As it seeks to extend its postseason run, Highland Park will look to carry over some positive vibes from a year ago.
On Thursday, the Scots will return to the site of three of their five playoff victories from 2024 when they face Frisco Reedy in the Class 5A Division I area round at The Star in Frisco.
HP dismantled Lake Belton 56-13 in the Region II bi-district round last week behind another big game from junior quarterback Buck Randall, who passed for 321 yards and three touchdowns and also ran for a score.
Cannon Bozman and Charlie Olmstead each caught long touchdown throws, while Matthew White and Isaiah Lee were key contributors in the big-play barrage. The hard-hitting defense took care of the rest as the Scots (10-1) rallied from an early deficit to extend their winning streak to 10 games.
Randall has thrown for 41 touchdowns in 11 games this season, surpassing the 40 scoring passes he tallied in 16 games last year. Meanwhile, Bozman needs just 44 more receiving yards to surpass 1,000 for the second straight campaign.
HP topped Reedy, Frisco Lone Star, and Denton Ryan in consecutive weeks last season to reach the 5A Division I state championship game. The Scots would be just fine with a repeat of that 31-12 result against the Lions (8-3), although it would come a round earlier this time.
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Reedy has been particularly strong on defense, subduing Carrollton Creekview 24-3 in the first round. The Lions have allowed an average of just 11.5 points per game this season, although the high-powered HP offense presents a formidable challenge.
On offense, Reedy’s leading receiver is Aaron Niermann and leading rusher is Jarrett Walker. However, dual-threat quarterback Lincoln Harn was injured during the regular-season finale against Frisco Lone Star and is unlikely to play.
The Lions finished third in District 5-5A Div. I during the regular season, but their three losses came by a combined 10 points.
Looking ahead, the winner of Thursday’s clash will meet either Cedar Park or Frisco Wakeland in the regional semifinals over Thanksgiving weekend.
