Westlake Chaps Host Undefeated Cedar Ridge Raiders in High-Stakes District Showdown

Westlake football faces its toughest challenge of the regular season when it hosts Cedar Ridge on Friday. The matchup pits the seventh-ranked Chaps against the undefeated Raiders in a contest that effectively serves as a district championship, despite the lack of official postseason games in Texas high school football.

Cedar Ridge enters the game with an 8-0 record and a 4-0 mark in district play. The team has emerged as one of the most surprising squads in the state. Westlake holds a 7-1 overall record and is 4-0 in district competition. The Chaps are currently listed in the top two spots of the American-Statesman 6A power rankings alongside their opponents.

The defensive line battle will likely determine the outcome. Westlake relies heavily on its rushing attack, supported by an offensive line that features five starters with potential collegiate careers. Running back CJ Jones has attracted more than 30 Power 4 offers, while quarterback Patton Jones provides a dual-threat option. Cedar Ridge counters with defensive tackle Jeremiah Passmore and linebacker Ayden O’Brien Brown, two of the region’s top front-seven players. Their goal is to force Westlake into long third-down situations, creating opportunities for defensive backs Trent Bell and Bekett Lohman to defend the pass.

The passing game presents the most complex matchup. Cedar Ridge quarterback Dylan Snoga has been a dynamic force this season, throwing to targets led by Terrez Harrison. The Chaps’ secondary must make first-down stops to contain the Raiders’ speed. Westlake managed to limit Lake Travis’ passing game last week, allowing only one big play. Cedar Ridge also utilizes a running game through Snoga’s scrambles and a committee approach led by Devin Patterson. This will be the fastest offense Westlake has faced since losing to Prosper, a game in which they allowed 510 yards.

Cedar Ridge coach Bryan Vardeman, a leading candidate for Central Texas coach of the year, said his team is approaching the game with the same mental makeup as the previous eight contests. This is the most significant game for the Raiders since a second-round playoff appearance in 2018. Westlake must manage a quick turnaround after a physical rivalry loss to Lake Travis six days earlier. Special teams play will also be a factor, as Westlake controlled field position against Lake Travis. Cedar Ridge could shift momentum with a punt or kick return for a touchdown.

The American-Statesman predicts Westlake will win the game 37 to 30. The Chaps are expected to allow some yards but will make a decisive defensive play to secure the victory. The two teams may meet again in the regional finals of the Class 6A Division II playoffs in early December.