VYPE/ESPN Austin Central Texas Game of the Week Preview: Austin High vs. Del Valle

“Austin High vs. Del Valle” doesn’t typically come to mind when thinking about games with huge playoff implications, especially in Week 5. Welcome to the brave new world that is the revamped District 26-6A.

Buda Johnson is now part of a different district and Anderson has dropped to 5A, leaving just a 7-team District 26-6A. While neither Austin High nor Del Valle will concede anything to the traditional powers Westlake and Lake Travis, joined by Dripping Springs, it appears as if the final playoff spot may come down to either the Maroons, Cardinals, or Akins.

So, when Austin High and Del Valle clash in our VYPE Central Texas High School Football Game of the Week this Friday night (9/27), simulcast on 102.7 FM ESPN Austin radio, it will, indeed, be a game dripping with playoff ramifications.

Austin High (2-2) appears significantly improved under Head Coach Michael Riley. The Maroons defeated Canyon and Westwood to open the season before falling to former district mate Buda Johnson. Powerful Temple then dominated Austin High last week as the Maroons closed out the non-district portion of their schedule.

Senior quarterback John Latham has thrown for 575 yards while senior running back Bryson Batts has rushed for 403 yards and added 226 receiving yards to pace the Maroons’ offense. Will Peeler (27 tackles, fumble recovery); Drew Anderson (16 tackles, fumble recovery); Lawson Stouse (13.5 tackles, 2 sacks); Price Deering (13.5 tackles); and Holden Taylor (10.5 tackles, 2. 5 sacks) key Austin High’s defense.

Del Valle (2-2) also concluded an up and down non-district schedule. The Cardinals defeated Cedar Creek and Leander but lost to Clemens and Copperas Cove.

The winner of Austin High vs. Del Valle has the inside track to a playoff spot. That makes this one huge game.