Rogers High came up with a pair of big fourth-quarter defensive stands to hold on for a 26-20 win over Claremore, Okla., on Friday night.
[HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SCOREBOARD: Full results + recaps, photos and more]
Clinging to a 20-14 advantage, the Mounties (2-0) held on fourth-and-1 from their 27 in the fourth quarter. Rogers then pushed the lead on Collin McWhorter's 5-yard touchdown run for a 26-14 lead.
Claremore got within 26-20, but missed the extra point. However, the Zebras recovered an onside kick for another scoring chance, but the Rogers defense held on downs.
The Mounties jumped to a 17-0 lead in the second quarter. Max Horton found Grayson Lee for a 42-yard touchdown pass, while Jeb Brain added a 39-yard touchdown run. Claremore (1-1) pulled within 17-14 before a Chris Lopez's 36-yard field field goal, his second of the game, gave the Mounties a 20-14 lead after three quarters.
Brain finished with 151 yards rushing on 24 carries and one touchdown. Horton threw for 101 yards, and a score completing 6 of 17 passes.
Rogers will play host the Normandy High School of St. Louis next week at Whitey Smith Stadium.
-- PAUL BOYD • @NWAPaulb
Sports on 09/10/2016