In a District 11-6A showdown that was more thrilling in the first quarter than expected, the nationally ranked Duncanville Panthers faced off against the Skyline Raiders in Dallas. Duncanville, the top-ranked team in Texas and No. 4 nationally, entered the game with a perfect 3-0 record after a dominating 41-17 win over Waxahachie. Meanwhile, Skyline, at 2-2, aimed to bounce back from a 34-15 loss to Cedar Hill.
The game started dramatically, with Skyline’s Tyreke Cockroft scoring a 54-yard touchdown, tying the game at 14-14 early in the first quarter. However, Duncanville’s quarterback, Keelon Russell, quickly turned the tide. By halftime, Russell had thrown six touchdown passes, three to Zach Turner, leading the Panthers to a 35-14 advantage.
In the second half, Duncanville continued their dominance. Ace Theus contributed three touchdowns, including two in the third quarter. By the end of the game, Russell accumulated 393 total yards and five touchdowns, while Theus and Turner were key receivers. Joe McKinney added another touchdown, sealing the game at 63-14.
With this victory, Duncanville remains undefeated. Next week, they will face Keller Timber Creek. Skyline will aim to recover as they visit Abilene TLCA. Despite the loss, Skyline’s linebacker Elijah Barnes, committed to Texas, showed strong defensive skills, representing the team’s potential to repeat as State Champions in 6A D1.
