Nixon-Smiley Shuts Out YMLA 38–0 on Homecoming Night

NIXON — The Nixon-Smiley Mustangs made Homecoming 2025 a night to remember, shutting out the Young Men’s Leadership Academy Lions 38–0 on Friday and improving to 5–2 overall and 2–2 in district play. 

Junior quarterback Eric Rodriguez led the Mustangs’ balanced attack with two rushing touchdowns and one passing score, finishing with 160 total yards. Sophomore Joe White delivered another standout performance, recording 226 all-purpose yards and finding the end zone twice — once on a 45-yard reception and again on a punt return. Junior Khali Jantes added a rushing touchdown to round out Nixon-Smiley’s five-score night. 

The Mustangs’ offense compiled 432 total yards, including 212 on the ground, while the defense held YMLA to only eight first downs. Nixon-Smiley stayed disciplined, drawing just three penalties for 45 yards compared to the Lions’ six for 70. 

With the win, the Mustangs remain in the thick of the playoff race, now tied with Natalia for fifth in District 15-3A Division II. Poth (4-0) continues to lead the district, followed by Stockdale (3-1) and Karnes City (3-1). 

Homecoming festivities capped off the evening as Jax Wynne and Janice White were crowned 2025 Homecoming King and Queen. The celebration continued at the school dance hosted by the City of Nixon, Nations Fellowship Church, and Pioneer BBQ, who helped make the night a memorable one for students and families. 

Nixon-Smiley will hit the road this week to face Dilley on Friday at 7 p.m., looking to build on their momentum and strengthen their push toward the postseason.