Gilmer Shocks No. 1 Carthage, Ends 38-Game Winning Streak

Gilmer pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 Texas high school football season Friday night, stunning No. 1 Carthage 49-42 at Jeff Traylor Stadium. The shocking loss snapped the two-time defending 4A Division II state champions’ 38-game winning streak, handing the Bulldogs their first defeat since August 2024.

Gilmer (7-2) entered the game following a 67-29 victory over Center, while Carthage (7-1) had defeated Pleasant Grove 37-13. Kipton Neighbors powered the Buckeyes with more than 240 rushing yards and four touchdowns, stepping up after an injury to starting running back Tayveon Horne.

With the game tied at 42, Aiden Thomas exploded for a 40-yard game-winning touchdown with just 48 seconds remaining. Gilmer’s defense then forced four consecutive incomplete passes to complete the monumental upset.

Gilmer travels to face Spring Hill next week, while Carthage hosts Center.

Gilmer 49, Carthage 42, Final Score.