ARLINGTON - Just when it appeared Gilmer was going to go into halftime with the momentum in an evenly matched first half, China Spring made the play of the 4A Division II State Championship and never looked back.

Jacob Mott blocked a field goal attempt that Gabe Watkins returned 85 yards as time expired in the half to give the Cougars a 14-7 halftime lead it wouldn’t relinquish in a 31-7 victory at AT&T Stadium on Friday.

China Spring quarterback Major Bowden scored twice in the fourth quarter to put the game on ice and earn offensive MVP honors.

Bowden finished with 191 yards and three touchdowns on 34 carries to help China Spring complete a perfect 16-0 season and pick up the school’s first football state championship since 1978.

With Bowden and Co. doing their part offensively, it was the Tre Hafford-led China Spring’s defense that really suffocated Gilmer and UTSA-bound quarterback Brandon Tennison.

DL Dawson Exline found himself a sack while DBs Jacob Mott, Sebastian Trevino, and Hafford all had one pass break up against aerial offense. H

Tennison tried to get his team on track through the air with 136 yards, but he was under constant pressure all game.

WR Parker Gilow made the most happen for Tennison with 71 yards receiving. RB Ashton Haynes had the only touchdown for the Buckeyes as he ran for 67 yards.

China Spring DL Joseph Clark tried to slow down Tennison with a sack, seven tackles, and three TFLs. DL Cody Guidry lead Gilmer with 13.

China Spring played the cleanest game by not committing any penalties compared to Gilmer’s eight for 50 yards.

Gilmer (14-2)  missed a field goal after taking seven minutes off the clock in the first quarter.