The Lincoln Journal Star placed four Sandhills/Thedford players on its Class D2 All State Football first team. The Knights finished as the Class D2 state runners-up this season. Dane Pokorny was a first team selection at running back. Pokorny finished with over 2,100 rushing yards this season and had 36 rushing touchdowns. Brayton Branic was a first team all state offensive lineman. Branic helped anchor a strong offensive line for the Knights and was credited with 60 “pancake blocks” this season. Reece Zutavern was a first team defensive selection at defensive back. Zutavern finished the season with 4 interceptions and 13 pass breakups. Reed McFadden made the Class D2 all state first team as an “athlete”. McFadden led the team with 106 total tackles and was credited with 5 sacks this past season.
Others within the KCNI/KBBN coverage area receiving first team all state recognition by the publication included:
Class D1 first team offense
Caleb Busch (RB) – Burwell (also designated as honorary captain)
Carter Mann (OL) – Burwell
Class D1 first team defense
Hunter Mayfield (DL) – Burwell
Cash Gurney (LB) – Burwell
Class C1 first team defense
Owen Geiken (LB) – Gothenburg
