Southlake Carroll Falls to DeSoto in Stunning 57-44 Playoff Upset

BREAKING: In a shocking turn of events, Southlake Carroll’s quest for the 6A Division II title came to a heart-wrenching end as it fell to DeSoto, 57-44, in the state semifinals on Saturday at Vernon Newsom Stadium. The defeat marks a stunning upset for the top-ranked team, who was heavily favored to advance after dominating the competition all season.

Southlake Carroll, entering the playoffs with high expectations following a strong season, looked poised for victory when they surged to a 16-point lead midway through the third quarter. However, everything changed in a matter of moments, demonstrating just how quickly fortunes can shift in high-stakes football.

DeSoto’s comeback was spearheaded by a pivotal play from Jordan Stevens, who executed an 85-yard interception return for a touchdown, tying the game at 37 early in the fourth quarter. The momentum swing energized DeSoto, who displayed remarkable resilience to secure the win.

Despite a valiant effort from Carroll’s Angelo Renda, who threw for five touchdowns and connected with Blake Gunter for four of those scores, the team couldn’t overcome DeSoto’s explosive offense. Gunter finished with 111 yards on seven receptions, while Davis Penn rushed for 202 yards and a touchdown.

“I’m just proud of our kids,” said Carroll coach Riley Dodge. “The kids laid it on the line. I couldn’t have asked for anything else against a really good football team.”

As the clock wound down, Carroll found itself inches away from a potential game-tying touchdown on a critical fourth-and-goal play. In a dramatic finish, officials ruled Renda short of the goal line with just four seconds remaining, despite initial signals suggesting otherwise. This controversial call left the Carroll sideline in disbelief, as their dreams of a championship vanished.

DeSoto, led by standout SaRod Baker, who rushed for an astonishing 336 yards and three touchdowns, sealed the game with a spectacular 99-yard touchdown run as time expired. DeSoto’s offense amassed an incredible 758 yards throughout the game, overshadowing Carroll’s impressive 544 yards.

This defeat stings particularly for Carroll, which has now lost to DeSoto in consecutive state semifinal appearances. Emotions ran high as Coach Dodge addressed his tearful players post-game, a poignant reminder of the dedication and effort put forth by the team throughout the season.

“It’s disappointing,” Dodge reflected. “Our football teams put a lot into it. Obviously, when you get this close, you want to get to the final one.”

With the season behind them, Carroll will look to regroup and strategize for next year, as Dodge continues his pursuit of an elusive state title since taking over as head coach in 2018. The loss serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of high school football, leaving fans and players alike eager for the next season.

For more updates on high school sports and other breaking news, stay tuned to The Dallas Morning News.