Topeka High came into this week looking for redemption from a 5-point loss last week and they delivered, shutting out Emporia High School, 49-0.

“We [our defense] just came out with more energy tonight,” Kane Florence, senior linebacker, said. “We talked about it all week at practice and we delivered tonight.”

Last night’s defensive play was noticeable both on the field and the scoreboard, with multiple backfield stops, and a couple of interceptions.

“I think our defense has played well all year long,” Walt Alexander, head coach, said. “The only difference between last week and this week was we were playing a heck of a lot better an opponent. We lost a 5-point game, it was a close game. Emporia’s a good football program as well, but they’re no Junction. Our kids played well.”

Once again, freshman Ky Thomas came out to play last night, returning one of Topeka High’s two interceptions for a touchdown.

“I had some slip ups, but overall I think I played pretty good and contributed to the win,” Thomas, said.

“I just love his [Ky Thomas’s] attitude,” Alexander said. “I think he’s a mature young man for his age. He handles himself exceptionally well and he’s a good person.”

Thomas contributed to an offense that was equally as dominant as the Trojan defense last night by rushing for 61 yards on 5 carries, as well as catching 7 passes for 59 yards and 1 touchdown.

Topeka High’s offense spread the wealth last night, as five different players contributed ample yardage to the run game.

Senior quarterback Corey Thomas delivered through the air as well, completing 13 of his 18 passes, and throwing for 198 yards and 2 touchdowns through 3 quarters of play, coming out of the game with a shoulder injury late in the third quarter.

“He’s [Corey Thomas] just got a bruised shoulder and he’s going to be sore but he should be back next week,” Alexander said. “We’ll find out for sure, but I think it’s nothing serious.”

Next week Topeka High heads on the road to face the Manhattan Indians on September 23 at 7:00 p.m.