South Oak Cliff Football: The Road to State Championship
South Oak Cliff High School, located in Dallas, Texas, is known for its successful football program. The team has consistently been a force to be reckoned with, boasting several district and regional championships over the years. But in 2018, the team set its sights on a new goal: a state championship.
The journey to the state championship was not an easy one. The team faced tough opponents throughout the regular season, but managed to come out on top with a 9-1 record. The playoffs proved to be even more challenging, with each game becoming increasingly crucial as they advanced through the brackets.
In the quarterfinals, South Oak Cliff faced off against Frisco Lone Star, a team known for its strong defense. It was a back-and-forth battle, but South Oak Cliff managed to secure a 24-20 victory with a touchdown in the final minutes of the game. The semifinals were just as intense, with South Oak Cliff narrowly defeating their opponents, Corpus Christi Calallen, 17-14.
Finally, on December 22, 2018, South Oak Cliff faced off against Aledo High School in the Class 5A Division II state championship game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Aledo had won several state championships in the past and was favored to win once again. But South Oak Cliff was determined to make history and bring home the title.
The game was a battle from start to finish. South Oak Cliff scored first, but Aledo quickly responded with two touchdowns of their own. However, South Oak Cliff refused to back down and managed to tie the game at 21-21 by halftime.
The second half was just as intense as the first. Both teams traded touchdowns, with South Oak Cliff scoring on a 39-yard pass from quarterback Roderick Hartsfield. Aledo responded with a touchdown of their own, tying the game at 28-28 with just over four minutes left in the game.
But South Oak Cliff wasn’t finished yet. With just 1:38 left in the game, Hartsfield found receiver J.F. Thomas for a 19-yard touchdown pass, giving South Oak Cliff a 35-28 lead. Aledo had one final chance to tie the game, but South Oak Cliff’s defense held strong and secured the victory.
The South Oak Cliff football team had made history, winning their first-ever state championship. The players and coaches were overjoyed, and the community rallied around them in celebration. It was a moment that would be remembered for years to come.
In conclusion, the South Oak Cliff football team’s journey to the state championship was a testament to their hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Despite facing tough opponents and challenging circumstances, they never gave up and ultimately achieved their goal. The 2018 season will forever be remembered as a historic moment in South Oak Cliff football history.
