Duncanville (12-1) vs. Galena Park North Shore (13-2), 3 p.m. Saturday at Arlington’s AT&T Stadium

For the sixth time since 2018, Duncanville and North Shore meet to determine supremacy in the state’s largest classification. North Shore took the first three matchups in 2018, 2019 and 2021, but Duncanville has won the last two in 2022 and 2023.

This year’s matchup doesn’t have the pop it’s had in years past because both teams had their share of struggles during the season, but both have shown championship DNA as they are playing their best football at the right time.

Duncanville’s lethal defense absolutely dominated Allen last week in a 31-9 win. The Panthers held Allen to just 49 yards rushing and constantly harassed the Allen QB with their ferocious pass rush.

WR Trenton Yancey had 129 yards of offense and ran for two scores to lead the Panthers attack.

North Shore’s defense was equally dominant as they took down previously undefeated Lake Travis, 28-6, in its state semifinal. North Shore forced two turnovers, one of which led directly to a score, and the Mustangs forced seven Lake Travis three-and-outs.

Utah State QB commit Kaleb Maryland had a big day rushing for three scores and the Mustangs offensive line played extremely well as they were able to establish a consistent ground game in the second half.

This game has generally had incredible star power. Although there’s no shortage of major college prospects in this one, it’s the “worker bees” that have really gotten it done for both these teams in 2025. North Shore has the edge at QB, but Duncanville’s defensive line and creativity in finding ways to get offensive playmakers the ball in space is the key for the Panthers to get Reginald Samples his third state title.

Stepp’s Pick: Duncanville 24, North Shore 17

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Duncanville

Sr. DE Landon Barnes - Barnes, an Ole Miss signee, and KJ Ford, a Florida signee, give Duncanville two SEC defensive ends… and give opposing QBs nightmares. Barnes is more of a power rusher compared to Ford’s finesse, but each is equally effective. Barnes was nearly unblockable against Allen.

Jr. WR Trenton Yancey - Yancey is Duncanville’s leading receiver with 752 yards and eight touchdowns, but he’s also been vital in the run game with 352 yards and 10 touchdowns as Duncanville has had to reinvent its offense in the playoffs without QB Maximus Denson.

Sr. QB J’Coryon Rivers - Rivers emerged off the bench around the start of the playoffs for QB Denson, and he piloted Duncanville’s offense to another state championship game. The senior has been efficient with 13 touchdowns and one interception. He’ll have to make a couple of big-time throws to beat North Shore.

Galena Park North Shore

Sr. QB Kaleb Maryland - Maryland had to wait until his senior year to be the full-time starter, but he’s made the most of his opportunity. The Utah State signee is a Houston Touchdown Club Offensive Player of the Year finalist after leading North Shore to a 13-2 record.

Sr. WR Jaylen Bocard - Bocard, a 1,000-yard receiver, is a one-on-one nightmare due to his route-running and jump-ball ability. The senior has been one of TXHSFB’s breakout stars after catching two passes for 44 yards all last season. He and Maryland vs. Duncanville’s secondary will be box office.

Sr. DT Za’Qwaun Nunn - Nunn has been a menace on the North Shore defensive line. He was a Class 6A State Champion wrestler as a sophomore, and that technique flashes on the football field. Nunn will be critical in forcing Duncanville into third-and-long situations.

- Carter Yates

PREDICTIONS

THE PICK