FORNEY — City Bank Stadium erupted into cheers as senior quarterback Nelson Peterson Jr. slipped through traffic for a breathtaking 45-yard touchdown with just under five minutes remaining in the game. This decisive sprint marked the culmination of Forney’s impressive 42–28 victory over Rockwall-Heath, securing the Jackrabbits at least a share of the District 10-6A crown and the coveted No. 1 seed in the Class 6A Division II playoffs.
The headline numbers reflect a well-executed game plan. Peterson displayed remarkable poise, completing 13 of 18 passes for 205 yards, including one passing touchdown, while also contributing 73 rushing yards with two additional scores. Javian Osborne, a Notre Dame commit, provided a powerful presence both between the tackles and in open space, racking up 109 rushing yards and three touchdowns.
Forney established an early advantage, leading 21–7 at halftime, but faced a resilient surge from Rockwall-Heath after the break. A critical blocked extra point late in the third quarter allowed Forney to maintain an eight-point lead, while Osborne’s 28-yard dash early in the fourth quarter restored some breathing room before Peterson’s long keeper sealed the victory.
The Jackrabbits displayed a perfect blend of urgency and balance throughout the contest. They out-gained Rockwall-Heath 387 to 339 yards, relying on a formidable run game that accumulated 182 yards to control the pace in the fourth quarter. With no turnovers and disciplined situational football, the defense rose to the occasion when it mattered most — a formula for success in a district title game.
By the Numbers
Final Score: Forney 42, Rockwall-Heath 28
Nelson Peterson Jr.: 205 passing yards, 73 rushing yards, 3 total touchdowns
Javian Osborne: 109 rushing yards, 3 touchdowns
Team Totals: Forney 387 yards (182 rushing, 205 passing)
Halftime Score: Forney led 21–7
What’s Next
Forney will begin its playoff journey as the No. 1 seed in the 10-6A Division II bracket, facing the No. 2 seed from 9-6A. Pairings will be finalized following the conclusion of Friday’s games across the Metroplex.
