The Ganado Indians claimed their first-ever state title in dramatic fashion, defeating the Stamford Bulldogs 30-28 in a triple-overtime marathon at the UIL 2A Division I state championship at AT&T Stadium. The longest championship game in UIL history was a masterclass in grit and determination, with both teams delivering highlight-reel moments and clutch performances that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
A Tight First Half Sets the Stage
Ganado’s defense made its presence felt early, as Cain Hayden intercepted a Stamford pass on the Bulldogs’ opening drive. Quarterback Bryce Ullman capitalized quickly, scoring on a six-yard rushing touchdown to give Ganado an early 7-0 lead.
The Indians are first on the board! Bryce Ullman with the TD!
PAT good!
Score:
Stamford Bulldogs – 0
Ganado Indians – 7#TXHSFB #UILState pic.twitter.com/qLUkbDIZOP— Texas HS Football (@texashsfootball) December 19, 2024
Stamford answered with a composed drive of their own, capped by a 36-yard touchdown pass from Christian Duran to Cle’ Whitfield, tying the game at 7-7 by the end of the first quarter.
It’s a Bulldogs Touchdown! Brayden Jimenez with the catch!
Score:
Stamford Bulldogs – 7
Ganado Indians – 7#TXHSFB #UILState pic.twitter.com/BhjTgt8Npk— Texas HS Football (@texashsfootball) December 19, 2024
In the second quarter, Ganado’s offense found its rhythm again. Ullman connected with Hayden for a 13-yard touchdown, putting the Indians ahead 14-7. Hayden continued to shine defensively, snagging another interception late in the half to protect Ganado’s lead. Stamford’s offense struggled to break through Ganado’s resilient defense, and the Indians carried their seven-point advantage into halftime.
Momentum Swings in the Second Half
Stamford came out firing in the third quarter. C’nai Whitfield intercepted an Ullman pass, setting up a short field for the Bulldogs. Cle’ Whitfield capitalized with a one-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 14. Ganado regained the lead late in the quarter when Ullman found Hayden for a 16-yard touchdown, making it 21-14 heading into the fourth quarter.
Another Bryce Ullman to Cain Hayden for an Indians Touchdown!
Score:
Stamford Bulldogs – 14
Ganado Indians – 21
1:56 left in 3rd!#TXHSFB #UILState @ullma68628 @CainHayden14 pic.twitter.com/3TGLRKds3u— Texas HS Football (@texashsfootball) December 19, 2024
Stamford refused to back down. The Bulldogs engineered a methodical drive, chewing up clock and converting key plays. Duran led the way, and Cle’ Whitfield capped the drive with a five-yard touchdown run to tie the game at 21. Ganado had a chance to win in regulation, but a missed 22-yard field goal sent the game into overtime.
Triple-Overtime Drama Delivers Unforgettable Ending
In the first two overtime periods, both teams showcased their resilience. Ganado scored first in overtime, with Logan Bures punching it in for a touchdown. Stamford responded each time, with Duran connecting with Whitfield to extend the game. Each play was fraught with tension as the game shifted into its decisive third overtime.
The drama reached its peak in the third overtime, where both teams were required to attempt two-point conversions. Ullman delivered for Ganado, hitting Austen Pena in the corner of the end zone to put the Indians ahead 30-28.
Indians Score now Bulldogs turn! pic.twitter.com/eiwnMBH3nk
— Texas HS Football (@texashsfootball) December 19, 2024
Stamford needed to convert to keep the game alive, but Ullman intercepted Duran’s pass in the end zone to secure Ganado’s historic victory.
A Game for the Ages
Ganado’s first state championship was powered by standout performances. Ullman accounted for two rushing touchdowns, two passing touchdowns, and the game-clinching interception. Hayden was equally instrumental, hauling in two touchdown receptions and recording two critical interceptions in the first half. Logan Bures provided key runs in crunch time, helping the Indians grind out yards when it mattered most.
Stamford showed tremendous heart throughout the contest. Duran and Cle’ Whitfield kept the Bulldogs in contention with timely plays, while the Stamford defense delivered key stops to force overtime. Ultimately, the Bulldogs came up just short in one of the most memorable title games in Texas high school football history.
This 30-28 triple-overtime thriller will go down as one of the greatest games in UIL history, a testament to the determination and talent of both teams. For Ganado, it was a storybook ending to a historic season and a moment that will be celebrated for generations to come. The perseverance displayed by the Indians on the state’s biggest stage solidified their place in high school football lore.
