Skyline, which plays Plano on Saturday in the 5A Division I Region II final, last met the Wildcats 35 years ago. It won, 30-8, in a 4A regional final.

It was the first of only two Skyline trips past bi-district play; 1995 was the other year.

The team received a reality check in last week's 13-10 win against Round Rock. Skyline trailed, 10-0, at the half.

"We really thought we'd come in and win by way more than three," quarterback Troy Stoudermire said. "It woke us up. We can't slack on anybody. We've got to go hard every play and in every practice."

Stoudermire is one of four Skyline players committed to a Division I school. He, linebacker Spencer Reeves and receiver Da'Jon McKnight have committed to Minnesota. Defensive lineman Alfred Dupree has committed to Oklahoma State.

Damon L. Sayles