For the next two weeks the Panthers will have their backs against the wall after a tough 41-17 loss to nationally ranked DeSoto and most importantly the loss of senior quarterback Jaylin Nelson for the remainder of the season. The Panthers have to win their last two games of the season against Irving MacArthur this week and Grand Prairie at home next week a team who stands only one game behind the Panthers in the district’s standings.

The game started off Desoto’s way as their defense forced a Duncanville three and out, and their offense went down to score a touchdown for the first score of the game. Desoto would remain pretty much in control for the rest of the game. Duncanville was able to score early but the loss of Jaylin Nelson with just under five minutes remaining in the game changed things as junior backup quarterback Trazon Connley came in to replace Nelson who is one of the leaders in the area in both rushing and passing.

The important issue going forward for Duncanville is Nelson’s injury. He has been a key piece to this football team and a huge leader to the Panther offense all season long. After leaving the game Friday night, Nelson was taken to the hospital and then underwent surgery on his femor bone on Saturday. The news at this point is that he will not return to the playing field this season for the Panthers.

Conley  had a decent performance off the bench, providing 131 yards in passing and one touchdown pass. Senior wide receiver Tre Siggers had a solid game as well producing 7 receptions for 84 yards and rushing for 65 yards.

Though the Panthers didn’t have a bad performance on the offensive side of the ball, the defensive side just had a tough time stopping Desoto’s offense. The final score was lopsided and could have been closer had Duncanville provided as much offensive power as they did against Cedar Hill earlier in the season.

This week the Panthers should be able to pull off a win against Irving MacArthur since they haven’t won a game in district play as of now. The challenge will be next week when they face Grand Prairie. They should be ready though as Connley will have a few reps under him by then.