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rebirth of quick
Bowers, Ewers, Anderson and Knowles. Together these are the names of each of Carroll’s starting quarterbacks during the seven-year Riley Dodge era — all winners in their own rights who have gone on to play at the next level. Another thing they have in common — they were all accomplished pocket-passers. Sure, they could run if and when the time called for it, but these tall, young men would prefer to win with their arms.
As Riley Dodge watches film of his newest quarterback Angelo Renda, he probably can’t help but reminisce about his own days under center for the Dragons. That’s because Angelo is a speedy and highly accurate junior much in the mold of Riley during his All-American seasons of 2006 and 2007.
Through the first three games of the season, Angelo has a near-perfect quarterback rating, having completed 76% of his passes for seven touchdowns. He’s also run for two more scores as part of a backfield that can only be noted as a three-headed Dragon. Of course, the other two heads include Riley Wormley (USC) and Davis Penn (Baylor), who represent the most accomplished and experienced D-1 running back room this school has ever seen.
Grab your popcorn and enjoy the show.
Yours in Dragon Pride,
Mike Tesoriero | Publisher Mike@SouthlakeStyle.com
Riley Wormley (L) and Davis Penn (R) take it in stride.
Photo by BluDoor Studios
Mariah Burnell, DO
Friday Night Twilight: Dragons celebrate an early evening touchdown against Hebron.
Photo by Adrian Cortes
As Carroll ISD’s official orthopaedic, sports medicine and spinal care provider, All-Star Orthopaedics understands that being part of a community means being there for everyone, including parents, grandparents, siblings and athletes playing on the field. That’s why we treat our community as our own family.
With football season once again upon us, we want to remind you of all the options you have for your orthopaedic needs. Our 10 orthopaedic specialists are always ready to serve your athletes and your family, regardless of whether you’re looking for preventative help or emergency response. Plus did you know that we can get patients in on the same or next day? Now clients can text us to schedule an appointment in advance. You no longer have to wait to get in and see a best-in-class orthopaedic specialist. All-Star Orthopaedics has made it easier than ever. Our goal remains the same: to help you regain an active life
“I didn’t think I would ever play catch with my son again. I was wrong. Thank you
— Phillip V.
by treating injuries incurred on the sports field, in the workplace and during everyday life. We are skilled in detecting common conditions accompanying aging and creating custom treatment plans to reduce their effects. We specialize in joint replacement surgery and can help alleviate many aches and pains. While surgery may be necessary in some cases, our doctors will work with you to determine the most effective treatment plan and get you back to an active lifestyle as quickly as possible. The friendly staff, personalized care, conservative treatment plans and state-of-the-art facilities are just a few reasons why patients refer All-Star to their family and friends over and over again without hesitation.
At All-Star, we aren’t just your orthopaedic providers — we are FAMILY. When you are injured and unsure where to go first, call or text us and we’ll make sure you get seen on the same or next day. We are on a mission to get you in, get you seen and get you and yours BACK IN THE GAME.
(L-R): Scott Hrnack, M.D.; Brian Straus, M.D.; G. Walter Hurt, M.D.; Stephen Timon, M.D.; Kevin Honig, M.D.; Thomas Schott, M.D.; Bing Tsay, M.D.; Michael Hahn, M.D.; Mark Greenberg, M.D.; and Robert Runner, M.D.
Beaming with hometown pride.
Dean & Co. Custom Homes co-founder Elise is a true reflection of Dragon pride. As a Southlake Carroll alumna, Elise spent her Friday nights cheering for the Dragons as a varsity officer for the Emerald Belles.
“When Elise and I met, she was so eager to share stories from high school — the homecoming mums, dancing for the belles, the bleached hair — all of it,” her husband Carl says.
It’s hard to understand Dragon pride if you haven’t had the chance to experience it yourself — it’s the entire community coming together, all in the name of football.
When it comes to your luxury homebuilding needs, keep Dragon pride in mind with Elise and the Dean & Co. family!
TRIPLE THREAT
(L-R) Garrett, Kathy, Brody, Averi and Jesse Hull
BY ZACH WARNER |
BY ADRIAN CORTES AND STEWART JOHNSON
When observing the playing style and current circumstances of junior Angelo Renda, the Dragons’ new starting quarterback this season, one player admittedly comes to Dodge’s mind.
