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The Southlake Carroll football team runs onto the field before their first regular season game against Rockwall-Heath High School on Oct. 2. The Dragons beat the Hawks 72-57.
It probably feels longer, but it’s only been two weeks since the Dragons last took to the field. Last week’s game against Denton Guyer, set to be nationally televised on ESPN, was canceled following a positive COVID-19 test. But now, Southlake Carroll is ready to face off on the football field again. Before kickoff, here’s what you need to know before the Dragons take on the Byron Nelson Bobcats.
It's A Thursday Game
If you try to tune into the game on Friday, you’ll be disappointed. This week’s game will take place on Thursday. While a day earlier than the traditional Friday Night Lights, it’s also a blessing. Thursday’s game gives you an excuse to turn away from what is sure to be a contentious final presidential debate and lose yourself in the reprieve that is high school football.
Byron Nelson Is A Familiar Opponent
For longtime Dragon fans, Southlake Carroll playing against Byron Nelson is nothing new. The Dragons have outscored the Bobcats 140-34 over the course of the last three seasons. When broken down, the Dragons went 50-17 in 2017, 41-17 in 2018 and 49-0 in 2019. Despite a shaky defense, Southlake Carroll and their offense are nearly just as strong this year as in years past, which may lead history to repeat itself.
This Game Marks The Beginning Of District Play
Despite all the ups and downs this season has already had, district play is officially upon us. Thursday’s game marks the beginning of district play when Byron Nelson and Southlake Carroll go at it. While they can’t claim an undefeated overall record, winning this game will be the start of the Dragons working toward an undefeated district record, which is the second best thing.
Byron Nelson Is Currently 2-2
Like Southlake Carroll, Byron Nelson currently has a split overall record. Last week, the Bobcats fell to Mckinney Boyd 14-7 after defeating Irving MacArthur 37-6 the week before. Their first two games also resulted in splits — they lost 31-17 to Mansfield Legacy in their first week before triumphing over Grapevine in a 33-25 game.
Southlake Carroll Still Ranked Among Top 15 Teams in the State
Despite losing its second game and having to cancel the third game of the season, Southlake Carroll is still dominant. The Dragons are currently ranked No. 15 in the state and No. 42 nationally, according to MaxPreps. Compared to Byron Nelson’s state ranking of 341 and national ranking of 2,848, according to MaxPreps, Southlake Carroll currently has an edge over the Bobcats.