Richmond Randle captured its first-ever state championship in just its third season of varsity play, defeating South Oak Cliff 38-35 in a thrilling 5A Division II State Championship game. The Lions relied on explosive special teams plays, key defensive stops, and big moments from their star players to secure the victory.
The Lions wasted no time making their mark. Sincere Timpson faked a reverse on the opening kickoff and dashed for a touchdown, giving Randle an early 7-0 lead. After forcing a South Oak Cliff punt, the Lions extended their advantage with a short touchdown run by Landen Williams-Callis, making it 14-0 midway through the first quarter.
Another @RandleFootball Lions
TOUCHDOWN
Score:@RandleFootball – 14 @SOCGoldenBearFB – 0 #TXHSFB #UILstate pic.twitter.com/FeUcr2lt5z— Texas HS Football (@texashsfootball) December 21, 2024
SOC responded late in the quarter with Carter Kopecky finding Jaylen Moore for a 19-yard touchdown pass to cut the lead to 14-7.
SOC Jaylen Moore 17-yard TD catch from Carter Kopecky
Score:@RandleFootball – 14@SOCGoldenBearFB – 7
1:38 left in 1st#TXHSFB #UILstate pic.twitter.com/FVxRfsG1bL— Taylor Arenz (@taylorarenz) December 21, 2024
Randle’s offense continued to press, adding a field goal from Christian Munguia early in the second quarter to make it 17-7. But SOC battled back, with Mikail Trotter finishing off a determined drive with a touchdown run to narrow the gap to 17-14.
Randle answered before the half, as quarterback Tyler Skrabanek connected with Mason Mixon for a short touchdown pass, extending the Lions’ lead to 24-14 at halftime.
The second half opened with fireworks. On the first play, Trotter broke free for a 75-yard touchdown run, pulling SOC within three at 24-21. Moments later, Damond “Debo” Williams ripped off an electrifying 85-yard touchdown run, giving SOC its first lead at 28-24 with 9:28 to play in the third quarter.
Randle’s offense briefly stalled, but their defense held firm. Late in the third quarter, Keilan Sweeny powered into the end zone on a 22-yard run, swinging the lead back to Randle at 31-28.
The fourth quarter brought more drama. Kopecky answered with a 22-yard touchdown scramble, reclaiming the lead for SOC at 35-31. But in the defining moment of the game, Sean Smith returned the ensuing kickoff for a dazzling touchdown, restoring Randle’s lead at 38-35 with 8:51 remaining.
That was fast! Lions Ceaser Olavera takes kick off to the house to take the lead right back!
Score:@RandleFootball – 38@SOCGoldenBearFB – 35#TXHSFB #UILstate pic.twitter.com/vbzHX0KKBE— Taylor Arenz (@taylorarenz) December 21, 2024
SOC’s defense forced a punt to give their offense one last chance. Driving into field goal range, SOC attempted a 45-yard kick to tie the game as time expired, but the ball sailed wide, sealing a historic victory for Randle.
With this win, Randle capped a perfect 16-0 season, cementing its place in Texas high school football lore. The Lions’ championship journey, led by dynamic plays from Williams-Callis, Smith, and a resilient defense, is one for the ages.
