Sitting at 4-2 with a fourth consecutive Western Athletic Conference (WAC) title dependent on the next two games, the Hays High School Indian football team competed against the Liberal Redskins and Topeka Trojans on Oct. 13 and Oct. 20.

On the road for the second week in the row, the Indians had a challenge facing against the undefeated Redskins. After a strong start from the Indians, Hays found themselves up 21-6 in the second quarter after an end around score to sophomore Jarek Purdy and a 70-yard touchdown run from senior Malik Bah. However, Liberal stormed back and tied it to send it into overtime. With the game on the line and the Indians up 48-41, junior Wyatt Kirkpatrick forced a stop to give the Indians their third win in a row to improve to 5-2.

At home on Senior Night, Hays hosted the 0-6 Trojans for their final regular season game of the year. The Indians wasted no time getting on the board early, with a 40-yard touchdown by Bah. After a defensive stop, Bah found the endzone again on another long run to go up 14-0. Hays continued to dominate, with a score from junior Carter Graham to Purdy, followed by Bah’s third touchdown of the night. Bah posted 167 yards on 10 carries with three touchdowns, where he was sat after the first quarter. In the second quarter, Graham found Purdy two more times, with Purdy recording 123 yards on five receptions and three touchdowns as well. After a few scores from each team in the second half, including a touchdown run by junior Ian McGuire, Hays bested Topeka, 62-33.

Hays earned their fourth consecutive WAC title and played Valley Center at home on Oct. 27 for their first playoff game.

24elucio@usd489.com