STWF Sports | DUNCANVILLE, TX | Dec. 10, 2025  — The quarterback lineage at Duncanville High School is rich, and Class of 2026 standout J’Coryon Rivers is writing his chapter early. On December 6, 2025, Rivers delivered one of his most composed playoff performances yet, guiding Duncanville to a 35–27 victory over Waxahachie in the Class 6A Region II final, sending the Panthers back to the UIL state semifinals.

A poised decision-maker who has seamlessly stepped into the starting role for Texas’ most intimidating powerhouse, Rivers showcased exactly why he’s considered one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the country.

A Quarterback Beyond His Years

Rivers’ stat line was efficient and game-winning: 12-of-18 passing, 151 yards, and two touchdowns, controlling the offense and minimizing risks while maximizing production. His throws displayed the traits that have drawn major attention—from tight spirals to accurate ball placement and a velocity consistently measured between 41–44 mph—next-level arm talent for a high school junior.

More importantly, Rivers delivered in moments where Duncanville needed composure. Late in the first half, he connected with receiver Zach Turner for a critical touchdown, stretching a lead that would set the tone entering halftime. In the third quarter, he found Ayson Theus for another score, pushing the margin to 35–13 before Waxahachie mounted a furious rally.

Rivers never flinched.

Weapons Around Him — And The Leader Steering the Ship

Duncanville’s system thrives on balance and explosiveness, and Rivers orchestrated both. Running back Trenton Yancey was relentless, finishing with 84 yards and two rushing touchdowns, bullying Waxahachie between the tackles. The versatility of Ayson Theus, who had both a rushing and receiving touchdown, forced Waxahachie to defend the entire field.

Still, Rivers was the engine. Whether operating RPO looks, intermediate outs, or timely deep shots, he handled the offense with maturity rarely seen at the high school level.

A Late Rally Survived

Waxahachie didn’t fade quietly. Behind star receiver Jordan Thompson-Woods, who torched Duncanville for 110 yards, the Indians cut the lead to 35–27 midway through the fourth quarter. But with the game tightening, Duncanville leaned on Rivers’ clock management and leadership to close out the win.

He didn’t have to make highlight plays down the stretch—he just had to make the right ones. And he did.

State Semifinal Bound — Again

The victory puts Duncanville right back where Texas expects them: on the doorstep of another UIL state championship appearance. For a team built on tradition, depth, and elite coaching, Rivers has quickly proven he belongs in the pantheon of Panthers quarterbacks.

A 3.6 GPA student, Rivers is as polished in the classroom as he is on the field. His recruiting buzz continues to rise nationally, with noticeable traffic on major platforms including NCSA, MaxPreps, Prep Redzone, and On3. Colleges are circling because quarterbacks with Rivers’ blend of accuracy, arm talent, mental discipline, and leadership are rare.

And the future appears to be coming fast.

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The Profile of a Rising Star

• Team: Duncanville Panthers (TX)

• Position: QB

• Class: 2026

• Height/Weight: ~6’0”–6’2”, 165–180 lbs

• Jersey: #14

• GPA: 3.6

• Socials:

  • X (Twitter): @coryon_j

  • Instagram: @jrivers.12

Rivers has the numbers. He has the intangibles. And after engineering another deep playoff push, he has the spotlight. The state semifinals await — and with Rivers at the helm, Duncanville remains one of the most feared teams still standing.

The next great Texas quarterback may already be here.