State Championship Wrap Up: Celina Wins Their 9th Title, DFW Takes A Hit

Celina QB Bowe Bentley wins the offensive MVP as the Bobcats win their 9th state title. Photo Cred: Scott Rapp

Written By: Jay Pace

CELINA ROARS TO 9TH TITLE, WHILE HIGHLAND PARK & SOUTHLAKE CARROLL FALL IN THEIR SEASON FINALES

Arlington, Texas - After an 18 year hiatus, the Celina Bobcats have returned to take their rightful place atop the Class 4A Division I pecking order.

The Bobcats capped off a perfect 16-0 season en-route to their ninth UIL state title in school history. Celina is now tied with Katy for third on the all-time list behind Aledo (12) and Carthage (10). 

It was Bill Elliot's first state title in 13 years as head coach and Celina's first in 17 years. Just as it had done all season, the Bobcats dominated Kilgore last Friday afternoon. Balanced offensively, the Bobcats came out slinging the rock all over the field before taking the air out of the ball as the afternoon wore on. 

QB Bowe Bentley, one of the states top returning prospects in the class of 2026, had a phenomenal performance, going 9-for-14, 265 yards and 5 TD passes.

Looking ahead, this team should be among the favorites again in 2025 as Bentley and other key contributors return. 

DALLAS DOOM

A banner year for DFW teams didn't end so well as teams from the Metroplex finished 2-3 in the championship round. Sandwiched between wins by Celina in the first game featuring a team from the Metroplex and a win by North Crowley in last Saturday night's finale, were losses by South Oak Cliff, Highland Park and Southlake Carroll.

That said, all three teams figure to be in the mix in 2025, as several key players return on both sides of the ball for each squad..