Another explosive week of Central Texas high school football has concluded, leaving behind a trail of record-breaking performances and game-changing plays. From quarterbacks accounting for nine touchdowns to running backs clearing 400 yards in a single game, the talent on display was exceptional. Now, the community has the chance to recognize the top athlete from the games played between October 27 and November 1.
This week's poll features 20 nominees who delivered outstanding efforts for their teams. Fan voting is now open and will conclude at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, November 9. The winner will be recognized in next week's poll announcement, following in the footsteps of last week's honoree, Wade Allen of Austin Round Rock.
Key Takeaways
- This week's nominees include players from all over the Central Texas area, showcasing a wide range of talent.
- Several athletes posted incredible offensive numbers, including a 513-yard passing game and a 480-yard rushing performance.
- Defensive and special teams players also made a significant impact with key interceptions, blocked kicks, and crucial tackles.
- Voting is open to the public and serves as a way for fans to engage and support local high school athletes.
Quarterbacks Command the Field
The quarterback position saw some of the most spectacular performances of the week. These field generals not only led their teams with their arms but also made significant plays with their legs.
Holdyn Goff, Oglesby
Sophomore quarterback Holdyn Goff delivered a flawless and dominant performance for Oglesby. He achieved a perfect passing game, completing all seven of his attempts for 181 yards and four touchdowns. As if that wasn't enough, Goff also carved up the defense on the ground, rushing for 287 yards and five additional touchdowns. His nine-touchdown effort was the driving force in a 73-35 victory over Milford.
Marlyn Smith, Killeen Ellison
Marlyn Smith lit up the scoreboard in Killeen Ellison's 59-13 win against Bryan Rudder. The quarterback put on an air show, completing 17 of 36 passes for an astounding 513 yards and seven touchdowns. Smith also demonstrated his dual-threat capability by running for another score, accounting for eight total touchdowns in the contest.
Jayelen House, Austin LBJ
Efficiency was the name of the game for Jayelen House. The Austin LBJ quarterback was sharp and accurate, completing 12 of 17 passes for 201 yards. He made his completions count, throwing for five touchdowns to lead his team to a decisive 49-14 win over Taylor.
Jase Watkins, Austin Pflugerville Connally
In a crucial conference victory over Elgin, Jase Watkins was a touchdown machine. He was responsible for five scores, showcasing his versatility. He threw for three touchdowns on just four completions and ran in two more, proving to be an unstoppable force for his team.
Running Backs Run Wild
It was a monumental week for running backs across Central Texas, with several athletes posting staggering yardage and touchdown totals that single-handedly carried their teams to victory.
By the Numbers: Rushing Dominance
Two running backs, Brian Grissom and Chrishon Gregory, combined for an incredible 801 rushing yards and nine touchdowns this week, highlighting the ground-game power in the region.
Brian Grissom, Little River Academy
Senior running back Brian Grissom had a career-defining game in a tight 56-49 conference win. Grissom carried the ball 29 times for a massive 480 yards and seven touchdowns. He averaged an incredible 16.6 yards per carry, consistently breaking off big plays when his team needed them most.
Chrishon Gregory, China Spring
In a high-scoring 49-47 thriller against Lorena, Chrishon Gregory was the workhorse for China Spring. He ran for 321 yards and scored two touchdowns, averaging nearly 12 yards per attempt. His relentless rushing attack was essential in securing the narrow victory.
Jayden Lucky, Troy
Jayden Lucky lived up to his name for the Troy offense. He carried the ball 21 times for 319 yards, finding the end zone five times. Averaging over 15 yards per carry, Lucky was a constant threat to score from anywhere on the field.
Other Standout Rushers
- Nathan Washington, Georgetown Grace Academy: The freshman showed immense promise, rushing for 183 yards and a touchdown on only 14 carries in a 52-6 win.
- Amaury O’Bryant, Lexington: The junior ran for 155 yards and four touchdowns on 16 carries in a 54-0 shutout of Comfort.
- London Smith, Waco University: Smith was incredibly efficient, needing just 10 carries to rack up 171 yards and three touchdowns.
- Elbert Jones, Waco Connally: The sophomore scored twice and ran for 123 yards on 17 carries in a 27-6 victory.
Receivers and All-Around Threats
It wasn't just quarterbacks and running backs making noise. Receivers, slotbacks, and all-purpose players made their presence felt with big catches, crucial scores, and game-breaking returns.
Micah Espinoza, Wimberley
Junior Micah Espinoza was an electric playmaker in Wimberley's 84-26 victory against Smithville. He caught four passes for 113 yards and a touchdown and added a spectacular 68-yard kickoff return for a second score, showcasing his value on special teams.
Judd New, Clifton
Clifton's Judd New was a true multi-purpose weapon. The slotback ran 16 times for 150 yards and three touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game, catching three passes for 44 yards and a fourth touchdown. He averaged over nine yards per rush and nearly 15 yards per catch.
Billy Perry, Richland Springs
Billy Perry did it all in a 62-0 win over Rochelle. On offense, he rushed for two touchdowns and caught another. On defense, he was just as impactful, returning an interception 45 yards for a touchdown, forcing two fumbles, and recording nine tackles. His four-touchdown performance demonstrated his complete dominance on both sides of the ball.
The Importance of Versatility
Players like Billy Perry and Judd New highlight a key aspect of high school football: the ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game. Their performances on offense, defense, and special teams often provide the critical edge needed for victory.
More Receiving Stars
- Ethan Rendon, Kerrville Tivy: Despite his team's loss, Rendon had a massive individual game, catching 11 passes for 181 yards and a touchdown.
- Jay Fullmer, Austin Anderson: Fullmer made his catches count. He had just three receptions, but two went for touchdowns, and they covered 107 yards.
Defense and Special Teams Shine
Offense may get the headlines, but defense and special teams win championships. Several players made their mark by preventing points and creating opportunities for their teams.
Alister Vallejo, Liberty Hill
Defensive end Alister Vallejo was a constant disruption for the Austin Crockett offense. He tallied 11 total tackles, including two for a loss, and made a huge play on special teams by blocking a field goal attempt.
Traiton Broussard, La Grange
In a high-scoring 66-42 affair, turnovers were critical. La Grange defensive back Traiton Broussard came up big, intercepting two passes and adding seven tackles to help his team secure the win.
JD Friday, Llano
Cornerback JD Friday was instrumental in Llano's 44-27 conference victory. He locked down receivers, breaking up four passes, and also came through with a blocked field goal. He added three tackles to his impressive stat line.
Gustavo Lopez, College Station
In a game decided by just four points, every kick mattered. College Station's Gustavo Lopez was perfect, making all three of his extra-point attempts and converting two crucial field goals in a 35-31 win over Pflugerville Weiss. His eight points were the difference-maker.