State ChampionShip: Vandegrift Claims First-Ever State Championship with Gritty Win Over Southlake Carroll
ARLINGTON, Texas — In the highly anticipated Class 6A Division II state championship at AT&T Stadium, Austin Vandegrift capped off a historic season with a 24-17 victory over Southlake Carroll, claiming the school’s first state football title in dramatic fashion.
The matchup pitted the perennial powerhouse Southlake Carroll Dragons, making their 11th state title game appearance, against the up-and-coming Vandegrift Vipers, a team seeking its first championship in program history. The result marked a changing of the guard, with Vandegrift rising to the occasion against a shorthanded but determined Carroll squad. Th
Vandegrift’s Offensive Precision
Behind senior quarterback Makay Teodecki’s efficient performance, Vandegrift’s offense was clinical. Teodecki completed 14 of 17 passes for 248 yards and two touchdowns, posting an impressive 243.7 quarterback rating. His accuracy and poise were crucial in keeping Carroll’s defense off-balance throughout the game. The 7 point differential was deceiving as Vandegrift opted to go for it on 4th 3 times instead of taking the chip shot field goal.
Behind senior quarterback Makay Teodecki’s efficient performance, Vandegrift’s offense was clinical. Teodecki completed 14 of 17 passes for 248 yards and two touchdowns, posting an impressive 243.7 quarterback rating. His accuracy and poise were crucial in keeping Carroll’s defense off-balance throughout the game. The 7 point differential was deceiving as Vandegrift opted to go for it on 4th 3 times instead of taking the chip shot field goal.
Running back Alex Fournier also starred, rushing for 160 yards on 28 carries, including a 50-yard burst that showcased his explosiveness. Fournier’s efforts, combined with Teodecki’s passing, allowed the Vipers to control the tempo of the game and sustain long drives. The receiving corps was led by senior Garrett Farley, who hauled in four catches for 134 yards, including an electrifying 84-yard touchdown that helped Vandegrift take a commanding lead in the first half.
Carroll’s Offensive Struggles
Southlake Carroll entered the game with one of the most explosive offenses in the Dallas area, averaging 49.8 points per game. However, the Dragons managed just 17 points—by far their lowest output of the season—against a disciplined Vandegrift defense that for mistakes and interceptions.
Southlake Carroll entered the game with one of the most explosive offenses in the Dallas area, averaging 49.8 points per game. However, the Dragons managed just 17 points—by far their lowest output of the season—against a disciplined Vandegrift defense that for mistakes and interceptions.
Junior quarterback Angelo Renda was a bright spot for Carroll, completing 27 of 38 passes for 351 yards and two touchdowns. His connection with wide receiver Brock Boyd proved particularly effective, as Boyd racked up 13 receptions for 178 yards and a score. Boyd’s performance etched his name in the record books, as he surpassed his older brother Brady Boyd for the second-most catches in a UIL 6A state title game.
Despite Renda’s efforts, Carroll’s offense was hampered by an ineffective run game, which managed just 53 yards on the ground. Missing key players Riley Wormley and Davis Penn due to injuries, the Dragons leaned on Christian Glenn, a converted wide receiver, who finished with 30 rushing yards on 10 carries. Carroll’s inability to establish the run made them one-dimensional, and Vandegrift capitalized with consistent defensive pressure.
Turning Points
Carroll struck first on their second drive, but Vandegrift responded with 21 unanswered points to close the first half. Teodecki’s 84-yard strike to Farley and Fournier’s punishing runs gave the Vipers a 21-7 lead at the break.
Carroll cut the deficit to 21-14 in the third quarter with Renda’s 23-yard touchdown pass to Boyd. The Dragons then stopped Vandegrift on fourth down, but a costly interception on their next possession halted the momentum.
Vandegrift extended their lead to 24-14 with a field goal in the fourth quarter, forcing Carroll into a desperate 15-play, 87-yard drive. The Dragons came up short on fourth-and-goal at the Vipers’ 5-yard line, a decision head coach Riley Dodge stood by.
