The Joplin Eagles Varsity football team won their first game, an away game against Branson, with a 35-14 final score. The Eagles scored their first touchdown in the first quarter and remained in the lead for the rest of the game.

Football fans in the community had a question mark about Joplin’s defense as all the team’s Division 1 committed athletes are on offense this year. Coach Jasper was even asked about it before the game by the Fox Sports Radio team. These concerns were put aside the moment the players took the field.

Junior Davin Thomas ended the night with three touchdowns. There were also multiple fumble recoveries, including two Branson fumbles near the Joplin end zone and a muffed kickoff.

Two of Joplin’s biggest competitors, Webb City and Nixa, also had a game Friday that ended at 14-7 in favor of Nixa. This might mean good things for Joplin when they play either team later this season. This first victory for the Eagles is an incredible way to start off the season.