In a crucial District 24-6A matchup Friday night, the Clear Springs Chargers (7-1, 5-0) faced the Deer Park Deer (7-1, 5-0) in Deer Park. Clear Springs, riding a seven-game win streak since their season opener loss to Ridge Point, aimed to clinch the district title, while Deer Park sought to secure first place with only one week left in the season.
Deer Park vs Clear Springs Game Recap
Both defenses dominated early, with Clear Springs reaching Deer Park’s territory on a fake punt run but ultimately turning the ball over on downs. Following four consecutive punts, Deer Park capitalized on good field position in the second quarter, scoring on a five-yard rush by Christian Gamez. Deer Park extended their lead just before halftime with a 73-yard drive, ending with a five-yard touchdown pass from Landon Kieselhorst to Jack Paradysz, giving Deer Park a 14-0 lead at the half.
Clear Springs found momentum late in the third quarter after recovering a muffed punt at Deer Park’s 17-yard line. Julian Salazar scored on a fumble recovery in the end zone, and on Deer Park’s next drive, Joshua Dickey’s pick-six tied the game at 14. With three minutes left, Deer Park took the lead on a 38-yard field goal by Xavier Hurtado after a nine-play drive. Clear Springs responded with a deep pass into Deer Park territory, but a fumble at the goal line sealed the game.
Deer Park triumphed 17-14, clinching at least a share of the 24-6A title.
Deer Park Stats
- QB Landon Kieselhorst (SR): 14/27, 166 yds, TD, INT, 14 carries, 9 yds
- RB Christopher Brown (JR): 10 carries, 74 yds
- RB Christian Gamez (JR): 7 carries, 43 yds, TD
- WR Tre Martinez (SR): 5 recs, 66 yds
- DL Braylon Okunola (SR): Sack
- DB Andre Jackson (SR): 2 Sacks, 2 PBUs
Clear Springs Stats
- QB Julian Salazar (SR): 8/22, 125 yds, 14 carries, 20 yds, TD
- RB Adam Hawkins (SR): 16 carries, 90 yds
- WR Sean Carter (JR): 5 recs, 88 yds
- DL Brody McGee (SR): Sack
- LB Joshua Dickey (JR): 2 Sacks, TFL, INT, TD
Next Week
Deer Park will compete for the 24-6A crown against Dickinson (6-3, 5-1), while Clear Springs faces Clear Creek (3-6, 2-4), aiming to force a potential three-way tie for first place.