3A Team of the Week: Eastland Mavericks
After an uncharacteristic down year in 2022 where Eastland won just one game, the Mavericks didn’t get off to the start they were hoping for this year either as they fell short in their first four games.
On paper, it seemed like the Mavericks were destined for an 0-5 start with a trip to undefeated #7 Jim Ned on the schedule last Friday. Not only were the Indians ranked, but they are also 3A Division I, a division above the Mavericks.
According to Matt Stepp, Eastland was a 32-point underdog heading into the game.
3A-D2 Eastland who was 0-4 played state ranked 3A-D1 Jim Ned who was 4-0…Eastland was a 30+ underdog in both computer polls…Eastland beats Jim Ned 21-19#txhsfb never disappoints @dctf
— Matt Stepp (@Matt_Stepp817) September 23, 2023
However, there’s a reason games aren’t played on paper.
Eastland quarterback Isaiah Hays threw for 259 yards and a touchdown and Cayden Alford scored two rushing touchdowns as the Mavericks edged Jim Ned 21-19. The Indians had a chance to tie the game late but couldn’t convert a two-point conversion.
Preston Rose finished as Eastland’s leading receiver on the night with four catches for 127 yards. On the other side of the ball, Alford also starred as he racked up 14 total tackles.
The victory snaps Eastland’s three-game losing streak against Jim Ned.
With its first win in its back pocket, Eastland will hope to keep the momentum going when it opens district play on Oct. 6 at home against Jacksboro.
*Stats from MaxPreps
Previous 3A Teams of the Week
Week One: Blanco
Week Two: Malakoff
Week Three: McGregor
Week Four: Gunter
