The Anderson Trojans opened the season in style, dismantling rival McCallum in the inaugural Shoal Creek Showdown with a statement victory that left no doubt who owns Austin football bragging rights.

Darby Sets the Tone

Junior Cove Darbyshire wasted no time letting everyone know the Trojans were here to play, powering in the first touchdown of the year on a tone-setting run. Moments later, senior  Tate Haines jumped a route for an interception, sparking the sideline and giving Anderson full control. By the end of the first quarter it was 8–0, with McCallum already scrambling to keep up.

Coach Hatcher praised the team’s performance early:
“The team played really fast, had a lot of energy, and executed really well in the first half. We have a lot of things to clean up, but overall I like where we’re at this early in the season.”

Crenshaw’s Track Meet

If there was any doubt about Anderson’s speed, Caleb Crenshaw erased it. Breaking three tackles and burning the Knights defense on an 85-yard touchdown run, Crenshaw turned House Park into his personal track meet. He wasn’t done there—adding two more rushing scores before halftime with cuts and acceleration that made him completely untouchable.

Air Attack & Defense Shine

Darbyshire showed he could hurt McCallum through the air as well, scrambling under pressure before dropping a strike to Jay Fullmer for another touchdown. Meanwhile, the Trojan defense was on fire. Grayson Lake came down with an interception, and later Davion Phelps snagged one of his own as the Knights’ offense continued to stall. By halftime, Anderson had built a commanding 37–0 lead.

New Faces, Same Result

Senior Mason Randolph took over at quarterback in the second half, showing the Trojans’ depth across the roster. The defense never let up, swarming to the ball and shutting down every Knights drive. Even with the game already decided, Anderson kept its edge, playing with the intensity and confidence of a team with championship aspirations.

Bad Blood, Big Win

As always, emotions ran high in this rivalry matchup. Chippy plays and unsportsmanlike conduct calls piled up, but Anderson stayed locked in and kept its foot on the gas. McCallum simply couldn’t hang.

The first-ever Shoal Creek Showdown will be remembered as the night Anderson announced to Central Texas that this season is theirs for the taking.

Final Score: Anderson 37 – McCallum 2

Knight Knight. As always, Go Trojans.