Predictions: Key Central Texas High School Football Showdowns for Week 8

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 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 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

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