Carroll struck first on their second drive, but Vandegrift responded with 21 unanswered points to close the first half. Teodecki’s 84-yard strike to Farley and Fournier’s punishing runs gave the Vipers a 21-7 lead at the break.
Carroll cut the deficit to 21-14 in the third quarter with Renda’s 23-yard touchdown pass to Boyd. The Dragons then stopped Vandegrift on fourth down, but a costly interception on their next possession halted the momentum.
Vandegrift extended their lead to 24-14 with a field goal in the fourth quarter, forcing Carroll into a desperate 15-play, 87-yard drive. The Dragons came up short on fourth-and-goal at the Vipers’ 5-yard line, a decision head coach Riley Dodge stood by.
A Historic Finish
With just 43 seconds remaining, Carroll’s defense forced a three-and-out, giving the offense one last chance. Gavin Strange’s 47-yard field goal brought the Dragons within seven points, but with only one second left, it was too late to mount a comeback.
The victory marked a milestone for Vandegrift, a program that has quickly risen to prominence under head coach Drew Sanders. For Southlake Carroll, the loss added another chapter to Riley Dodge’s coaching journey, which has included two state title appearances and a stellar 92-9 record since taking over in 2018.
With just 43 seconds remaining, Carroll’s defense forced a three-and-out, giving the offense one last chance. Gavin Strange’s 47-yard field goal brought the Dragons within seven points, but with only one second left, it was too late to mount a comeback.
The victory marked a milestone for Vandegrift, a program that has quickly risen to prominence under head coach Drew Sanders. For Southlake Carroll, the loss added another chapter to Riley Dodge’s coaching journey, which has included two state title appearances and a stellar 92-9 record since taking over in 2018.
Legacy of a Championship
Vandegrift’s triumph will be remembered as a landmark achievement, a testament to the program’s growth and resilience. For Southlake Carroll, the game serves as a reminder of the challenges of staying atop the high school football world, even for one of Texas’ most storied programs. With this victory, Vandegrift has etched its name in the annals of Texas high school football, and the Vipers’ first championship will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players to aim for similar glory.
Vandegrift’s triumph will be remembered as a landmark achievement, a testament to the program’s growth and resilience. For Southlake Carroll, the game serves as a reminder of the challenges of staying atop the high school football world, even for one of Texas’ most storied programs. With this victory, Vandegrift has etched its name in the annals of Texas high school football, and the Vipers’ first championship will undoubtedly inspire future generations of players to aim for similar glory.
State championship: richmond randle halts south oak cliff's pursuit of 3rd State title in 4 years with dramatic 38-35 win
TXHSFB Playoffs ROund 5 - S.O.C manhandles arglye in a wet 37-3 win at SMU
It was a wet one at SMU's Gerald Ford Stadium as South Oak Cliff battled it out with Argyle to advance to their fourth consecutive state championship game. SOC's offensive ground game propelled a 37 point onslaught, while their defense limited Argyle to a frustrating single field goal. Coach Jason Todd preached playing a total game at the half saying, "Winning Aint Ever Won... as long as it's time on the clock, you have to play it all out." This South Oak Cliff team embodied those words, not letting their foot off of the gas until the final whistle.
After the game, we caught up with Coach Todd to learn more about the phrase "Winning Ain't Ever Won" as well as quarterback Carter Kopecky about his thoughts as he heads back to ATT Stadium to compete in another state championship contest.
TXHSFB Playoffs ROund 5 - Southlake gets blessed in last second 20-17 win over
TXHSFB Playoffs ROund 4 - Argyle Advances to State Semifinals with Commanding Win Over Lovejoy
Argyle continued its postseason dominance with a decisive 42-17 victory over Lovejoy in the Class 5A Division II Region I title game Friday night at Prosper ISD Children’s Health Stadium. Powered by a ferocious defense and an efficient offense, the Eagles extended their winning streak to 13 games and earned a spot in the state semifinals for the ninth time in school history.
