Ridgeline handles Seattle Prep, wins first playoff football game in school history

Falcons defense forces seven turnovers in 38-14 home victory in Class 3A district round

Author:
Todd Milles, SBLive Sports
Updated:
Nov 4, 2023 8:29 PM EDT
Original:
Nov 4, 2023

Ridgeline High School sure knew how to throw a party Saturday afternoon for its first Washington high school playoff game in its three-year history.

Kole LeGrant scored three touchdowns, and the Falcons' defense forced seven turnovers in a 38-14 victory over Seattle Prep.

The 3A Greater Spokane League's second seed will be part of the WIAA bracket when it is announced Sunday.

"We knew it would be a tough first two years, but in Year 3, we'd be able to make the jump," Ridgeline coach David Myers said.

"But our kids have exceeded expectations and done an amazing job."

LeGrant's 6-yard score at the end of the first half broke a 14-14 tie. Then it was the defense's turn to get in on the act.

After Seattle Prep's defense held on fourth down inside its 10-yard line, Panthers quarterback Beau Oaksmith tried rolling out to his left to find an open wide receiver.

But his floating pass against the wind landed in the arms of Brodey Shimp, who returned it 5 yards for a touchdown - and 28-14 lead with 10:46 to go.

"Going into the second half, we felt the wind pick up - and we knew we had to survive (against) it in the third quarter," Myers said. "To go into the fourth quarter with a lead, we knew the wind would make life tough on them."

Four minutes later, Landon Garner threw his only touchdown pass of the afternoon - a 19-yarder to favorite target Brayden Allen, and the Falcons were in complete control.

Six of Seattle Prep's seven turnovers were interceptions.

"Funny thing is, our kids believe," Myers said. "We've played big football games before. We've been down before. But they know what they can do."

Garner finished with 288 passing yards and a touchdown. Allen caught eight passes for 125 yards and the score while LeGrant rushed for 124 yards while catching nine passes for another 79 yards.

Oaksmith rushed for 158 yards on 22 carries.

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