LBJ Austin Holds Off Sam Houston in 42-33 Season Opener

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — LBJ Austin opened its 2026 football season with an offensive showcase, defeating the Sam Houston Hurricanes 42–33 on August 29 in San Antonio behind a strong rushing performance and an efficient passing attack.

The Jaguars established an early advantage and continued producing points throughout the contest, holding off a competitive Sam Houston squad to secure a nine-point victory in their season opener.

LBJ Austin's offense was led by running back Marquis Murry II and quarterback Marquese Earls, whose performances helped the Jaguars overcome a Hurricanes team that scored in all four quarters.

Jaguars Establish Early Advantage

LBJ Austin came out firing in the opening quarter, taking a narrow 14–13 lead as both offenses found success early.

Sam Houston remained within striking distance throughout the first half, but the Jaguars managed to create separation before the break. LBJ Austin carried a 27–19 advantage into halftime, giving the team a cushion heading into the second half.

The competitive opening half set the tone for a matchup in which neither offense backed down, forcing both teams to continue producing points to remain in contention.

Murry and Earls Lead the Offense

The Jaguars' offensive production was powered by a standout performance from Murry, who finished with 167 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries.

His ability to generate yardage on the ground gave LBJ Austin a consistent offensive option and helped the Jaguars maintain pressure on the Hurricanes throughout the game.

Earls complemented the rushing attack with an efficient performance through the air. The quarterback completed seven of 14 passes for 186 yards and two touchdowns, giving LBJ Austin another way to move the football and capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Wide receiver J. Bradley also made an impact, recording 85 receiving yards and a touchdown on just two receptions.

The combination of Murry's production on the ground and Earls' passing performance helped the Jaguars reach 42 points in their season opener.

Sam Houston Keeps the Pressure On

Despite trailing at halftime, Sam Houston continued to compete throughout the second half.

The Hurricanes scored eight points in the third quarter, matching LBJ Austin's production during the period and keeping the game within reach heading into the final quarter.

Both teams continued finding opportunities offensively, but the Jaguars managed to maintain their advantage. LBJ Austin added seven points in the fourth quarter while limiting Sam Houston to six, securing the 42–33 victory.

Although the Hurricanes showed they could move the ball and score consistently, they were unable to close the gap enough to complete the comeback.

A Positive Start for LBJ Austin

The victory gave LBJ Austin an early boost as the Jaguars began their 2026 campaign.

The offensive performance demonstrated the team's ability to generate production through multiple options, with Murry's rushing attack and Earls' passing contributions providing a balanced approach.

The Jaguars later suffered losses to La Vega and La Vernia, entering district play with a 1–2 record. Despite those setbacks, the season-opening victory provided an early highlight for the program.

Sam Houston also continued its schedule following the loss, turning its attention to its next matchup against John F. Kennedy.

The opening-week contest showcased two offenses capable of putting points on the board, but LBJ Austin's ability to maintain its advantage across all four quarters ultimately made the difference.

Final Score: LBJ Austin 42, Sam Houston 33