Mixon, Birdville off to first 4-0 start since 2012 after game featuring running clock

It only seemed as though the Birdville Hawks began scoring the moment school let out Friday. They did actually wait until the game against Carrollton Turner started - but not long after.

The Hawks (4-0) scored 10 seconds into the game on the very first play, a 55-yard touchdown run by Laderrious Mixon. It was only the first of many trips to the end zone in a variety of ways as Birdville defeated Turner (0-4) 59-7 in the District 4-5A Division I opener for both teams at the Birdville Fine Arts/Athletics Complex.

Mixon would score twice more on a run of 4 yards and a 14-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Stone Earle, who had three scoring throws.

Defensive back Hosea Armstrong returned an interception 49 yards for a touchdown. He also returned a punt 47 yards for another score. It was his third interception of the season.

Also scoring for the defense was linebacker Andrew Kopenec, who returned a fumble 31 yards.

The Birdville defense also registered two sacks, giving the Hawks 18 on the season.

The game featured a running clock in the second half as the final score was also the halftime score.

The Hawks are off to their first 4-0 start to a season since 2012. They are seeking their first winning season since 2014, though they do have two playoff appearances in that span.

Turner, which has won just 17 games since 2005, lost for a 10th consecutive game.

Game was over when: The Hawks scored on their second possession, a 33-yard touchdown pass from Stone Earle to Carter Self. At that point, Birdville led 14-0 less than three minutes into the game, and had run just three plays.

Play of the game: Laderrious Mixon’s 55-yard touchdown run on the first play set the tone for the rest of the night.

Offensive player of the game: Mixon carried six times for 99 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught a 14-yard touchdown pass.

Defensive player of the game: Defensive back Hosea Armstrong stood out on both defense and special teams, returning an interception 49 yards for a score and a punt 47 yards for another score.

Unsung hero of the game: Birdville quarterback Stone Earle was near perfect, completing seven of eight passes for 120 yards and three touchdowns - all in the first half and to five different receivers.

What’s next: Birdville travels to Grapevine Oct 5, 7 p.m. Turner hosts Denton, Oct. 5, 7 p.m.