The Pendleton Heights Arabians battled to a thrilling 24-22 win over the Yorktown Tigers, clinching victory with a dramatic goal-line stand in the final moments. With the game on the line, Rylan Keesling exploded through the Tigers’ front to stuff the two-point try, sealing the win for the Arabians in unforgettable fashion.
Keesling was nothing short of dominant all night, turning in one of the best defensive performances of the season. The senior totaled 10 tackles, 4 sacks, 6 quarterback pressures, 5 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble, constantly wrecking plays in the backfield. His relentless motor and physical presence set the tone for the defense and gave the Arabians the edge they needed when it mattered most.
On the offensive side, Brandt Gray delivered a composed and efficient performance, showing poise under pressure. He completed 14 of 17 passes for 184 yards and a touchdown, while also grinding out tough yards on the ground — 19 carries for 97 yards and two touchdowns. Gray’s leadership and control of the offense kept drives alive and helped the Arabians maintain rhythm throughout the game.
Cooper Sims caught a 48-yard touchdown and finished with five receptions, while Byron Vores, C.J. Mitchem, Sam Behrendt, Lowan Beal, and Keesling each contributed key catches. Dylan John added a field goal and went 3-for-3 on PATs, while Joel Weaver’s 48-yard punt late in the fourth quarter flipped the field and set up the defensive stand.
Pendleton Heights finished 8 of 13 on third down, recorded 16 first downs, and totaled 343 yards of offense in a complete team effort. The night belonged to Keesling and Gray, who embodied toughness and leadership in a gritty, hard-earned Arabian victory.
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