Leander Vista Ridge Shuts Down Round Rock Cedar Ridge

By Chris Doelle
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Updated: September 16, 2023

Vista Ridge vs Cedar Ridge by Steve Thomas

photos: Steve Thomas

Vista Ridge Makes Short Work of Cedar Ridge

The Leander Vista Ridge Rangers are off to their best start since 2019. Driving that success has been the Rangers’ defense. Entering Friday’s District 25-6A opener against the Round Rock Cedar Ridge Raiders, the Rangers had not given up more than 17 points in a game. Last week, the Rangers shutout Schertz Clemens 24-0. Head Coach Chad Scott credited the defense’s success to his players buying into the system his coaches have implemented and doing what the coaches have requested. According to Scott, the team’s preparation was such that he said, “It feels like we’ve already played part of the game before we even get out here on Friday nights.” Cedar Ridge, meanwhile, entered the game at 2-1 overall and sought to build on recent success. Last week, the Raiders overcame a 19-point deficit in the fourth quarter for a 34-33 win over Killeen Harker Heights. This week, the Vista Ridge defense made sure the Raiders would not be able to pull off another comeback. Behind a dominant defensive performance, the Rangers opened district play with a 28-7 win.

In the first half, Vista Ridge quarterback Grant Anderson opened the scoring with a five-yard touchdown keeper. Vista Ridge quarterback Jackson Arnot doubled the Rangers’ advantage in the second quarter with a 13-yard touchdown pass to receiver James Hester. Following the touchdown, Vista Ridge defensive back Tavon McAdams got an interception inside Cedar Ridge territory. The Rangers were unable to take advantage of the turnover, however, as the kicker missed a 38-yard field goal. On the ensuing drive, Cedar Ridge wide receiver Reese Brooks caught an 84-yard touchdown pass. The touchdown cut the Vista Ridge lead to 14-7, but that was as close as the Raiders would get.

In the second half, Cedar Ridge forced Vista Ridge to punt on the opening drive; but Vista Ridge defensive back Karson Smith cut the ensuing drive short with an interception. Jackson Arnot then extended the Rangers’ lead with a 44-yard touchdown pass to receiver Jake Pando. Late in the fourth quarter, Vista Ridge running back JD Jackson tacked on another touchdown on a 30-yard run.

With the win, Vista Ridge improves to 4-0 overall and 1-0 in district. After the game, Coach Scott said that the key for his defense’s success in the game was their adherence to the “swarm mentality.” Throughout the game, the Rangers’ defense moved around and created havoc for Cedar Ridge. Coach Scott also credited his offense for moving the ball well, especially on the ground. Overall, he said that senior leadership was one of the major keys to his team’s success on both sides of the ball. Next week, the Rangers have a bye week before traveling to face Round Rock McNeil (2-2, 0-1) on 09/28.

Cedar Ridge, meanwhile, falls to 2-2 overall and 0-1 in district. After the game, Head Coach Sam Robinson expressed encouragement from several aspects of his team’s performance. For example, he praised his team for settling into the game despite going down 14-0 early. He also praised his defense for making some of their own big plays including two interceptions. While he credited the Vista Ridge defense for making things difficult for his team, he also expressed optimism that his team could clean up many aspects of their game and see significant improvement. Next week, the Raiders have a bye before traveling to face Round Rock Westwood (3-1, 0-1.)

by Steve Thomas

Players Pictured

Vista Ridge