Ozark footballers out-pace visiting Republic in high scoring, record-setting night

Republic’s offense was very good but Ozark’s was a little better. Republic missed two extra points that proved costly in a 51-49 loss at Ozark, Friday.
Republic gained 574 total yards on offense, and quarterback Lucas Hayes had a hand in most of them. He broke a school record by accounting for 518 total yards – 303 passing, 204 rushing, and even an 11-yard reception on a pass thrown by receiver Claye White. That output broke the school record for total yards in a game that he had set earlier in the year against Carl Junction. He also had a part in seven touchdown – five rushing and two passing – tying a record set by Jerney Jones in 2015.
But Ozark’s option offense moved the ball nearly as well. Ozark racked up seven plays that gained 20 yards or more. They included a 79-yard pass reception from Chase Strickler to Jake Skaggs that helped seal the victory by setting
up Ozark’s last touchdown. Skaggs caught the ball just a few yards past the line of scrimmage but avoided several defenders in crossing the field and taking the ball to the one-yard line.
“We obviously didn’t play very well defensively and it’s a shame because our offense played pretty good,” said coach Dustin Baldwin. “But it’s a team game, and we’re all in it together. We’ve just got to be better defensively and try to get it fixed.”
Republic out-gained Ozark 574 yards to 493.
Claye White had four catches for 106 yards. Landon Porter had three catches for 58 yards and a touchdown. Gavin Walker had three catches for 49 yards and a touchdown. Riley Sigman had 141 total yards – 69 yards on the ground and 72 yards in receptions.
Republic falls to 2-4. Ozark is 4-2. Republic hosts Webb City this week.

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Lawrence County Record

312 S. Hickory St.
Mt. Vernon, MO, 65712
www.lawrencecountyrecord.com

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