A mix of revenge, momentum and pride fueled Lake Travis in its Friday matchup against Aledo. The result was a stunning statement, a 62-35 victory for the Cavaliers and a 1-2 mark for the defending Class 4A, Division II champs.
The contest began as expected, with each team trading touchdowns on their way to a 14-14 tie in the first quarter. But the Cavaliers took over from there, using a high-powered passing offense behind once-backup, now-starter Baker Mayfield (434 yards and sixh touchdowns) to keep the Bearcats at bay. Griffin Gilbert did his usual damage, with seven catches for 116 yards and four TDs, and Zach Austin continued his emergence, snagging seven passes for 194 yards and two scores.
Even Colin Lagasse, who hasn't started at quarterback since Mayfield took over in the opener, got into the action, rushing for 105 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries. With so many weapons at their disposal, the Cavaliers look primed for a fifth straight 4A state title.
Aledo, meanwhile, continues to struggle despite getting the typical production from Johnathan Gray. The Bearcats tailback finished with 263 yards and four touchdowns, moving him into first on the Texas career scoring list with 148. But the record was overshadowed by the loss, as an Aledo defense that's surrendered 39 points per game continued its struggles.
Allen 42, Longview 23
The Eagles did what seemed to be the impossible, not only winning but blowing out Longview on its homefield Friday. Alec Morris again led the way, putting up 368 passing yards and five touchdowns in the rout. Andrew Rodriguez was Morris' biggest target, catching 11 passes for 212 yards and two scores. Jonathan Williams missed his second straight game with back problems, but with a bye week on the horizon, chances are good that the senior RB can finally return and add yet another weapon to the loaded Eagles.
Pearland 17, Memorial 14
The defending Class 5A, Division I champs went down to Memorial in surprising fashion. The Oilers held on to a 14-10 lead with less than two minutes remaining, but Memorial marched down the field with ease before Justin White punctuated the drive and victory on an 11-yard score. White finished 209 total yards on the night.
Brandon Parker covers Texas for ESPNHS magazine and ESPNHIGHSCHOOL.com. Follow him on Twitter @brandoncparker or email him at brandon.c.parker@espn.com.