“I see a lot of myself in him, as a young junior, getting his first opportunity,” says Dodge, who tagged Renda as the new signal caller after serving as backup to current Georgia Tech signee Graham Knowles last fall. “He’s so dynamic.
“You’ve got a guy that can really extend plays for you,” Dodge says of Renda, referring to his ability to use his speed in addition to his throwing ability. “That kid could be pretty special.”
sophomore, his height and build, not to mention his chance to quarterback the team for two seasons all seem strangely similar to his coach’s experience as a
And while opposing defenses are likely to be ultrafocused on Carroll’s dual running back attack in senior Riley Wormley and junior Davis Penn — both verbally committed to Division I college programs — overlooking the danger Renda poses could prove a grave mistake.
“It’s almost like we’ve got three running backs and a quarterback,” says Dragons senior Jack Van Dorselaer. “I feel strongly about what he can do in the passing game [as well].”
It’s almost like we’ve got three running backs...
Dodge was a dual-threat quarterback who helped the Dragons win a 5A state title in 2006. As a junior, he accounted for 4,184 yards and 54 TDs passing and another 1,119 yards and 13 TDs rushing, earning National Player of the Year honors. He then passed for 3,445 yards and 39 scores as a senior, leading Carroll three rounds deep into the postseason.
“
— Jack Van Dorselaer
The ground-game talent at their disposal might make it seem like switching Carroll’s traditionally potent passing attack to a run-heavy offense would be a viable option this year. After all, Wormley, Penn and Renda combined for just over 2,900 yards rushing last season, even with Wormley missing the first four contests and Renda’s limited snaps. But the talent of two returning receivers, as well as some other newcomers that will bolster the passing game, give the Dragons the ability to be dangerous in both facets of their offense.
In his limited backup role last year, Renda showed glimpses of the damage he could do as a full-time starter. Coming in late in games, as well as starting one district contest in Knowles’ absence, Renda compiled 547 yards and seven touchdowns passing, as well as 429 yards and five trips to the end zone rushing in 2023.
No one’s saying Renda is expected to put up the same kind of numbers as Dodge in the coming season. But then again, no one’s saying he won’t. His skill set, his experience as a backup with playing time as a
“I will make plays with my legs, there’s no doubt about that,” says Renda, who runs a 4.62-second 40yard dash and recently received a scholarship offer from SMU. “I will get out of the pocket, I will make some plays when the pressure gets in and stuff breaks down. But I’m looking to throw it first.
“We’ve got great receivers — a lot of young guys, a lot of older guys, a lot of veterans. It’s going to be a great offensive year.”
With four returning starters at skill positions on Carroll’s offense, two of them are among the receiving corps. Other than the catching and blocking talents of the 6-foot-5, 230-pound Van Dorselaer (316 yards, 6 TDs in 2023), junior wide receiver Brock Boyd returns after a stellar sophomore debut. Boyd (4.52
POWER PLAY
Senior offensive lineman and team captain Trent
our cameras.
Wilson strikes a pose for
“We’ve been knocking at the door since I was a freshman,” he says, recounting two losses in Round 5 and one in Round 4 the past three seasons. “This is my last ride, and I just want to go out with a ring on my finger.”
Catching three passes for 91 yards and a touchdown last season, Jaquemard is a burner who could surprise secondaries with big plays. Considered by many to be the fastest player on the team, Luc is also a consistent threat to score on special teams.
WR Luc Jaquemard Junior
The 6-foot, 180-pound junior may not be as tall as quarterbacks in recent years but his talents more than make up for any size difference. Having completed 76% of his passes, including 7 TDs, while rushing for two more in his first three starts, his blend of speed, mobility and accuracy are a throwback to Riley Dodge’s playing days.
QB Angelo Renda Junior
New to varsity action, Gunter’s first catch of the 2024 season was a 25-yarder that put the Dragons on the one-yard line, setting up a rushing touchdown on Carroll’s next play. It’s likely the 6-foot-2 Gunter will have plenty of other chances this season to score in Carroll’s potent offensive attack.
