{"id":28456,"date":"2026-10-21T17:25:33","date_gmt":"2026-10-21T22:25:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/?p=28456"},"modified":"2026-10-21T17:25:33","modified_gmt":"2026-10-21T22:25:33","slug":"game-preview-palacios-sharks-vs-hempstead-bobcats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/?p=28456","title":{"rendered":"Game Preview: Palacios Sharks vs. Hempstead Bobcats"},"content":{"rendered":"

Friday, October 23, 2026 | 7:00 p.m. | Bobcat Stadium, Hempstead<\/b><\/p>\n

Palacios and Hempstead meet Friday night with significant playoff implications in 11-3ADI. The Sharks enter at 1-6 overall and 0-2 in district play, while the Bobcats are 2-5 overall and 1-1 in district action.<\/span><\/p>\n

Palacios coach Travis Hoffer says the Sharks need to win two of their final three district games to keep their playoff hopes alive. That push must begin Friday night in Hempstead. The Bobcats can take a major step toward securing a playoff appearance with a victory.<\/span><\/p>\n

The winner is not mathematically guaranteed to finish fourth, but this matchup could go a long way toward determining the district\u2019s final playoff spot. With both teams fighting to extend their seasons into November, there is plenty on the line.<\/span><\/p>\n

Team Snapshot: Palacios Sharks<\/b><\/h2>\n
    \n
  • Current record:<\/b> 1-6 overall, 0-2 district<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Head coach:<\/b> Travis Hoffer<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Head coach\u2019s overall record:<\/b> 3-14<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Head coach\u2019s record at school:<\/b> 3-14<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Average Points Scored per game:<\/b> 14.00<\/span><\/li>\n
  • 3A Division I Rank:<\/b> 97<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Average Points Against per game:<\/b> 34.71<\/span><\/li>\n
  • 3A Division I Rank:<\/b> 66<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Season So Far<\/b><\/h3>\n
      \n
    • August 28:<\/b> at Flatonia \u2014 Loss, 24-28<\/span><\/li>\n
    • September 4:<\/b> vs. Victoria St. Joseph \u2014 Win, 21-7<\/span><\/li>\n
    • September 11:<\/b> at El Maton Tidehaven \u2014 Loss, 7-55<\/span><\/li>\n
    • September 18:<\/b> at Vanderbilt Industrial \u2014 Loss, 0-49<\/span><\/li>\n
    • September 25:<\/b> vs. Mathis \u2014 Loss, 29-32<\/span><\/li>\n
    • October 9:<\/b> vs. Sweeny \u2014 Loss, 17-24<\/span><\/li>\n
    • October 16:<\/b> vs. Edna \u2014 Loss, 0-48<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Team Snapshot: Hempstead Bobcats<\/b><\/h2>\n
        \n
      • Current record:<\/b> 2-5 overall, 1-1 district<\/span><\/li>\n
      • Head coach:<\/b> Kris Gordon<\/span><\/li>\n
      • Head coach\u2019s overall record:<\/b> 2-5<\/span><\/li>\n
      • Head coach\u2019s record at school:<\/b> 2-5<\/span><\/li>\n
      • Average Points Scored per game:<\/b> 21.57<\/span><\/li>\n
      • 3A Division I Rank:<\/b> 75<\/span><\/li>\n
      • Average Points Against per game:<\/b> 41.43<\/span><\/li>\n
      • 3A Division I Rank:<\/b> 82<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        Season So Far<\/b><\/h3>\n
          \n
        • August 28:<\/b> vs. Brookshire Royal \u2014 Loss, 14-37<\/span><\/li>\n
        • September 4:<\/b> at Altair Rice \u2014 Loss, 9-48<\/span><\/li>\n
        • September 11:<\/b> vs. Houston Scarborough \u2014 Win, 65-29<\/span><\/li>\n
        • September 18:<\/b> at Hearne \u2014 Loss, 7-45<\/span><\/li>\n
        • September 25:<\/b> at New Waverly \u2014 Loss, 8-60<\/span><\/li>\n
        • October 9:<\/b> vs. Wharton \u2014 Win, 34-14<\/span><\/li>\n
        • October 16:<\/b> at Sweeny \u2014 Loss, 14-57<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          The Breakdown<\/b><\/h2>\n

          The numbers point to a matchup between two teams looking for consistency on both sides of the ball. Hempstead is averaging 21.57 points per game, compared with 14.00 for Palacios. The Bobcats are allowing 41.43 points per game, while the Sharks are giving up 34.71.<\/span><\/p>\n

