Texas signee Jordan Whittington’s record-setting performance leads Cuero to state title

Newly-minted Texas Longhorns signee Jordan Whittington put on a show on Friday to lead the Cuero Gobblers to their first football state championship in over 30 years, as they defeated Texarkana Pleasant Grove, 40-28.

Along the way, the do-it-all athlete cemented his name above some legendary company, as Whittington eclipsed Eric Dickerson’s conference 4A rushing record and Jonathan Gray’s all-time rushing record with a 334-yard performance.

Deservedly so, Whittington was named the game’s MVP on both sides of the ball for his record-breaking performance. He totaled 377 yards (43 receiving, 334 rushing yards), six touchdowns, and 11 tackles. His five rushing touchdowns tied Dwight Smith’s (Carthage) 4A title game record.

The multi-purpose Cuero senior was electrifying with the ball in his hands. No matter where he lined up — quarterback, running back, wide receiver, or safety — Pleasant Grove couldn’t stop him. Whittington showed how dangerous he can be with open space and against one-one tacklers. He eluded Grove defenders all game long with his elite shiftiness and elusiveness in space.

Whittington ran for 512 yards on just 31 carries (16.5 yards per carry) leading up to this championship game. He capped his high school career with a 1,794-yard senior season (948 receiving, 846 rushing).

He’s not done just yet, though. Whittington will compete in the U.S. Army All-American Game on Saturday, Jan. 5 (1:00 p.m. CT NBC).

The prototypical Swiss Army knife football player gives the Texas coaching staff multiple options to work with this offseason. Whittington, who will enroll before the spring semester in January, will compete at the slot receiver position right away. Depending on the development of D’Shawn Jamison, don’t be surprised if the Cuero star is returning punts and kicks for the Longhorns this fall.