SKIATOOK—What has come to be known as the “Highway 20 Bowl” is hands-down the most anticipated annual sporting event across the Bulldogs schedule every year. In the match-up with neighbor and rival Collinsville, this is a game that promises a packed stadium and an electric atmosphere.

This game met expectations across the board. Although it did not go Skiatook’s way, it was enjoyable game and friendly rivalry. The stands were packed, the stadium was rocking, and the game did not disappoint either.

This was senior night, and it was senior night for one of the most exciting Bulldogs to ever wear a uniform—Shae Garner, the engine of the team all year long. Garner ended the season with a gutsy, all-out performance. He scored on a 76 yard juggling reception that was the play of the game for Skiatook, and he also made one of the most spectacular catch of the season in the fourth on a diving reception. Bulldogs fans will look forward to following Garner throughout his college career.

Garner, along with the rest of the graduating class, will be missed. Many thanks to all of them for the years of hard work and dedication.

Although it was far from a high scoring affair, the game went back and forth all night fueled by energy from both lively crowds.

The only score of the first half came on a short run for the Cardinals on a short run. Chandler Perigo and Bulldogs defense did well, and Skiatook moved the ball decently but did not find the “big play” that has been so momentous for the Bulldogs this season.

That big play came in the second half, after another touchdown from Collinsville, when Cody Evans and Garner connected from 76 yards out and brought the game back to 7 points. Seth Boomer and the Cardinals managed to stave off a complete comeback though, and they ended up winning 24-10.

One of the most exciting storylines from game came at the hands of Jayden Garner. The freshman brother of Shae Garner has been gritty and a hard-nosed player all year long, but he seemed to shine the brightest in the biggest game of the season. Along with being an energizing sparkplug and making an acrobatic deflection that forced a turnover on downs, the freshman sacked Seth Boomer, a Division 1 bound QB, multiple times. Shae will be passing the torch to his brother, who looks ready to carry his team for years to come.

In a year of ups-and-downs, a young Skiatook team was molded into a mature unit by great coaches and upperclassmen. Of course, every single Bulldogs fan would love to see the team go into the playoffs, but even more importantly: every single Bulldogs fan is very proud of the 2016 squad.
