Jeff Goode

ANKENY, Iowa – #4 Ankeny delivered an outstanding performance on Friday night, defeating #13 Waukee 43-37 in the first round of the Class 5A playoffs, and improving to 8-2 while advancing to the quarterfinals. The Hawks outgained the Warriors in yards 374-280, and built a commanding 43-17 lead by the end of the 3rd quarter. Quarterback Mason Machan completed 9 of 17 passes for 159 yards and 3 touchdowns. The defense contributed 2 interceptions, including one each from Nolan Bennett and Logan Wirtz. Coach Jeff Bauer’s group showed the same resilience that has defined them all season, sealing the win with late runs that denied the Warriors any final chance. The clear star of the night was senior running back Devan Goode, who rushed for a season-high 152 yards and 3 touchdowns on 21 carries. Goode’s runs powered key drives, including a 47-yard burst that set up a scoring strike, and a final 10-yard run that locked up the victory. Sophomore receiver DJ Tate also shone with 4 catches for 58 yards and 3 touchdown receptions. Together, they proved to be too much for a Waukee team that finished 5-5, sending the Hawks one step closer to their goal of reaching the Dome in an unprecedented season. Next week, Ankeny will stay home to host #12 Iowa City Liberty in the quarterfinals, who advanced after a 28-14 upset win over #5 Indianola. Business inquiries, corrections, story leads, or contributor requests? Email us at [email protected]. Photo: @AnkenyFanatic via X (Twitter)