Carthage Dominates West Orange–Stark in First Half, Takes 28–0 Lead at the Break

Arlington, Texas (TXAN 24) — The defending 4A-D2 State Champions Carthage Bulldogs kicked off their repeating effort against West Orange Stark at AT&T Stadium at 3 p.m.

Carthage wasted no time setting the tone Friday night, jumping out to an early lead and never looking back against West Orange–Stark in the first half of action.

Carthage won the opening coin toss and struck quickly on offense. After an incomplete pass to open the game, #0 KJ Edwards broke loose for an 87-yard touchdown run, putting the Bulldogs on the board early. The extra point by #29 Christian Monreal was good, giving Carthage a 7–0 lead in the first quarter.

West Orange–Stark responded with a drive led by #4 Khelvy Jefferson, who picked up multiple first downs and moved the ball into Carthage territory. However, the Bulldogs’ defense stood strong, recording multiple sacks, including stops by #3 Tylin Williams, #8 Qui Beck, #25 Zakarian Pearley, and #44 Andric Kindle, forcing a turnover on downs and giving Carthage the ball back.

Carthage continued to move the chains behind efficient passing and steady runs from Edwards. Despite a few penalties and a sack by West Orange–Stark, the Bulldogs kept possession deep into the red zone as the first quarter ended with Carthage leading 7–0.

Early in the second quarter, West Orange–Stark regained possession but stalled after a controversial fumble ruling was overturned on review. The Mustangs were forced to punt, setting Carthage up with solid field position. The Bulldogs capitalized, marching downfield before #0 Edwards punched in another touchdown to extend the lead to 14–0.

The momentum stayed firmly on Carthage’s side. Following a three-and-out by West Orange–Stark, Carthage struck again with a touchdown pass to #7 Junior Henderson, followed by another successful extra point, pushing the score to 21–0.

Late in the half, Carthage’s offense continued its dominance. Quarterback connections with #15 Jaden Jeffress , #9 Jett Surratt, and #18 Bryston Price moved the Bulldogs into scoring position once again. #18 Bryston Price hauled in a touchdown reception to cap the drive. Despite an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty assessed on the play, the extra point was good, and Carthage headed into halftime with a commanding 28–0 lead.

Carthage’s balanced offense and aggressive defensive front proved too much for West Orange–Stark in the opening half, as the Bulldogs firmly controlled the pace on both sides of the ball.