Mississippi State downs Arkansas Pine-Bluff 77-68 in Van Chancellor Classic

Photo by Darla Tamulitis-La Vida Loco Photography
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

KATY, TEXAS (November 25, 2023) In a heart-pounding clash at the Van Chancellor Classic, the No. 25 Mississippi State women's basketball team triumphed over Arkansas-Pine Bluff with a final score of 77-68.

The Bulldogs extended their undefeated streak to an impressive 7-0, but not without facing a gritty challenge from the Golden Lions (1-4), who fought tenaciously throughout the game.

Jerkaila Jordan emerged as the star for Mississippi State, delivering a remarkable 20-point performance while Erynn Barnum, contributed a valuable double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds.

The game reached a fever pitch as the Golden Lions, trailing by 10 at halftime, narrowed the gap to a mere three points with less than eight minutes left. However, the Bulldogs countered with a late 6-0 surge, solidifying a 75-63 lead with just over a minute remaining.

Zaay Green spearheaded the Golden Lions' effort with an outstanding stat line of 19 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, while Coriah Beck chipped in with 13 points.

Mississippi State's dominance in second-chance opportunities contributed to their success with an impressive 24 second-chance points. The Bulldogs' determination was evident in a 12-1 run led by Jerkaila Jordan, propelling them to a 39-29 lead just before halftime.

Next up for the Bulldogs is a Sunday matchup against the Tulsa Hurricane while Arkansas-Pine Bluff will face Clemson.

Louisville secures comeback win against Liberty in Betty Chancellor Classic

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis,  La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

KATY, TEXAS (November 25, 2023) In a thrilling Betty Chancellor Classic matchup, the No. 20/15 Louisville women's basketball team showcased resilience and determination, overcoming a six-point deficit entering the fourth quarter to secure a hard-fought 72-63 victory against the Liberty Flames. The game, held at the Merrell Center, unfolded as a tale of two halves, with the Cardinals outscoring the Lady Flames 26-11 in the final period.

Liberty, now 2-4, had moments of brilliance, leading the nationally-ranked Cardinals by as many as 10 points. However, turnovers proved costly for the Lady Flames, with 21 miscues leading to 19 Louisville points. The defeat marks Liberty's fourth consecutive loss, and the team's struggles against Top 25 opponents persist, extending their losing streak to 40 straight meetings.

Louisville, now boasting a 5-1 record, bounced back impressively from a previous loss to Alabama on Friday. The Cardinals' dynamic duo, Olivia Cochran and Kiki Jefferson, played pivotal roles in the comeback victory. Cochran, overcoming foul trouble from the previous game, delivered one of the best performances of her career, tying a personal high with 21 points and securing 11 rebounds for her 10th career double-double. Jefferson, with a season-best 20 points and a flawless 8-for-8 from the free-throw line, showcased her prowess in a Cardinal uniform.

The fourth quarter surge, ignited by a 16-1 run, underscored Louisville's resilience and ability to seize control when it mattered most. Nina Rickards, contributing 12 points, added to the Cardinals' balanced offensive effort, securing her second-straight double-digit scoring game along with eight rebounds and three assists.

Gonzaga Bulldogs dominate opening game at Betty Chancellor Classic

Photo courtesy of Gonzaga Sports Communication Department, Used with permission.

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

KATY, TEXAS (November 24, 2023) Gonzaga's women's basketball team showcased an impressive performance in their opening game at the Betty Chancellor Classic, securing a commanding 102-59 victory over the Liberty Flames. The Bulldogs' stellar offensive display, particularly their three-point shooting, set the tone for a memorable night at the Merrell Center.

The entire starting lineup for Gonzaga made significant contributions, with all players scoring in double figures. Kayleigh Truong led the charge with a team-high and career-high 25 points, shooting an impressive 8-for-9 from the floor. Eliza Hollingsworth wasn't far behind, achieving a career-high of her own with 22 points, connecting on 7-of-13 attempts.

The first quarter saw Truong's explosive start, accumulating 14 points and propelling the Zags to a commanding 28-11 lead. The Bulldogs continued their dominance in the second quarter, heading into halftime with a 55-31 lead. Hollingsworth's 13 points in the second quarter contributed significantly to Gonzaga's offensive prowess, shooting at an impressive 52.6 percent and holding Liberty to 36.8 percent.

