San Antonio Johnson (13-0) vs. Lake Travis (13-0), 7 p.m. Friday at San Marcos’ Bobcat Stadium:

Let the narrative discussion begin this week as the new king of the Alamo City, San Antonio Johnson, will try and put an end to a nearly 10-year streak of playoff domination that Austin area teams have had over San Antonio area squads.

Aside from Brennan’s win over Lake Travis in 2022 and Steele’s win over Dripping Springs in 2023, the Alamo City has not seen success against the Capital City. Johnson will get their chance after a remarkable 29-28 win over Cibolo Steele last Friday in an instant classic.

Trailing 28-10 with 7:54 left, QB Elvis Estrada led a miracle comeback throwing three fourth quarter touchdown passes, including two in the final three minutes of the game to lead the Jags to the miracle win. Junior WR Bryson Thompson had a career game with 17 catches for 155 yards and two scores, while freshman sensation Braelyn Allen added four catches for 109 yards and a score.

Lake Travis had no issues last week as the Cavaliers drilled Laredo United, 41-7. QB Luke McBride tossed three touchdown passes to lead the Cavs offense, while a healthy RB Van Hopping gave the LTHS offense balance as he ran for a score. Lake Travis’ defense again showed why it’s considered one of the best in the state holding a dynamic United offense to just seven points.

Lake Travis comes into this game allowing just under 12 points per game. TCU DE commit Carter Buck is the headliner, but this is a group that’s outstanding at all three levels. Johnson’s skill talent is on par with Lake Travis and in some areas might be better, but this game comes down to the Johnson OL against the Lake Travis DL.  Johnson’s OL had some troubles with Steele’s defensive line and that doesn’t seem like a good recipe against a better defensive line in Lake Travis.

Stepp’s Pick: Lake Travis by 13