By Joshua Christopher
Sports Editor
In a season marred by disappointment and frustration, the Southwestern and Northwestern football teams are set to face off this Saturday at 3 p.m. in what is sure to be an intense game between two winless teams.
Both have struggled to secure a victory throughout a season of nail-biting matchups and being unable to find the missing source. This weekend’s game presents a chance for redemption for the Rangers and a shot at ending the season on a high note in the traditional rivalry.
Southwestern, coming off a brutal loss against Harding last week, plans to come into Alva with high expectations and a chip on their shoulders. For Northwestern, as the season went on, fans have disappeared from the stands as the losses mounted. Injuries to key players has played a pivotal role, which shape-shifts a team’s outlook on what’s to come.
Numbers don’t lie, and it’s no surprise that the Rangers have demonstrated flashes of the ability to make plays on the field, showcasing their potential that could lead to a win this weekend.
Head coach Ronnie Jones emphasizes that this week’s opponent will play dirty and do whatever to seal the deal on their end.
The goal remains the same for Jones: making sure he keeps the team together, and learning the lessons that can come even through adversity.
Coach says, “I know this season is not what we all expected. … Rebuilding is not overnight but I admire you guys for sticking together and not giving up on me.”
Some players have quit as the season progressed, which is against the commitment of the game. Like coach says, no matter how hard, win or lose, you still have to show up every day and come to work.
As a player on the team being sidelined due to injury, I have found all you can do is reflect and focus on the positives from this season. From the outside looking in, others might see more negativity than positivity. But one thing’s for sure, you can’t buy experience and the team, our coaches, and even I have learned a lot in this rebuilding year.
As Saturday draws near, anticipation continues to build, with supporters from both sides eagerly awaiting kickoff. The Rangers, will be hosting high school recruits and providing them with an eventful show in the final game of the season.
For the seniors, this is the final game of their college career, looking to grasp a win on the season as they host their senior night.
Christopher, who works as the sports editor, is also a defensive back for the football team.