Gonzaga's relentless offensive onslaught continued in the third quarter, highlighted by an impressive 7-0 run. Yvonne Ejim took charge, leading the team with eight points in the quarter, while Brynna Maxwell and Hollingsworth added six points each. The Zags made their mark from beyond the arc, sinking eight three-pointers at a remarkable 61.5 percent.

The Bulldogs sealed the game with 12 more points, reaching the 100-point mark for the first time since 2016. They also tied a school record with 17 made three-pointers in a single game. Hollingsworth and Kaylynne Truong both contributed four threes, while Kayleigh Truong led with five.

Defensively, Gonzaga showcased its prowess by holding Liberty to 36.2 percent shooting and forcing 12 turnovers. The Bulldogs dominated the boards, outrebounding the Lady Flames 37-23, with Ejim securing eight rebounds. Kaylynne Truong displayed her playmaking skills, dishing out a team-high eight assists.

The victory marked several milestones for the Zags, including tying the program record for made three-pointers and surpassing the 100-point mark for the first time in years. Kayleigh Truong's 25 points and Hollingsworth's 22 points set new career highs.

Looking ahead, Gonzaga faces Alabama in their next matchup on November 25 at 11:15 a.m. Pacific Time. This will be the first-ever meeting between the two programs in women's basketball history.

Liberty, on the other hand, faced its third consecutive loss, falling to 2-3 for the season. Despite solid performances from Bella Smuda and Emma Hess, the Lady Flames couldn't contain Gonzaga's offensive firepower.

Alabama women's basketball secures upset victory over #20/15 Louisville

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

KATY, TEXAS (November 24, 2023) In a nail-biting clash at the Betty Chancellor Classic, the Alabama women's basketball team emerged triumphant with a stunning 78-73 upset over the No. 20/15 Louisville Cardinals. The Crimson Tide, now boasting an unblemished 6-0 record for the season, displayed resilience and tenacity throughout the game.

Guard Aaliyah Nye scored seven pivotal points in the final 30 seconds, including a game-changing three-pointer with just 27 seconds left on the clock. Nye's perfect free throw shooting in the game's closing moments sealed the deal for Alabama, maintaining their flawless free throw record of 6-6 down the stretch.

Sarah Ashlee Barker led the charge with an impressive 18 points and seven rebounds, steering the Tide to victory before fouling out with 1:27 left in regulation. Nye, along with Jessica Timmons, Karly Weathers, and Loyal McQueen, all reached double figures, combining for all but nine of Alabama's 78 points.

This victory marks Alabama's first win over an Associated Press Top-25 team since the 2021-22 season, breaking the dry spell with an upset reminiscent of their triumph over then-No. 12/8 Tennessee in February 2022.

Barker and Timmons led the Tide in rebounding, while McQueen contributed with a team-leading four assists. Karly Weathers, coming off the bench, ignited the first half with 11 points, shooting a flawless 3-of-3 from beyond the arc.

Alabama's next challenge looms large as they gear up to face Gonzaga in the second game of the tournament at 1:15 p.m. CT on Saturday, November 25.

Dominant performance propels HCU to 80-46 victory over Mount St. Joseph

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography 
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 22, 2023) In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the HCU Huskies women's basketball team triumphed over the Mount St. Joseph Lions with a resounding 80-46 victory in a non-conference matchup at Sharp Gym on Wednesday evening.

Right from the opening tip-off, the Huskies (2-4) asserted their dominance, seizing a quick 4-0 lead with Jo Oly contributing two early baskets. As the first quarter progressed, HCU continued to widen the gap, reaching an impressive 25-10 advantage by the end of the period. Enya Maguire and Kennedy Wilson played pivotal roles in this early surge, combining for 21 points.

By halftime, the Huskies had built a substantial 45-24 lead, with Maguire showcasing her sharpshooting skills, going 4-of-4 from the field for 11 points. Wilson contributed 10 points and an impressive five steals, setting the tone for HCU's defensive prowess.

Despite a brief challenge from Mount St. Joseph in the third quarter, the Huskies responded emphatically with a 25-0 run, keeping the Lions scoreless for nearly nine minutes. N'Denasija Collins led all players with 17 points, supported by Wilson's 16 points and Maguire's 14, including four three-pointers.

