Carthage Bulldogs Overcome Brock, Advance to State Final
The Carthage Bulldogs football team triumphed over the Brock Eagles with a decisive score of 49-21, securing their place in the 4A Division II state championship for the second consecutive year. The match took place on March 15, 2024, at Mesquite Memorial Stadium, coinciding with head coach Scott Surratt’s 58th birthday. This victory marked another milestone for the Bulldogs, who remain undefeated this season with a record of 15-0.
The game began with immediate excitement as Carthage’s star running back, KJ Edwards, scored an impressive touchdown on the third play, sprinting 83 yards. Although Brock responded to tie the game at 7-7 with a touchdown pass from quarterback Holt Frazier to Davis Lee, Carthage quickly regained control. The Bulldogs scored 35 unanswered points, dominating the field throughout the match.
Carthage’s senior quarterback Jett Surratt highlighted the team’s effectiveness, stating, “We were very efficient. We executed very well and had very good field position a lot of times due to the defense.” Surratt showcased his skills by throwing for 190 yards and three touchdowns, achieving this without any interceptions while connecting with six different receivers.
Edwards had an outstanding performance, rushing for 184 yards, with 173 of those yards gained in the first half. He added another touchdown on an 11-yard run and contributed with two catches for 45 yards. Additionally, Benny Smith rushed for 74 yards on 13 carries, including a touchdown, bolstering Carthage’s commanding offensive display.
The Bulldogs entered the game with added motivation after being labeled as three-point underdogs by Dave Campbell’s Football Network. “It is what it is,” said Jett Surratt. “We proved tonight that we weren’t underdogs at all.”
From the second quarter onward, Carthage’s defense intensified, forcing five turnovers against Brock’s offense, including three interceptions of Frazier. Sophomore Jace Harris added to the scoring with a 42-yard touchdown run, extending Carthage’s lead to 35-7. Harris expressed his determination to excel, stating, “I see green grass and my first natural thought is to be explosive.”
In addition to Harris, Tylin Williams and Trey Grant each recorded interceptions, while DaQuives Beck and Zee Pearley contributed with a sack and a forced fumble. Coach Surratt praised his team’s efforts, saying, “I can’t tell you how proud I am of our players. Our coaches did a phenomenal job getting them ready on offense and defense — just proud to be the coach.”
Carthage led 28-7 at halftime, and despite Brock’s attempts to recover, including a two-yard rushing touchdown from Frazier, the Bulldogs maintained their momentum. The game concluded with Carthage firmly in control, reinforcing their status as a formidable team in the state.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs will face West Orange-Stark in the state title game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Kickoff is scheduled for 15:00 local time. Carthage aims to continue their impressive streak, having won 30 consecutive games dating back to last season.
The matchup against West Orange-Stark will be significant as it serves as a rematch from the previous year’s semifinals, where Carthage emerged victorious with a score of 45-17. Coach Surratt, who holds the record for the most state championships in UIL history with ten titles, remains focused on the upcoming challenge. “It’s one game, one stadium, one football field and we have to get it done,” he remarked.
With their sights set on the championship, the Bulldogs are determined to execute flawlessly and capitalize on their talent and teamwork. As Jace Harris stated, “We have the players, we just need to execute every single play.” This upcoming game promises to be a thrilling contest as Carthage seeks to add another title to their storied legacy.
