In a commanding display, DeSoto surged toward another shot at the state finals by overwhelming Cedar Hill 59-16 in the Region 2 finals at John Kincaide Stadium. The Eagles (13-0) delivered a dominant performance, leaving them eager to discover their next opponent in the upcoming semifinals.
Awaiting the outcome of the Region 1 final between Southlake Carroll and Trophy Club Byron Nelson, DeSoto remains focused on their forward path. Despite a history of 2-3 against Carroll over the past two decades and having never faced Byron Nelson, the Eagles are primed for the challenges ahead.
Reflecting on the victory, senior running back Jaylin Jones affirmed, “We will get treatment tomorrow and on Monday we’re going to move to the next game. We are going to stay on our grind and stay humble.”
DeSoto’s defense showcased its prowess, securing four interceptions against Cedar Hill, a team that heavily leaned on its passing game with 34 attempts. Coach Claude Mathis anticipated this shift, emphasizing, “I knew they couldn’t run the ball… We felt they would throw the ball a lot and they did. I’m glad I followed my gut.”
The Eagles controlled the ground game, limiting Cedar Hill to a mere 54 yards on 27 carries. While DeSoto found its success primarily in rushing touchdowns, the opening score of the night arrived through the air. Darius ‘DJ’ Bailey connected with Antonio Pride Jr. for a 37-yard touchdown, setting the tone early in the game.
Despite a momentary boost for Cedar Hill following a blocked PAT and a subsequent return, DeSoto maintained dominance. The Eagles secured a comfortable lead, capitalizing on defensive scores by Marshall Kirven and Brandon Booker, along with offensive contributions from Marvin Duffey and Deondrae Riden Jr., ending the first half with a commanding 38-10 advantage.
DeSoto continued to widen the gap, reaching a commanding 59-16 lead by the end of the third quarter. Cedar Hill showed glimpses of resistance with a touchdown, yet DeSoto swiftly responded with Antonio Pride Jr.’s 87-yard kickoff return for a score. Further touchdowns from Jaden Trawick and Ethan Feaster propelled DeSoto’s commanding performance.
As DeSoto eyes the next challenge on their journey, the team’s determination and strong performance serve as a testament to their aspirations for another state title bid.
