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Texas Newcomers Answered Big Questions in Dominant Performance

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Texas Newcomers Answered Big Questions in Dominant Performance


After losing 11 players to the 2024 NFL Draft, many questions were asked about the Texas Longhorns football team entering its first year under Steve Sarkisian without key contributors such as Xavier Worthy, Jordan Whittington and Jaylan Ford.

What will Texas do without T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy in the middle? Who is going to catch the ball for quarterback Quinn Ewers? What position group can improve from next year?

Texas fans needed to see new names and faces step up in its opening game against Colorado State on Saturday to have confidence heading into the season: and they got just that.

Replacing the over 4,500 yards of production between Worthy, Whittington, Adonai Mitchell, Jonathon Brooks and JaTavion Sanders was never going to be an easy task in 2024, but a few key players showed they can fill those shoes.

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Texas Longhorns wide receiver Matthew Golden (2) celebrates with tight end Gunnar Helm (85) and wide receiver Isaiah Bond (7)

Aug 31, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Texas Longhorns wide receiver Matthew Golden (2) celebrates with tight end Gunnar Helm (85) and wide receiver Isaiah Bond (7) after scoring a touchdown against the Colorado State Rams at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mikala Compton/American-Statesman-USA TODAY Sports / Mikala Compton-USA TODAY SPORTS

While returning RB Jaydon Blue led the team in scrimmage yards, four of the five others with over 50 yards on Saturday were newcomers to Austin. Freshman running back Jerrick Gibson, who will be tasked with filling major shoes after Brooks’ departure and CJ Baxter’s preseason injury, led the team in yards and yards per carry against the Rams, showing tremendous grit in his five-yard rushing touchdown to all but secure the win in the third quarter. The four-star finished the game with 67 yards on 10 carries, also adding the longest rush by a running back with a 22-yard scamper to set up that score.

In the pass-catching game, Texas looked to the transfer portal for talent this offseason, and already seems to be getting rewarded. No. 1 WR transfer and former Alabama player Isaiah Bond caught a team-high five passes for 61 yards, including a nasty outside route to score a touchdown even after a defender grabbed his facemask. Houston transfer Matthew Golden was the only player to score twice, most notably on a viral Ewers no-look pass. Even Oregon State transfer Silas Bolden, who saw little action during the game, cemented himself in the history books, catching redshirt freshman Arch Manning’s first-career touchdown pass in the third quarter.

But the show was stolen by one player on the offense: Ryan Wingo. The five-star freshman flashed early, making a fantastic contested catch for the first down in the first quarter. Wingo and Manning linked up for 45 of the young QB’s 95 yards, proving that a future connection is already starting in Austin. Wingo led all receivers in receiving yards, while Bond added 25 on the ground on an effortless jet sweep.

On the defensive side of the ball, the fear of losing Sweat and Murphy still looms over the team, but reinforcements were made. Returners like Vernon Broughton stepped up in the run game, and Arizona transfers Bill Norton and Tiaoalii Savea helped clog the middle, and introduced the newest phenomenon on the Texas sideline: a sword used to puncture turnovers caused by the defense, a staple at now-linebacker coach Pete Nansen’s Arizona Wildcats last season.

Secondary concerns also seemed to be answered, as the Longhorns held an air-raid offense to just 74 total yards. Clemson safety transfer Andrew Mukuba looked solid, but freshman Wardell Mack stole the show with a beautiful interception in the endzone to prevent the Rams from scoring. He was, of course, rewarded with his ball on the turnover sword.

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Texas still needs to go back to the drawing board to be able to stop a rushing attack like Michigan’s in Ann Arbor on Saturday, especially without Murphy or Sweat, but the Longhorns have seemed to find the right guys to fit into a new and exciting 2024 team.



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Austin, TX

Texas Tech lands K-State LB Austin Romaine out of transfer portal

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Texas Tech lands K-State LB Austin Romaine out of transfer portal


The Texas Tech football team landed its first commitment out of the transfer portal on Sunday.

Kansas State transfer linebacker Austin Romaine announced his commitment on social media. A second-team all-Big 12 selection this season, Romaine joins Texas Tech with one year of eligibility plus a redshirt year available.

The 6-foot-2, 245-pound linebacker has been a fixture in the middle of the Kansas State defense since his true freshman season of 2023 — when he earned five starts and was named Big 12 defensive freshman of the year, an award he shared with his new teammate Ben Roberts. He started all 12 games in 2024 and had 66 tackles, six quarterback hurries, an interception and a fumble recovery in 2025.

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What Kansas State transfer Austin Romaine brings to Texas Tech football

Romaine will likely be seen as Jacob Rodriguez’s replacement as the other starting linebacker next to Roberts next season. It would also indicate John Curry will remain at the STAR (the hybrid linebacker-safety position) in which he excelled this season.

For his career, Romaine has three forced fumbles (all in 2024) and had his first career fumble recovery and interception in 2025.



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Austin, TX

Top 10 Gyms In Austin TX (2026) – Fitness For Every Goal

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Top 10 Gyms In Austin TX (2026) – Fitness For Every Goal


Updated: Sunday, January 4, 2026

Jump To: Full-Service | Affordable | Group 

As the new year approaches, many Austinites are setting fresh fitness goals and rethinking their workout routines. Austin’s gym scene continues to evolve in 2026, offering everything from luxury athletic clubs to no-frills strength gyms and high-energy group fitness studios.

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Whether you’re training for performance, looking for community, or simply trying to stay consistent, these gyms in Austin stand out for their programming, facilities, and overall value.


Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Also, check out our articles on the Healthy Food Cedar Park, Healthy Food Round Rock, and Healthy Food in Austin!


Full-Service Gyms

Life Time 

fitness centers in Austin - Life Time Austin North

Image credit: Life Time Austin North

Life Time is ideal for those who want a premium, all-in-one fitness experience. Members have access to expansive workout floors, boutique-style classes, pools, recovery amenities, and family-friendly programming.

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Where: 1301 S Lamar Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm | Monday – Friday 4:00 am – 11:00 pm


Gold’s Gym

Gold’s Gym remains a staple for strength training and general fitness in Austin. With multiple locations, members benefit from large free-weight areas, machines, group classes, and personal training options.

Where: 13435 N Hwy 183, Austin, TX 78750
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 9:00 pm | Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 11:00 pm


Hyde Park Gym

Hyde Park Gym is a longtime favorite among serious lifters in Austin. Known for its old-school atmosphere, it prioritizes heavy lifting, strength equipment, and a focused training environment.

Where: 4125 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78751
Operating Hours: Saturday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm | Monday – Friday 6:00 am – 9:00 pm | Saturday 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

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Affordable & Budget-Friendly Gyms

Korrect Fitness

best gyms in Austin TX - Korrect Fitnessbest gyms in Austin TX - Korrect Fitness

Image credit: Korrect Fitness

Korrect Fitness is a premier 10,000-square-foot training facility in South Austin that specializes in functional performance through small group conditioning, unconventional equipment like steel maces and kettlebells, and elite recovery amenities including cold plunges and saunas.

Where: 4401 Freidrich Ln, Unit 301, Austin, TX 78744
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm | Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 9:00 pm


Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness is best for beginners or anyone looking for a low-pressure, affordable gym membership. The gym focuses on cardio equipment, circuit training, and a welcoming environment.

Where: 1807 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78748
Operating Hours: 24/7

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Anytime Fitness

Anytime Fitness offers 24-hour access and smaller gym footprints, making it a convenient option for busy schedules. It’s a solid choice for members who value consistency and flexibility.

Where: 8516 Anderson Mill Rd, Austin, TX 78729
Operating Hours: 24/7


FeV Iron Vault Gym

gyms in Austin - FeV - Iron Vault Gymgyms in Austin - FeV - Iron Vault Gym

Image credit: FeV – Iron Vault Gym

Iron Vault Gym caters to powerlifters, bodybuilders, and experienced strength athletes. The gym emphasizes high-quality equipment and a no-frills approach to training.

Where: 2101 W. Ben White BLVD #105, Back of building facing Redd St, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm | Monday = Friday 7:00 am – 8:00 pm

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Group Fitness & Specialty Studios

Orangetheory

Orangetheory delivers coach-led group workouts combining cardio, rowing, and strength intervals. The structured format appeals to members who want accountability and efficient, results-driven sessions.

Where: 401 W 3rd St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 2:00 pm | Monday – Thursday 5:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday 5:00 am – 6:00 pm


F45 Training

F45 focuses on fast-paced functional training in a group setting. Daily workout variations keep classes engaging, making it popular with members who enjoy high-energy, team-based fitness.

Where: 500 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Saturday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Sunday 9:30 am – 11:15 am | Monday – Thursday 5:30 am – 7:15 pm | Friday 5:30 am – 6:15 pm


Big Tex Gym

gyms in Austin - Big Tex Gymgyms in Austin - Big Tex Gym

Image credit: Big Tex Gym

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Big Tex Gym is a veteran-owned, old-school strength sanctuary in North Austin that provides 24/7 access to specialized equipment for powerlifting, bodybuilding, and strongman training within a supportive community atmosphere.

Where: 1921 Cedar Bend Dr A 130, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: 24/7


Many gyms offer free trials or seasonal promotions at the start of the year, making January an ideal time to explore. And once you’ve locked in your workouts, you can also check out our weekend guide of activities and events!

Lacey MorrisLacey Morris
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Minor arrested in double-fatal shooting in Williamson County

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Minor arrested in double-fatal shooting in Williamson County


Accident or crime scene cordon tape, police line do not cross. via Getty Images

A juvenile has been arrested Saturday after an early morning double-homicide near Round Rock. 

The situation ended after officials successfully negotiated a barricade situation with the minor, they say. 

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Williamson County double-homicide

What we know:

Williamson County authorities got the shooting call around 2 a.m. from the 8900 block of Brushy Gate Cove, outside the Round Rock city limits. 

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Williamson County sheriff’s deputies found two men dead of gunshot wounds at the scene. The suspect was barricaded inside a bedroom in the home. 

Williamson County SWAT and crisis negotiators responded, and the suspect peacefully surrendered around 6:30 a.m.

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Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public. 

Williamson County officials comment

What they’re saying:

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“On our arrival, we found two deceased people from the residence, adult males,” said Commander John Foster of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. 

“Anytime you have a barricaded subject inside of a home where we believe two people are deceased, you know, we’re going to take all precautionary measures that we can to ensure our safety and the safety of the neighbors as well,” said Foster. 

Investigators say everyone involved resided in the house and that this was an isolated incident. 

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“Information is going to be very limited, because this is a juvenile investigation, and certain laws protect certain information regarding juveniles,” said Foster. 

What we don’t know:

The identity of the minor suspect has not been released. 

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The victims were not identified. 

The motive behind the shooting has not been commented on. 

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The Source: Information in this article came from the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. 

Williamson CountyCrime and Public Safety



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