WR Blake Gunter Sophomore
The younger brother of former Carroll and current Georgia Tech QB Graham Knowles, Brody is off to a strong start. The 6-foot6 varsity receiver gives Renda another tall target who also stretches the field. The sophomore is quickly emerging into the team’s No. 2 target and a downfield threat, averaging over 27 yards per reception.
WR Brody Knowles Sophomore
The second-year starter and TCU commit produced 8 TDs and 825 yards receiving as a sophomore. He’s now become the Dragon’s go-to receiver, having caught 12 balls this season — including three touchdowns in the season opener.
WR Brock Boyd Junior
Making his varsity debut this season, Luke — the younger brother of Trent Wilson — will look to make a name for himself at left tackle. One of two sophomores on the offensive line, the 6-foot-6, 255-pounder was invited to a mini-camp workout with TCU this summer.
OL Luke Wilson Sophomore
CAPTAIN
CAPTAIN
After a couple of shortened seasons the last two years, the USC commit is ready to show what he’s capable of during a full season. Competing in 11 games in 2023, Wormley rushed for 901 yards and 19 TDs. In the first two games of 2024, the RB has proven versatility in the backfield accounting for 258 all-purpose yards and 4 TDs.
RB Riley Wormley Senior
The team’s lone returning lineman from a year ago is listed at 6-foot-4, 275 pounds. Trent also stacks up large in the weightroom. The three-star James Madison University commit impresses in the gym with a teamleading 380-pound bench press to go along with his 565-pound squat – both considerable improvements
OL Trent Wilson Senior
The Baylor commit had a spectacular 2023 season after being thrust into the starting lineup as a sophomore. Penn showed he was ready for varsity, racking up 1,577 yards and 30 TDs to propel Carroll five rounds into the playoffs. Continuing to split time with Wormley this season, Penn has rushed for 125 yards and three scores in the first two contests.
RB Davis Penn Junior
Serving as a sixth man on the line last year, Clayton is now the starting center. With a 275-pound effort in the power clean, the 6-foot3, 260-pound junior can protect the middle. He also boasts an impressive pedigree, as his father was a former Dragons center who played in the NFL.
OL Carey Clayton Junior
Splitting time between JV and varsity in 2023, the right guard is ready for a starting role this season. Domeracki’s 6-foot-3, 250-pound frame gives him the strength to help hold the line. Attending several college skills camps this summer only made him that much tougher and ready for the challenge.
OL Nathan Domeracki
Junior
Although young, Dare’s 6-foot-4, 265-pound size has already caught the attention of college programs like Wisconsin, which offered the right tackle a spot on its program this past summer. The first-year starter has also received interest from Oklahoma, Stanford, Texas Tech and Texas A&M.
OL Tristan Dare
Sophomore
CAPTAIN
CAPTAIN
CAPTAIN
A NEW CORE EMERGES
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BY ZACH WARNER | PHOTOS BY ADRIAN CORTES
DEFENSIVE SUCCESS LIES IN ATHLETICISM
lowed an average of just 14 points per game throughout its schedule, including the team’s five-game playoff run. Carroll’s impressive ‘D’ registered 1,045 total tackles for the season, as well as 30.5 sacks, 19 interceptions and 16 caused fumbles.
The only downside to last year’s veteran-laden lineup was the loss of so many defensive leaders to graduation. The team returns just 15% of its tackling production and just one defender from last year’s squad. A bevy of new players will need to adjust to their new starting roles in a hurry.
The strength of our defense is just us working as a unit.
— Marcus Brouse “
However, Dragons head coach Riley Dodge says that the way the program utilized the many sophomore and non-senior defenders last year might make them the most experienced group of inexperienced starters he’s ever assembled.
“I think we did a good job structuring it,” says Dodge, who enters his seventh year as Carroll’s head coach. “We saw [the loss of several seniors on defense] coming.
ing staff confidence that this year’s defensive unit will be up to the challenge.
“We’re ready for anything that comes at us in the playoffs in the regular season,” says junior William Chen, who saw limited playing time as a defensive back and linebacker last season. “I think we’re going to be a great defense this year. I think everybody’s doubting us, but we’re ready to prove them wrong.”
