WEST FRANKFORT — The Benton Rangers rode a 35-point third quarter explosion to beat rival West Frankfort 41-0. The Rangers improve to 5-0 and are now playoff eligible. The Redbirds fell to 1-4.

Benton got off to a sluggish start, part self-inflicted, part inspired play from West Frankfort’s defense. That combination led to Benton leading 6-0 at the half.

Rangers’ senior quarterback Keegan Glover threw for 255 yards and three touchdowns. He also had a 1-yard touchdown run for Benton’s only first half score. Glover’s 65-yard kickoff return to open the third quarter seemed to kickstart the Rangers’ offense.

The Rangers’ defense was stifling, holding the Redbirds to less than 100 yards of offense. Benton still has only given up six points all season and now has four consecutive shutouts.

Benton can clinch a playoff spot with a win next week as Harrisburg will pay a visit in a matchup of SIRR Ohio unbeatens. West Frankfort will be on the road next week at Murphysboro.