The Argyle defense was the story of the night, forcing five turnovers and setting the tone early. Key contributions came from Xavier Sanchez and Garrett Westrom, who each forced fumbles, and Maxwell Bland, who tallied ten tackles, two for loss, and a sack. Nathaniel Bruce’s fumble recovery in the second quarter led to a go-ahead touchdown pass from quarterback Maguire Gasperson to Jaxon Greene, sparking a run of 35 unanswered points.
“Our defense was fabulous tonight,” said Argyle coach Todd Rodgers. “They brought the physicality and played with fire and grit, forcing turnovers.”
Gasperson delivered a balanced performance, completing six passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing touchdown. Julian Caldwell was his top target, hauling in 113 yards and a touchdown. In total, Argyle’s offense capitalized on its defensive takeaways, building a 28-10 halftime lead.
Lovejoy, led by sophomore quarterback Cade Lynch, fought valiantly but struggled to overcome Argyle's relentless pressure. Lynch threw for 126 yards and a late touchdown to Coleman Reaugh, but the Leopards’ turnovers proved too costly.
With the victory, Argyle (13-1) advances to face South Oak Cliff, the defending state champion, in a highly anticipated semifinal rematch. South Oak Cliff defeated Argyle in the 2022 state semifinal 14-6 and is coming off a dominant 56-14 win over Port Neches-Groves.
Despite the loss, Lovejoy coach Todd Dodge praised his team’s effort in his first season with the program. “I told our guys don’t you dare walk out of here hanging your heads in shame. We just got beat by a better team.”
Argyle now sets its sights on revenge against South Oak Cliff, aiming to extend its remarkable postseason success and reach the state title game.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
TXHSFB Playoffs ROund 4 - Longview upsets DeSoto to End Eagles’ State Title Bid in 50-14 Win
DeSoto's postseason dominance came to a halt as Longview secured a commanding 50-14 victory in the 6A Division II Region II final at McLane Stadium, ending DeSoto's hopes for a third consecutive state title.
Texas A&M signee Deondrae “Tiger” Riden Jr., who had amassed 659 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in the prior playoff rounds, left the game in the second quarter due to injury after tallying 94 yards on 16 carries. With Riden sidelined, and the rain and cold playing a factor, Longview's defense took over. Da’Kayden Carter’s third-quarter pick-six and Kason Brooks’ interception thwarted DeSoto’s comeback attempts, while Longview’s running back Taylor Tatum led a relentless ground attack.
The Lobos capitalized on a dominant rushing performance, highlighted by Tatum’s explosive 94-yard touchdown in the second quarter, propelling them to a 20-7 halftime lead. Desoto favored Cover 1 and Cover 0 schemes to stop the run, but that left them with no safety help. DeSoto found brief momentum with a touchdown by SaRod Baker in the second half, but Longview's defense and clock-controlling run game sealed the victory.
Longview moves on to the state semifinals, seeking its first state title since 2018, while DeSoto ends its season at 11-3, a strong run marred by injuries and missed opportunities in the regional final.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor & B. Riley, Esq, Chief Editor
TXHSFB Playoffs ROund 3 - S.O.C. Breeezes by Marshall in 32-12 win
South Oak Cliff (SOC) delivered a dominant performance in the Class 5A Division II Region II semifinal, dismantling Marshall 35-7 at Trinity Rose Stadium. Led by a relentless rushing attack and a defense that forced key turnovers, SOC controlled the game from start to finish, advancing to the regional final in their pursuit of postseason glory.
Mikail Trotter set the tone with 118 rushing yards and two touchdowns, igniting a ground game that amassed 264 yards on 40 carries. The Longhorns started strong, scoring on their opening drive with a 24-yard burst from Trotter. A short punt by Marshall set up a quick second score as Levon Morton’s 3-yard run extended SOC’s early lead to 14-0.