Chen — along with fellow juniors Marcus Brouse, William Leins and Robbie Ladd — make up a linebacking corps that Dodge describes as the team’s deepest and most experienced defensive unit this season. The linebackers will try to overcome the loss of former standouts and 2024 graduates like Aaron Scherp and Bridger Jense. Scherp was the 2022 team leader in tackles (100) before injuries cut his opportunities short last season. Jense stepped up and took the lead in his absence, registering 96 tackles (second on the team in 2023) along with two interceptions.
Brouse, a defensive captain, has been described
PACK LEADER
Defensive captain Austin Davidge is the team’s lone defensive starter from a year ago.
Southlake defensively is huge,” says Brouse, a defensive team captain who will serve as the weak side inside linebacker this fall. “For me personally, watching Aaron Scherp and him teaching me and just showing me the ropes, it was a huge factor in my success last season.
“The strength of our defense is just us working as a unit, us chasing the ball… everyone going after everything,” he says.
Although an inexperienced unit, Dodge expects the defense to benefit from a talented secondary that should be able to make plays against opposing passing attacks. Twins and junior defensive backs Luke Bussmann and Austin Bussmann are expected to make an impact, as will junior Luke Langford.
All three possess impressive speed and are multisport athletes who compete in baseball, while Luke Bussmann (4.6 in the 40, 4.3 in pro agility) and Langford (4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash, 38.7-inch vertical leap) also participate in track and wrestling. Austin, who pitches and plays outfield in baseball, registered a 4.21 seconds in the pro agility course.
“I think it’s probably the most athletic secondary we’ve had since we’ve been here [as a coaching staff],” Dodge says. “They just haven’t had bullets fly at them yet.”
Maybe the young secondary hadn’t faced many challenges from opposing teams heading into this season, but with the training they’ve endured, Langford feels they have plenty of reasons to be confident in what they can do.
“All around we are athletic, and we feel like our skills can go against anybody in the state,” he says. “I think [we’ll be ready for opponents] relatively quickly because we go against a really good offense [in practice] every day.”
Although a stout defensive line that notched 15 sacks last season no longer exists due to the gradua-
corded 48 tackles (including 12 for a loss), four sacks and has shown impressive speed in his attack. Along with 6-foot-3, 220-pound junior Zac Hays at defensive end, the two have posted some of the fastest 40 times among defensive linemen in the school’s history (Hays at 4.72, Davidge at 4.78). The addition of the multitalented Jack Van Dorselaer to the defensive line ensures the entire unit’s ability to apply pressure across the board.
“Our defense is definitely [about] keeping them on their toes,” Davidge says. “We’re always getting after the quarterback. We’re communicating, and we’re just assignment-sound.”
Carroll’s coaching staff won’t have much time to make sure the Dragons’ defensive units are clicking on all cylinders.
“There’s going to be learning experiences,” Dodge says. “But we’re going to need to grow up quick, because our district is pretty salty.”
The level of talent in the new District 4-6A would challenge even the most seasoned defense. In addition to returning the three schools other than Carroll that clinched playoff spots in Keller (7-4), Timber Creek (74) and Byron Nelson (13-1) — the team that handed the Dragons a rare district loss and the same one Carroll beat in the 6A Region I final — Dodge’s team must now face perennial power Trinity as a district rival as well.
Building confidence each week from so many firsttime varsity starters will be key in the defense’s growth process this season.
“I think with any really good defense, it’s about communication,” Dodge says. “The thing that excites me about this group is that we’ve got a bunch of guys that aren’t scared to communicate. That kind of scares some young guys. They think, ‘I don’t want to be the guy that talks,’ or ‘I don’t want to put myself out there.’ But, especially with our linebacker crew, we’ve got a bunch of guys that are willing to [be vocal].”
Opposing run games won’t be so lucky against Jake’s 5-foot-8, 235-pound wrecking ball frame. His strength in the weight room (345-pound bench press, 545-pound squat) is already paying dividends on the field as he’s clogged the lanes early, compiling 13 tackles and a team-leading two sacks in the first two contests this fall.
NG Jake Lucky Junior
Luke’s twin brother in the secondary, the two are part of a Carroll football family that also includes 2024 graduate Erik Bussmann (WR at Tennessee-Chattanooga). Austin (285-pound bench press, 235-pound power clean), a righthanded pitcher and outfield when playing baseball, had eight tackles and a sack two games into the 2024 season.
