Fort Worth, TX – The North Crowley Panthers return to action tonight under the lights at Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium, hosting the DeSoto Eagles in a non-conference matchup set for 7 p.m. Both teams come in with different trajectories early in the 2025 season, but with plenty to prove as they continue through their opening stretch.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Texas High School Football
Who: DeSoto vs North Crowley
When: Friday, Sept. 5, 2025
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here Now
North Crowley opened its campaign with a hard-fought 22-18 victory over Lancaster on August 28. The Panthers showed balance and resilience, using steady scoring across the final three quarters to secure the win. Their scoring average reflects that consistency, with eight points in the second quarter, seven in the third, and another seven in the fourth. That ability to finish strong could be key again tonight against a DeSoto team looking to regroup.
Ranked No. 20 nationally and sitting third in Texas, North Crowley has earned early respect behind a defense that limited Lancaster to 18 points while finding just enough offensive rhythm to come out on top. Although individual stat leaders have not been highlighted in the available information, the Panthers’ ability to spread the ball and avoid mistakes was clear in their opener.
DeSoto, meanwhile, has work to do after a tough start. Ranked 104th nationally and 15th in Texas, the Eagles dropped their opener on the road, falling 70-28. That lopsided score left questions about both their defensive structure and offensive execution, but the team remains dangerous thanks to a history of athletic playmakers and explosive potential.
The Eagles’ early numbers suggest they are still searching for balance. They averaged only 41 total yards of offense in their opener, with running back and quarterback Canden Mathis accounting for nearly all of it. Mathis posted 37 rushing yards and 4 passing yards, giving him 41 total yards on the night. Receivers, including Legend Howell, were kept off the stat sheet. If DeSoto is going to challenge North Crowley, it will need more productivity from its supporting cast to take pressure off Mathis.
Defensively, DeSoto must also find answers quickly. Giving up 70 points in a single game is rare for a program with its reputation, and tonight’s matchup will be another test against a North Crowley offense that scored in every quarter of its season opener.
For the Panthers, this contest is a chance to prove their top-25 national ranking is no fluke. Their defense, which held Lancaster in check, will now try to contain Mathis and force DeSoto into long-yardage situations. Offensively, maintaining scoring drives and controlling the tempo will be key in wearing down the Eagles.
The two teams do not share a head-to-head history in recent years, making this a fresh test for both. However, they do have a common opponent in Lancaster. DeSoto is scheduled to face Lancaster later this season, while North Crowley already earned a win over them, which could provide early insight into how these teams match up against strong competition.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. in Fort Worth. With North Crowley aiming to stay unbeaten and DeSoto desperate for a bounce-back performance, tonight’s game promises intensity from start to finish.
