Lake Travis secures playoff home field with 31-14 win
The Cavaliers’ dominant performance over Round Rock ends a rough stretch and cements their top seed in District 25-6A.
By Leila Reynolds ·
Lake Travis football players ended a three-game losing streak and locked in a home playoff game with a 31-14 victory over Round Rock Friday night. The win places the Cavaliers in the top spot for the Division I playoffs in District 25-6A. This ensures they will host a match when the state tournament begins in two weeks.
Quarterback Jason Carter drove the offense, recording 207 passing yards and 50 rushing yards. He completed 21 of 30 passes without an interception. Carter scored twice on the ground and added two touchdown passes to the total. The team had suffered three losses earlier in the season, including a rivalry defeat to Westlake the previous week.
Round Rock held a 7-3 lead early in the game before the Cavaliers took control. Carter capped a 70-yard drive with a 38-yard rushing touchdown. He then led an 87-yard sequence that ended with a touchdown pass to Teddy Lofgren. The Cavaliers extended their lead late in the second quarter when Gray Garrick caught a 39-yard pass from Carter.
The defense created three turnovers to limit the Dragons to 49 passing yards for Dov Stickler. Strong, Carter Lofton, and Dylan Rennell each recorded an interception. Stickler completed only 8 of 19 passes. The Cavaliers also managed special teams effectively, with Harrison Walters kicking a 39-yard field goal and Luca Antoun returning a kickoff 30 yards to start the second half.
Carter stated the team decided to fight back after recent struggles. He said, "We're a great team and we've known that all along." He noted that the group had not played close to its full potential until Friday night. The players aimed to focus on securing wins for the postseason.
Round Rock coach Cody Moore cited preparation issues for the loss. He said the team lacked energy and passion, a trend he observed in practice. Moore stated that the Cavaliers played physical football and created turnovers. He added that his team needs to get better regardless of the opponent.
Lake Travis will play Westwood next week in a season finale. The Cavaliers opened the season with five road games because stadium renovations lasted until this month. They have only three guaranteed home games this season. Strong said the team is glad to host a fourth game in its own stadium.