DB Austin Bussmann Junior
Also a switch-hitting corner infielder for the Dragon baseball team, Mateo has hit the ground running with nine tackles in the early going. At 5-foot-11 and 195 pounds, he’s got similar size to his older brother Nigel, who also wore No. 29 during his days on the gridiron for the Dragons.
LB Mateo Fodor Senior
A dual-sport athlete who also plays lacrosse, the 5-foot-11, 200-pound linebacker is filling up the stat sheets early, having recorded 14 tackles (three for a loss), a sack and a fumble recovery in the first two games of 2024.
William Leins Junior
Chen showed his potential with 19 tackles (two for a loss) and causing a fumble in seven varsity games as a reserve last season. As a new varsity starter, he’s proven ready for the step up with 13 tackles amongst the team leaders in the first two games of the 2024 season.
S William Chen Junior
After two seasons as the main tight end for the Dragons, Van Dorselaer comes off his most productive season at the position (316 yards, 6 TDs) in 2023. However, the senior opened the 2024 season playing defensive end and is expected to split time at the positions. After two games, he led Carroll in total tackles with 18.
DL/TE Jack Van Dorselaer Senior
LB
Austin’s twin brother has put in the work in the weight room (285-pound bench, 215-pound power clean) while possessing the speed to cover opponents. Running track, Luke Bussmann recorded a 12.02 in the 100 meters and 24.61 in the 200 meters. He had nine tackles and a pass defended after the first two contests
A wrestler and track competitor when not playing football, Langford is a wellrounded athlete with speed and strength. Most impressive is his 38.7-inch vertical leap, which along with his long frame, makes him a threat in the passing lanes.
Brouse’s hard work in the offseason was recognized when the first-year starter earned captain honors. The 6-foot, 205-pound inside linebacker registered 19 tackles, a sack and two hurries as a backup last year. His blend of strength and speed is an asset to the entire squad, allowing the junior to fly to the ball and make big plays.
Another fast defender at the line, Hays (4.72/40) will handle defensive end duties as a first-year starter. Hays looked strong in the role during the first two games of 2024, registering 12 tackles for the Dragons. The junior relies on the strength of his leg, as he is also a highlyranked punter on Carroll’s special teams.
DL Zac Hays Junior
Serving double duty as a cornerback and kicker, the junior is expected to have an impact at both spots. A trip to the Chris Sailer Vegas Camp in May resulted in a No. 1 ranking among high school kickers in the nation. After kicking PATs and field goals, Strange displays notable speed covering receivers.
CAPTAIN
LB Marcus Brouse Junior
S Luke Langford
DB/K Gavin Strange Junior
DL Austin Davidge Senior
CAPTAIN
DB Luke Bussmann Junior
THE EVOLUTION OF EWERS
Former Dragon Quarterback Becomes Profitable Pitchman
Donning his signature mullet in 2021, Quinn Ewers became the nation’s first NIL athlete when he left high school early to explore lucrative sponsorship offers ranging from a kombucha brand to local car dealerships. Now, the clean-cut kid from Southlake Carroll is capturing the nation’s attention just as much with his arm as with his growing list of product pitches.
Noted for his elite-level arm strength and matching football IQ since his early days in Southlake, Quinn has continued to hone his all-star abilities at the University of Texas at Austin. A Heisman frontrunner again this season according to Las Vegas oddsmakers Bet MGM, Quinn returns for a junior season hyped with National Championship potential for the No. 1-ranked Longhorns.
Managed off the field by Rubicon Talent out of New York City, Ewers is part of a prestigious list of clientele including such notable North Texans as former Dallas Cowboy Hall of Famer Troy Aikman and fellow Dragon alum Chase Daniel.
According to some reports, the combined worth of Ewers’ NIL deals is in the range of $4 million and counting. Among them are high-profile national TV spots for Dr Pepper and Hulu. Quinn also graced the cover of the EA Sports’ “College Football 25” video game. Some of his other large deals include Rhoback apparel, HEYDUDE shoes, Athletic Brewing and private jet company Nicholas Air.
With such obvious potential and so many eyes across the nation already on this projected Top 10 pick in the upcoming NFL draft, the sky really is the limit for Quinn. Photos courtesy of: EA Sports, Athletic Brewing Co., Dr Pepper and The University of Texas.
