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WACO — The Elgin High School varsity football team came up just short Friday night as the Wildcats were edged 27-23 on the road at University High School in Waco.
“I'm so proud of our kids and how they responded to the previous two weeks,” Elgin head coach Heath Clawson said. “We played well. We still need to put four great quarters together, and I am excited about this week to see us do that against Pflugerville.”
Wildcats senior quarterback Nathen Lewis completed 10-of-13 passing attempts for 102 yards through the air, but did a lot of damage to the opposing Trojans’ defense on the ground when he rushed for 121 yards and two scores, including a 43-yard touchdown in the first half.
“University has some very talented players on both sides of the ball,” Clawson said. “Their DL and LBs are really good. I am proud of how our OL opened holes and protected Nate when needed. They are pretty good when they're healthy.”
The Elgin defense played an inspired game Friday as a team with senior linebacker Derrius Holiday leading the way with a game-high 13 tackles and two sacks. Wildcats junior linebacker Jackson Clowdus also had nine tackles of his own and had a key interception.
“We played an overall solid game,” Clawson said. “Defensively, we kept them at bay with some good stops. They made some plays down the stretch on third and fourth downs when they needed to, especially on the final drive. Give University credit for doing that.”
Senior kicker Paden Maass again showed why he is one of the best special teams players in the district as he was successful on all three of his field goal attempts and both extra points.
Elgin (3-5 overall, 1-3 in district) will try to keep its playoff hopes alive this Friday night as the Wildcats host Pflugerville High School for senior night.
“It's always special to play at home, even more so when it's the final game ever there most likely,” Clawson said of his seniors. “Play your heart out so as you wish to be remembered by the fans, your teammates and yourself.”
