The Austin area high school football scene has reached an exciting juncture as the playoffs progress, with several Class 6A teams making significant strides. Among them is the Dripping Springs Tigers, whose quarterback, Chase Ames, has been recognized as the Austin area Player of the Week following an outstanding performance in the regional semifinals.
In a decisive 45-14 victory over Medina Valley, Ames demonstrated remarkable precision, completing all 18 of his passes for a total of 318 yards and six touchdowns. This impressive outing marks a significant achievement for the junior, who is in his first year as a starter. Throughout the season, Ames has thrown a total of 45 touchdowns, averaging 259 passing yards per game, establishing himself as a formidable force in Texas high school football.
Key Matchups and Player Highlights
As the playoffs unfold, the upcoming matchup between the defending Class 6A Division II state champion Vandegrift and the surging Dripping Springs team is generating considerable interest. This game serves as a rematch of their season opener, where the Tigers triumphed 41-14 on August 29, 2023.
In addition to Ames’ stellar performance, several other players made notable contributions during the recent playoff games. Merrik Bloomgren, a wide receiver for Dripping Springs, caught four passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns against Medina Valley. Meanwhile, Carter Buck of Lake Travis shone defensively, recording four sacks in a commanding 45-7 victory over Laredo United.
Other standout players included Luke Davis from Vandegrift, who made eight solo tackles and two sacks in a 24-7 win over San Marcos, and Jack Devine, the quarterback for Regents, who threw for 257 yards and three touchdowns despite a 49-35 loss to Fort Worth All Saints.
Notable Performances and Future Prospects
The playoff atmosphere in Central Texas has been charged with excitement, as teams vie for advancement. Maverick Jacobs of Wimberley rushed for 129 yards and a touchdown in a 35-26 loss to Sinton, while Noah McPeak of Weiss made a significant impact with 14 tackles, a caused fumble, and a blocked punt in a narrow 34-31 defeat to Barbers Hill.
Highlighting additional performances, Hugo De La Vara Vasquez from Vandegrift recorded six tackles and two sacks against San Marcos, showcasing the team’s defensive prowess. Cody Greenwood of Llano contributed ten tackles in a 31-7 win over Goliad, and Vann Hopping from Lake Travis rushed for 141 yards and a touchdown in their playoff victory.
With the playoffs intensifying, the upcoming clash between Vandegrift and Dripping Springs promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams aim to secure their place in the next round of the Texas high school football playoffs.
