How do you top a perfect 15-0 season?
It’s an undefeated streak the DeSoto Eagles hope to continue into 2024. In order to do so, coach Claude Mathis has a tough decision to make.
Currently, two incoming transfers are battling to run the offense. Senior quarterback Kelden Ryan and junior Legend Howell are set to square off and — hopefully — carry on the Eagles winning tradition.
Here’s a breakdown of both quarterbacks:
Kelden Ryan, a Virginia Tech pledge, garnered 3,000 yards of total offense as a dual threat at Fort Worth All Saints last year. Considering he has already received reps as DeSoto QB1 at the state 7-on-7 tournament this year, it seems likely Ryan will call snaps at the end of the month.
Legend Howell transferred from Bishop Lynch. As a sophomore, he threw for 1,692 yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Unfortunately, his play was the only bright spot for a team that struggled to a 3-9 record, including a 1-3 mark in district play.
Benefitting both options is a team with over 60% of starters returning. Offensive standouts include running back Deondrae Riden Jr. (a Texas A&M commit) and wide receiver Daylon Singleton (a SMU commit).
Once the decision is made, DeSoto is looking for its third consecutive Class 6A D2 state championship. Despite being in a lower division (they opted to stay in Class 6A, though turning in a Class 5A enrollment of 2,127 students), the Eagles were arguably the best team in the state last year, claiming a 49-35 district victory over Duncanville, the eventual Class 6A D1 state champions.
DeSoto will open its season on August 31, hosting Creekside, last season’s state championship runner-up from Georgia.
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