Gilbert Ends Prep Career On High Note At All-State Game

The opportunity to put on a high school football uniform one more time was too good for Jace Gilbert to pass up.

The former Marlow star, who led the Outlaws to the Class 2A state title this past season, represented the West team recently in the OCA All-State game in Shawnee.

Although the East squad won the game, 34-27, Gilbert showed off the impressive kicking skills that earned him a scholarship to Iowa State.

Gilbert nailed field goals of 43 and 49 yards, made all three of his extra-point attempts, and had his kickoffs sail through the end zone for touchbacks.  The 43-yard field goal came on the final play of the first half.

“Thankful to have the opportunity to compete in the @OFBCA All-State Game,” Gilbert posted on his Twitter feed after the game. “Great to be back in Oklahoma for the weekend! Thankful to @CycloneFB allowing me to play!”

Heritage Hall assistant coach Jason Freeman, whose son, Gavin, also played on the West squad, was impressed with Gilbert’s skill.

“First time seeing him live,” said Freeman on his social media page. “The man can kick.”

The All-State game capped off a great week for Gilbert, who was named the Oklahoma Coaches Association Male Athlete of the Year at a ceremony in Tulsa earlier in the week.

Gilbert, who was also the Outlaws’ starting quarterback, made 200 of 208 extra points during his prep career and 19 of 28 field goals, with a career-long of 52 yards. More than 80 percent of his kickoffs went for touchbacks. He also threw for more than 5,000 yards and had 53 TD passes and 36 rushing touchdowns.

Gilbert, one of five kickers currently listed on the Iowa State roster, was ranked as the #18 kicker and #13 punter nationally last year by Kohl’s Kicking.