In their first year in the 5A-Division 2 classification, the varsity football team has reached the fourth round of the state football playoffs. The number 2 ranked Cardinals will face off against the number 3 ranked South Oak Cliff Golden Bears on Dec. 2 at Choctaw Stadium in Arlington at 7:30 p.m.

The game predictions are incredibly close, with neither team having a real edge. MaxPreps has South Oak Cliff favored by 0.9 points.

“In my opinion, over the course of the season, as we were told by outsiders that we were the underdog, we focused on the team as a whole more,” senior Lance Riley said. “I believe that this year the team has been great at ignoring what other people tell us and letting our hard work do the talking.”

Friday is possibly the biggest game in the history of head coach Matt Nally’s tenure at Melissa.

“In preparation for South Oak Cliff, we have prepared just like any other opponent,” head coach Matt Nally said. “We haven’t changed our intensity or practice structure. We believe in stability and consistency. I firmly believe that our players are prepared mentally, physically, and spiritually for the game on Friday.”

If Melissa wins this match over South Oak Cliff, they could face former 4A rival Argyle as part of the final four of the state tournament.