Ray Shaw

Senior running back Nick Lewis shakes off a defender against Ladue on Oct. 2 at home.

The Longhorns drop the final conference game of the season 26-22 to the Clayton Greyhounds. The game was full of lead changes with Clayton jumping out to a two score lead.

“We really settled down after Clayton went up two touchdowns in the first quarter. We had a great 99-yard touchdown drive that started on our own goal line. Our offense is crucial to our success,” senior linebacker Evan Shukers said.

The Longhorns regained the lead 13-12 late in the second quarter after senior Henderson Faulkner scored on a nine yard run.

“We ran the ball extremely well. The last few games we have been able to establish the run which has helped our offense a lot. I think we are playing our best football at the right time of the year,” Faulkner said.

Late in the third quarter senior running back Nick Lewis scored on a 12-yard touchdown run. The Longhorn duo finished with 36 carries for 236 yards and three touchdowns combined.

“Throughout the whole game it seemed like either team could win it. There were a few plays and calls that did not go in our favor that cost us the game. It is important that we stay focused on each and every play,” junior tight end Jack Mendonsa said.

Sophomore cornerback Terrell Jones intercepted Clayton’s quarterback late in the second quarter. This turnover was a key moment in the game setting up the go ahead touchdown for the Horns.

“Our defense had two clutch goal line stands. We are really coming together as a unit, but what cost us is the touchdown we let up right before the half. At that point we were up 13-12, but Clayton was able to score giving them momentum in the second half,” Jones said.  

A crucial penalty late in the fourth quarter gave Clayton the ball back. The Longhorns were penalized for having 12 men on the field while Clayton was punting.

“As a team we need to find ways to limit these crucial mistakes that can ultimately decide a football game. I have a lot of confidence in our team that we will clean up this aspect of the game,” junior linebacker Drew Seers said.

The Horns finish the year at home on Oct. 17 for senior night, against the Northwest Lions.

“It is going to be a very emotional game. Even though it is not the last game of the year, it is the last time we get to play in front of our home crowd. We all share lots of memories on that field and it is something that I will ever forget,” senior wide receiver Daniel Bickert said.

This is the last regular season game for the Horns before districts on Oct. 24.
“This week is a huge game for our seniors and for our overall seeding for districts. It will be exciting playing under the lights for the last time as a Longhorn,” senior safety Simon Lindo said.