For starters, the District 25-6A title is up for grabs. Yes, Vandegrift (7-0, 8-1) is guaranteed at least a share of the title, but the Vipers don’t want to share. Vandegrift is looking for its second straight undefeated district crown; a win by Round Rock (6-1, 8-1) would prevent that from happening and would allow the Dragons a chance to claim a piece of that title for themselves.
There’s also history to consider. Vandegrift has racked up a remarkable 48-2 district record since joining what was then District 13-6A, now 25-6A, seven years ago. Those two losses? Courtesy of Round Rock. So, while Vandegrift leads the overall series 4-2, this is a grudge match. Throw in pride, bragging rights and momentum and that makes this a huge game – the opposite of “nothing” – heading into the post-season.
Vandegrift has gotten healthier as the season’s gone on. At one time down to a 6th-string running back – who torched defenses in his two games – the Vipers have seen the return of seniors Brendan Fournier (91-578, 6.4 YPC, 11 TDs) and, more recently Marcion Williams. That power running game complements an explosive passing game led by junior quarterback Miles Teodecki (104-157, 1,827 Yds., 26 TDs, 5 INTs.) The Viper defense, meanwhile, has returned to form since Vandegrift’s Week 2 double overtime loss to Cedar Park. Vandegrift has logged three shutouts, its starting unit recently posting 15+ straight scoreless quarters.
Round Rock has followed a similar path. After a mid-season “how-did-that-happen” loss to Cedar Ridge, the Dragons have gotten hot and embarked on their second four-game winning streak of the year. Like Vandegrift, the Dragons have a new junior quarterback in Jack Appl (104-183, 1,364 Yds., 14 TDs, 7 INTs) directing an offense that’s posting 32.8 points-per-game. And like Vandegrift, Round Rock’s defense has done well, holding opponents to just 15 points per game.
Vandegrift vs. Round Rock will once again establish District 25-6A bragging rights. And that’s all that matters to both teams.
What: Vandegrift vs. Round Rock
When: 7:00 Pregame, 7:30 Kickoff
Where: Ed W. Monroe Memorial Stadium
Who: Merle Bertrand, Matt Sanders, Hank Hudson
Watch: https://www.vype.com/7pm-football-vandegrift-vs-round-rock-2669590571
Listen: 102.7 FM ESPN Austin, https://www.1027espn.com/