As the 2026 high school football season enters Week 8 across Central Texas and the state, the Austin American-Statesman’s seasonlong staff picks for the week’s 15 top Austin‑area matchups are highlighted by reporters Colby Gordon, Shaun Chornobroff, correspondent Jay Plotkin and sports editor Richard Tijerina. Gordon is the defending champion.
This week’s slate features quality matchups that could decide district races.
Cedar Park at Vandegrift
Cedar Park (7‑0, 3‑0) looks to keep building toward a District 24‑6A title after a come‑from‑behind win over Hutto. The Hippos’ offense, led by quarterback David Cooper, has produced 18 passing touchdowns and seven rushing scores.
Vandegrift’s (4‑2, 2‑0) run game, fueled by Evan Williamson and Preston James, has racked up 1,123 yards and 19 touchdowns. Their defense will face a potent Cedar Park attack.
Chornobroff’s Pick: Cedar Park 34, Vandegrift 27
Bowie running back Rhys Moreno (20) celebrates a touchdown during the game against Hays at Burger Stadium on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 in Austin. (Aaron E. Martinez/Austin American‑Statesman)
Bowie at Dripping Springs
This game has emerged as the de‑facto District 26‑6A title clash. Bowie (5‑1, 2‑0) aims to snap a two‑year losing streak to the Tigers, led by running back Rhys Moreno (1,116 yards, 18 TDs). Their defense has surrendered only nine points in the last two contests.
Dripping Springs (5‑1, 2‑0) fields a high‑powered offense averaging 49 points per game and a stingy defense that holds opponents under 16 points. Quarterback Chase Ames has thrown 23 touchdowns with just one interception.
Chornobroff’s Pick: Bowie 30, Dripping Springs 28
Pflugerville at Bastrop
Pflugerville’s Caleb Gaston has stepped into a clutch role at quarterback, registering 15 passing TDs and eight rushing scores for the Panthers (3‑3, 1‑0). A victory would put them in strong position for the District 12‑5A II crown. Linebacker Cameron Thornton anchors the defense.
Bastrop (2‑4, 1‑0) returned key contributors after early‑season injuries, adding Arizona State commit Weston Nielsen to an already stout roster. The Bears aim to build momentum after a rough stretch.
Chornobroff’s Pick: Bastrop 38, Pflugerville 28
McCallum at Anderson
McCallum has notched wins over Cedar Creek and Lehman but faces a tougher test against rival Anderson. The Panthers (3‑3, 2‑2) have dropped district games to Smithson Valley and Manor.
A win would boost Anderson’s (4‑2, 2‑2) playoff hopes after defeats to Smithson Valley and Boerne Champion. The Trojans feature talent on both sides of the ball.
Chornobroff’s Pick: Anderson 31, McCallum 23
Weiss Wolves quarterback Jaxon Schad (15) throws a pass to a teammate in the first quarter as the Wolves play the Lake Travis Cavaliers at the Pfield in Pflugerville, Sept. 4, 2026. (Sara Diggins/Austin American‑Statesman)
Weiss at Georgetown
Weiss (4‑2, 3‑1) seeks redemption after a narrow loss to A&M Consolidated. Quarterback Jaxon Schad has thrown for 22 touchdowns with four interceptions.
Georgetown (4‑3, 3‑2) hopes a victory will improve its playoff positioning. Its backfield trio of Weston Steward, Zecheriah Guyton and Nathan Lyock has combined for 1,364 yards and 15 touchdowns.
Chornobroff’s Pick: Weiss 42, Georgetown 28