ARLINGTON, Texas — Without question, the resume of Timpson star athlete Terry Bussey matches up with some of the best to ever suit up in Texas high school football. However, one thing was always missing: a state championship.
In Bussey's last career high school game, he had a chance to cap off one of the greatest stretches of four seasons anyone could remember. He did just that and then some on Wednesday night in Arlington.
The Timpson quarterback put on an absolute show, proving to everyone why he's considered a top recruit in the entire country. He totaled up 466 total yards and six touchdowns to win offensive MVP honors. More importantly, he led his Bears to their first state championship in school history.
"It feels amazing, it's truly a blessing. God gave us the ability to be here and to have my teammates right by my side," Bussey said. "We've got a great group of guys over here. I knew coming in that we were going to give them a run for their money."
Bussey lived up to the promise of bringing a ring back to the Timpson community. He had long been considered the "chosen one" around East Texas. From the day he stepped on the field, just about everyone knew he was special. Whether it be dazzling highlight touchdowns or striking fear in the hearts of his opponents, Bussey continued to get the job done.
Behind hundreds of Timpson fans in attendance on Wednesday night, he put on a beyond-impressive performance to take down an overmatched Tolar squad, 49-7. To add to the incredible showing, he also set a few records along the way.
In the first half, he connected with wide receiver Dacorian Johnson, who proceeded to take it 97 yards for the touchdown. That pass and catch netted them the new record for the longest touchdown pass in state championship history.
However, Bussey wasn't done there. Not far after, Bussey took a quarterback keeper backed up in his side of the field. In just a few seconds, he took it 93 yards for another marathon touchdown. One record became two, as that notched his name in the books for the longest touchdown run in 2A championship history. It also answered the question "Is there anything Terry Bussey can't do?"
"It's truly a blessing. God gave me this ability and allowed me to use it to the best of my ability, for my team and Him," Bussey said.
One of the most rewarding parts of the championship experience was the fans, who made the drive to Arlington to witness history. The visitor side was packed with fans decked out in black and yellow, who knew that with Bussey on their team, it was only a matter of time before this day would come.
"It means a lot bringing it back to this community. Everybody up there is just as excited as we are," Bussey said. "They come up and show out every week, week in and week out. Having them on our side is truly amazing."
The years may come and go after this season concludes. However, a couple of things will never fade: this Timpson Bears' state championship and the legacy of Terry Bussey.