It’s a matchup between two of the best programs in DFW for a spot in the 6A Division II state title game. DeSoto is looking to defend its state title from last season. For the Dragons, while they did earn an appearance in the state title game in 2020, they’re aiming to snap a 12-year state title drought.
Who will get one step closer to achieving that ultimate goal?
Here’s what to watch for in this 6A Division II state semifinal on Saturday.
Southlake Carroll Dragons (13-1) vs. DeSoto Eagles (13-0) 2 p.m. Saturday @ Allen
Southlake Carroll’s lone loss came at the hands of Byron Nelson in the penultimate game of the regular season. It avenged that loss last week emphatically as it destroyed the Bobcats 56-7 to win Region I. Desoto, meanwhile, has made a habit of blowing teams out. All 13 of its wins are by at least 14 points. In its regional final win over Cedar Hill, it took care of business 59-16.
The Dragons are led by Georgia Tech quarterback Graham Knowles (2,886 passing yards and 19 touchdowns). He has a great one-two punch alongside him at running back as well in sophomore Davis Penn and junior Riley Wormley. Penn is coming off a big 143-yard, four-touchdown performance against Byron Nelson.
That backfield also has the benefit of an offensive line anchored by Charlotte commit Andrew Cunningham and Georgia Tech commit Harrison Moore.
On the other side of the ball, look for Dustan Mark to try and wreak havoc in the trenches. He leads the Dragons both in tackles, with 114, and tackles for loss, with 18.
Southlake Carroll’s defense is going to need its A game up against a DeSoto offense averaging over 52 points per game. Quarterback DJ Bailey was wildly efficient last week, finishing 17-for-20 for 270 yards and two touchdowns.
Among the weapons at his disposal: four-star running back Deondrae Riden, SMU commit receiver Daylon Singleton, and senior Antonio Pride. Pride led the Eagles with 104 receiving yards against Cedar Hill.
TOUCHDOWN DESOTO❗️
DJ Bailey connects with Antonio Pride JR for 37 yards in the end zone! PAT BLOCKED and returned form 2 point conversion for Cedar Hill
DeSoto 6, Cedar Hill 2
1st Quarter 10:01 pic.twitter.com/zWFrUM1tMR— Juwan Davis (@MrJDavis96) December 2, 2023
Defensively, SMU commit linebacker Brandon Booker (107 total tackles) continues to be a tackling machine. The Eagles will also hoping fellow front seven members Purdue commit defensive end Keylan Abrams (17 tackles for loss) and linebacker Jamari Laye (99 tackles, 18.5 TFLs) can bring the heat against Southlake Carroll’s talented backfield.
After last week’s convincing win, Southlake Carroll appears to be peaking at the right time. However, it will need to play its best game of the year if it wants to knock off a DeSoto team loaded with talent on both sides of the ball.
The winner will play the winner of Cibolo Steele/Summer Creek. You can see that preview here
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