Last Friday, Bucktail (1-1) saw its 12-game losing streak end in unceremonious fashion, as it earned a win by forfeit over Renaissance Academy due to a lack of assigned officials. This week, it hopes to win the satisfactory way, by defeating Moniteau (1-1) on the road.

Despite Moniteau’s opening win over Coudersport, Bucktail head coach Kevin Ransom feels this matchup is another winnable one.

Through 2024, both squads finished winless while consistently suffering lopsided defeats, with Moniteau being outscored 452-87 in nine games and Bucktail 322-104 in eight.

Moniteau’s opener emphasizes more progress since then, with the Bucks faltering in their opener. But Ransom feels like the team has been building upward since then.

Expected standouts for Bucktail on Friday include freshman quarterback Corbin Pentz and sophomore receiver Teagan Stone. Both showed promised as offensive weaperas against Cameron County two weeks ago, with Pentz totaling 115 yards and Stone 90.

In pursuit of its first competitive win since 2023, the Bucks will make their second long road trip in two weeks as it travels to West Sunbury, two hours and 45 minutes away. They’re motivated after their opening loss. The question is, can they carry that motivation into another win?

Friday’s game is set for 7 p.m.