Analysis on McPherson-De Soto game

&nbsp; TOPEKA— Both teams had only two days to prepare for Friday night, and it turned out to be one of the top games to watch. McPherson High School, a class 4A team, went to toe-to-toe against a De Soto High School, a Class 5A powerhouse, at Washburn Rural High school in Topeka. While the Bullpups put up a valiant effort to take down last year’s state runnerup, DeSoto left Topeka victorious, defeating the Bullpups 41-35. On paper, DeSoto looked like the better opponent as McPherson came in as the underdog. One thing for sure, despite taking the loss, the Bullpups made their mark from the start of the opening drive when quarterback Dylan Rinker connected with [player_tooltip player_id="35484" first="Aaron" last="Powell"] on a 16-yard touchdown play. Yet, it didn’t take too long for De Soto to respond back and capture the lead in its first two-possession, 14-7. Next thing you know, it was 28-14 at halftime. McPherson had to play catchup the rest of the second half, but the defense had no answer for DeSoto’s dynamic quarterback [player_tooltip player_id="35359" first="Jackson" last="Miller"], who single handily put up 329 total yards on offense.  Bullpups had no answer in stopping De Soto’s triple option, led by the senior quarterback. McPherson did come back late in the fourth but time ran out. McPherson suffered its first loss on the season and is now 4-1. While the Wildcats improve to 4-1 as well and are on a three-game winning streak. &nbsp; <strong>Top Performer</strong> <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="35359" first="Jackson" last="Miller"] QB/ATH — De Soto</strong> At 6-foot-2 180 pounds with 4.40 speed, Miller was a deadly weapon at quarterback for the Wildcats. Miller had a preliminary vision in the backfield as each of his 17 carries were positive yards. Miller netted for 146 yards on the ground. Jackson was no slouch in the passing game either as he threw three touchdowns in only eight passing attempts.  Miller, who has received multiple offers from JUCO teams all over the state, orchestrated 329 total yards of offense.  Miller has top-end speed and is elusive. McPherson’s defense struggled to figure out how to contain the senior. With Miller, listed as an athlete, there could be options of him playing a different position other than quarterback. Running back might be suited best, however, don’t be surprised if some teams with take a chance on him at the quarterback spot. &nbsp; <strong>Dylan Rinker QB — McPherson</strong> In his fifth start at quarterback, Rinker continues to improve behind the center. He has looked more polished at the pocket. Rinker finished the night throwing 19 for 29 for 181 yards and two touchdowns and one interception. Rinker makes very little mistakes and has looked more confident as a dynamic passer. It also helps to have strong weapons and offensive line units surrounded by him. His decision is precise yet we like to see how he handles under pressure against elite defenses. <strong>Jaytin Gumm RB — McPherson</strong> Gumm has become a rising star for the Bullpups in his year as a varsity player. For five straight games, Gumm has rushed for over 100 yards and is on the verge of his first 1,000-yard season. Against De Soto, he rushed for 138 yards in 25 carries. He also added 56 receiving yards. It might take a few carries to get Gumm going, but once he does find his rhythm, there’s no stopping him.  Gumm is explosive coming off the ball as if he was shot out of a cannon. Only a sophomore, big things are yet to come for Gumm as he continues to chew up more yards for the Bullpups.