Port Neches-Groves defeated the Odessa Permian Panthers 20-10 before 23,427 at Texas Stadium to earn their third football state championship.
PN-G utilized a swarming defense to force 5 turnovers in the game including a 36 yard fumble return by Jack Collazo for a dramatic first quarter touchdown.
The Indian offense was held in check for most of the game, but was able to generate two scoring drives to put the game out of reach.
Quotes
“Winning the 4A state championship in Texas is the ultimate. Texas plays the best brand of high school football in the country and winning the 4A championship has to be the greatest thing a team can achieve.” – PN-G Head Coach Doug Ethridge
“We were beaten by a good football team. Our errors really hurt us though. I really thought if we were able to generate this much offense against Port Neches-Groves we would win” – Permian Head Coach John Wilkins
“Man, I was on the ground. When I looked up I saw Jack hookin’ it down the field. At first I thought he had picked up a fumble and I knew you couldn’t run with it. But when he crossed the goal and everybody in the stands went wild, I knew it was a touchdown.” – Mike Giblin
“It just sorta’ opened up in the middle. Permian had our receivers covered, so I took off. Once I got inside the five I knew I was going to score” – Richy Ethridge
Takers Become Givers; Permian Falls, 20-10
Giblin’s jarring tackle opened door for Collazo
