The La Porte Bulldogs took on the Deer from Down the Road on the season opener of the 2023-24 campaign. The heat index at kickoff was well over triple digits with little relief in sight. The game got off to a hot start when Bulldog linebacker Curshawn Thomas made a huge hit to pin Deer Park on their own 14 yard line. After hard fought first downs, La Porte forced Deer Park to turn the ball over on downs with tight coverage by cornerback Jaylon Fisher.

With the ball in possession, La Porte was slow to start, but a 53 yard punt put the Deer deep in their own territory. Outside linebacker Eyasu Walling made a critical tackle to send Deer Park's punt team to the field. Deer Park proved their defense to be formidable and gained possession right back. What usually deflates a defense had no affect on the Bulldog resolve; sophomore linebacker Ashton Ruffin chased Deer Park's Hayden Smith for the forced fumble and recovery.

A huge run by Tyrese Barnes and a high-point reception by Caden Hisatake put the Bulldogs deep in the red zone. Tailback Ricky Sandolph received the pitch to the strong side for the easy one-yard touchdown. A poor snap led to an unsuccessful point after attempt resulting to a 6-0 lead.

The Bulldogs made a huge stop to force their opponent to punt. With heavy pressure on the punter, Deer Park shanked the ball to the sideline, but a penalty kept their possession alive ending with a touchdown. Defensive Tackle Eurie Bright had a great jump on the snap to block the extra point attempt to tie the game 6 all. Deer Park would tack on another score to end the half 13-6.

Opening the second half showcased impressive blocking by Bulldog receiver Landon Kay to bring Tyrese Barnes midfield. An inadvertent snap backed up La Porte ending their drive. Deer Park extended their lead with another two scores marking a 27-6 lead. La Porte will have their opportunities with big gains from Landon Kay. To start the final quarter, Kay found the pylon on a reverse to make it 27-12. The Bulldogs found Zachariah Porter on a reverse pass to inch LP closer to another touchdown, but after trading scores the final read Deer Park 41 and La Porte 20.

Next week La Porte will host their home opener against the Elsik Rams of Alief at Eagle Stadium located in Mont Belvieu, Texas. Kickoff will be on September 1st at 7:00PM.