Marlow’s rich grid history not lost on players

Marlow’s rich football history is never lost on the seniors like Kyler Blundell, Lane Boyles, and Parker Boyles who never underestimate the challenge in front of them as they lead the Outlaws into the second round of the round of the 2A-1 playoffs.

The Outlaws had to fight to just advance as Chisholm came to town and pushed the hosts to the limit before Marlow pulled out a 21-14 victory.

Now the road gets tougher as Friday the Outlaws hit the road to battle Kingston in a 7 p.m. contest. The winner of that matchup will advance to the state semifinals against the Millwood-Chandler winner. Yes, this time of the year there are no easy opponents on the bracket.

Marlow has been a playoff powerhouse in recent years with a 2021 2A-1 state championship title reflecting that. Last season the Outlaws lost a heartbreaker to Heritage Hall, seeing the Crusaders kick a field goal on the final play of the game to earn a 31-29 win in the 3A semifinals. HH lost the following week, 48-28, to Lincoln Christian after the Crusaders lost quarterback Andy Bass to a knee injury early in the title game.

This year, the Outlaws believe they have a similar chance at making a deep run and say their prior experience in the playoffs has helped keep their heads level on the field.

“I would say we have an advantage just with our mindset. . . it takes endurance, and we definitely have the mindset of going all the way instead of wanting to quit right now,” said L. Boyles.

Physicality is a message that is constantly spread in the Outlaw locker-room. Every week Marlow goes into its games unafraid of making contact and the players see that as an advantage against any team they play.

“I think we’re a lot more physical than other teams. We lift harder and chase the ball well,” said P. Boyles. “We also have one of the best coaching staffs in the country. They have us ready every week.”

“‘Physical’ was the word of the week,” said L. Boyles. “Last week we kept our physical momentum up and that kept us going.”

Last week was a tight game that saw Chisolm leading 6-0 at halftime. Marlow came back in the second half to score three touchdowns and played some hard-nosed defense down the stretch to help the Outlaws advance to the second round.

Moving forward, Marlow plans to execute just as it did last week to come back and win; follow the game plan and be physical.

“At the start of the game we didn’t play great and let them get some big plays on offense,” said Blundell. “Our defense knows if we slip up in the first half to come right back in the second half and make sure that doesn’t happen again.”

“It’s best to trust in the coach’s call. Don’t do your own thing, do what you’re told and the results will be good,” said L. Boyles.

A good crowd can often act as a 12th man in a tight contest. Support from the town of Marlow is a big part in the success of their football program as well as other athletic programs for the school. Last week Outlaw Stadium was packed, and it’s expected a large contingent of Marlow fans will make the drive to Kingston for Friday’s matchup.

For the players, knowing you have the support of your entire town behind you gives more meaning to their games as well as confidence.

“We’ve been to the playoffs many times and in different sports,” said Blundell. “I think everyone in the town comes together to support us well and it helps during games knowing you have that support.”

“The support we get from the community at our games is great,” said P. Boyles. “If you’re going to rob the bank in town, the best time to do it is on a Friday night.”

This week’s game against Kingston is Marlow’s only focus and to the players, they’re treating this like they would any week.

“We’re not worried about the next round we’re focused on the present. Our mindset is Kingston. . .we’re going to go out and do exactly what we’ve done all season. We get the win and then look at what’s next,” said L. Boyles.

“I get the Charlie’s special from the food market and listen to Motley Crue before games,” said P. Boyles. “They’re wild and it gets me energized.”

“I’m going to keep in mind who I’m supposed to block and do my part. When the game comes, I’ll trust my teammates and their ability to do their part,” said Blundell.