Melissa Falls to South Oak Cliff, Ending Playoff Journey 35-17

Melissa High School’s football team faced a disappointing end to its playoff aspirations on Friday night, succumbing to South Oak Cliff with a score of 35-17 in the state semifinals at the Cotton Bowl. This defeat marks the third consecutive season in which South Oak Cliff has halted Melissa’s playoff run, a trend now firmly rooted in the historical rivalry between the two teams.

For Melissa, this game was particularly significant as it represented their first trip to the state semifinals since 2011. After a challenging year in which the team missed the playoffs entirely in 2024, the Cardinals aimed to build on their recent success. Coach Matt Nally praised his squad for their effort, stating, “Teams win, individuals don’t.” He emphasized the crucial role of the seniors in establishing a strong foundation for the future.

The game saw pivotal moments, including a touchdown run by quarterback Brett Holloway in the second quarter. After his 7-yard sprint to the corner of the end zone, the Cardinals attempted an onside kick to shift the momentum. Unfortunately, South Oak Cliff’s Nate Coleman recovered the kick, returning it to the Melissa 23-yard line. The Golden Bears capitalized on this opportunity, scoring five plays later to extend their lead to 28-10 before halftime.

As the fourth quarter unfolded, Holloway continued to demonstrate his resilience. He connected with Payhton Porter on a 42-yard pass, bringing the Cardinals close to scoring territory. Following that, Holloway himself rushed for another touchdown from 12 yards out, showcasing the fighting spirit of the team. “That’s just our team, our kids, like it’s we’re gonna fight to the bitter end,” Nally affirmed, reflecting on the team’s determination.

Holloway’s performance was notable, as he accounted for 303 of the Cardinals’ 341 offensive yards, including 179 yards through the air and 127 yards on the ground. Nally highlighted the character and leadership Holloway brought to the team, noting that the senior quarterback earned his starting position after transferring from Allen High School.

Reflecting on his journey, Holloway expressed gratitude for the supportive environment at Melissa. “It’s a really, really welcoming program, and they kind of helped me to elevate my game,” he said. He acknowledged the team’s unexpected success, particularly after their recent upset victory against Argyle, and felt they had the potential to advance further in the playoffs.

This season has been a significant chapter for Melissa football, marked by strong teamwork and personal growth. While the loss is a setback, the foundation laid by the seniors and the progress made this year have set the stage for future success. As the team looks ahead, the lessons learned in this playoff run will undoubtedly influence their approach in the seasons to come.