On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, Carthage Bulldogs head football coach Scott Surratt joins the show to reflect on another historic season and preview the challenge ahead as the Bulldogs pursue a third straight state championship.

Carthage finished last season 16-0, captured its 11th state title, and extended the program’s active winning streak to 31 games. Coach Surratt looks back on a group that set school offensive records, averaged more than 50 points per game, and developed into one of the program’s most complete teams by the end of the season.

The conversation highlights the contributions of last year’s senior class, including standout quarterback Jet Quebec, playmakers K.J., Benny, and Junior Henderson, plus the impact of a dominant defense and special teams unit. Surratt explains why that group was special, how its toughness grew throughout the year, and why its players left a lasting mark on the Carthage program.

Looking ahead, the Bulldogs must replace several major contributors but return experienced talent across the roster. Surratt discusses quarterback candidate Jacob Dixon, returning offensive weapons Jace Harris, J.D. Edwards, Bryson Price, and tight end Jaden Jefferson, as well as defensive leaders including Caleb Smith, Andrew Kendall, Ethan Portal, and others.

Coach Surratt also previews Carthage’s challenging schedule, including a district featuring Center, Gilmer, Spring Hill, Pittsburg, and Pleasant Grove. The Bulldogs will also travel to face West Orange-Stark in a non-district rematch of last year’s state championship game.

As always, the Carthage message remains focused on the next rep, the next play, the next game, and the next opportunity to improve. Coach Surratt explains why the Bulldogs’ 2026 mantra is “Next One”—a reminder to stay locked into the process rather than look too far ahead.