Hays Rebels (1-0) at Dripping Springs Tigers (1-0)
When: Friday, Sept. 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Tiger Stadium, Dripping Springs
Last week: Hays 41, San Marcos 13; Dripping Springs 14, Kerrville Tivy 13
Last meeting (2018): Hays 35, Dripping Springs 34
Points might be at a premium Friday when Hays and Dripping Springs lock horns in what could be a defensive stalemate. But if last season’s thriller, decided on a blocked extra point, was any indication, expect the unexpected when these two in-county rivals meet for the fourth time in as many years. Hays enters with a defense that limited San Marcos to 13 points and less than 300 total yards. Playing a key role was a group that secured key turnovers, including a critical third quarter interception from Justin McMahon. Fellow DB Pi-Ellei Henderson and LB Zac Hobert are also players to watch for the Rebels. It could be problematic for a Tiger offense that generated yards against Tivy but few points to show for it. QB Preston Alford and RB Curtis Cox will be leaned on as the Tigers try to improve upon last week’s slow start. Defense, however, is where the Tigers could hang their hats Friday. Dripping Springs’ defense kept an explosive Tivy program from converting a third down last week. But can the Tigers slow down a Rebel offense that found its groove down the stretch? Dual threat QB Durand Hill is one of a handful of weapons on the Rebel Slot-T arsenal, which could include Nate Green, Bryant Lewis and Bobby Green.
