Cypress Ranch delivered a stunning upset Friday night, defeating third-ranked C.E. King 31-28 in a non-district matchup that showcased the Mustangs’ competitive mettle. Quarterback Braden Baker, a University of Houston commit, orchestrated the impressive victory by completing 16 of 21 passes for 254 yards and four touchdowns. The game-winning moment came when kicker Nate Carrier made a 40-yard field goal as time expired, capping off a dramatic finish at Cy-Fair FCU Stadium.
Baker’s performance was highlighted by a crucial late-game scramble that set up Carrier’s winning kick. The senior signal-caller distributed touchdown passes to multiple receivers, including a 69-yard strike to Derrick McCullar II in the first half and scoring tosses to John Fox and Joshua Richard Jr. later in the contest. His composure and leadership helped the Mustangs weather a second-half comeback by the defending state runners-up.
Head coach William Blaylock strategically scheduled the matchup against C.E. King, which advanced to the state championship game last season, to measure his team against elite competition early in the schedule. The victory demonstrated Cypress Ranch’s ability to compete with top-tier programs and suggested the program has made significant strides after reaching the regional semifinals in 2025. Baker’s four-year starting tenure has established him as the emotional heartbeat of the offense, with his teammates responding to his calm demeanor and decisive play-making ability.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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