Marshall’s offense found brief momentum with a 14-play drive but fell short, turning the ball over on downs at the SOC 17. Trotter struck again, capping a 13-play drive with a 3-yard touchdown. SOC’s defense then took center stage, highlighted by Jayden Shelton’s interception, which set up Morton’s second touchdown of the night. Quarterback Carter Kopecky connected with Torrin Teague for a successful 2-point conversion, building a commanding 28-0 advantage.
A game-defining moment came in the third quarter when Marshall appeared poised to score after a SOC special teams miscue. However, Kendrick Carter intercepted a pass at the goal line and returned it 100 yards for a show-stopping touchdown. Marshall’s lone points came late in the fourth quarter, with Isaiah Bush scoring on a 1-yard run.
SOC improved to 11-2 and will face Port Neches-Groves in the regional final, a rematch of last year’s state title game. The victory underscores SOC’s dominance on both sides of the ball as they continue their playoff march.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor & B. Riley, Esq, Chief Editor
TXHSFB Playoffs ROund 2 - Waxahachie Dominates North Forney in 32-12 win
6A Divsion 2
Waxahachie earned a dominant playoff win over North Forney, powered by 360 total offensive yards and a strong defensive showing. Sophomore quarterback Jerry Meyer III completed 12 of 15 passes for 133 yards and a touchdown, while senior Bryson Linnear led the rushing attack with 132 yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, the team recorded four sacks, nine tackles for loss, and one interception. Junior T. Gardner contributed with a receiving touchdown and 116 all-purpose yards. This balanced performance secured Waxahachie’s advancement to the next playoff round where they will face Bridgeland.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
TXHSFB Playoffs ROund 1 - kaufman powers by hillcrest with a 49-21 win
Kaufman powered past Hillcrest with a 483-226 total yard advantage in a dominant performance. Kaufman's quarterback Ty Burleson threw for 263 yards and four touchdowns, while Johnathan Wrenn led the rushing attack with 111 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. Hillcrest's offense struggled to keep up despite solid efforts from Asher Randall, who passed for 160 yards and a touchdown, and Isaac Dorn, who rushed for 71 yards and a score. Kaufman’s balanced offense and stout defense sealed the win, advancing them to Round 2 of the 2024 TXHSFB Playoff where they will face Port Neches-Grove.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
Week 10 - pearce advances to the TXHSFB Playoffs with a 34-21 win
Presley Harper threw for 329 yards and three touchdowns to lead Richardson Pearce past Richardson Berkner 34-21, securing the top Class 6A Division II seed in the bi-district playoffs. Pearce built a 21-0 lead before Berkner rallied, cutting the deficit with a kickoff return touchdown. A 99-yard Pearce drive, capped by Harper’s 26-yard touchdown pass to Austin Griggs, sealed the win. Andrew Casagrande added two touchdowns with 137 receiving yards. Berkner quarterback Demarcus Calhoun scored once while filling in for injured starter Cornell McGee.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
Week 9 -
it was like christmas morning for desoto in their 49-14 win over skyline
DeSoto’s defense gave Skyline an early Christmas gift, delivering a stocking full of turnovers and sacks in their 49-14 victory. The defense kept on giving, with five total sacks, including three from DJ Rumph, and multiple key stops that limited Skyline’s chances. Meanwhile, DeSoto's offense was led by D. Riden Jr., who rushed for 211 yards and four touchdowns, and M. Johnson-Cook, who added 124 yards and three scores. Quarterback Kelden Ryan also contributed with 236 yards and three touchdowns through the air. Desoto is looking stong as this season draws to a close. They are a favorite to win a 3rd straight State title.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
Week 7 - Lake highlands held off berkner in a heated 26-20 distirct battle
Lake Highlands held off a late comeback from Berkner to win 26-20 in a District 7-6A showdown. After taking a 17-0 halftime lead, Berkner responded with two quick second-half touchdowns. However, a blocked field goal, a recovered kickoff, and key interceptions by Ayden Webb and Aaden Little allowed Lake Highlands to extend its lead. Harrison Day added two rushing touchdowns, leading his team to stay atop the district standings. Berkner falls into a fourth-place tie with Jesuit.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
Week 6 - The brightest lights in the nation - Duncanville vs Desoto
When two back-to-back state champions from the same district meet, the whole country pays attention. Duncanville and DeSoto faced off after an upset loss to the Eagles in 2023 during Desoto's historic undefeated season. Now it looks like D-Ville is looking for revenge as they showcased their headline grabbing talent in a decisive Week 6 win over district rival DeSoto, powered by senior quarterback Keelon Russell’s incredible 427 passing yards and six touchdowns. Star receiver Dakorien Moore contributed heavily with 230 receiving yards and four touchdowns, playing both sides of the ball. He even lined up as punter.
