'Stay hungry, stay humble': Austin-area powerhouses Westlake and Vandegrift to square off for regional crown

The showdown between Westlake and Vandegrift will take place at the Darrell K. Royal-Memorial Stadium on the campus of the University of Texas on Dec. 4.

"I challenged our kids to get off to a hot start, which we did," Westlake coach Todd Dodge said. "You can never underestimate the heart of another team. I told the guys 'If you were in their shoes and you were playing against the No. 1 team in the state, how hard would you fight? We haven't let up all season. We talk about stay hungry, stay humble. That's what we've done. The bottom line is, our kids have bought in as good as anyone in respecting your opponent."

Westlake made easy work of PSJA North, winning 56-0. Vandegrift defeated Edinburg Vela 38-14. Both victories occurred the day after Thanksgiving.

Vandegrift is the latest obstacle in Westlake's quest for a third straight 6A crown. In 2021, Westlake has shown exemplary performance and outscored its opponents 753-100.

During the past half-decade, the Vipers have been the Austin area's other successful program not named Westlake or Lake Travis.