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The battle for U.S. 290 unfolds this Friday, Oct. 25, when the Bastrop Bears host the Elgin Wildcats in a highly anticipated district matchup.
The Bears enter the game on a high after their dominant 70-0 victory over Navarro, while the Wildcats are coming off an impressive 84-0 win against Crockett.
Expect a high-scoring affair, as both teams boast explosive offenses led by standout quarterbacks.
Elgin's sophomore quarterback Dylan Owens has proven to be a versatile playmaker, contributing 10 passing touchdowns, three rushing scores and five receiving touchdowns. The Wildcats have averaged 42 points per game, showcasing their offensive prowess.
On the other side, Bastrop’s sophomore quarterback Weston Nielsen directs an offense that averages 46 points per game. Following a three-touchdown performance against Navarro, Nielsen has tallied 23 touchdowns this season.
Look for key playmakers on both sides of the field. Bastrop’s senior wide receivers Keyshon Moore and Ramonz Adams are major targets, with Moore accumulating 573 yards and four touchdowns, while Adams has 441 yards and seven touchdowns to his name.
Elgin counters with junior wide receiver Gary Jefferson Jr. and senior wide receiver Jalen Owens. Jefferson has amassed 611 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns, while Owens has added 497 receiving yards and eight scores to the Wildcats' offensive arsenal.
The key to victory will hinge on which defense can step up and make crucial stops. Both units have faced challenges this season but are coming off strong shutout performances. Elgin's junior linebacker Matthew Clear leads his team with 63 tackles, while Bastrop’s junior linebacker Tiki Hola anchors the Bears’ defense with 42 tackles.
Currently, Bastrop holds a 5-2 overall record and is undefeated in district play at 4-0, while the Wildcats stand at 3-4 overall and 3-1 in district competition. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Bastrop Memorial Stadium, Oct. 25.
