Goodwell, Oklahoma- The #18 Spirit continued their strong start to the 2025 season with 56-10 victory over Oklahoma Panhandle State Universty. The victory puts them at 3-0 on the young season, with that same 3-0 record in conference play, putting the Spirit at First Place in the Sooner Athletic Conference. 

Senior Luke Giron punished OPSU with the air attack, throwing for 279 yards and 3 touchdowns. Giron, for the third consecutive game, throws for 200+ yards in another OUAZ offensive route. Power back, Jaylen MaGee got the start this evening and took absolute advantage of the opportunity. MaGee had some stellar short bursts, rushing for 106 yards on 19 carries. The 6-foot, 230-pound back got it done from the receiving end as well, catching a 38-yard pass and making it a house call. Jashaun Foster and MaGee came together to form a 1-2 punch as Foster garnered 76 yards on 13 carries. Matthew Hicks, who is another deep threat on this stacked OUAZ receiving core, notched 2 catches for 91 yards with a big 49-yard touchdown. Transfer Marques Reese is really starting to make a name for himself with another big week. Reese, in the slot, is likely the best in the conference after he made yet another 60+ yard grab for the third straight week. His final stat line was 3 catches totaling 77 yards and a touchdown. If opposing teams haven't turned on the tape for the sophomore wideout, now is the right time because he is surely the difference maker in this passing attack.

Coach D and his defense are truly remarkable, as they have demonstrated unwavering energy for the third straight week. Turnovers were huge in this one as Justice Sosnicki, the SAC Defensive Player of the Week, makes another big play, forcing a fumble. Kenny White later recovered the fumble and returned it for a touchdown. White, a senior defensive back was all over the field today. Early in the 4th, White slipped into a passing lane, perfectly running the pick back all the way 40 yards for a pick six. The secondary, who has quietly shut down passing attacks for the last two weeks, dialed in for another impressive performance. On 21 attempts, the team allowed only 102 yards. The run defense also held OPSU's top rusher to 47 yards

The bye week now gives them time to regroup before another trip to Oklahoma, this time to face Langston. If Saturday's performance proved anything, it's that OUAZ has firmly established themselves as a strong contender in the SAC. It will be a battle to be named SAC Champion, and you can keep up with the race right here at ouazspirit.com, or on our socials.