Arlington Seguin Clinches Playoff Spot with Dramatic Fake Punt

UPDATE: Arlington Seguin has clinched a playoff spot in a thrilling finish, defeating Mansfield Summit 23-22 in a must-win game at Vernon Newsom Stadium. This decisive victory unfolded on July 15, 2023, and is a significant milestone for the Cougars, marking their second consecutive playoff appearance.

In a nail-biting showdown, it was a crucial 32-yard pass from Johnaven Polk on a fake punt that sealed the deal for Seguin in the final minutes. Facing a critical 4th-and-7 from their own 43-yard line with just three minutes remaining, the Cougars executed the play flawlessly, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

“We worked on that play in practice this week, but not in that kind of wind,” said Polk, a senior wide receiver. “I had to do a little of everything and our team is a monster that keeps fighting.”

Seguin entered the game needing a victory to secure the final playoff spot in District 3-5A Division II. By overcoming a formidable opponent, they not only advanced their own season but also halted Summit’s playoff streak, which ended after five consecutive appearances.

The Cougars’ success was propelled by a powerful second-half performance. After a lackluster first half that ended in an 8-8 tie, Seguin surged ahead with two quick touchdowns, shifting the momentum dramatically. Polk contributed significantly, rushing for 24 yards and scoring two touchdowns.

Summit, ranked No. 12 in the area, fought back valiantly in the second half, with senior quarterback Ian Gebhardt leading the charge. Despite a brief injury setback, he returned to register 152 rushing yards and score a touchdown, bringing Summit within a point late in the game.

Head coach Joe Gordon expressed relief and pride in his team’s resilience. “I knew we had to make a play the way Summit was coming back,” he stated, emphasizing the strategic importance of the fake punt.

As the clock wound down, Summit made a final push, reaching as close as the Seguin 36-yard line. However, their last possession ended in an incompletion in the end zone, sealing their fate for the season.

The emotional stakes were high, as both teams had battled through a tense game marked by penalties and turnovers. With 13 penalties totaling 140 yards in the first half, both sides struggled to find their rhythm early on.

This thrilling victory not only highlights Seguin’s determination but also serves as a reminder of the intense competition in Texas high school football. As they prepare for their first-round playoff game, the Cougars will enter as the fourth seed, looking to build on their momentum.

Next up, the Cougars will focus on their playoff matchup, aiming for further success in the postseason. Fans and players alike are energized, as Seguin’s journey continues after this dramatic victory.