2A Team of the Week: Ballinger Bearcats
The past two years, Ballinger had won just one total game.
However, the Bearcats were eager to turn the tide in 2024. After a 3-2 non-district record, they opened district play with a win over Bangs. But after three-straight losses, they faced Hico this past Friday in a game where only the winner would advance to the playoffs.
It was a game that followed the arc of the Bearcats’ season. Ballinger came out of the gates firing, jumping out to a 20-0 lead. The adversity came next with Hico scoring 26 unanswered points to take a six point lead in the fourth quarter.
But with time running out, Ballinger got the touchdown it needed to secure a thrilling 27-26 victory and clinch its first playoff berth since 2022.
Bearcat quarterback Cade Strube was at the center of the Bearcats’ success. He threw for 153 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 94 yards and another two scores.
There was no doubting his favorite target on the night. Senior Hunter Kresta had four catches for 114 yards and both of Ballinger’s touchdown receptions.
Aiden Pena also made big impact on both sides of the ball. He rushed for 50 yards offensively, while leading the defense with ten total tackles. Kresta also had an interception for the Bearcat defense.
Ballinger head coach Ty Lang deserves a lot of credit for getting the Bearcats back on track this season after a tough couple of years. Now, he’ll look to lead his team to a playoff victory this Friday when they take on Tioga in Boyd.
Previous 2A Teams of the Week
Week One: Stamford
Week Two: Panhandle
Week Three: Shelbyville
Week Four: Post
Week Five: Sunray
Week Six: Italy
Week Seven: Somerville
Week Eight: La Villa
Week Nine: Timpson
Week Ten: Itasca
