The matchup between the North Shore Mustangs and the South Oak Cliff Bears was a showdown between Houston and Dallas. After finishing as State Champion runners-up last year, both teams entered this season determined to return to the championship game and claim victory.
The game started slowly, with both teams struggling to move the ball near the end zone in the 1st quarter, resulting in a scoreless opening period. However, the 2nd quarter saw North Shore find their rhythm. Quarterback Kaleb Bailey connected with wide receiver Cameron Smith for a 43-yard touchdown pass, breaking the deadlock. Minutes late, Bailey kept the ball on a designed run, finding a gap in the middle and sprinting for a 63-yard rushing touchdown. North Shore’s defense also made an impact when safety Chace Calicut forced a fumble that was quickly recovered by the Mustangs. Running back Chris Thomas capitalized on the turnover by scoring North Shore’s third touchdown. With four minutes remaining in the 2nd quarter, D’Andre Hardeman Jr. added a fourth touchdown with a 4-yard rush. In the final minute before halftime, Bailey once again found Smith for his second touchdown reception, sending the Mustangs into the break with a commanding 35-0 lead.
The second half saw less action as North Shore shifted their focus to controlling the clock and securing their lead. Despite South Oak Cliff’s efforts to get on the scoreboard, North Shore’s defense held firm, preventing the Bears from reaching the end zone. In the 4th quarter, North Shore extended their lead with a 37-yard field goal, effectively sealing the game. The Mustangs closed out their season opener with a dominant 38-0 victory.
