Rangers quarterback Josh Thatcher drops back to pass in the game against Greybull on Friday, Sept. 29. The Rangers lost 52–16. (COURTESY PHOTO / Nathan Ostler) 

The Kemmerer Rangers travelled to Greybull on Friday, Sept. 29, to take on the Buffaloes. The Rangers lost the game 52-16, bringing their season record to 1-4. 

"We lacked the proper focus required to win in the first quarter and that was our undoing," Rangers head coach Bart Jernigan said. "Taking our best game of football on the road has been elusive for us in my time here. We have got to figure out a way to go on the road and play to our potential. Luckily for us, we get another shot and a long bus ride and a game against a quality opponent. Both coaches and players are excited to take that next step and be a quality road team."

Although the final scoreboard was not on the side of the Kemmerer Rangers, Coach Jernigan pointed to a few players who fought through for good game performances.

"Josh Thatcher overcame a sluggish start to throw for a season-high in passing yards and play a solid defensive game," Jernigan said. "This was something that we really focused on in practice last week, so that is good. Additionally, the receiving team had a good game. Tanner Plowman was big in hauling in two receiving touchdowns. The offensive line's pass protection was also solid. Outside of that, we had a few kids step in and fill holes left by injury that played well."

Jernigan said the loss has made his team want to be better.

"Honestly the beating we took in the first quarter last week may be the best thing that could happen to us," Jernigan said. "It has us refocused and practicing at a pretty high level. We are actually really excited to show that the start last week was more of an anomaly than anything. Every week is an opportunity to show what you are made of. This week we are looking to show that we are a quality team that will play a physical, hard-nosed brand of football week in and week out, at home and on the road. We have a ton to play for coming down the stretch, and we would really like to shock some people these next few weeks."

The Rangers travel to Lusk on Friday, Oct. 6, to take on the Tigers of Niobrara County High School at 4:00 p.m. The Tigers are 2-3 on the season. 

Jernigan said he thinks Friday's game should be a good test for both teams.

"NCHS has faced some difficult opponents lately, but despite recent results I plan on getting their best shot this Friday," Jernigan said. "In a lot of ways, they are our mirror image in terms of scheme and philosophy, so it should provide for a very intriguing stylistic match-up. This game is big for us and we are excited about the opportunity."

Rangers’ junior Donny Proffit runs the ball in the game against Greybull on Friday, Sept. 29. The Rangers lost 52–16. (COURTESY PHOTO / Nathan Ostler)

Senior Louis Failoni runs the ball against Greybull on Friday, Sept. 29. (COURTESY PHOTO / Nathan Ostler)

The Kemmerer Rangers' offense tries to make some space for quarterback Josh Thatcher in the game against  Greybull on Friday, Sept. 29. (COURTESY PHOTO / Nathan Ostler)