[By Johnny Green, Special to ETSN.fm]

ROYSE CITY—Texas High's defense has been strong all season, but its contribution was never more apparent than in Friday's 27-7 victory over Class 3A Kennedale at Royse City ISD Stadium.

The Tigers held the Wildcats' Wing-T running attack, which had been averaging more than 380 yards per game to 224, and quarterback Kody Hunter and running back Tre Walker teamed up to lead the offense.

Hunter completed 9 of 15 passes for 140 yards and first-half touchdowns of 35 yards to Kevin Harris and 41 yards to Marquan Daniels. Both scores came in the final 3:43, the last one with 10 seconds remaining as the Tigers led 13-0 at halftime.

Hunter scored his sixth touchdown of the season in the third quarter on a four-yard keeper, setting up the score with a 39-yard heave to Jerion Anderson, who dropped a sure touchdown pass of more than 40 yards in the second quarter.

Walker carried 24 times for 149 yards, including a 19-yard score around the left side on his final attempt with 4:03 remaining in the game. It was the senior's second 100-plus yard game of the season.

Kennedale junior running back Juwan Washington, who had over 200 yards rushing in the Wildcats' 25-13 win over the Class 4A Tigers last year, was held to 122 yards on 20 carries. His final carry against Tiger reserves on the game's final play produced 20 yards.

Kennedale's lone score came on an 11-yard run by Donny Darville in the third quarter, capping a 15-play, 66-yard drive.

Texas High improved to 3-1 heading into next week's home game against Natchitoches Central.

Kennedale dropped to 1-4 on the year.

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