LUBBOCK — It took an undefeated perennial power to finally stop Hawley in its quest for back-to-back state championships, with Stratford handing the Bearcats a stunning 46-6 loss in the Region I-2A DI title game at Lowrey Field. 

Bryce Braden rushed for 164 yards and three scores to lead Stratford (14-0), which advances to face Tolar (13-1) in the state semifinals next week.  The Elks limited Hawley (11-3) to minus-24 yards rushing and 222 yards in total offense — 99 of which came on a TD pass from Keagan Ables to Diontay Ramon in the second quarter.  

“You can’t have hiccups and penalties and not play well against a real good football team,” Hawley coach Mitch Ables said. “I fully expect those guys to be at AT&T (Stadium in Arlington).”