          Palacios is averaging 221.86 yards of total offense per game, including 1,205 rushing yards and 348 passing yards through seven games. Hempstead is averaging 191.43 yards per game, with 853 rushing yards and 487 passing yards. Both teams have relied heavily on their ground games, making control of the line of scrimmage an important factor Friday night.<\/span><\/p>\n

          Palacios sophomore running back Austin Martinez leads the Sharks with 509 rushing yards. Senior quarterback Trey Weixelman adds a dual-threat dimension with 365 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, along with 346 passing yards and three passing touchdowns. Junior receiver Bubba Reyes has caught 13 passes for 168 yards and a touchdown.<\/span><\/p>\n

          Hempstead\u2019s offense is led by senior running back Rickey Young, who has rushed for 472 yards and four touchdowns. Senior quarterback Keenan Wilson has contributed 252 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns while throwing for 329 yards and one touchdown. Junior receiver Tre\u2019Davion Smith leads the Bobcats with 14 catches for 140 yards and a touchdown.<\/span><\/p>\n

          Defensively, Palacios has several experienced contributors. Senior Ben Jimenez leads the Sharks with 58 tackles, while junior Jonathan Espinoza has 48 tackles and four pass breakups. Senior defensive lineman Joseph Le has recorded three sacks. Those defenders will need to limit Young\u2019s production and prevent Hempstead from generating explosive plays.<\/span><\/p>\n

          Hempstead is allowing 338.86 yards of total offense per game. Senior Isreal Harris has recorded 25 tackles and three tackles for loss, while senior Curtavian Gooden has four quarterback hurries. The Bobcats will look to pressure Weixelman and disrupt a Palacios offense that has thrown four interceptions this season.<\/span><\/p>\n

           <\/p>\n

          Players to Watch<\/b><\/h3>\n

          Palacios Sharks<\/b><\/h4>\n
            \n
          • Austin Martinez, RB\/DB, Sophomore:<\/b> Martinez has rushed for 509 yards on 110 carries, averaging 4.63 yards per carry, with two touchdowns. He has also accumulated 593 all-purpose yards. His ability to establish the run could be central to Palacios\u2019 offensive plan.<\/span><\/li>\n
          • Trey Weixelman, QB\/DB, Senior:<\/b> Weixelman has accounted for nine touchdowns, with six rushing and three passing. He has thrown for 346 yards and rushed for 365, making him a major part of the Sharks\u2019 offensive production.<\/span><\/li>\n
          • Bubba Reyes, WR\/LB, Junior:<\/b> Reyes has 13 catches for 168 yards and a touchdown, plus 96 kickoff-return yards and 14 punt-return yards. He provides Palacios with a productive receiving option and additional value in the return game.<\/span><\/li>\n
          • Ben Jimenez, LB, Senior:<\/b> 58 total tackles, including 18 solo tackles.<\/span><\/li>\n
          • Jonathan Espinoza, RB\/DB, Junior<\/b>: 48 tackles and four pass breakups.<\/span><\/li>\n
          • Joseph Le, OL\/DL, Senior:<\/b> 34 tackles, three sacks and two tackles for loss.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

             <\/p>\n

            Hempstead Bobcats<\/b><\/h4>\n
              \n
            • Rickey Young, RB\/DB, Senior:<\/b> Young has rushed for 472 yards on 70 carries, averaging 6.74 yards per carry, with four touchdowns. His production makes him a key player for a Hempstead offense that relies on the run.<\/span><\/li>\n
            • Keenan Wilson, QB\/DB, Senior:<\/b> Wilson has thrown for 329 yards and one touchdown while rushing for 252 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to contribute through the air and on the ground gives the Bobcats flexibility.<\/span><\/li>\n
            • Tre\u2019Davion Smith, WR\/DB, Junior:<\/b> Smith leads Hempstead with 14 catches for 140 yards and a touchdown. His role in the passing game will be important if the Bobcats need to counter Palacios\u2019 defensive focus on the run.<\/span><\/li>\n
            • Isreal Harris, LB\/RB, Senior: <\/b>25 tackles and three tackles for loss.<\/span><\/li>\n
            • Curtavian Gooden, OL\/DL, Senior:<\/b> Four quarterback hurries, making him a notable player to watch up front.<\/span><\/li>\n
            • Quincy Foster, DL\/RB, Sophomore:<\/b> Recorded an interception returned for a touchdown, along with a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

