For the fifth time in six years, Duncanville and North Shore will face off for the Texas 6A Division I State Championship. With a rivalry that’s seen thrilling games, including North Shore’s famous Hail Mary in 2018, and Duncanville’s first-ever title victory last year, this matchup promises to be another electrifying clash.

Duncanville: A High-Powered Offense and Stout Defense

Duncanville enters the game on fire, averaging 59.2 points per game in the playoffs. The Panthers are led by LSU commit Caden Durham, who has rushed for 1,841 yards and 21 touchdowns this season. Coming off a 226-yard performance against North Crowley, he’ll be a key piece in Duncanville’s attack. Quarterback Keelon Russell (2,986 passing yards, 32 touchdowns) is equally dangerous, with five-star receiver Dakorien Moore (1,243 yards, 14 touchdowns) his top target.

On defense, Duncanville has been outstanding, giving up just 12 points per game. Defensive linemen Colin Simmons and Alex January, both Texas commits, will be difficult for North Shore to move against. Linebacker EJ McKinney and safety Tyren Polley Jr. will also play pivotal roles in limiting the Mustangs’ explosive offense.

North Shore: Talented Playmakers and Steady Leadership

North Shore, under first-year head coach Willie Gaston, continues to impress with a potent offense led by junior quarterback Kaleb Bailey. Bailey, who missed the second half of last season due to injury, has thrown for 2,965 yards and 33 touchdowns while also contributing 650 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. Bailey has multiple weapons at his disposal, including Air Force commit Terrence Guillory (882 yards, 9 touchdowns) and three-star receivers Christopher Barnes (803 yards, 9 touchdowns) and Deion Deblanc.

In the backfield, running back D’Andre Hardeman Jr. (1,584 yards, 21 touchdowns) provides a physical running game that will be crucial for North Shore. Defensively, the Mustangs’ star cornerback Devin Sanchez will likely match up with Dakorien Moore, which could be a key battle. Safety LaVonte Johnson and linebacker Jarvon Coles will also look to make plays against Duncanville’s dynamic offense.

Key to the Game

Both teams are built on tough defenses and powerful offenses. The battle between Duncanville’s running back Caden Durham and North Shore’s D’Andre Hardeman will be crucial. Whichever team can establish the run game and control the clock could have the edge.

With two powerful squads that have been tested in high-pressure games, another nail-biter seems likely. With both teams brimming with talent at every level, expect another hard-fought battle that could come down to the final moments.