Insights from Falcon champs: state even better than hoped

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Hitchcock County Falcons brought everything from huge fourth-down stops and scores to cool touchdown catches for their historic first Class D-2 state title.

Here are a few final remarks from Falcon players following Monday’s 22-12 win over defending D-1 champ Howells Dodge.

Senior Drew Scott scoring the title-clinchng touchdown with barely 40 seconds remaining on fourth down?

“I had to get it. It was fourth down and one. I reached it over (the goal line) and did. It’s amazing (to win state). I’m pretty much speechless.”

Quarterback Keynan Gaston about the higher level of defense during this showdown of 12-0 teams:

“It was a lot tougher to move the ball than all season, and they hit a lot harder. But it (the state title) feels even better than I thought.”

Lineman Taylor Hubl, one of the juniors who stood strong throughout this state final.

“I’m proud of how we stayed with it because those Howells Dodge guys are tougher than nails. “I’m pretty sure we will be back here next year and put a similar score — or maybe even better.”

How about Trent Kisker’s 45-yard touchdown pass he took from a Jaguar for the 16-12 second-half lead?

“He (the defender) had it and he probably should have,” Kisker said about leaping all-state Jaguar Lance Brester. “I took it. It was a huge play.”

Senior Tanner O’Brien playing defense end and holding Howells-Dodge 32 points below its lowest total in 12 games.

“I’m just so proud of all these guys.”

Enough said. Contratulations to all the champion Falcons.