Pioneer defeats Mission Veterans, Week 7

MISSION, TEXAS - Sharyland Pioneer dominated Mission Veterans 56-36 in their District 16-5A DII opener at Tom Landry Stadium. Pioneer quarterback Julian Valdez led the way with four touchdown passes, one rushing touchdown, and over 100 rushing yards. Receivers Diego Chapa, William Goodloe, and Leo Espinoza caught touchdown passes, while running back Dylan Tijerina contributed 74 rushing yards and three touchdowns. The Diamondbacks' defense forced four turnovers and held the Patriots to eight first-half points.

Mission Veterans quarterback Braden Luedeker had an impressive performance, throwing for 256 yards and five touchdowns and running for 184 yards. Vincent Abrego and Abel Lucio each caught two touchdown passes, and Obed Marin scored on a well-placed 35-yard pass from Luedeker. Despite Luedeker's efforts, the Patriots couldn't overcome Pioneer's offensive onslaught and defensive pressure.

Sharyland Pioneer, now 6-0 overall and 1-0 in district, looks ahead to a challenging matchup against unbeaten Roma (6-0, 1-0). Last year's meeting between Pioneer and Roma required double overtime, with Pioneer coming out on top 43-35. The upcoming game is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday at Gladiator Arena in Roma. Meanwhile, Mission Veterans (2-4, 0-1) aims to bounce back against PSJA Southwest (1-5, 0-1) at 7 p.m. Friday at PSJA Stadium in Pharr.