The high school football game between Eastlake and Eastwood was billed as a potential preview of the eventual state championship game in Texas. In reality, it was an ugly one-sided blowout that came to an early end due to weather.
Or did it?
The victorious high school football coach accused his opponent of quitting. He wants to be clear that it was not a “no contest.”
Eastwood dominated Eastlake in less than three quarters.
Eastwood and Eastlake High Schools are both located in El Paso, Texas. They are separated by only 10 miles.
Both high schools enroll more than 2,3000 students. Their football programs compete in Region 1, District 1 of Class 6A.
The Troopers entered Friday at 3-1 with only one loss to Utah powerhouse Corner Canyon. The Falcons entered undefeated at 4-0. It was going to be one of the games of the year in the Lone Star State. Unfortunately, Eastlake’s star quarterback broke his hand durning the week and Eastwood’s defense took full advantage of the change.
It got ugly, fast.
The Troopers forced four turnovers (including two turnovers on the Falcons’ first three offensive snaps) and scored two defensive touchdowns in the first half. They took a 34-0 lead at halftime and went on to win 42-0.
Head coach Julio Lopez told the El Paso Times that he was thrilled with the performance. His defense seems to be one of the best in the state.
“We’ve said all year, this is a championship-level defense. Last year was a good group; we felt like this year could be even better with our front 7. You see it week in, week out: They control the line of scrimmage, they stop the run, put on a lot of pressure. They created five turnovers; they had a great night.”
Eastwood held Eastlake to only 87 yards of offense and forced five turnovers in total, with the fifth early in the third quarter. However, the game did not last all four quarters.
The Texas high school football game will count as a loss despite weather.
Five minutes and 57 second remained on the clock in the third quarter when lightning was detected in the area. The high school football game went into a weather delay.
Fans were asked to exit the stadium. Both teams went back into the locker room.
Approximately one hour later, the officials and the administration decided not to continue. The game was called with more than 17 minutes remaining. Eastwood will get the win. Eastlake will get the loss.
According to Coach Lopez, the Falcons decided to quit. They did not want to play the rest of the third quarter or the fourth. It will not be ruled as a “no contest” like other high school football games in the area. The final score of 42-0 will stand.
Mic drop. The Troopers made a statement. Their opponent apparently rolled over and gave up.