Dr Pepper kicks off college football season with the return of “Fansville,” featuring Brian Bosworth and an appearance by Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers.
Kim Bedwell
817-229-9445
“Friday night football with a Dragon senior is such a special experience. I love seeing my daughter, Addie, and her friends make the most of these moments and embrace the senior themes — and especially loved seeing them on USA theme night, supporting our local heroes!”
Jessica Smith
214-908-4724
“My twin boys, who graduated in 2021, were K-12 Dragons. It’s so important to me to continue supporting the community that helped shape my children all those years.”
Eric Hacker
972-365-1677
“My family’s heart is in Southlake, which is why I am so committed to volunteering at our local schools and supporting our youth sports. I feel privileged to assist fellow Dragon families with their real estate endeavors.”
In it to win it.
These real estate pros have the home-team advantage — because they’re Dragons, too.
Nancy Dennis, 817-992-7889
“Carroll Senior High School football is a perennial Texas powerhouse, with eight state championships spanning four decades. Dragon football is legendary in Texas, just as Crimson Tide football is in Alabama.”
Christy McNew, 817-689-5764
“As parents of two Carroll Dragons, class of 2022 and 2024, we have so enjoyed being a part of this community for the past two decades — and it has been an honor to help Dragon families with their real estate needs.”
Dragon pride looks different for everybody under the Friday night lights. From footballs and flags to pom-poms and marches, the one thing that unites everybody on the field is their shared love for Dragon Football. With a new season well underway, this community of student supporters is looking forward to the many experiences and memories they get to share on and off the field.
Photos by Stewart Johnson
HOPE WILKERSON & KAELYN LESCZYNSKI ...
CHEER CO-CAPTAINS
When they first joined Dragon Youth Cheer in third grade, this dedicated duo dreamed they would one day get to lead the squad at Dragon Stadium. Today, they get to do just that as the 2024 Dragon Cheer co-captains. From raising their poms to tumbling along the end zone to building a human pyramid for the fans in the stands, Hope and Kaelyn are grateful to be part of a supportive squad that roots for one another.
ALWAYS PUSHING
F RWARD
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MEMBER FDIC
ABIGAIL MERRITT ... crew
CREW CAPTAIN
Part of the Crew since her sophomore year, Abigail Merritt has gotten used to having a front-row seat at Dragon football games. When it’s game time, this sensational senior enjoys going all-out in front of the crowd, putting on face paint and taking pictures on the field and in the stands. And after riding along with the Dragons for two strong seasons, this high-spirited supporter looks forward to watching another playoff run and being part of a tradition that’s bigger than herself.
MINJU KIM ... dragon band
DRUM MAJOR
Music and marching go hand in hand with Minju Kim. In the spring, she’s a talented and skilled flutist who shines in regional and area competitions. But during Dragon football season, she’s conducting the band and leading her fellow musicians through stand tunes and halftime shows. With the program looking to compete at Bands of America in San Antonio for the first time this fall, Minju’s dedication and commitment ensure that the Dragon Band excels no matter what field they’re playing on.
Photos by Stewart Johnson
(L-R) Alexa Farrell, Dr. Holly Conradt, Dr. Elyssa Washburn and Jen Bivens
LUCY FULLER ... emerald belles
EMERALD BELLES CAPTAIN
Lucy Fuller’s biggest high school experiences all came from Carroll’s award-winning dance squad. Appearing in halftime shows for the Dallas Cowboys and the San Antonio Spurs, being the high-kicking captain has allowed her all kinds of opportunities on and off the field. But her favorite place to perform is at Dragon football games. Whether she’s cheering for players running out of the Dragon blow-up or pulling off a jump split, it’s no wonder why Lucy is proud to call herself an Emerald Belle.
RETURN OF THE BACKS
season, one in which Carroll’s cup of talent runneth over. Fielding a Division I-caliber rusher for an arguably pass-first program such as Carroll is enough to get most Dragon fans excited. However, Carroll’s backfield this fall features two Division I commits in senior Riley Wormley and junior Davis Penn. Last season, the duo produced 2,478 yards and 49 touchdowns despite an early UIL decision that limited the former’s availability.
“We’ve never had a running back situation like we currently have with such a one-two punch,” says Riley Dodge, Carroll head football coach and former Drag-
neither commit is going to a school in a Power 5 Conference like Carroll’s talented duo.
