The Sharyland Rattlers will challenge the Mercedes Tigers at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Both teams are still undefeated after four games, but that won't be the case come Friday.
Sharyland not only won on Friday, but they posted their biggest win since September 19, 2024 (when they won 50-11). They blew past Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Southwest, posting a 40-7 victory.
It was another big night for Calvin Harris, who rushed for 75 yards and two touchdowns on only eight carries, and also threw for 125 yards and a pair of TDs. Oscar Cantu was another key player, picking up 77 receiving yards and a pair of scores.
Another reason for the win was Sharyland's imposing defense, which managed to get into the backfield for three sacks. The team can thank three different players for their defensive prowess: Esteban Gomez, Jose Luis Vega, and Derik Reyna, who each picked up one sack apiece. Sharyland received some extra help from Luis Mireles, whose fumble return for a touchdown made for one of the most unforgettable moments.
Meanwhile, it was a proper cat-fight when Mercedes challenged Edinburg North on Friday. The Tigers were the clear victors by a 42-21 margin over the Cougars. The score was all tied up 7-7 at the break, but the Tigers were the (much) better team in the second half.
Mercedes had a senior duo take command as Robert Sanchez gained 237 total yards and four touchdowns and Diego Bravo rushed for 105 yards and one touchdown on only 12 carries. Sanchez got the majority of those receiving yards when he pulled down a pass and took off for a gain of 74 yards.
They were just one part of a punishing run game: Mercedes was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 363 rushing yards. The team's really been improving in that area: they've now improved their rushing yard total in three consecutive matchups.
Mercedes' win bumped their record up to 4-0. As for Sharyland, their victory bumped their record up to an identical 4-0.
Friday's game might be decided on the ground. Sharyland has been unstoppable on the ground this season, having averaged 195 rushing yards per game. However, it's not like Mercedes struggles in that department as they've been averaging 234.5 rushing yards. There's a good chance Friday's contest turns into a tough fight on the ground.
Sharyland might still be hurting after the 45-20 loss they got from Mercedes in their previous meeting back in November of 2024. Will the Rattlers have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other football content.