Despite DeSoto’s strong rushing game, totaling 265 yards, standout performances came from quarterback Kelden Ryan (94 rushing yards, 161 passing yards), M. Johnson-Cook (72 rushing yards, 47-yard touchdown run), and SaRod Baker (86 total yards). Duncanville’s defense held firm, with Jaylyn Manning’s one-handed interception sealing the win, snapping DeSoto’s 26-game streak of scoring 30+ points. Duncanville improves to 6-0 with a balanced offensive and defensive effort.
This was a classic battle of the titans that showed the level of talent these two teas have in the locker room and in the coaches office.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
Week 5 - Richardson edged out Berkner in a nail-biting 21-20 victory
Richardson edged out Berkner in a thrilling 21-20 Week 5 victory, driven by a dominant rushing attack and a stout defensive performance. Jaden Pope led Richardson’s ground game with 91 yards on 21 carries, complemented by Kevin Willingham Jr.’s 42 yards and a touchdown, as well as Dameon Crowe’s late score on a double reverse. Quarterbacks Lucas Sawyer and Cole Cage contributed 107 passing yards, with Cage completing all four of his attempts.
Defensively, Richardson stifled Berkner, allowing just 63 total yards and holding Berkner to 1.61 yards per rush. Berkner quarterback Cornell McGee IV managed only 34 passing yards but scored on a short rushing attempt. Despite Richardson’s 10 penalties and a turnover, the defense’s ability to limit Berkner’s offensive production played a pivotal role in securing the narrow one-point win.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
Week 4 - Cedar hill delivers strong performance in 32-15 district opener over skyline
Cedar Hill delivered a strong performance in its District 11-6A opener, securing a 34-15 win over Skyline with the help of quarterback Tamarion Crochett’s three first-half touchdowns. Crochett, a junior transfer, threw for 289 yards and continued Southern Dallas’ dominance in high school football. Southern Dallas has long been a powerhouse in the Dallas metroplex, with schools like Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and DeSoto regularly competing for top spots in the state rankings. Cedar Hill’s victory is another testament to the region’s football excellence, bolstered by explosive plays and impressive quarterback play. This is called the "District of Doom" for a reason.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
week 3 - Lincoln Dominates Madison in the Latest Chapter of a Storied Rivalry
The “South Dallas Super Bowl,” a rivalry that has electrified fans since the 1980s, lived up to its name on Friday night at Forester Field. Lincoln delivered a commanding performance, overwhelming Madison 46-19 in a non-district clash steeped in history and emotion.
A Rivalry for the Ages
The fierce rivalry between Lincoln and Madison has seen countless memorable moments over the decades. In the past ten years, the teams have been evenly matched, splitting their encounters five wins apiece. However, Lincoln took a decisive step ahead in this year’s installment, asserting their dominance in all phases of the game.
