For the first time since 2019, the Lake Travis Cavaliers reclaimed bragging rights in the Battle of the Lakes, earning a decisive 31-10 win at Chaparral Stadium.
Before kickoff, Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees, a Westlake legend who led the Chaps to their first state title, took part in the coin toss and was honored as Westlake officially retired his No. 15 jersey. The emotional moment energized both sidelines, setting the stage for another unforgettable chapter in this fierce rivalry.
The victory ended a six-game losing streak to their district rival and firmly positioned Lake Travis atop District 26-6A with an 8-0 record.
Quarterback Luke McBride delivered a stellar performance, throwing for 270 yards and three touchdowns. His poise under pressure was evident all night, connecting twice with receiver Westin Smith for long second-half scores that sealed the win. Running back Vann Hopping added 149 rushing yards, a 20-yard touchdown run, and an 18-yard touchdown reception before leaving with an injury midway through the third quarter.
The Cavaliers’ defense was relentless. Led by lineman Carter Buck and linebacker Owen Aird, Lake Travis tallied 10 sacks and held Westlake to negative-9 rushing yards and just 249 total yards. Even when Westlake’s defense forced early turnovers, an interception by Thompson Bennett and a fumble recovery by Pasquale Maurici, the Cavs refused to break.
Westlake quarterback Rees Wise threw for 220 yards, including a 13-yard touchdown to Braden Riddell late in the first half to narrow the gap to 13-7. But the Chaps’ offense struggled to sustain drives against a fast, disciplined Cavalier front.
Lake Travis (8-0, 4-0) now sits alone atop the district standings and looks every bit like a title contender. Westlake (6-2, 3-1) will aim to bounce back next week against Del Valle, while the Cavaliers face Akins on Halloween as they continue their push toward an undefeated regular season.
Photos by Stan Martin
“Battle of the Lakes” song produced by KP Kelly
