SIMMS, Texas – The James Bowie Pirates delivered a commanding performance on Friday night, crushing the Maud Cardinals 50-6 in a rivalry game that also determined playoff seeding. Both teams entered the contest with postseason berths already locked in, but the Pirates were eager to claim bragging rights and the coveted No. 3 seed in District 10-2A Division II.
Offensive fireworks fuel a 50‑point victory
The Pirates’ high‑octane rushing attack amassed 396 yards and seven touchdowns. Senior running back Nate Potter led the charge with 169 yards and two scores, while teammate Cole Gipson added 131 yards and two touchdowns. Freshman Garrett Surratt contributed a further 96 yards and three touchdowns, rounding out a balanced ground game that left the Cardinals scrambling.
Potter’s season totals now stand at 1,463 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns, underscoring his dual‑threat status. Gipson has compiled 1,208 yards and 10 touchdowns, and Surratt has logged 751 yards with 14 scores. Their combined production accounted for the bulk of James Bowie’s 50 points.
Defensive dominance complements the offense
Beyond the scoreboard, Potter proved his versatility on defense, recording 50 tackles (nine for loss) and two sacks over the season, including 12 tackles against Maud. The Pirates’ secondary also shone, with Gipson securing six interceptions and safety Ranson Bailey adding three more.
The defensive effort limited Maud to a single touchdown, a stark contrast to the Pirates’ relentless attack. The result not only solidified James Bowie’s position in the playoff bracket but also marked the program’s first winning record since the 2023 campaign.
Looking ahead to the bi‑district round
With the No. 3 seed secured, James Bowie will face Lindsay High School in the bi‑district round of the playoffs. The Pirates aim to build on their dominant performance and continue the momentum that has defined their season.
Maud, meanwhile, will travel to take on Collinsville in the next round, seeking to rebound from the heavy loss and extend their postseason run.
Community pride and school spirit
The rivalry game drew a lively crowd from Simms and surrounding communities, reflecting the deep-rooted support for high‑school football in the ArkLaTex region. Fans praised the Pirates’ execution and praised the coaching staff for preparing the team to excel on both sides of the ball.
As the playoffs approach, local supporters are encouraged to attend upcoming games, reinforcing the tradition of family‑centered community gatherings that celebrate athletic achievement and shared values.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
