As the high school football season progresses, the Kilgore High School team, boasting a record of 8-1 and 5-0 in district play, prepares to face off against the struggling Mabank High School team, which holds a record of 2-7 and 0-5 in the same district. The match is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at Panther Stadium in Mabank, Texas.
Kilgore enters the game with considerable momentum. After losing their season opener to Carthage on August 29, they have won eight consecutive games, achieving victories by an average margin of 29.5 points. Key players for Kilgore include Kayson Brooks, who has completed 131 of 202 passes for 1,909 yards, with 22 touchdown passes and only 3 interceptions. Additionally, Brooks has contributed on the ground with 43 carries for 181 yards and 6 touchdowns.
The running game features Rayshaun Williams, who has rushed for 1,236 yards on 148 carries, scoring 10 touchdowns. Another significant contributor is Isaiah Watters, who has not only rushed for 187 yards and 3 touchdowns but also excelled defensively with 89 tackles, including 9 tackles for loss and 3 sacks.
Kilgore’s receiving corps is led by La’Keyleon Graves, who has made 32 receptions for 429 yards and 6 touchdowns. Other notable receivers include Dre Sanders and Jakalen Sheffield, contributing significantly to the team’s aerial attack.
In stark contrast, Mabank seeks to turn around its season after suffering six consecutive losses, with an average defeat margin of 43.5 points. The team last secured wins against Kemp (57-0) and Wills Point (36-33) in early September. Their recent performance included a narrow defeat to Palestine, who edged them out 31-22 last week.
Mabank’s offense is led by Jaxon Copeland, who has thrown for 875 yards with 9 touchdowns, though he has also recorded 7 interceptions. On the ground, Jaedyn Thompson has emerged as a key player, amassing 1,045 yards and 11 touchdowns on 161 carries.
With Kilgore aiming for its ninth straight victory and Mabank desperately seeking a win to salvage its season, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter. Fans can expect an intense game as both teams take to the field under the Friday night lights.
