Nacogdoches Outlasts Jacksonville, 45-41, in District Opener

TYLER – The Nacogdoches Dragons spoiled Jacksonville’s homecoming night, taking a 45-41 shootout win in the District 9-5A Division II opener for each team, Thursday night at Christus Trinity Mother Frances Rose Stadium.

The back-and-forth contest featured eight lead changes, and a matchup that started with four turnovers for points in the initial six minutes.

Jacksonville (2-3, 0-1) got three rushing scores, and two TD receptions form Deshawn McCuin, as he rolled up 60 yards on eight carries.

McCuin scored on runs of 3, 6, and 13 yards, while hauling in a TD catch of 55 yards.

Jacksonville quarterback Tristen Shewmake was 8-of-21 for 156 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Chris Carpenter ran four times for 20 yards, and caught three passes for another 37 yards.

Nacogdoches (2-2, 1-0) had 539 total yards in the game.

Jacksonville will travel to play Whitehouse next Friday. The Dragons (2-2, 1-0) will entertain Lindale.