When the lights were brightest, Smithson Valley’s defense turned AT&T Stadium into its own showcase.
For the second straight year, Smithson Valley walked out of Arlington as a state champion, riding a relentless defensive performance to a 28-6 victory over Frisco Lone Star in the Class 5A Division I state championship. In front of 21,943 fans, the Rangers made it clear this run was no fluke.
The tone was set early. While the offense moved the ball between the 20s, it was Smithson Valley’s defense that dictated the night. Two first-half field goals from Trent Amaya were all the scoring needed before halftime, as Lone Star’s explosive offense was held scoreless through two quarters. For a team that had scored at least 42 points in every playoff game entering the final, the shutout spoke volumes.
Everything shifted quickly in the third quarter. Ty Knutson connected with Hunter Haug for a 39-yard touchdown strike, stretching the lead to 13-0 and finally cracking the scoreboard open. From there, the floodgates burst, and the defense took over completely.
Late in the third, Smithson Valley forced another turnover, setting up a short field. Caleb Peagler punched it in from a yard out, and Knutson added the two-point conversion to make it 21-0. Just moments later came the defining play of the night. Lone Star quarterback Trey Wright was hit as he threw, the ball fluttered, and Colton Hornsby stepped in front for a pick-six, igniting the sideline and pushing the lead to 28-0.
Smithson Valley’s defense finished with four forced fumbles, six sacks, and a Pick-6, completely neutralizing one of the most dangerous offenses in Texas. Hornsby earned Defensive MVP honors, while Hunter Haug, who caught five passes for 91 yards and a touchdown, was named Offensive MVP.
Lone Star avoided the shutout late with a touchdown pass, but the outcome was long decided. Smithson Valley closed the game calmly and confidently, sealing another championship moment.
After years of coming up short, Smithson Valley now owns back-to-back state titles. The defense carried the banner this time, and with it, the program cemented its place among Texas high school football’s elite.
Photos from Das Mitchell below
