Hays Rebels (4-5, 3-2) vs. Vandegrift Vipers (5-3, 3-1)
When: Friday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Bob Shelton Stadium
Last week: Hays 45, Vista Ridge 37; Vandegrift was idle
Last meeting: Vandegrift 27, Hays 16
“Win and in” is the mantra for the Hays Rebels Friday as they look to officially punch the program’s first playoff ticket in four seasons. But to fulfill that mentality, the Rebels will have to top a Vandegrift group that’s fresh off a bye week and a three-game win streak. Vandegrift’s success is bolstered by a prolific offense anchored by QB Justin Moore, who’s thrown for over 1,800 yards and has 19 touchdowns. Helping is RB Isaiah Smallwood’s 702 rushing yards and 12 TD’s. Putting a stop to Vandegrift’s offense will be a tough task for a Rebel defense that’s given up an average of 30 points and 377 yards per game. Hays’ best defense could very well be its methodical, run-oriented offense. Last week, Hays put up 420 yards on Vista Ridge. On the season, Hays has rushed for an average of 242 yards per game. They’ll have to contend with a Viper defense that’s held its last three opponents (Lehman, Leander, Vista Ridge) to 292 combined yards rushing. Yes, Hays can make the playoffs without winning Friday's game. However, look for the Rebels to try and end the regular season on a positive note.
Dripping Springs Tigers (8-0, 5-0) vs. Medina Valley Panthers (6-2, 4-1)
When: Friday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m
Where: Tiger Stadium
Last week: Dripping Springs 34, Alamo Heights 14; Medina Valley 14, Lockhart 7
Last meeting: Dripping Springs 38, Medina Valley 7
For all intents and purposes, Tiger Stadium will play host to the defacto 26-5A championship game Friday night. Dripping Springs, riding its eight game win streak, will put its hard-nosed defense to the test against a run-first Panther offense. In eight games, Medina Valley has amassed over 1,600 yards on the ground; leading the way are RB’s Caytan Chang and Devin Johnson, who have combined for 1,111 yards. While not as prolific as its ground game, Medina Valley’s pass attack has averaged 135 yards per game and has eight touchdowns on the season. QB’s Alek Child and Charlie Marsh IV have split time under center. Dripping Springs counters with a balanced offense, led by QB Trevor Greenman, a bevy of WR’s and RB Jake Cox, that’s been almost unstoppable this season. Through eight games, Dripping Springs has averaged 459 total yards per contest and has outscored opponents 344-128. It could be too much for a Panther defense that’s given up an average of 425 yards in four out of its last five district contests. History could very well be made Friday. A Dripping Springs win would give the Tigers a share of the district crown. It would mark one of the first times the Tigers have won back-to-back district titles in school history.
Wimberley Texans – idle (vs. Hondo on Oct. 10)
Lehman Lobos – idle (vs. Leander on Oct. 10)
