In an eagerly anticipated matchup, Southlake Carroll and DeSoto, two powerhouse high school football teams, are set to face off in the state semifinals. Last year, many expected this showdown to happen, but DeSoto’s surprising loss to Longview kept it from coming to fruition. Now, both teams have secured their spots, with DeSoto boasting an impressive 11-3 record, having put up over 56 points in each of their four playoff victories. In contrast, Southlake Carroll enters the game undefeated at 14-0.
The clash is scheduled for December 13 at 2 p.m. at Vernon Newsom Stadium in Mansfield. The winner will advance to the state finals, where they will compete against either Austin Vandegrift or Houston C.E. King the following Saturday in Arlington.
Historically, Southlake Carroll is renowned for its prolific offense, accumulating over 6,700 total yards this season, which includes 4,119 passing yards. Five different receivers have surpassed the 200-yard mark. DeSoto is not far behind, with more than 7,000 yards of offense, primarily fueled by a rushing attack that has produced 4,181 yards, complemented by just under 3,000 passing yards.
The rivalry between the two teams is tightly contested, as they are 3-3 against each other since 2012. DeSoto claimed victories in 2012, 2016, and 2023, the latter leading them to a Class 6A Division 2 title. Southlake Carroll won the matchups in 2017, 2018, and 2019. A win for DeSoto would secure a spot in their fourth state finals, where they have been victorious in all previous appearances. Southlake, with a storied history, has reached the finals 11 times, holding an 8-3 record, although they fell to Austin Vandegrift in last year’s championship.
Both teams will showcase numerous Division I signees and future prospects. Highlights from Southlake Carroll include junior running back Brooks Biggers, who has tallied 336 yards and 13 touchdowns. Senior receiver Brock Boyd, signed with Ohio State, has made a significant impact with 83 catches, 1,387 yards, and 18 touchdowns. Quarterback Angelo Renda, a senior and Pitt signee, leads the team with an impressive 3,984 passing yards and 41 touchdowns.
On the DeSoto side, junior running back SaRod Baker stands out as one of the top players in the state, amassing 2,605 rushing yards, averaging 9.6 yards per carry and scoring 40 touchdowns. Senior receiver Ethan Feaster, a USC signee, has made a mark with 84 catches for 1,504 yards and 18 touchdowns, while quarterback Legend Howell has thrown for 2,272 yards and 27 touchdowns.
As kickoff approaches, anticipation builds among fans, with a sellout crowd expected. With DeSoto receiving the kickoff, the stage is set for what promises to be an exhilarating contest between two of the state’s elite high school football programs.