The statistics reflect the Huskies' dominance on the court, shooting 60 percent as a team, controlling the boards with a 37-20 advantage, and forcing 21 turnovers. The team's balanced offense, efficient shooting, and solid defense proved too much for the Lions to handle.

Looking ahead, HCU is set to continue their home stand with a game against Howard Payne on Monday, November 27, at 6:00 p.m. inside Sharp Gym. 

HCU linebacker Jalyx Hunt named SLC Defensive Player of the Year

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Darla Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 22, 2023) In an announcement from the Southland Conference, HCU Huskies senior linebacker Jalyx Hunt (shown left) has been named the Defensive Player of the Year for the 2023 season.

His contributions this season include 46 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and nine tackles for loss. The senior linebacker's ability to read plays, disrupt offenses, and make crucial tackles contributed to HCU's success this season. A standout moment in Hunt's season was his exceptional performance against Lamar, where his play featured a forced fumble and and fumble recovery.

In addition, Hunt has received invitations to both the East-West Shrine Bowl and the Reese's Senior Bowl. Hunt's journey to Defensive Player of the Year mirrors that of former Huskie Caleb Johnson, now a Jacksonville Jaguar, who secured Co-Defensive Player of the Year in 2020.

Hunt was not the only Husky named to post season honors. Dillon Fedor and Karl Reynolds earned well-deserved first-team all-conference honors for their remarkable performances this season. Fedor, a junior placekicker, tied the record for the most made field goals in the conference with 10. Reynolds, a senior wide posted 47 receptions, 661 yards, and six touchdowns in 2023.

In addition, linebacker Rodney Dansby and offensive lineman Christian Hood were both named second team all-conference

On this day in sports history: November 21, 1934

Photo via wikipedia.com

By Chris Price
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK (November 21, 2023) On this date, November 21, in 1934, the New York Yankees purchase 19-year-old Joe DiMaggio from the San Francisco Seals of the Pacific Coast League. The deal for DiMaggio was for five players and $50,000. 

On October 1, 1932, Joe made his professional debut after a chat between the Seals’ manager and his brother to let him join their team. There, Joe served as a replacement player.

The first entire season at the Seals saw DiMaggio show is talent by putting together a hitting streak of 61 consecutive games. It included batting .340 with 28 home runs and .341 and .398 during the subsequent seasons. 

On this day in sports history: November 20, 1982

(Video courtesy of UC Berkeley on youtube.com) 

By Chris Price
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA (November 20, 2023) On this day in 1982, November 20, 1982, the California Golden Bears beat the rival Stanford Cardinal, 25-20, on a five-lateral kickoff return on the last play of the game. Kevin Moen scored the winning touchdown by running through the Stanford band, which prematurely ran on to the field in celebration.

HCU Huskies comeback bid falls short in 89-87 loss to UTSA

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 20, 2023) In a thrilling matchup at Sharp Gym on Monday night, the HCU Huskies fought valiantly but ultimately fell short in an 89-87 loss to the University of Texas at San Antonio. The game was marked by intense back-and-forth action, with the Huskies battling from an 11-point deficit in the second half.

The game kicked off with the skills of Bonke Maring and Marcus Greene ,who led the charge for HCU, scoring 11 consecutive points, including three from long range. 

Undeterred, the Huskies began to chip away at the lead, thanks in part to Michael Imariagbe's contributions. Imariagbe's inside presence helped bring the deficit under double-digits, and his efforts, along with key plays from Jay Alvarez and Bonke Maring, brought HCU within one point at halftime, trailing 47-46.

The second half saw UTSA extending their lead to double-digits, but the resilient Huskies fought back, showcasing their determination. Jay Alvarez's driving layup and a dunk from Bonke Maring kept the game competitive, but UTSA's Trey Edmonds dunk and Isaiah Wyatt's bucket maintained their lead.

HCU launched a final push in the closing minutes, with Jay Alvarez making crucial plays and Pierce Bazil sinking two free throws to cut the deficit. However, UTSA held on, securing the 89-87 victory.

Despite the loss, HCU's Marcus Greene led the team with 23 points, while Jay Alvarez contributed 19 points. Michael Imariagbe posted a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing his versatility.

The Huskies, now 0-3 on the season, look to bounce back as they leave home on a three-game road stretch. Their next matchup is a Friday clash against Oklahoma State in Stillwater, followed by a game against TCU in Fort Worth next Monday.

