With another successful 10-game regular-season schedule now in the rearview mirror, Highland Park is ready for a six-game postseason slate.
But in order to return to the Class 5A Division I state championship game, the Scots cannot look ahead to late December. There are plenty of hurdles to be cleared first.
That starts with a Region II bi-district matchup against Lake Belton on Friday at Highlander Stadium. The Scots (9-1) bring a nine-game winning streak into the contest, culminating in a 42-28 win over Midlothian a week ago to clinch the District 7-5A Div. I title.
It marks the 60th league crown in program history, most of any school in the state — extending a current streak to 11 seasons. HP has qualified for the playoffs 67 times, also a state record, including the last 37 years in a row.
The Scots have won their last 12 first-round playoff games, and another one on Friday would give the Scots double-digit victories for the 13th straight campaign.
HP is averaging 48 points per game this season behind junior quarterback Buck Randall, who surpassed 3,000 passing yards for the season a week ago. He has thrown for 38 touchdowns and run for nine.
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The Scots have showcased depth at the skill positions all year, led by versatile running back Matthew White (18 total touchdowns) and leading receiver Cannon Bozman (23.3 yards per catch and 13 scores).
The HP defense started slow this season but has rounded into form during the past month, with nine takeaways in its last four games.
The Scots are preparing for their first-ever matchup against Lake Belton, a fifth-year varsity program located in Temple. The Broncos (5-5) are making their fourth consecutive postseason appearance after finishing fourth in District 8-5A during the regular season. They are seeking their first playoff win in school history.
Sophomore quarterback Jessiah James, who took over for injured starter Maverik Maddux midway through the season, leads a balanced offensive attack that posted a season-high point total during a 53-20 win over Killeen Chaparral last week that clinched a postseason berth.
Lake Belton has depth at the skill positions with running backs Arrington Alexander and Zyien Dupree (nine touchdowns apiece), as well as receivers Zion Harness and Davion Peters (combined 15 scores).
The winner of Friday’s clash will meet Frisco Reedy next week in the area round. The Lions dispatched Carrollton Creekview 24-3 on Thursday.
