ARLINGTON, Texas — Richmond Randle High School made history by capturing its first Texas high school football championship with a thrilling 38-35 victory over South Oak Cliff. The game, held at AT&T Stadium, saw Randle overcome challenges from the talented Golden Bears, who were vying for their third title in four years.
The Lions kicked off their quest for glory with style, as Sincere Thompson electrified the crowd by returning the opening kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown, giving Randle an early 7-0 lead. Following this remarkable start, the team increased its advantage to 14-0 when sophomore sensation Landen Williams-Callis scored on a two-yard touchdown. Coach Brian Randle’s team looked poised to claim the title, entering halftime with a 24-14 lead.
South Oak Cliff, intent on defying the odds, stormed back after the intermission. The Golden Bears found their rhythm with spectacular back-to-back touchdown runs from Mikail Trotter and Damond Williams, regaining the lead at 28-24. But Randle was unfazed. Determined to prove their worth, Keilan Sweeny, the team’s all-purpose threat, scored on a 22-yard run, helping the Lions to regain their lead at 31-28.
With momentum swinging back and forth, Carter Kopecky put South Oak Cliff back on top with another touchdown run, making it 35-31. The tension filled the air as Randle's seasoned players readied themselves for yet another comeback. Moments later, Sean Smith returned the ensuing kickoff 72 yards for his own touchdown, granting Randle the lead for good at 38-35.
Despite the scoreboard, the defense was heavily tested. Randle, which had boasted the best defense all season, found itself battling tirelessly against SOC's potent offense. The Golden Bears amassed 461 total yards, including 355 rushing yards, the most the Lions had allowed all season. Still, the Randle defense held strong during the closing minutes.
With under a minute left, South Oak Cliff attempted to tie the game with a field goal, but their kicker rushed his attempt and missed wide left as time expired. This miss sparked sheer jubilation among the Randle players and their fans, who rushed onto the field to celebrate the Lions’ monumental achievement.
"Extremely proud, extremely happy for the boys, extremely happy for the community," Coach Brian Randle stated after the game, reflecting on the hard work and dedication his players exhibited throughout the season. "They had to put up with my crap for 16 weeks. That’s a lot."
With this win, the Randle Lions finished their season with an impressive 16-0 record, culminating their emergence onto the state’s football scene. The team will also make its debut on the High School Football America 300 national rankings, powered by NFL Play Football, after this victory.
Throughout the game, the Lions’ special teams showcased their prowess, with Thompson's kickoff return and Smith's later return demonstrating impressive skill. Williams-Callis earned the Offensive MVP title, rushing for over 100 yards, contributing not only to the Lions' score but also to the palpable energy of the entire team.
Although engaged predominantly on offense, the defense played its part effectively. Linebacker Ryan Mallory was named the Defensive MVP for his game-high 12 tackles. Coach Randle’s emphasis on mental toughness paid off as the Lions displayed remarkable composure throughout the intense match.
This victory marks the beginning of what many hope will be continued success for Randle High School’s football program. Just three years old, the Lions have already established themselves as formidable contenders, with aspirations of more championships on the horizon.
Reflecting on the team’s remarkable season, defensive lineman Chace Sims shared his emotional experience: "I’m just glad we went 16-0." The triumph back to Richmond is one filled with pride, spirit, and the excitement of having etched their names forever onto the Texas football championship trophy.
Now, with the taste of victory propelling them forward, the Richmond Randle Lions prepare to embrace the future with aspirations of building on this remarkable foundation. Their inaugural championship win is not just a moment of glory but also the start of what could be a legendary program.