On this day in sports history: November 19, 1989

(Video courtesy of US Soccer via Youtube.com)

By Chris Price
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD (November 19, 2023) On this day in 1989, on November 19, the United States men's national soccer team (USMNT) downed the Soca Warriors of Trinidad and Tobago by the score of 1-0 to qualify for the FIFA World Cup in 1990. The USMNT had not qualified for the World Cup since 1950.  The Stars and Stripes needed a win to advance and the goal by midfielder Paul Caligiuro in the 31st minute sent the United States to their first World Cup in 40 years. The USA lost all three games in their group; Czechoslovakia 5-1, Italy 1-0, and Austria 2-1.

HCU Huskies wrap up historic season despite tough loss to UIW

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 18, 2023) The Houston Christian University Huskies football team concluded its most successful season to date with a hard-fought matchup against the 11th-ranked University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) Cardinals. Although the Huskies fell short, losing 45-24 at Husky Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The game kicked off with a promising start for the Huskies as they made a crucial fourth-down stop early on, showcasing their defensive prowess. However, HCU struggled to capitalize on this momentum, facing a formidable UIW defense. The Cardinals quickly seized control, with Zach Calzada connecting with Caleb Chapman for a 53-yard pass that set up a four-yard touchdown run by Isaiah Robinson, giving UIW an early 7-0 lead.

Despite facing challenges, the Huskies displayed resilience, and Ronald Wilson's interception provided a glimmer of hope. UIW, however, missed a field goal opportunity, giving the Huskies another chance. Unfortunately, HCU's offense faced difficulties, leading to a Cardinals touchdown and a 14-0 deficit.

HCU fought back, with Darryle Evans breaking a 26-yard run to set up a touchdown pass from Colby Suits to Calvin Wiggins. The Cardinals maintained control, extending their lead to 24-7 by halftime. The Huskies continued to battle in the second half, with a Dillon Fedor field goal and a touchdown run by Suits narrowing the gap to 45-17.

Despite the spirited effort, UIW's offensive proved decisive, securing the victory with a final score of 45-24. Colby Suits showcased his skills, passing for 202 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing for another score. Offensive standouts included Evans with 67 rushing yards and Karl Reynolds with 58 receiving yards.

Defensively, Rodney Dansby led the charge for the Huskies with an impressive 13 tackles, while Isaiah Cash and Josh Ferguson contributed eight and seven tackles, respectively. However, UIW's Calzada stole the spotlight, finishing with 407 yards and four touchdown passes, connecting with Chapman for three of those scores.

North Shore prevails in thrilling playoff showdown over Clear Springs

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2023, All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 17, 2023) In a Texas high school football playoff showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the number one ranked North Shore Mustangs secured a hard-fought 49-21 victory over Clear Springs in the area round. The Mustangs faced a resilient Clear Springs squad (7-5) that refused to back down, making it an exhilarating match until North Shore's late-game surge. The Mustangs, sitting proudly at No. 9 in the country, found themselves in a tight battle with Clear Springs for the majority of the game. The first half ended with a 14-14 tie, showcasing the determination of both teams. Clear Springs, seemingly undeterred by the formidable opponent, matched North Shore step for step. As the clock ticked down late into the third quarter, the game remained deadlocked at 21-21. It was at this critical juncture that North Shore decided to showcase why they are considered one of the top teams in the nation. In a spectacular display of skill and determination, the Mustangs unleashed a barrage of 28 unanswered points, leaving Clear Springs in their wake. Leading the charge for the Mustangs was the dynamic D'Andre Hardeman, who showcased his prowess with three crucial rushing touchdowns. Hardeman's 90-yard sprint for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter solidified North Shore's lead, making it a two-score game and sending a surge of energy through the Mustangs' faithful supporters. However, the game took an unexpected turn when North Shore's junior quarterback, Kaleb Bailey, left the field due to an apparent injury in the third quarter. With the score tied and tension in the air, sophomore Kaleb Maryland stepped up to the plate. Maryland not only scored the go-ahead touchdown with a two-yard keeper but also took charge of the offense, guiding the Mustangs to victory in Bailey's absence. Looking ahead, North Shore's journey through the Texas high school football playoffs continues as they gear up to face Cy-Fair in the regional semifinal round of the UIL 6A D1 playoffs. The Bobcats, are coming of a 28-21 triumph over Katy in the area round. The Mustangs and Bobcats will faceoff on Friday, November 24 with a 2 p.m. CST kickoff at NRG Stadium.

