From the first whistle to the last Friday, the Hays Rebels quite literally hit the ground running.

Doing so, thanks in part to a three touchdown night from running back Sam Scott, paid immense dividends as the Rebels ran roughshod over the San Marcos Rattlers in a 28-17 season opening road win.

While there are still some kinks to iron out, Rebel first year head coach Les Goad believes the win is a key step for a program looking to build confidence and momentum.

“It’s an old rivalry game...