If atmosphere, excitement, passion, effort, and tradition decide a great game, then the 22nd Annual Taco Shack Bowl did not disappoint. Conversely, if the scoreboard is the judge, this Austin Independent School District season opener was less impressive.
Photo by Naomi and MacJournalism.
Leading up to the game, both sets of fans full of hope and enthusiasm made their way into House Park on an all too familiar balmy evening. While hot, the place was electric. The stands were packed. It was exactly what one would expect from the first football game of the season in Austin, Texas.
Dominating Performance by Anderson
Soon after starting, it was clear that Anderson High School would dominate on the field. First, Anderson took the lead and never looked back, scoring on their first three possessions.
Anderson’s quarterback, Brady Gephart, connected with receiver Ed Small for 3 touchdowns in the first half. By the end of the first quarter, the score was 21-0. At the half, it was 35-0.
McCallum, on the other hand, had several miscues. These included a lost fumble, costly penalties, and a snap over the punter’s head. All these gave Anderson Trojans a short field for most of the first half.
Defensive Mastery and Determination
Additionally, the Trojan’s defense was suffocating. #91 Jack Middleton spent much of the game in McCallum’s backfield. #44 Gage Webb flew all over the field making tackles.
Photo by Naomi and MacJournalism.
However, what McCallum Knights lacked in points, they made up for with heart. Although the game was lopsided, the Knights never stopped fighting. They played hard until the final whistle. Standouts for McCallum included #5, running back Mitchell Butler, and quarterback Luke Dunham (#7). Both exhibited resilience.
A Unique Rivalry
What’s more, this rivalry is unique. The schools are less than 5 miles and 12 minutes apart. Many players on both teams and their families are neighbors and friends. They grew up together, attended the same elementary school, and played Trojan Pop Warner football and baseball together.
This is a truly unique rivalry. It’s a great annual tradition to start off the season.
CLICK HERE to listen to the Texas HS Football Podcast, with Taylor Arenz