Steelers grind out a defensive battle to secure victory over Packers

Photo by Christopher Klein
via pixabay.com
Used with permission, free rights usage,

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA (November 11,  2023) In a hard-fought matchup at Acrisure Stadium (shown left), the Pittsburgh Steelers showcased a different facet of their game, relying on a resilient defense to secure a 23-19 victory against the Green Bay Packers. The Steelers, now 6-3, demonstrated their ability to adapt, overcoming challenges on both sides of the ball to clinch a crucial win.

The Steelers' defense took center stage in this contest, holding firm against Jordan Love and the potent Packers offense for the majority of the game. Despite missing key defensive players like star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, inside linebacker Cole Holcomb, and losing Kwon Alexander early in the game, the Steelers limited Green Bay to 19 points.

The defensive heroics were on full display in the final moments of the game. Keanu Neal intercepted Love's first attempt at a game-winning touchdown, showcasing exceptional awareness as he corralled a ball tipped by Patrick Peterson. With just seconds remaining, Damontae Kazee sealed the victory with another interception as time expired, thwarting the Packers' last-ditch effort.

Neal and Kazee played pivotal roles in not only securing turnovers but also contributing significantly to the defensive effort with eight and five tackles, respectively. The Steelers' ability to weather the storm without key defensive personnel underscores the depth and resilience of their roster.

While the defense held the fort, the Steelers' offense came out firing with an uncharacteristic burst of energy, scoring on each of their first three possessions. Running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren spearheaded a ground attack that proved crucial for the Steelers.

Harris showcased his prowess with a 4-yard touchdown scamper, setting the tone for the game. Warren added to the offensive showcase with a 16-yard scoring run on the second Steelers possession. Harris finished the game with a season-high 82 yards on 16 carries, while Warren recorded a season-best 101 yards on 15 carries.

Despite the explosive start, the Steelers' offense hit a roadblock after taking a 17-7 lead, settling for two more Chris Boswell field goals for the remainder of the game. Quarterback Kenny Pickett and the passing game faced challenges, with Pickett completing 14 of 23 for 126 yards and a 75.6 passer rating. Wide receiver George Pickens led the receiving corps with three catches for 45 yards.

With this hard-fought victory, the Steelers conclude their mid-season homestand, winning two of three games. Currently standing at 6-3, they hold the second spot in the AFC North, trailing the Baltimore Ravens. The upcoming matchups against the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals present crucial opportunities for the Steelers to solidify their playoff positioning.

Houston Dynamo FC edges Real Salt Lake in thrilling playoff shootout

Photo credit: Houston Dynamo FC
Used with permission.

By Chris Price
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserves

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 11, 2023)  In a heart-stopping showdown at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday night, Houston Dynamo FC clinched a spot in the Western Conference Semifinals of the Audi MLS playoffs by triumphing over Real Salt Lake 4-3 in a penalty shootout. The captivating encounter concluded with a 1-1 draw in regulation, setting the stage for a nail-biting series of penalty kicks.

The victory propels the Dynamo into the conference semifinals for the eighth time in the club's history, adding another chapter to their storied postseason legacy. Their next challenge awaits, as they are set to face Sporting Kansas City on either Saturday, Nov. 25, or Sunday, Nov. 26. Houston holds a favorable 4-1 record over Sporting in their postseason history.

The penalty shootout drama began with a crucial save from Dynamo goalkeeper Steve Clark, denying Real Salt Lake's Diego Luna. However, the intensity soared as both teams traded successful penalties until Houston's Nelson Quinones had his shot saved by Salt Lake's Zac MacMath. The tension reached its peak when Salt Lake's Danny Musovski hit the left post, paving the way for Griffin Dorsey's decisive shot that secured the 4-3 shootout victory for the Dynamo.

Houston had initially taken the lead in the 28th minute with a well-crafted goal. Captain Hector Herrera delivered a precise cross to Quiñónes, who expertly played the ball across to Corey Baird for the opening goal. Baird's clinical finish marked his first-ever MLS postseason goal, setting the Dynamo faithful alight.

