championship game will be held at Emporia State University’s Welch Stadium on November 30, 2024. For more information visit https://www.kshsaa.org.