In University Park, the Highland Park team seemed on the verge of another second-round setback. Down by 15 points with less than three minutes remaining in the third quarter, the team found its savior in Parker Thompson, the backup quarterback for Texas high school football’s most successful program.
Substituting for the injured Warren Peck for the third consecutive game, Thompson orchestrated a game-defining play. As the clock expired in the rain-drenched field, Thompson set up Nicholas Rigas for a crucial 28-yard field goal, securing a breathtaking 22-21 victory over McKinney in the Class 6A Division II playoff at Gerald J. Ford Stadium.
Rigas, responsible for the last-second heroics, expressed his anticipation, stating, “It’s something I’ve been waiting for ever since I started kicking.” Coach Randy Allen credited Rigas, along with the long snapper, holder, and protective unit, for executing all three field goal attempts despite the challenging weather conditions.
“They found a way to win when all the momentum was against us,” Allen praised his team, acknowledging their resilience in dire moments.
Highland Park, potentially poised to transition to Class 5A in the upcoming UIL realignment, had never surpassed the second round of playoffs as a 6A school. However, the six-time state champions displayed their mettle, blanking McKinney in the second half after a tough second quarter where they conceded 21 points. Even with USC commit Bryan Jackson, the Dallas area’s second-best running back, limited to 84 rushing yards, Highland Park found its rhythm.
Thompson, a transfer from Southlake Carroll, exhibited poise and determination throughout the game. Despite facing a relentless McKinney defense led by Oregon State pledge Makhi Frazier, Thompson displayed unwavering composure, according to Coach Allen.
McKinney, despite having notable recruits in The Dallas Morning News’ top 100 Dallas-area players for the Class of 2024, fell short of returning to the third round of playoffs. Missing their top-rated player, five-star safety and Florida commit Xavier Filsaime due to injury, McKinney couldn’t replicate last season’s success.
Thompson’s leadership and drives in the game, including touchdown runs by Keller Holmes, narrowed McKinney’s lead to 21-19 with about five and a half minutes left. Highland Park’s defense stood tall, securing a fourth consecutive punt and providing its offense with the opportunity for a memorable comeback.
