Brennan, Austin Vandegrift clash in first Express-News Game of the Week of 2026

Brennan hosts Austin Vandegrift to kick off its 2026 season in one of the most exciting Week One matchups in the area. The Bears are looking for a signature win over one of the top teams in the Austin area. 

Brennan vs. Austin Vandegrift

Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Farris Stadium 

Rankings/records: Express-News Preseason No. 4 Brennan (0-0), Austin Vandegrift (0-0)

Coaches: Brennan’s Steve Basore (150-49 in 17 seasons, all at Brennan); Austin Vandegrift’s Drew Sanders (174-74 overall, 158-59 in 17 seasons at Vandegrift) 

Series: Austin Vandegrift leads, 1-0

Brennan breakdown

Setting the scene: Brennan went 10-2 last year and finished second to Harlan in District 28-6A at 7-1. The Bears’ season ended in the second round of playoffs with a 13-7 loss against Austin Lake Travis. Brennan returns five starters on each side of the ball, but the Bears have significant depth. 

Key to victory: Brennan needs to get significant usage out of two-way player Aiden Martin, who serves as a receiver and a defensive back. Running back Jayshawn Mitchell, a four-star college football prospect, can put in the work in the backfield and serve as a receiver when necessary. The Bears must get their offense going as they face off against a Vandegrift defense that returns multiple key players. 

Austin Vandegrift

Setting the scene: Vandegrift went 12-3 last year and fell in the state semifinals to Houston King. The Vipers have reached state in three of the last four seasons and won a state title in 2024. 

Key to victory: Vandegrift is returning multiple key defensive players, including defensive back Griffin Gorrebeeck, who is the projected District 24-6A Defensive MVP. Quarterback Gavin Koester and running back Preston James missed last season with injuries and will have to immediately take on one of San Antonio’s top 6A teams in Brennan. 

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This article originally published at Brennan, Austin Vandegrift clash in first Express-News Game of the Week of 2026.