By Chris Parker
Neosho and Willard lit up the scoreboard on Friday night with the Wildcats coming out on top 79-72. The two teams combined for 151 points, which is fifth-most for an 11-man football game in MSHSAA history.
Neosho took a 24-14 lead after one quarter. Willard exploded for 36 points in the second quarter to cut Neosho’s lead to 52-50 at the half.
The quarterbacks shined for both teams.
Neosho junior Quenton Hughes completed 41 of his 48 passes (85% completion rate) for 478 yards and seven touchdowns. His Willard counterpart Russell Roweton was 25-for-31 (81% completion rate) for 437 yards and four touchdowns. Each of his touchdown passes were from more than 25 yards out to four different receivers.
CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS OF THE GAME
Isaiah Green was a machine for Neosho with 19 catches for 217 yards and three touchdowns. Teammate Brock Franklin had seven catches for 135 yards and two touchdowns. The Wildcats got it done on the ground as well with Jared Siler carrying the ball 41 times for 274 yards and three touchdowns.
Owen Bushnell broke some big plays for Willard in the running game with a 65-yard touchdown run and another rushing touchdown to tie the game at 72-72. Sophomore Eli Burgin forced a fumble that was picked up by teammate Brady Griffin and returned 60 yards for a touchdown. Burgin added a rushing touchdown on offense. Timmy Ruble played through injury for Willard with several tackles at defensive back and a receiving touchdown.
Clayton Scott was explosive for Willard with three total touchdowns including two kickoff return touchdowns and a receiving touchdown.
Neosho will travel to face Nixa in Week 2 while Willard will play host to Joplin.
