No. 5 Menard Opens Playoffs With Big Win Over Highland

BLACKWELL, TX — The No. 5-ranked Menard Yellowjackets put on an impressive performance to open the playoffs with a 64-8 win over Highland that was over by halftime due to the 45-point mercy rule.

Menard’s defense held Highland to only 22 yards, while the Yellowjackets forced five turnovers and recorded a safety.

Highland’s only touchdown came on a kickoff return.

Menard’s offense was powered by spread back Cohen Ethridge, who had seven carries for 171 yards and four TDs, along with a TD pass.

Ethridge also intercepted two passes to lead the defense.

Mack Davis had an interception and a fumble recovery on the goal line after Maddox Saiz knocked the ball out of Highland quarterback Rhyder Glass's hands and right into the waiting hands of Davis.

Menard improved to 11-0 overall and has won 31 of its last 34 games. Highland’s season ended at 7-4.

The Yellowjackets won their third straight bi-district playoff game, but they weren’t able to get past the second round the last two seasons with eventual state champion Gordon blocking their way each time.

There’s another significant hurdle in Menard’s way again this year as No. 10 Rankin will be waiting next week. The Red Devils (10-1) reached the state final last year.

Menard and Rankin's clash in the 1A Division I area round will be at a site and time to be determined. A potential rematch with district rival Water Valley could be looming in the third round.

This story will be updated.

Menard 64, Highland 8

Highland   0   8   x   x — 8

Menard   30   34   x   x — 64

First Quarter

M - Cohen Ethridge 24 run (Dario Gonzalez kick), 9:07 remaining

M - Ethridge 5 run (kick blocked), 5:49

M - Caden Bounds 16 pass from Maddox Saiz (Gonzalez kick), 3:51

M - Marlee Salas 13 pass from Ethridge (Gonzalez kick), 1:29

Second Quarter

M - Ethridge 49 run (Gonzalez kick), 9:48

M - Mack Davis fumble recovery in end zone (Gonzalez kick), 7:37

M - Salas 8 run (Gonzalez kick), 5:16

H - Hudson Cain 75 kickoff return (Andrew Stuber kick), 5:03

M - Ethridge 54 run (Gonzalez kick), 2:44

M - Safety (holding in end zone), 1:04