The Randall Raiders made a statement Friday night, ending one of the Texas Panhandle’s most impressive district winning streaks while punching their ticket to the playoffs.
In a rain-soaked rivalry showdown at Happy State Bank Stadium in Canyon, Randall rallied past West Plains for a thrilling 39-21 victory, snapping the Wolves’ 20-game district winning streak that dated back to October 2022.
The victory also gave Randall bragging rights and possession of “The Duke,” the golden cowboy hat awarded to the rivalry winner.
For Randall, it was a Senior Night to remember.
Drayden Ray Powers Raiders to Victory
Senior running back Drayden Ray delivered when Randall needed him most, rushing for 158 yards and three touchdowns on 25 carries.
Sophomore quarterback Hendrix Funk also turned in an impressive performance, completing 18 of 27 passes for 242 yards and two touchdowns.
Randall wasted little time making its presence felt.
After Kobe Baccas intercepted a West Plains pass, Funk connected with Phoenix Sherwood for a 58-yard touchdown. A successful two-point conversion and a 38-yard field goal from Jacob Avalos helped Randall build an early 11-0 advantage.
But West Plains wasn't going away quietly.
Sophomore quarterback Timber Russell connected twice with senior receiver Kelby Williams for touchdowns covering 38 and 23 yards, giving the Wolves a 14-11 halftime lead.
Second-Half Battle Turns Randall's Way
The third quarter featured plenty of fireworks.
Ray scored on a 10-yard run to put Randall back in front before West Plains answered with a spectacular 41-yard touchdown run from Colson Heider.
Randall responded again, with Ray scoring from one yard out to give the Raiders a 25-21 advantage entering the fourth quarter.
From there, the Raiders took control.
Funk connected with Baccas for a 20-yard touchdown before Randall linebacker Ace Bledsoe delivered a crucial fourth-down stop against West Plains standout Slade Russell.
Ray then put the finishing touches on the victory with a 34-yard touchdown run.
Despite the loss, Slade Russell powered the Wolves' offense with 189 rushing yards on 33 carries.
District Championship Race Heats Up
Randall improved to 8-1 overall and 3-1 in District 2-4A Division I, while West Plains dropped to 5-4 and 3-1.
The result created a three-way tie atop the district standings between Randall, West Plains and Dumas.
Randall closes the regular season Friday at Hereford, while West Plains hosts Pampa on Thursday.
With playoff seeding still undecided, the final week promises plenty of drama.
