Cardinals advance to state semis

GIDDINGS — Shiner St. Paul used a 21-point fourth quarter to take down district-mate Austin Texas School for the Deaf 56-12 to advance to the state semifinals.

The Cardinals ran the ball 57 times for 332 yards, while quarterback Austin Barton completed 5-of-11 passes for 159 yards, one touchdown and an interception.

T.J. Bell led the team in rushing with 166 yards on 18 carries and three scores. Jed Janecek had 13 rushes for 102 yards and two scores. Barton rushed nine times for 54 yards and a score.

Nathan Pilat caught the 85-yard touchdown pass from Barton.

The Cardinals’ defense gave up 138 yards on 37 rushes, with TSD’s quarterback Austin Sliva-Wynne carrying the ball 16 times for 108 yards. The Rangers’ touchdowns came from Wynne’s arm as he tossed the ball 11 times, completing four for 77 yards, one interception and two touchdowns.

Shiner St. Paul now move to the state semifinals where they take on Beaumont Legacy Christian this Friday at Woodland’s Christian Academy at 7:30 p.m. St. Paul will be designated as the home team.