The fierce rivalry between Lincoln and Madison has seen countless memorable moments over the decades. In the past ten years, the teams have been evenly matched, splitting their encounters five wins apiece. However, Lincoln took a decisive step ahead in this year’s installment, asserting their dominance in all phases of the game.
Lincoln Strikes First and Often
Jermirion Robertson set the tone for Lincoln early, rushing for 137 yards and opening the scoring with a 29-yard touchdown in the second quarter after a fumble recovery set up excellent field position. Just one series later, Jarmon Trotter exploded for a 30-yard touchdown run, putting Lincoln up 12-0 and showcasing the team’s offensive efficiency.
Jermirion Robertson set the tone for Lincoln early, rushing for 137 yards and opening the scoring with a 29-yard touchdown in the second quarter after a fumble recovery set up excellent field position. Just one series later, Jarmon Trotter exploded for a 30-yard touchdown run, putting Lincoln up 12-0 and showcasing the team’s offensive efficiency.
Madison responded with a spark of their own when Trinity Scott electrified the crowd with a 94-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, cutting the deficit to 12-7. However, Lincoln quickly extinguished any hopes of a Madison rally with a five-play scoring drive capped by quarterback Jastin Hampton’s one-yard touchdown run.
Relentless Attack
Lincoln, now 2-1 on the season, piled up 338 yards of total offense. Trotter added 51 rushing yards and two touchdowns, complementing Robertson’s standout performance. On defense, Lincoln’s relentless pressure and ability to capitalize on turnovers proved too much for Madison to handle.
Lincoln, now 2-1 on the season, piled up 338 yards of total offense. Trotter added 51 rushing yards and two touchdowns, complementing Robertson’s standout performance. On defense, Lincoln’s relentless pressure and ability to capitalize on turnovers proved too much for Madison to handle.
Madison’s Bright Spots Amid Adversity
Madison quarterback Lynn Cornell showcased resilience, passing for 179 yards and two touchdowns, three of his completions going to Scott. Scott finished with an impressive 166 receiving yards and both of Madison’s offensive scores, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Lincoln’s balanced attack.
Madison quarterback Lynn Cornell showcased resilience, passing for 179 yards and two touchdowns, three of his completions going to Scott. Scott finished with an impressive 166 receiving yards and both of Madison’s offensive scores, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Lincoln’s balanced attack.
Intensity on Full Display
The game’s fiery atmosphere was evident not only in the plays but in the penalties. The teams combined for 21 infractions totaling 221 yards, underscoring the intensity and high stakes of this historic rivalry.
The game’s fiery atmosphere was evident not only in the plays but in the penalties. The teams combined for 21 infractions totaling 221 yards, underscoring the intensity and high stakes of this historic rivalry.
Unfortunately, the game was marred by an injury to Madison punter Geronimo Santos, who was carted off the field after a right knee injury in the first half, resulting in a 35-minute delay. I found myself on one knee along with the players hoping Santos would be ok.
Looking Ahead
Lincoln’s emphatic win adds another thrilling chapter to the “South Dallas Super Bowl,” a rivalry that continues to captivate fans and players alike. With a running clock initiated late in the third quarter, Lincoln left no doubt about their superiority this year while further cementing their legacy in one of Dallas’s most celebrated high school football matchups.
By: Dre Dooley, Special ContributorLincoln’s emphatic win adds another thrilling chapter to the “South Dallas Super Bowl,” a rivalry that continues to captivate fans and players alike. With a running clock initiated late in the third quarter, Lincoln left no doubt about their superiority this year while further cementing their legacy in one of Dallas’s most celebrated high school football matchups.
