DeKALB, Texas-DeKalb used a tough fourth-down defensive stop in overtime as the Bears held on for a season-opening 14-8 football victory over Prairiland Friday night at Bear Stadium.
DeKalb's defense played a key role throughout the game, forcing seven turnovers, including six fumble recoveries.
The host built an 8-0 halftime lead, scoring with 3:35 left in the second quarter. D.J. Gray scored on a 2-yard run and Tristen Jamison passed to Jaquan Jackson for the two-point conversion and an 8-0 advantage.
The Patriots tied the game with a fourth-quarter score with only 2:05 left. Gavin Cutshall dashed 10 yards for the touchdown and Cameron Johnson ran for the two-point conversion to tie the score at 8-all.
In overtime, DeKalb scored on its first possession, with Jamison passing 10 yards to Elliot Almond for the eventual winning touchdown. The two-point conversion run failed, leaving the host ahead, 14-8.
Prairiland was faced with a fourth-and-6 from the 8-yard line on its OT possession, but the stingy Bear defense stopped a Patriot runner just short of the first down.
"It was probably just inches short because the officials had to measure," DeKalb coach Eddy May said. "We were very fortunate to come out with a win because it was a close-fought game."
The Bears finished with 241 yards total offense, 123 on the ground and 118 in the air. The Patriots had 220 yards of offense, including 147 rushing.
Prairiland had two fumble recoveries and an interception.