The Hutto Hippos varsity football team will return to action on Thursday, Oct. 2, when they travel to Dragon Stadium to face the Round Rock Westwood Warriors. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
The Hippos are coming off a bye week, while Westwood enters the matchup riding momentum after a 49-14 victory over Manor. Hutto will look to keep its offense rolling, as the team has scored nearly 60 points in each of its last two games.
Senior quarterback Kaden Stefek has started to thrive in head coach Eli Reinhart’s new offensive system, accounting for 10 total touchdowns over the past two contests. His development has sparked the passing game, with junior wide receivers Jaiden Fields and Dylan Owens emerging as consistent playmakers on the perimeter.
Hutto has also shown the ability to run the ball effectively behind senior running back Keilan Chavies, who delivered his best performance of the season against Manor with nearly 200 rushing yards and multiple touchdowns. The Hippos will look to maintain that balance against a Westwood defense that has struggled this season, allowing more than 30 points per game. However, Hutto’s defense will face a significant test. The Warriors have been equally productive on offense, averaging more than 30 points per game behind a powerful rushing attack. Senior running back Wade Allen has been the centerpiece for Westwood, giving the Warriors a reliable option to control the pace of the game.
For the Hippos, limiting Westwood’s ground game will be crucial. The defensive front will need to contain Allen and force the Warriors into passing situations to avoid long, time-consuming drives that could keep Hutto’s high-powered offense on the sideline.
The matchup presents an opportunity for the Hippos to extend their winning streak and solidify themselves as one of the most dangerous offenses in the district. Avoiding costly mistakes and staying disciplined on defense will be key if Hutto wants to remain on track heading into the heart of district play.
