Stephenville and Kilgore Face Off in 4A DI State Championship Showdown

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Stephenville and Kilgore Face Off in 4A DI State Championship Showdown

In what promises to be an exciting clash, Stephenville and Kilgore will face off in the 4A DI State Championship. The game is set for 11 a.m. on Friday at Arlington’s AT&T Stadium.

Stephenville’s Perfect Season

Stephenville enters the championship with an unbeaten record of 15-0. The team aims to secure its seventh state title. Their impressive journey includes back-to-back victories over Canyon West Plains and defending champion Celina. Last week’s nail-biting win over Celina ended the Bobcats’ 31-game winning streak.

Game Highlights

  • Stephenville overcame a two-turnover deficit to secure a 24-21 win against Celina.
  • Running back Zyler McClendon rushed for 107 yards, scoring twice.
  • Quarterback Trot Jordan contributed over 250 yards of offense, including a touchdown pass.
  • A critical 45-yard field goal from Brighton DeVivo clinched the victory.

Kilgore’s Strong Playoff Performance

Kilgore arrives at the championship with a formidable 14-1 record. The Bulldogs have dominated their playoff opponents, allowing only three points in their last four games, including shutout victories.

  • Their recent win was a decisive 49-0 defeat of La Vernia.
  • Quarterback Kayson Brooks showcased his talents with 236 passing yards and three touchdowns.
  • Special teams standout Lakeyleon Graves scored on a punt return while also contributing on defense.

Previous Encounter and Team Growth

Kilgore reached this level last season but suffered a heavy defeat against Celina. This year’s team has significantly improved and will face a tough challenge against Stephenville’s explosive offense. The match is expected to test Kilgore’s defensive prowess, which has been formidable all season.

Key Players to Watch

Stephenville

  • Trot Jordan (QB): With 3,163 yards and 44 touchdowns, Jordan has become a key player following the team’s offseason adjustments.
  • Kolton Dearth (DL): An Army commit, he has made 76 tackles, including 26 tackles-for-loss.
  • Caleb Taylor (LB): A crucial part of the defense, Taylor helps limit opponents to just 8.1 points per game.

Kilgore

  • Kayson Brooks (QB): A record-breaking starter, Brooks has thrown for 3,134 yards and 29 touchdowns this year.
  • Lakeyleon Graves (WR/LB): A two-way star and Texas State signee, he has 132 tackles and 790 receiving yards this season.
  • Cam Christian (DL): Also headed to Texas State, he has disrupted offenses with 72 tackles and five sacks.

As the championship approaches, experts predict a close match. Many believe Stephenville’s strength in the trenches may give them the edge for title No. 7, with a projected final score of Stephenville 28, Kilgore 24.