GAMES
RANKINGS
DISTRICT PREVIEW: Melissa Football continues domination
As teams across the state begin or continue into district play, VYPE DFW is taking a look at some of the top teams in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The Melissa Cardinals have been at the top of the list as far as domination on the field goes. Let's take a look at their season so far and what fans can expect as they progress through district play:
So Far
After opening a brand-new stadium, the Melissa Cardinals began their season at home against a tough Argyle squad. Posting a 50-14 week one victory, Melissa set the tone early on. Week two saw the Cardinals go on the road to face off against China Spring. The team came out strong early and pulled away for a 63-33 victory. In their final non-district game of the season, Melissa hosted Royse City for a 39-7 victory in front of their home fans.
Last week, the team opened district play by traveling to Crandall. Facing off against a determined Crandall squad, the Cardinals knew that they could shut down any advances from the Pirates. Putting hard work to the test and showcasing tremendous talent on the field, Melissa opened district play with a 67-28 victory on the road.
What To Expect
Athletes like Landen Brandow, Lincoln Dunn, Nathan Adejokun, Khristian Turner, Jackson Ford, Trever Ham, Gunnar Wilson, Jake Potucek, and others can be expected to continue putting in the work that it takes off the field in order to be successful on the field. Looking at strong leaders who have fire in their hearts, this team is made up of athletes who have big goals for themselves, each other, and the team as a whole.
Next up in district play, Melissa will host Terrell. As the team powers through their district schedule, some of their toughest opponents will include Princeton, Denison, and Lucas Lovejoy. Keeping a watchful eye on this squad, fans can expect a deep playoff run this season.
PREVIEW: Melissa travels to Crandall
The Melissa Cardinals have been on a roll this season. The Crandall Pirates have gotten into a routine of winning. These two teams face off on Friday night in their first district match of the season. VYPE DFW dives into what fans can look for in this matchup:
Melissa Cardinals (3-0)
On the hunt this season, the Melissa Cardinals have not posted a single loss. Having outscored their opponents by a combined 98 points in just three games, both sides of the ball are dominant for this Cardinals squad. In non-district play, the Cardinals posted victory after victory with wins over Argyle (50-14), China Spring (63-33), and Royse City (39-7).
Landen Brandow, Steven Hinkel, Alejandro Luna, Grant Taylor, Sayben Dukes, Rayyan Haider, Hayden Solomon, Jacob Wasserman, and others are among the athletes who are getting the job done in Melissa. As they travel to Crandall on Friday, they look to shut down the Pirates.
Crandall Pirates (2-1)
After a 64-10 week one loss to Forney, the Pirates bounced back with back-to-back victories over Kaufman (22-15) and Jacksonville (49-17). Hosting their first district game of the season, Crandall is looking to start with a huge upset over Melissa.
Julius Stoker, Zack Howard, Hayden Chaffin, Derrick Stephens, Joshua Smith, Hudson West, and more make up this team of athletes who are determined to stop Melissa in their tracks.
What To Expect
Crandall shouldn't be slept on. Producing big-time playmakers, the Pirates have grit and passion on Friday nights. They will undoubtedly put up a battle against Melissa. However, this Melissa squad just might be too powerful to overcome. Melissa sets the tone early and makes sure there is no room to catch up for their opponents. Be looking for the Cardinals to make Crandall work on Friday night.
Kick-off is slated for 7:30 p.m. in Crandall.