Week 2- North Crowley Shocks the rankings in Thrilling 57-51 Upset over Desoto
Facing the reigning powerhouse DeSoto, North Crowley boldly proved that no challenge is too great, pulling off a thrilling 57-51 victory in a high-octane matchup Friday night at Eagle Stadium. The win ended DeSoto's 23-game winning streak and cemented North Crowley as a formidable rising force in Texas high school football. Emotions were high as the both teams antagonized one another on social media prior to the game; It all inevitably came out on the field with a first quarter full of penalties and costly mistakes
Defying the Odds
DeSoto, known for its dominance as the defending Class 6A Division II state champion, entered the game as a seemingly untouchable opponent. Most programs in Texas avoided scheduling DeSoto in non-district play, but North Crowley, ranked No. 5, welcomed the opportunity.
DeSoto, known for its dominance as the defending Class 6A Division II state champion, entered the game as a seemingly untouchable opponent. Most programs in Texas avoided scheduling DeSoto in non-district play, but North Crowley, ranked No. 5, welcomed the opportunity.
Head coach Ray Gates likened the matchup to the iconic 1990 boxing upset: “The pregame speech was, we are Buster Douglas going against Mike Tyson 37-0. Never been knocked down. And on Feb. 11, 1990, in Tokyo, Buster Douglas knocked down Mike Tyson in Round 10.” His team took that underdog spirit to heart, delivering a resilient performance across all four quarters.
Offensive Fireworks
North Crowley’s offense erupted, led by senior receiver Quentin Gibson, who recorded a career-defining performance with seven receptions for 180 yards and four touchdowns. Running back Cornelius Warren added to the fireworks, rushing for 152 yards and three touchdowns, including a 66-yard breakaway in the fourth quarter that gave North Crowley a 49-44 lead.
North Crowley’s offense erupted, led by senior receiver Quentin Gibson, who recorded a career-defining performance with seven receptions for 180 yards and four touchdowns. Running back Cornelius Warren added to the fireworks, rushing for 152 yards and three touchdowns, including a 66-yard breakaway in the fourth quarter that gave North Crowley a 49-44 lead.
Senior quarterback Chris Jimerson Jr. showcased poise under pressure, throwing for 177 yards and four touchdowns. The team’s aggression paid off as they converted 4 of 6 two-point attempts, a bold strategy in a game that saw 10 lead changes.
From the outset, North Crowley played fearlessly. After DeSoto fumbled the opening kickoff, North Crowley seized the moment with a 35-yard touchdown pass from Jimerson to Gibson just 12 seconds into the game.
DeSoto’s Response Falls Short
Though DeSoto managed a late touchdown with 25 seconds left, it wasn’t enough to overcome North Crowley’s relentless attack. DeSoto’s prior dominance was evident in its season opener, a 70-0 rout over Georgia’s Creekside, but the defending champs couldn’t match North Crowley’s intensity and execution on this night.
Though DeSoto managed a late touchdown with 25 seconds left, it wasn’t enough to overcome North Crowley’s relentless attack. DeSoto’s prior dominance was evident in its season opener, a 70-0 rout over Georgia’s Creekside, but the defending champs couldn’t match North Crowley’s intensity and execution on this night.
Building a Legacy
North Crowley entered Week 2 fresh off a 29-21 victory against Lancaster in the Jerry Jones Classic and now faces two more ranked opponents, Denton Guyer and Rockwall. Gates sees these challenges as vital to his team’s growth: “We’ve got to get over the hump. And how are we going to get over the hump if we don’t play the best in the country? If we don’t play the best in the state?”
North Crowley entered Week 2 fresh off a 29-21 victory against Lancaster in the Jerry Jones Classic and now faces two more ranked opponents, Denton Guyer and Rockwall. Gates sees these challenges as vital to his team’s growth: “We’ve got to get over the hump. And how are we going to get over the hump if we don’t play the best in the country? If we don’t play the best in the state?”
The bold scheduling and fearless play are paying off for North Crowley, a program that has now firmly established itself as a contender in the Texas high school football landscape.
By: Dre Dooley, Special Contributor
Desoto HS Game 3 Recap Video for socials
desoto hs Game 6 Recap Video for socials
