The Hutto Hippos varsity football team will host the Vista Ridge Rangers on Friday, Nov.
1. The Hippos are coming off a 38-13 loss to the Vandegrift Vipers, while the Rangers defeated Manor 31-14 last week.
The remainder of the season will be pivotal for the Hippos, who currently sit fifth in their district, just outside playoff contention. Hutto will look to rebound after its lowest offensive output of the season, having scored only 13 points against Vandegrift. Junior quarterback Kaden Stefek was held to a season-low 117 yards and threw two interceptions. Limiting turnovers will be crucial for Stefek if the Hippos hope to come out on top. Senior running back Kelian Chavies did not play last week, and his return could be key as Hutto’s rushing attack managed just 125 yards without him.
Vista Ridge is led by junior quarterback Kaden Arnot, who has thrown for 1,233 yards and 12 touchdowns but has also tallied six interceptions. Senior running back JD Jackson heads the Rangers’ backfield ih hi d with 552 rushing yards and five scores.
Key playmakers for Hutto to watch include sophomore wide receiver Jaiden Fields, who leads the team in receiving yards and touchdowns, and sophomore athlete Hunter Frenette, a versatile il l h player who brings explosiveness with his legs.
Defensively, Hutto has struggled with consistency and will be tested against a capable Vista Ridge offense. The Hippos are anchored by junior linebacker Brayden Daniel and senior linebacker Cash Laplante, both leading the team in tackles.
Junior linebacker Amare Jordan leads the Vista Ridge defense.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Hutto Memorial Stadium.