A running tandem with such a bright future at the next level of the sport harkens memories of other backfield teammates that each went on to greatness, such as Barry Sanders and Thurman Thomas at Oklahoma State, Eric Dickerson and Craig James at SMU and Reggie Bush and Lendale White of USC.
The level of success Wormley and Penn enjoy after high school has yet to be seen, but the threat the duo pose this season should cause plenty of concern among opposing defenses.
“I think we’re arguably the best running back duo in the country,” says Penn, who rushed for 1,577 yards and 30 touchdowns in 15 games as a sophomore last season. “When [Wormley] first came in, I knew I’d have to step up my game. And now we just match each other and work off each other’s energy.”
Neither running back thought they’d be in the position that they found themselves at the start of the 2023 season. Wormley, a transfer from Colleyville Heritage, expected to begin playing for Carroll at the start of his junior year. But a UIL hearing ruled him ineligible for varsity competition, citing lack of evidence he transferred for reasons other than athletic involvement at Carroll.
Wormley’s inability to play at the start of last season elevated Penn to a starting role on varsity as a sophomore, leading to a team-best rushing performance. However, the UIL later reversed its earlier decision against Wormley, making him eligible for varsity competition midway through the fall schedule.
Once cleared to play, Wormley racked up 901 yards and 19 touchdowns on the ground, averaging 10.6 yards per carry in 11 games.
“Growing up, I’ve always had a chip on my shoulder, just kind of playing as hard as I can, just running the ball as hard as I can,” Wormley says. “Unfortunately, I haven’t really had a full season since about my freshman year, so I’m really coming this year just to get my full season in and be able to show people who I really am.”
During his sophomore season at Colleyville Heritage, his last at the school before transferring, Wormley again was only able to compete for about half the
season. Despite that, he led the Panthers varsity in rushing with 490 yards and seven scores through five games.
Wormley’s transfer to Carroll, due to Colleyville’s handling of some academic accommodations he requested, followed the 2023 graduation of Owen Allen, Carroll’s all-time leading rusher with 7,600 yards. But as Wormley’s chance to start on the Dragons’ varsity was delayed, it proved to be a blessing in disguise for Penn, who might not have had the chance to compete as a varsity starter so early in his high school career.
“We knew what Davis’ talent was, but he was a puppy. He was a sophomore, though he had an amazing freshman year,” Dodge says. “[Penn] just hit the ground running. He’s just such a smart football player, he really understands what we’re doing offensively in our run scheme and in our protection. He’s just very mature for his age.
“[Wormley] finally got cleared and got eligible,” he says. “Since he’d been sitting out so long, he tried so hard, every time he touched the ball, to go [score]. I think once — probably not until like Week 10 until we entered the playoffs — he began to really understand and began slowing down and understanding our scheme, and in return, it helped him out.”
The experience helped both athletes to grow by leaps and bounds. A full spring and offseason training with the varsity makes them that much more ready and dangerous heading into the 2024 season. Joined by the Dragons’ new starting quarterback in junior Angelo Renda — who saw playing time last season as a backup to former quarterback and 2024 graduate Graham Knowles — the new signal caller knows what to expect
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when working with the talented backfield.
“You get the ball in their hands, and they can do great things,” says Renda, who passed for seven touchdowns and ran for five of his own in 2023. “[They can score] a lot of touchdowns. They can catch, they can block, they can run, they can do it all. They’re like a Swiss Army knife, and that’s what we call them.
“One [running back] goes out, another one comes in. So the defenses are going to have to be adjusting. But meanwhile, we’re still going to be able to throw the ball.”
While the backs’ ability to find open holes and accelerate to make plays in the ground game makes them dangerous, their ability to snag passes out in the flat and on short routes can’t be overlooked. Both caught passes for over 100 yards last season, averaging better than a first down on each reception (Wormley, 13.7-yard average; Penn, 12.6-yard average).
The duo also realizes the extra attention they’ll receive from defenses will create opportunities for the Dragons’ stellar passing attack to shine all the more. Play action and quick slants should throw off opponents who are anticipating a run from either weapon.
“I feel like it’ll open a lot of doors and a lot of windows,” Wormley says. “They can’t really protect the run and the pass at the same time. You’ve got to really choose your poison, so I feel really confident about what we have coming this year.”
