The Henryetta Knights delivered a commanding 40-0 shutout over the Spiro Bulldogs on Friday night, dominating in all phases of the game to secure their fifth win of the season. Behind a sharp aerial attack from quarterback Nakona Johnson and a relentless ground game led by Will Perez, the Knights looked every bit like a playoff contender as they head into their final regular-season test this week against Atoka.

The decisive win improved Henryetta’s record to 5-4 overall and 3-3 in District 2A-4, keeping postseason hopes alive. If both Wilburton and Antlers fall in their upcoming matchups, the Knights could clinch the district’s final playoff spot and extend their season into November.

— A Fast Start & Relentless Finish From the opening possession, the Knights’ offense hit high gear. Quarterback Nakona Johnson was nearly perfect, completing 9 of 13 passes for 178 yards and three touchdowns, spreading the ball efficiently among his receivers.

His first strike came early – a 57-yard touchdown pass to Gavin Williams just over a minute into the first quarter. Williams added another score on a 13-yard reception in the second period, finishing the night with four catches for 105 yards and two touchdowns.

Henryetta’s second-quarter surge continued with a 29-yard touchdown pass to Alex Clayton, followed by a two-point conversion run from senior Tucker McManus. Just before halftime, running back Will Perez burst through the line for a 10-yard score, giving the Knights a commanding 26-0 halftime lead.

By the intermission, the Knights had amassed 301 total yards of offense while holding Spiro to just 81. Henryetta averaged an eye-popping 11 yards per play, with a perfect balance between the run and pass.

— Perez, Cummings Lead Ground Assault The Knights’ offensive line dominated the trenches, allowing Perez and his backfield teammates to rack up 266 rushing yards on 25 carries – an average of 10.6 yards per attempt. Perez led the charge with 16 carries for 160 yards and two touchdowns, while Joseph Cummings added a fourth-quarter score on an 11-yard run to cap the victory.

Sophomore Blake Wind contributed 34 yards on two carries, while Johnson showcased dual-threat ability, adding 35 yards on the ground himself.

— Defensive Wall: Another Henryetta Shutout

Defensively, the Knights were outstanding. The front seven forced two turnovers and bottled up Spiro’s running game, limiting them to 158 rushing yards on 43 attempts. Spiro quarterback Hayden Reed completed just one pass for 12 yards all night.

Henryetta’s defense also made key stops on third and fourth downs, allowing only 10 first downs total. Spiro’s offensive average of 3.4 yards per play highlighted the defensive unit’s dominance.

— Special Teams & Composure

The Knights were sharp on special teams as well. Blaze Hill booted seven kickoffs for 247 total yards (35.3-yard average), helping Henryetta control field position. The coverage unit smothered Spiro’s return game, holding them to under eight yards per return.

Despite eight penalties totaling 72 yards, the Knights stayed poised, committing no turnovers and capitalizing on every opportunity.

— Henryetta 40, Spiro 0

Team Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Final Henryetta 6 20 6 8 40 Spiro 0 0 0 0 0 — Scoring Summary First Quarter

• (10:43) – Gavin Williams 57-yard pass from

Johnson (kick failed) Second Quarter

• (6:48) – Williams 13-yard pass from Johnson (run failed)

• (2:33) – Alex Clayton 29-yard pass from Johnson (McManus run)

• (0:46) – Will Perez 10-yard run (pass failed) Third Quarter

• (9:02) – Perez 20-yard run (run failed) Fourth Quarter

• (8:53) – Joseph Cummings 11-yard run (Perez run) — Henryetta Stats Passing

• Nakona Johnson – 9/13, 178 yards, 3 TD Rushing

• Will Perez – 16/160, 2 TD

• Joseph Cummings – 3/32, TD

• Blake Wind – 2/34 Receiving

• Gavin Williams – 4/105, 2 TD

• Alex Clayton – 1/29, TD

• Haiden Kaler – 2/42 Defense

• 2 Fumble Recoveries, 0 Points Allowed Special Teams

• Blaze Hill – 7 Kickoffs, 247 Yards (35.3 Avg.) — Playoff Path: Knights Still in the Hunt

With one regular season game remaining – a road matchup against Atoka this Friday – Henryetta’s postseason fate rests not only in their own hands but also in the outcomes of other district contests.

If Wilburton and Antlers both drop their final games, the Knights could move up in district standings and advance to the Class 2A playoffs.

For Head Coach Kevin Adler and his squad, the mission is simple: finish strong, take care of business in Atoka, and let the standings fall where they may.

— A Statement Win to Close at Home

Friday’s shutout victory wasn’t just another win it was a statement. The Knights showed discipline, balance, and unity, executing their best all-around performance of the season when it mattered most.

As the playoff picture comes into focus, one thing is certain: Henryetta has momentum, confidence, and a team capable of making noise in November.