The 20 game winning streak for the China Spring Cougars (4-1) came to an end in Dallas at the hands of the three-time defending TAPPS State Champion Parish Episcopal Panthers (4-1) by a score of 24-16.
Defensive Battle
In a game where both teams were expected to put up points, each team’s defenses were shining. Each team has quarterbacks who are turning the heads of college coaches, but the defenses kept them in check. Parish Episcopal’s Sophomore QB Sawyer Anderson was 11 of 23 for 127 yards and a touchdown. Cougar QB Junior Cash McCollum was also 11 of 23 for 124 yards and an interception. Neither quarterback was given much time in the pocket.
For the Cougars, pressure was put on up front by DTs Greg Salazar and Greydon Grimes, along with the other members of the front seven. Anderson was often forced to make quick decisions under the Cougar pressure. China Spring’s McCollum never looked comfortable in the pocket. The Cougar signal caller took a few big hits in the first half and never attempted a ball down the field after that.
While the Cougar defense was strong, three plays turned the tide in favor of the Panthers. The first was a China Spring fumble on their own 10 yard line. McCollum dropped back on a 3rd and 17 and was sacked and lost the ball. Three plays later the Panthers crossed the goal line for their first touchdown. The second play was a 44 yard touchdown pass by Anderson in the second quarter. The third play that sealed the game was a 75 yard touchdown run by the Panthers RB Cedric Mays on their final possession of the game.
Powerhouse Barton
The offensive bright spot for the Cougars was Junior RB Kyle Barton. Barton ran for 159 yards on 36 carries and two touchdowns. The powerful legs of Barton kept churning until a host of Panthers were able to bring him down. Barton put the Cougars on his back.
No Moral Victories
A loss is a loss, but the Cougars have no reason to hang their heads. As with any game, there are positives to emphasize and negatives to work on, but this contest could bode well for the Cougars down the road.
Next Up
Dallas Parish Episcopal has a bye next week. China Spring will host San Antonio Cornerstone (1-4) next Friday at Cougar Stadium.
*All statistics are unofficial
