Melissa Survives a Thriller, Slips Past Argyle to Keep Playoff Run Alive
Melissa entered the postseason playing some of its best football of the year, and on Friday night the Cardinals proved once again they know how to finish tight games. In a matchup loaded with storylines and momentum swings, Melissa edged Argyle 20 to 19, extending its win streak to five and punching its ticket to the next round.
Holloway Takes Over on the Ground
Running back Brett Holloway Jr carried the Cardinals when the game tightened. He powered through the Eagle front for 130 yards and two touchdowns, repeatedly turning small creases into chain-moving gains. When Melissa needed a spark, Holloway supplied it.
Quarterback Jacob Swain played a major role as well, stretching the field with 98 receiving yards and adding a touchdown that swung momentum back in Melissa’s favor.
The Cardinals didn’t just run effectively—they dominated the trenches. Melissa closed the night with 212 rushing yards, doubling Argyle’s ground output and controlling the pace throughout.
Argyle Fights Behind Gasperson’s Arm
Although Argyle came up one point short, it wasn’t due to a lack of production from quarterback Maguire Gasperson. The Eagles standout delivered another high-powered outing, throwing for 335 yards on better than 70 percent accuracy and tacking on a rushing score. It marked his fourth straight game over the 300-yard mark.
His favorite target was Julian Caldwell, who once again proved nearly unguardable, piling up 167 receiving yards and stretching Melissa’s defense with every touch.
But despite Gasperson’s brilliance, Argyle struggled to find balance. Their 97 rushing yards never threatened Melissa’s front, and the Cardinals’ clock-chewing drives kept Argyle’s offense waiting on the sideline.
Season Trends Shift as Cards Move On
The victory lifts Melissa to 11 and 2, building momentum at exactly the right time. Argyle, meanwhile, saw its 12-game win streak snapped, falling to 12 and 2.
A Heavyweight Awaits
Next up for Melissa is a showdown with South Oak Cliff on Friday morning. The Bears enter averaging over 31 points in ten straight games, presenting one of the toughest defensive tests Melissa has faced all year.
If the Cardinals can replicate their ground dominance and late-game poise, they’ll give themselves a chance. But they’ll need every bit of it against a program that rarely gives opponents breathing room.
