In a clash of undefeated squads, the Benjamin Mustangs defended their Six-Man Division II Championship in commanding fashion, defeating the Oglesby Tigers 82-34 on December 13 at the 2023 Texas High School Football State Championships. Powered by junior phenom Grayson Rigdon’s electrifying performance, Benjamin took control in the second quarter and never looked back.

A Back-and-Forth Start

The Tigers struck first with a 48-yard touchdown run by Kyler Fosset, setting the tone for a high-scoring first quarter. Benjamin quickly responded with a 7-yard run from Rigdon, and the teams traded scores in a tight battle. By the end of the quarter, the Mustangs held a slim 28-20 lead.

Second Quarter Surge

Early in the second quarter, Oglesby capitalized on a Benjamin turnover to tie the game at 28-28. However, Rigdon’s all-around brilliance soon shifted the momentum. After scoring to regain the lead, Rigdon intercepted an Oglesby pass in the end zone, setting up his own 8-yard touchdown run moments later.

Disaster struck for Oglesby on their next drive when a fumbled pitch led to a 68-yard scoop-and-score by Benjamin’s Weston Weatherford. Adding to the Tigers’ woes, Benjamin recovered an onside kick and turned it into another touchdown courtesy of Rigdon’s 36-yard run.

Oglesby managed a late touchdown, but Benjamin countered instantly with a 60-yard bomb from Keegan Hayes to Rigdon, closing the half with a dominant 68-34 advantage.

Closing It Out

The Mustangs wasted no time in the second half. Rigdon connected with Tallon Hayes on a 32-yard touchdown to extend the lead. A forced fumble by Rigdon on Oglesby’s ensuing possession sealed the Tigers’ fate, as Benjamin scored again shortly thereafter to trigger the mercy rule and secure the 82-34 victory.

Rigdon’s Record-Setting Night

Grayson Rigdon was unstoppable, accounting for six touchdowns in the first half alone and contributing on both offense and defense. His standout performance solidified Benjamin’s place as a six-man football powerhouse and delivered the Mustangs their second consecutive state championship.

With back-to-back titles and a perfect season, the Mustangs leave no doubt about their dominance in Texas high school football.