Desoto vs Duncanville Will Be Decided in the Trenches

Witten By: Marc Henry @marchen44

The highly anticipated Duncanville vs. DeSoto contest will be decided in the trenches, where both teams bring elite talent and physicality. While both offenses are high-powered and capable of putting up big numbers, it’s the battle up front that will dictate the outcome.

DeSoto enters the game averaging over 50 points per game, led by Virginia Tech commit Kelden Ryan, one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the state and nationally. Ryan is backed by a dynamic running back duo in Tiger Riden (Texas A&M commit) and Myson Johnson-Cook, with wide receivers Daylon Singleton (SMU commit) and Ethan Feaster, who are among the best in the country. However, the key to DeSoto’s success will be their offensive line, anchored by Syracuse commit Byron Washington, who is apart of a physical unit that loves to maul their opponents and set the tone in the run game.

Duncanville counters with Alabama commit and 5-star quarterback Keelon Russell, the No. 1 quarterback in Texas, and the top wide receiver in the 2025 class, Oregon commit Dakorien Moore. Russell has a host of offensive weapons in Zachery Turner, Aysun Theus, and Trenton Yancey, but his protection will be key. The Duncanville offensive line, led by veteran Ameer Ross, must control the trenches by protecting Russell and opening running lanes.

On defense, both teams are built to apply pressure. Duncanville’s 2026 standout Kevin Ford Jr., an edge rusher, has the skill set to disrupt plays in the backfield, while safety Nehemiah Borner’s tackling ability and blitzing prowess will be crucial for the Panthers.

DeSoto’s defensive front is just as formidable, featuring TCU commit Keylan Abrams, Marshall Kirven, Cortez Reagor, and DJ Rumph. Their ability to pressure Russell will be essential for the Eagles if they hope to slow down Duncanville’s potent offense.

Ultimately, the game will come down to who can control the line of scrimmage. Whichever team wins the battle in the trenches will have the upper hand in this star-studded showdown between two of the top-ranked teams in the state and the nation.