When a one seeded team plays their first playoff game, staying focused and not playing down to the level of their opponent is usually the hardest part of the game.

For the one seeded Free State football team, neither was a problem in their 69-6 blowout win.

On the opening kickoff Wichita North attempted an onside kick only to be recovered by Free State. On the first play from scrimmage, Junior running back Jax Dineen scored on a 51 yard touchdown run.

It was only a sign to come for the Firebird rushing attack.

Free State scored eight of their touchdowns on rushes which included three from Dineen. Senior running back Zach Wilson, who was playing in his first State playoff game, also contributed with three touchdowns of his own.

“Not much of a blowout like this but I was definitely expecting a little bit of adversity, especially when the freshmen and third string came out,” Wilson said.

Free State dominated on the defensive side of the ball as well, allowing just negative two passing yards and six points.

The Firebirds will get ready for next week’s second round game against Junction City right away.

“We’ll find out who we gotta watch on film, and just start preparing right now,” senior Gage Foster said.