Krum, TX — The Van Alstyne Panthers (1-3) walked into Krum on Friday night knowing the challenge ahead: the Bobcats were 4–0, rolling through 4A Division II, and looking every bit like a district contender. What followed was a battle far tighter than most expected, with Van Alstyne rallying late and nearly stealing the game before falling 23–19.

Trading Blows Early

Krum drew first blood late in the opening quarter, capping a long drive with a short rushing touchdown from Lane Larson. Van Alstyne didn’t back down. Quarterback Brayden Miller answered almost immediately with a 10-yard rushing score, tying the game at 7–7 and silencing the home crowd.

The Bobcats regained momentum in the second quarter, using quarterback Elijah Guerrero’s arm to set up big plays. A field goal and a short touchdown run gave Krum a 17–7 advantage at halftime.

Panthers Storm Back

Van Alstyne’s defense had stretches of grit, forcing key punts and keeping the game within reach for much of the night. While Krum’s ground-heavy attack eventually wore them down, the Panthers can take pride in being the only team this season to hold the Bobcats’ high-powered offense under 40 points. That resolve kept the door open for a comeback.

Moments later, the Panthers seized the lead with a touchdown through the air, pushing ahead 19–17 and swinging momentum firmly to their sideline. For the first time all season, the undefeated Bobcats looked vulnerable.

Krum Closes in the Final Minutes

But Krum showed why they remain unbeaten. With under two minutes left, Guerrero found AJ Criss in the end zone for an 11-yard touchdown, reclaiming the lead at 23–19. Van Alstyne had one final drive, but the Bobcats’ defense stood tall as time expired.

Three Words. Closer Than Expected.

For Krum, now 5–0, it was another win in a season that continues to gain steam. For Van Alstyne, the 1-3 record may not show it — but the narrow loss sends a strong message: the Panthers can stand toe-to-toe with some of the best in 4A DII. Coming off a 29–19 homecoming loss to Aubrey, this performance showed grit, growth, and a glimpse of promise for what lies ahead in district play.

The Anna Progress would like to thank Thomas Behymer (@shot.by.tank) for providing the game photography used in this coverage. Despite dealing with camera issues, he was still able to capture some great shots.