North Crowley Survives Guyer in 28-27 Thriller

Defending 6A Division I state champion North Crowley extended its winning streak to 19 games with a nail-biting 28-27 road win over Denton Guyer on Friday night.

The Panthers (3-0) opened hot when quarterback Demarcus Harris hit sophomore standout Damarion Mays for a 53-yard touchdown just 20 seconds in. Harris finished 19-of-27 for 274 yards and a score, while Mays showed why he’s among the nation’s top 2028 receivers with five catches for 188 yards.

Guyer (1-2) seized momentum late in the first half. Andrew Johnson kicked two field goals and quarterback Carter Morgan scored to help the Wildcats grab a 20-14 halftime edge. A 96-yard kickoff return by Aiden Martens to open the third quarter stretched the lead to 27-14.

North Crowley refused to fold. Jayden Shaw’s short touchdown run cut the deficit, and G’yrell Smith powered in from seven yards to give the Panthers the lead with 50 seconds left in the third. The defense — highlighted by Amaj Mitchell’s late sack — preserved the one-point margin.

The victory keeps North Crowley unbeaten in regular-season play since 2021 and on track to defend its state crown. Guyer, despite the heartbreaking loss, showed top-tier talent and remains a serious playoff contender.