               <\/p>\n

              Recent Matchup History<\/b><\/h2>\n

              All-Time Results<\/b><\/h3>\n
                \n
              • 2019:<\/b> Palacios 48, Hempstead 14<\/span><\/li>\n
              • 2018:<\/b> Palacios 40, Hempstead 33<\/span><\/li>\n
              • 2015:<\/b> Hempstead 44, Palacios 0<\/span><\/li>\n
              • 2014:<\/b> Hempstead 48, Palacios 8<\/span><\/li>\n
              • 2013:<\/b> Hempstead 54, Palacios 0<\/span><\/li>\n
              • 2012:<\/b> Hempstead 40, Palacios 20<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                 <\/p>\n

                Keys to the Game<\/b><\/h2>\n

                Palacios Sharks<\/b><\/h3>\n
                  \n
                1. Establish the run:<\/b> Get Martinez involved early and use Weixelman\u2019s rushing ability to make Hempstead defend multiple threats.<\/span><\/li>\n
                2. Protect the football:<\/b> Palacios has thrown four interceptions this season. Avoiding turnovers will be vital in a game with major playoff implications.<\/span><\/li>\n
                3. Limit big plays:<\/b> Hoffer identified Hempstead\u2019s team speed as a concern. Sound tackling and disciplined positioning will be essential.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                  Hempstead Bobcats<\/b><\/h3>\n
                    \n
                  1. Feed Young:<\/b> His 472 rushing yards and four touchdowns make him a natural focal point of the offense.<\/span><\/li>\n
                  2. Use Wilson\u2019s dual-threat ability:<\/b> Wilson\u2019s rushing production gives Hempstead another way to challenge the Palacios defense.<\/span><\/li>\n
                  3. Pressure Weixelman:<\/b> Disrupt the quarterback\u2019s timing and make the Sharks work for passing yards.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                     <\/p>\n

                    Keep Your Eye On<\/b><\/h2>\n
                      \n
                    1. The playoff race:<\/b> Palacios needs two wins from its final three district games to keep its playoff hopes alive, while Hempstead can strengthen its position with a win.<\/span><\/li>\n
                    2. The quarterback matchup:<\/b> Weixelman\u2019s rushing and passing production will test Hempstead\u2019s defense, while Wilson provides a dual-threat option for the Bobcats.<\/span><\/li>\n
                    3. The turnover battle:<\/b> These teams are basically neutral in turnover ratio. A key turnover at a key point in the game could decide the outcome.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                      From the Coaches<\/b><\/h2>\n

                      Palacios Head Coach Travis Hoffer<\/b><\/p>\n

                      \u201cWe approach this game as a must win in order to keep our playoff hopes alive. We have 3 district ball games left and have to find a way to win 2 of those to have a chance. I told our kids during our Saturday team meeting that our playoff season starts now. If we want to get in the playoffs we have to take care of business. Coach Gordon has done a good job of rebuilding Hempstead and putting his team in a position to get in the playoffs as well. Hempstead has some good size upfront and impressive overall team speed. We’ll have to do a great job of containing that speed and not giving up big plays. It should be a fun 4 quarter football game with a lot on the line.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

                      Hempstead Head Coach Kris Gordon<\/b><\/p>\n

                      \u201cWe\u2019re treating this as our next district game and focusing on one thing at a time. We won\u2019t look beyond it: one play at a time, stay disciplined, and DYJ.<\/span><\/p>\n

                      \u201cWe\u2019ve put together a strong game plan for offense, defense, and special teams. Now we\u2019ll let the results speak for themselves. That\u2019s what I love about this sport actions will always speak louder than words!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                      Friday, October 23, 2026 | 7:00 p.m. | Bobcat Stadium, Hempstead Palacios and Hempstead meet Friday night with significant playoff implications in 11-3ADI. The Sharks enter at 1-6 overall and 0-2 in district play, while the Bobcats are 2-5 overall and 1-1 in district action. Palacios coach Travis Hoffer says the Sharks need to win […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":97251362,"featured_media":28459,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advanced_seo_description":"","jetpack_seo_html_title":"","jetpack_seo_noindex":false,"jetpack_seo_schema_type":"","_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_wpcom_ai_launchpad_first_post":false,"_jetpack_hide_featured_image":false,"_jetpack_featured_image_duplicate_dismissed":0,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[35890,78821],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-28456","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-featured","category-game-previews"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pdT9NE-7oY","jetpack-related-posts":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/txhsfb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Game26-Preview.png?fit=1672%2C941&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28456","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/97251362"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=28456"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28456\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":28462,"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28456\/revisions\/28462"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/28459"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=28456"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=28456"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/txhsfb.net\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=28456"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}