Sheridan Blackhawks Defeat North Miami 40-21, Advance to Face Undefeated Pioneer

SHERIDAN, Ind. | October 26, 2026

The Sheridan Blackhawks kept their postseason hopes alive Friday night, defeating the North Miami Warriors 40-21 in the opening round of Indiana’s Class 1A Sectional 43 football tournament.

The October 23 victory improved Sheridan’s record to 6-4 and secured a second-round matchup against undefeated Pioneer on Friday, October 30.

After suffering consecutive losses to Eastern and Carroll to close the regular season, Sheridan delivered an important offensive turnaround in its postseason opener.

Alexander and Hagan Lead the Offense

Running back Hayden Alexander helped power the Blackhawks to victory, rushing for 166 yards and three touchdowns on 17 carries.

Alexander averaged nearly 10 yards per attempt, giving Sheridan a consistent threat on the ground.

Quarterback Brock Hagan was equally productive through the air, completing 11 of 14 passes for 201 yards and three touchdowns.

Together, Alexander and Hagan accounted for six touchdowns, demonstrating the balance that makes Sheridan’s offense difficult to defend when both phases are working effectively.

Their performances represented a substantial improvement from Sheridan’s regular-season finale, a 14-7 loss to Carroll.

Blackhawks Build Halftime Advantage

North Miami entered the contest looking to extend its season after defeating Triton 41-12 in its regular-season finale.

The Warriors remained competitive early, with the teams tied 7-7 after the first quarter.

Sheridan gained control during the second period, taking a 20-7 lead into halftime.

North Miami responded with 14 points during the third quarter, keeping pressure on the home team.

Sheridan maintained its advantage and finished the game with a 19-point victory.

The Blackhawks’ ability to generate offense both through the air and on the ground proved central to their postseason success.

Sheridan Rebounds From Late-Season Struggles

The Blackhawks entered the tournament having lost two consecutive games, falling 34-22 to Eastern on October 9 and 14-7 to Carroll on October 16.

Before those defeats, Sheridan had won five consecutive contests, including victories over Tri-Central, Clinton Central, Clinton Prairie, Taylor and Delphi.

Friday’s playoff victory demonstrated that Sheridan could recover from its late-season struggles.

It also ended North Miami’s season at 3-7.

Undefeated Pioneer Awaits

Sheridan’s next opponent presents a significant challenge.

Pioneer enters Friday’s sectional matchup with a 10-0 record after defeating Taylor 70-0 in its postseason opener.

The Panthers have produced several convincing victories this season and enter the matchup as one of Indiana’s strongest Class 1A teams.

For Sheridan, controlling possession and maintaining offensive balance will be important against an opponent that has consistently limited opposing offenses.

Alexander’s production on the ground and Hagan’s efficiency through the air give the Blackhawks multiple ways to move the football.

The challenge will be sustaining that production against an undefeated opponent.

Sheridan is scheduled to host Pioneer at Bud Wright Stadium on Friday, October 30, at 7 p.m.

The Blackhawks have already extended their season by one week. Now they have an opportunity to produce one of the more notable sectional upsets in Indiana.

Final Score: Sheridan 40, North Miami 21.

Sheridan Record: 6-4.

Next Game: Pioneer at Sheridan, Friday, October 30, 7 p.m.