Written and Photos by: Nick Debose
The defending state champs DeSoto Eagles continued their chase of another state title with a 42-20 over a tough Wylie East ball club at Choctaw Stadium in Arlington, TX on Friday night.
DeSoto Senior Quarterback DJ Bailey (Sam Houston commit) was surgical with his approach with 259 yards and 3 touchdowns through the air. Bailey's favorite receiver on the night was Junior Wideout Daylon Singleton, who had 9 catches for 213 yards and 2 touchdowns receiving (Had a 3rd touchdown that was called back). Freshman Wideout Ethan Feaster caught a 27-yard touchdown from Bailey also.
The Eagles an for 287 yards behind a dominant offensive line. Junior Running Back Tiger Riden Jr (121 yards and TD) and Senior Running Back Marvin Duffey (108 yards and TD) both rushed for over 100 yards and scores when the Eagles needed them.
Wylie East actually had an early lead on the Eagles behind talented Junior Quarterback Howard Fisher IV who had 243 total yards (181 yards passing/62 yards rushing). Fisher connected with Luis AInsworth for a score in the 4th quarter. Sophomore Wideout Amarean Porter led the Raiders in receiving with 6 catches for 67 yards. Michael Henderson III (43 yards) and Sophomore Running Back Keve'Yon Thorne (35 yards and TD) helped the Raiders rush for 127 yards against one of the best defenses in the state.
Both defenses and special teams played a role in the game. DeSoto Defensive Back Antrone White had an interception and the Eagles special teams recovered a muffed punt. While Wylie East Junior Athlete Michael Henderson had an Interception and Kicker Michael Delaney contributed two field goals for the Raiders.
DeSoto (11-0) will face an undefeated (12-0) Willis Wildcats Friday night at 7pm in the Alamodome in San Antonio. The high powered Wildcats are led by Florida commit DJ Lagway, so it should be a good one.