The regional semifinals of the Texas high school football playoffs are set to feature a highly anticipated match between Elysian Fields (11-1) and Joaquin (8-4) on March 15, 2024. The game will take place at 7 p.m. at Eagle Stadium, located at 483 Hill Street, Tatum, Texas. As both teams aim for a place in the regional finals, the stakes could not be higher.
Joaquin enters the game with a powerful offensive lineup led by quarterback Trenton Runnels. Runnels has thrown for 402 yards this season, completing 20 of 43 passes for 8 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. He has also contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 245 yards and another 10 touchdowns. He is supported by standout players such as athlete Cooper Bragg, who has amassed 1,273 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground, and running back/fullback Amarion Wilson, who has recorded 655 yards and 5 touchdowns.
Elysian Fields, boasting a strong 11-1 record, counters with a formidable offense as well. The team’s leading player is running back/defensive back Brandon Kennedy, who has had an impressive season with 1,673 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns. Quarterback Evan White has also made a significant impact, throwing for 254 yards with 3 touchdowns, while also contributing on the ground with 93 rushing yards.
Both teams come into the matchup with momentum from their recent playoff victories. Joaquin dominated Honey Grove last week with a score of 41-8, while Elysian Fields narrowly edged out Garrison in a thrilling contest that ended with a score of 55-54. The winner of this semifinal will advance to face either Beckville or San Augustine in the regional finals.
Other Key Matchups in the Regional Semifinals
In addition to the Elysian Fields vs. Joaquin game, other crucial matches are scheduled. Beckville (9-3) will take on San Augustine (9-3) at 5 p.m. on the same day at CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rose Stadium in Tyler, Texas. Beckville is experiencing a seven-game winning streak, including tight playoff victories, while San Augustine seeks to continue its impressive turnaround after missing the postseason last year.
Another highly anticipated match features Pine Tree (8-4) against Fort Bend Crawford (11-1) at 7 p.m. at Groesbeck Stadium. Pine Tree aims to secure its deepest playoff run in history after outscoring opponents significantly this season. Fort Bend Crawford, in its second year as a program, is looking to build on last year’s playoff experience.
The Kilgore (11-1) vs. Bridge City (11-1) clash is also on the schedule, set for 2 p.m. at Randall Reed Stadium. Kilgore has consistently advanced deep into the playoffs over recent years, and Bridge City aims to maintain its winning momentum.
As the playoffs progress, the excitement and intensity of high school football in Texas continues to captivate fans. Each game carries the weight of history, rivalry, and the dreams of young athletes striving to leave their mark on the field.
