Desoto High School’s football team pulled off a stunning upset on Saturday, defeating top-ranked Duncanville High School with a score of 49-35. The victory ended Duncanville’s 22-game winning streak and snapped their 47-game district winning streak. The game, which showcased two defending state champions and nationally ranked teams, lived up to its hype and sent shockwaves throughout the state of Texas.
DeSoto’s fans were ecstatic after the win, but unfortunately, they were not allowed to rush the field due to safety concerns. However, the celebration in the stands was still incredibly jubilant. Fans threw small plastic footballs onto the field, players stormed the field and danced in unison, and one player even did backflips. It was a celebration worthy of a state championship, highlighting the significance of this upset.
DeSoto’s win was a major milestone for the team and the players. Head coach Claude Mathis expressed his joy and emphasized the importance of the victory. He mentioned that the team had enough of negative media coverage and criticism and that this win meant a lot to the players, considering Duncanville’s impressive winning streaks.
Initially scheduled for Friday, the game was postponed due to lightning and torrential rain. There were discussions about canceling the game altogether, but both teams ultimately decided to play on Saturday despite it not affecting playoff seeding. DeSoto’s players, in particular, were motivated by the doubt cast upon them, with many people expecting them to be blown out by Duncanville.
DeSoto’s offense was firing on all cylinders throughout the game, with quarterback DJ Bailey throwing for 268 yards and four touchdowns. Wide receiver Daylon Singleton, committed to SMU, played a pivotal role, making six catches for 179 yards and two touchdowns. Singleton also returned a kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown. The team’s fast tempo on offense proved to be too much for Duncanville’s defense, which had been one of the best in the country, allowing minimal yards and points per game.
Despite the loss, Duncanville still holds the top seed in the upcoming playoffs, while DeSoto secured the District 11-6A title. Both teams can still contend for state titles, and their matchup in this game showcased the level of competition and talent that they possess. Though DeSoto’s win came without injured star running back Deondrae Tiger Riden Jr., the team’s resilient performance and strong defense were instrumental in the victory.
Overall, DeSoto’s upset victory over Duncanville was a monumental achievement, ending impressive winning streaks and solidifying their status as a powerhouse program in Texas high school football. The game lived up to its billing, providing excitement and establishing DeSoto as a force to be reckoned with in the state.
