Friday night delivered three exciting high‑school football contests across the ArkLaTex region. In De Queen, Arkansas, Ashdown secured a 44‑43 victory over the Leopards after a dramatic defensive stand, while in Texas, Atlanta defeated Daingerfield 42‑25 and James Bowie routed Celeste 42‑6.
Ashdown vs. De Queen: A One‑Point Battle
Both teams entered the game with identical 1‑2 records, but it was Ashdown that executed the decisive play. Trailing by one point late in the fourth quarter, the Ashdown defense stopped De Queen’s two‑point conversion attempt, preserving a 44‑43 win.
The game showcased contrasting offensive philosophies. Ashdown relied on an aggressive aerial attack, while De Queen emphasized a ground‑and‑pound approach. The sky‑high passing game proved decisive. Quarterback Shooter Johnson connected with star receiver Bryson French on five of the team’s six touchdowns, throwing for 367 yards and six scores while completing 82.6% of his passes (19 of 23). French hauled in eight receptions for 233 yards and five touchdowns, and Tyler Smith added the sixth touchdown reception.
De Queen’s rushing attack remained potent despite the loss. Landen Wise rushed for 223 yards and three touchdowns on 33 carries, bringing his three‑game total to 756 yards and 10 touchdowns. Luis Sotelo and Hunter Dinkins each added rushing scores, and quarterback Keegan McCoy threw a touchdown pass to John Maturino.
Atlanta vs. Daingerfield: Rabbits Pull Away
In Atlanta, Texas, the Tigers (3‑1) fell behind early when Daingerfield opened the second half with a touchdown, taking a 6‑0 lead. The Rabbits, however, responded with a 21‑point surge, ultimately winning 42‑25.
Quarterback Brayden Thompson and running back CJ Whaley continued their strong partnership, linking for three of Thompson’s four touchdown passes. The fourth touchdown went to Division I prospect Deondrae Simmons. Atlanta entered halftime with a 21‑12 advantage and extended the lead in the second half, aided by Kaigen Lloyd’s two rushing touchdowns.
James Bowie vs. Celeste: Pirates Dominate
James Bowie, Texas, snapped a two‑game losing streak with a convincing 42‑6 victory over Celeste at home, improving to 2‑2 on the season.
Running back Nate Potter carried the ball 15 times for 153 yards and four touchdowns. Fellow back Cole Gipson added 172 yards on 10 carries and a touchdown, while also recording two interceptions on defense. Defensive standouts included Wade Johnson, who also intercepted a pass, and Brayden Tinsley, who logged five tackles, four for loss.
These contests highlighted the depth of talent and competitive spirit in ArkLaTex high‑school football, offering fans thrilling finishes and standout individual performances.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
