Prepare the devil’s food cake mix based on the cupcake instructions using the green cupcake liners and allow the cupcakes to cool completely at room temperature.

In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and butter until combined and smooth.

Then slowly add in the confectioners’ sugar (1 cup at a time) on low speed until well combined.

Then stir in the vanilla extract and milk until combined.

Remove approximately 1/2 cup of the frosting to a separate bowl for the laces on the footballs.

Add the cocoa powder to the remaining frosting to make the brown footballs frosting.

Place the brown frosting in a piping bag with a large star tip.  Pipe the brown frosting onto the cupcakes in a swirl pattern in the shape of a football.  Let the frosting set for a few minutes.

Place the white frosting in a piping bag with a small round tip.  Use this pastry bag to pipe the laces onto each cupcake.

Then the cupcakes are ready to serve and enjoy!