In a spectacular senior‑night showcase, the Wheatland Rams overwhelmed the Big Horn Bulldogs with a 70‑7 triumph at home. The Rams’ offense surged early, and the defense never gave the Bulldogs a foothold, delivering a performance that will be remembered by the community for weeks to come.
First quarter: Early lead and big plays
The game opened with a 36‑yard pass from Hayden Steinsiek to Kane Kuntz, giving Big Horn a quick 34‑30 edge. Wheatland responded swiftly when Cruz Hernandez broke free for a 25‑yard run, followed by a 2‑yard touchdown sprint that put the Rams ahead 7‑0. Hernandez’s impact continued as he intercepted Steinsiek and later added an 8‑yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 14‑0. Big Horn managed a 2‑yard touchdown run by Whyard, but Wheatland’s defense forced a safety after a bad snap recovered by Brode Coats, pushing the score to 23‑0.
Second quarter: Rams extend dominance
Wheatland kept the pressure on, with Steinsiek completing a 22‑yard pass to Grady Bohlander and a 40‑yard strike to Bryson Lopez, though the Bulldogs struggled to convert. Wheatland’s offense struck again when Hernandez ran 21 yards for a gain, and later a 36‑yard touchdown run put the Rams up 36‑0. Big Horn’s only response was a 2‑yard touchdown run by Steinsiek, narrowing the gap to 57‑7 before the half ended.
Third quarter: Explosive scoring
The Rams exploded in the third period. Hernandez broke free for a 67‑yard touchdown run, pushing the lead to 50‑0. A defensive highlight came when Grady Hiller intercepted Steinsiek and returned it 23 yards for a touchdown, further demoralizing the Bulldogs. Wheatland added a 2‑yard touchdown run by Steinsiek, making the score 57‑7, and Hernandez capped the quarter with an 18‑yard touchdown run, bringing the total to 64‑7.
Fourth quarter: Closing out the game
The final quarter saw a 21‑yard touchdown pass to Boone Reno, sealing the victory at 70‑7. Wheatland’s depth, speed, and disciplined defense were on full display, while the Bulldogs were unable to generate sustained offense.
Key performers
- Cruz Hernandez – five touchdowns (three rushing, two receiving) and an interception.
- Hayden Steinsiek – multiple passing yards for Big Horn but struggled against Wheatland’s pressure.
- Grady Bohlander – key defensive play with an interception return for a touchdown.
- Whyard – only Bulldog touchdown scorer.
The Rams’ victory not only highlighted the talent of their senior class but also underscored the strength of Wheatland’s football program heading into the postseason. Fans left the stadium proud of a performance that honored the seniors and set a high bar for the rest of the season.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.