On November 18th, 2023, the Judson Rockets lost to the Dripping Springs Tigers in the second round of playoffs.

The game began with the Rockets on offense, but they fumbled the ball early. Fortunately, the Rocket defense was not discouraged by this mistake. After a series of back and forth possessions, the Tigers gained control of the game and scored a touchdown. Although the Tigers were in the lead 7-0, the Rocket offense made confident plays to get them closer to the end zone. The Rockets’ offensive line made it easy for Senior Nathaniel Stanley as he walked the ball into the end zone. With the game tied 7-7 both teams vied for control. Dripping Springs ran the ball to the end zone to take the lead 14-7. The Rockets showed tremendous fight and Senior Myles Davis ran the ball to the end zone to tie the game at 14.

Early into the second quarter, Junior Jack Call caught a great pass to put them up 21-14. The Rocket defense performed well and forced the Tigers to settle for a field goal, cutting into the Rockets lead 21-17. Dripping Springs turned the ball over on downs, giving the Rockets possession of the ball. The Rockets were unable to score, leaving Dripping Springs with the ball heading into halftime.

After halftime, junior Davian Watson caught a great pass to complete the touchdown and add to the Rockets lead 27-17. Once again the defense held the Tigers scoreless for their possession. Once the ball was back in Judson’s possession the offense worked quickly. Senior Nathaniel Stanley dashed to the end zone to pile onto the lead 34-17. The Tigers scored at the end of the quarter to chip away at the lead 34-24.

In the beginning of the fourth quarter Dripping Springs completed a passing touchdown to bring them closer to Judson’s lead 34-31. Due to a turnover on downs, the Rockets lost possession of the ball. Dripping Springs scored a rushing touchdown to give them the lead 38-34. 

Although this wasn’t the result that the Rockets would’ve wished for, they played an amazing game. For many this will be their last time ever playing football. For some, this is just the beginning. The Fuel can’t wait for the Rockets to soar even farther next season!