The potential for additional run plays means that the offensive line could keep extra busy. The backfield duo has expressed confidence in the line — a younger unit this season — to get the job done and provide paths to run through. Senior offensive lineman and captain Trent Wilson intends to make sure his fellow linemen are ready, and that Carroll rushers have the best chance to succeed.
“We can run a lot of counter schemes, a lot of power schemes. I love to pull, so I kind of lead the way on that,” Wilson says. “But we’re going to open up some holes. It’s going to be fun for the running backs.”
The backfield teammates have had fun working together and letting their styles mesh as they prepare to become a big focus of opposing defenses on a weekly basis this fall. Although the two have a similar build and have similar speed (Wormley recorded a 4.55 in the 40, Penn notched a 4.66), their personality on the field is slightly different.
“Riley’s got a little bit of spunk, a little bit of energy. You know he’s always going to pack a punch,” says Penn, who describes himself as more laid back in his approach. “We’re both really supportive. I’d say we’re the most supportive position group on the team.”
Dodge says the two running backs are great athletes, but they are also great examples of what it means to be a team player.
“Both of these guys, they’re just so unselfish,” he says. “They’re good buddies… and they’re two of the hardest workers in our building, so that goes a long way.”
Sixth Row: Nicole Rayzvikh, Sterling Hayes, Makenna Shults, Rainey Miller
CONGRATS TO THE CLASS OF 2025!
Photos by BluDoor Studios
CARROLL DRAGON BAND SENIORS
Drum Majors: Chloe Blanchard, Jonathan Ewaida, Minju Kim
Band Members: Ivanna Aleman, Ken Bray, Jonathan Charlton, Rowan Conley, Michael Dickheiser, Timur Didych, Zachary Ding, John Fahoum, Gracie Fordjour, Siri Gangireddy, Thomas Hall, Uzair Hashmi, Mayli Heistein, Ethan Hince, Owen Hindman, Ethan J. Holland, Lillian E. Iber, Preston Jezek, Arav Jhaveri, Nikhel Kamalia, Sophia Kelly, Noah Klontz, Carl Langoe, Sean Le, Matteo Longarini, Vivian Lyne, Santosh Maddimsetty, Shriya C. Makam, Samiya Menon, Srimann Nambakkam, Jacob T. Nguyen, David Nguyen, Arjan Oberoi, Reed Owens, Gabriel A. Pilgrim, Katarina S. Reinke, Sophia Shabahang, Jiya Sharma, Dylan Spiegelman, Ashton Tate, Gabrielle M. Velasco, German Vivanco, Alice Wu
Color Guard: Kaylee Brabham, Miriam Etheredge, Aditi N. Prabhu, Aarya Singh, Anshika Solleti
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2025!
BluDoor Studios
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CARROLL DRAGON VARSITY SCHEDULE
Fri 8.30 Midland (W 48-24)
Fri 9.6 @ Hebron (W 59-16)
Fri 9.13 Byron Nelson (W 33-21)
Fri 9.20 @ Trinity
Fri 9.27 Keller Timber Creek (Homecoming)
Fri 10.4 @ Keller
Thu 10.10 Eaton (Pink Out)
Thu 10.17 @ Northwest
Fri 10.25 LD Bell (Senior Night)
Fri 11.1 @ Keller Central
ALL REMAINING GAME TIMES ARE 7 P.M.
HEAD COACH &
ASSISTANT COACHES: LEE MUNN, MIKE TIBBITTS, KRIS BOYD, CODY BELCHER, LOGAN O’BRIEN, JASON JAYNES, SEAN RAZLOZNIK, ROBERT DRAKE, ADLEY ESHRAGHIPOUR, JAKE QUINN, BRIAN SIDES, JOSH RAULERSON, MARSHALL MANN, TAYLOR BARNHILL, SKYLER WETZEL AND JAMES “VICTOR” GILL
SENIOR HIGH PRINCIPAL: RYAN WILSON
HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL: CHRISTINA BENHOFF
SUPERINTENDENT: DR. JEREMY GLENN
ATHLETIC TRAINERS: ADAM KOKENZIE, KYLE FISHER AND MEGAN ERVIN