Real Salt Lake, however, responded in the 65th minute, leveling the score at 1-1 with a goal from Diego Luna off a cross from Bryan Oviedo. The back-and-forth action kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout the regulation period.

Herrera showcased his playmaking prowess, finishing the night with three chances created. His contribution in the final third has been a consistent highlight for the Dynamo, tallying an impressive 17 assists in the regular season.

The Dynamo faced adversity early on when they conceded the first shot of the game in the fourth minute, but resilient defending and the heroics of goalkeeper Steve Clark kept Salt Lake at bay. Clark's two key saves during regulation played a crucial role in preserving the deadlock.

The game was the sixth meeting between the two squads this year, and the Dynamo maintained an unbeaten record against Salt Lake in regulation, boasting a 3-0-3 (WLD) record in all competitions.

HCU Huskies secure historic victory, clinch first-ever winning season

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vida Loca Photography, Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (November 11, 2023)  In a thrilling Southland Conference showdown at Cowboy Stadium on a chilly Saturday night, the HCU Huskies (6-4, 4-2 SLC) etched their names in the program's history books. Battling from behind at halftime and entering the fourth quarter, the Huskies orchestrated a spectacular comeback, outscoring the McNeese Cowboys 14-0 in the final 15 minutes to seal a 35-24 victory.

The game's tone was set early as senior cornerback Jordan Oliver intercepted McNeese on the fourth play of the game, returning it 53 yards for a touchdown, giving HCU an early 7-0 lead. The first quarter saw both teams trading blows, with standout plays from quarterback Colby Suits and a relentless defensive effort.

Despite a strong start, McNeese (1-9, 1-5 SLC) clawed back, taking a 17-14 lead at halftime. However, the resilient Huskies responded, with Suits connecting with Karl Reynolds for a deep touchdown pass, regaining the lead at 21-17 early in the third quarter.

The see-saw battle continued, with McNeese answering back to take a 24-21 lead, but the Huskies dug deep. Suits orchestrated an 11-play, 80-yard drive, rushing for a crucial touchdown, putting HCU back on top at 28-24. The Huskies' defense stepped up, forcing pivotal stops and recovering a crucial onside kick.

Running back Jesse Valenzuela had a career night, rushing for 171 yards and a touchdown on 33 carries, marking the fifth-highest rushing total in program history. Quarterback Suits contributed both on the ground and through the air, totaling 185 yards and three touchdowns.

Defensively, the Huskies were led by Isaiah Cash with 10 tackles, and Rodney Dansby and Jalyx Hunt made game-changing plays. Oliver's interception showcased the Huskies' ability to create turnovers, finishing with four takeaways.

The victory guarantees the Huskies their first-ever winning season, surpassing the previous record of five wins set in 2019. With one game left in the regular season against UIW, Head Coach Braxton Harris's debut season has been nothing short of remarkable.

Clear Falls downs Strake Jesuit 45-10

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

LEAGUE CITY, TEXAS (November 10, 2023) In another one-sided game in the high school football playoffs,  the Clear Falls Knights eliminated the Strake Jesuit Crusaders from the UIL playoffs with a 45-10 win at Challenger-Columbia Stadium on Friday night. 

The Knights, who raised their season record to 7-4, used a balanced attack of both passing and rushing on offense to down the 3-8 Crusaders. Clear  Falls will next face C E King next week. 

North Shore blows past Deer Park in playoff action

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 9, 2023)  The No.1 ranked North Shore Mustangs pushed their season record to 11-0 as they downed the Deer Park Deer by the score of 42-14 at Galena Park ISD Stadium on Thursday evening in UIL bi-district playoff action. The win will pit the Mustangs against the Clear Springs Chargers, who eliminated Alvin Shadow Creek by the score of 36-7 in bi-district play, late next week. 

The Mustangs, who are ranked number 16 in the nation by MaxPreps.com, are setting on an 11-0 winning streak since their last loss. Last season, North Shore advanced to the UIL 6A Division I state championship game, where they came up short against eventual state champion Duncanville by the score of 28-21.

The Deer finished the season with a 9-2 record with their only other loss coming at the hands of J Frank Dobie Longhorns. The Longhorns, who were District 22-6A champions, upset the Deer on September 22 by the score of  38-35. Dobie was eliminated from the UIL playoffs with a 65-28 loss to Humble Atascocita on Friday evening at Pasadena's Veterans Memorial Stadium.