4A Team of the Week: El Paso Austin Panthers
El Paso Austin notched an impressive come-from-behind victory against previously unbeaten Ysleta this past Friday. Oscar Flores broke free for a 38-yard touchdown run with just 90 seconds left to boost the Panthers to a thrilling 36-35 victory. They outscored Ysleta 15-0 in the final 10 minutes of the game.
Oscar Flores with 38 yard TD run and PAT good as Austin takes 36-35 lead pic.twitter.com/OYnGGCf2Ds
— Felix Chavez (@Fchavezeptimes) September 28, 2024
It was fitting the go-ahead touchdown was scored on the ground. Ysleta struggled to slow down the Panthers’ rushing attack all night long. Sophomore Sal Duarte was the bell cow with 266 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries. Flores had just five carries, but he made the most of them, rushing for 77 yards and three touchdowns.
He was also a key playmaker on defense, finishing with 10 tackles, That was tied for the most on the team along with senior defensive end Tairus Walker. Walker and Sean Rangel also both had interceptions for the Panthers.
Austin improved to 3-1 overall and 2-0 in district with the win. The Panthers will look to stay perfect in district play this Friday when they travel to Fabens.
Previous 4A Teams of the Week
Week One: Pine Tree
Week Two: Paris
Week Three: Midland Greenwood
Week Four: Eastside Memorial
