Panthers host first playoff game since 1998, end five year drought from playoffs

Helmets+were+flying+during+the+most+recent+matchup+between+Duncanville+and+Grand+Prairie+since+both+were+looking+for+a+playoff+spot.+The+Panthers+came+out+on+top+and+moved+to+the+playoffs.+%28Reece+Rodriguez+photo%29

Helmets were flying during the most recent matchup between Duncanville and Grand Prairie since both were looking for a playoff spot. The Panthers came out on top and moved to the playoffs. (Reece Rodriguez photo)

For the first time since 1998, playoff football is coming to Panther Stadium. After a five year playoff drought the Panthers will be playing their first playoff game tomorrow night at home against Killeen Harker Heights at 7:30. The expectations are high with former Skyline coach Reginald Samples in his second year with Duncanville and crowds have packed the stands for every home game yet.

The Panthers won the last game of the year to secure their playoff destiny by beating Grand Prairie 30-20.  This game allowed the Panthers to secure the third seed in in District 7-6A standings and the top seed in the large school division. For the most part the Panther offense dominated the Grand Prairie defense throughout the game. They were very balanced as they moved the ball down the field, recording 380 total yard on the game.

Junior running back Keilon Eder had an impressive performance with two rushing touchdowns and 66 yards on 15 carries for the Panther offense. The Panthers had a really impressive performance from sophomore defensive back Treshone Devones as he earned defensive player of the week honors, recording three interceptions. It was a very solid game all around for a Panther team that was playing for their first playoff berth since 2011.

Duncanville will look to stay hot as they head into the State playoffs, hoping to keep up their winning ways just like they did during the regular season. The playoff atmosphere will be electric and will be a memorable experience for all the players that have worked so hard to play under the bright lights of playoff football. We could be in store for one huge ride as the Panthers are on a winning streak now and look to move deep in the playoffs.  Based on the regular season numbers, Duncanville matches up with the best of the best so tonight will be the chance for them to make a statement that they are a team to be contended with in 6A playoff action.