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Week 8 high school football staff picks for the Austin area

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Week 8 high school football staff picks for the Austin area


LBJ wideout Javarlyn Smith (0) picks up yards after the catch against Manor New Tech on Oct. 9, 2025 at Nelson Field in Austin, Texas.  

LBJ wideout Javarlyn Smith (0) picks up yards after the catch against Manor New Tech on Oct. 9, 2025 at Nelson Field in Austin, Texas.  

Paul Knight/Special to American-Statesman

The Texas high school football season is approaching the halfway point. As part of the American-Statesman’s weekly coverage, our team of sports editor Rich Tijerina, reporters Rick Cantu and Colby Gordon and contributor Jay Plotkin are sharing our weekly picks of the top games in the Austin area. Gordon this week will go into detail on four matchups that he’s really interested in. 

Be sure to check statesman.com this weekend for coverage of Week 8 Central Texas high school football action.

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UIL football: Top Week 8 games in the Austin area

Lake Travis at Dripping Springs

It’s the game of the year so far in Central Texas when these undefeated longtime rivals meet in a District 26-6A contest.

Dripping Springs (7-0, 3-0) is better than anyone thought in the preseason. Quarterback Chase Ames (1,720 yards, 25 TDs passing) is making an early case for newcomer of the year honors, while the defense has only yielded more than 20 points twice.

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Lake Travis (6-0, 2-0) is giving off vibes as a team of destiny. The Cavs have played one close game — a 28-20 win over Rockwall — and don’t appear to have any weaknesses. 

A stout Lake Travis defense behind defensive linemen Carter Buck and Ben Duncum and linebacker Braeden Lott should be the difference here. 

Gordon’s pick: Lake Travis 38, Dripping Springs 17

Georgetown at East View

The Patriots are the area’s surprise team, and with a victory over their rival, it’s hard not to see them winning District 8-5A Division I. 

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East View (5-1, 3-0) has already beaten Cedar Park and Lake Belton, the district’s other two heavyweights besides the Eagles. Patriots wideout Allen Blaylock is the area’s top player the public might not be aware of. Moving to Central Texas during the summer from California, the senior has more than a dozen FBS offers and caught seven passes for 113 yards and a touchdown in last week’s 42-38 win over Cedar Park. And when combined with dual-threat quarterback Cormyc Guerrero and running back Jayvion Clater, it gives East View a lethal offense. 

Georgetown (5-1, 3-0) has a prolific offense of its own. Running back Jett Walker has returned from an early season injury and last week ran for 194 yards and three touchdowns in a 35-33 win over Rouse. Quarterback Kaleb McDougle and wideout and Texas State commit Xavier Warren lead the Eagles passing attack. 

Expect this to be a shootout. Whichever defense produces a second-half turnover could determine the winner. 

Gordon’s pick: Georgetown 42, East View 40 

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Pflugerville at Liberty Hill 

It’s run versus pass in the first game that will go a long way toward determining the District 11-5A Division II title. 

Liberty Hill (4-2, 3-0) brings its vaunted slot-T rushing attack, which is averaging more than 440 yards a game, while Pflugerville (5-1, 3-0) will air it out with quarterback Cole Taylor, who has thrown for 1,851 yards and 27 touchdowns. 

Both teams still have to face Bastrop. But the winner takes the early lead in the district race.  

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Expect Pflugerville athlete Breland Hill to have an impact. 

Gordon’s pick: Pflugerville 45, Liberty Hill 42

McCallum at Connally

The playoffs are still four weeks away, but this might as well be a postseason contest for the Knights and Cougars. It’s essentially the play-in game for the fourth playoff spot out of District 11-5A Division II. 

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McCallum (3-3, 1-2) hung around for a half with Pflugerville last week and has offensive talent with quarterback Aiden Ilai, wideout Alex Hopper and athlete Cooper Hensley. 

Connally (3-3, 1-2) features electric quarterback Jase Watkins (1,177 yards, 12 TDs passing), dynamic wideout Rahsaan Franklin (553 yards, eight TDs receiving) and solid running back Jonah Garcia. 

Both teams have struggled at times on defense, so expect a high-scoring game. 

Gordon’s pick: McCallum 48-47

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Last week: Cantu 10-5, Plotkin 9-6, Gordon 9-6, Tijerina 7-8

The season: Cantu 75-30, Plotkin 73-32 (-2), Gordon 69-36 (-6), Tijerina 64-41 (-11)

Week 8 picks 

Rouse at Killeen Chaparral: Rouse — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina; Chaparral — None

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Lake Travis at Dripping Springs: Lake Travis — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina; Dripping Springs — None

Westlake at Bowie: Westlake — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina; Bowie — None

Hutto at Stony Point: Hutto — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina; Stony Point — None

Cedar Ridge at Vista Ridge: Cedar Ridge — None; Vista Ridge — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina

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Pflugerville at Liberty Hill: Pflugerville — Gordon ; Liberty Hill — Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina

Georgetown at East View: Georgetown — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin; East View — Tijerina

Hays at College Station: Hays —  None; College Station — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina

Westwood at Round Rock: Westwood — None; Round Rock — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina 

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San Marcos at Judson: San Marcos — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina; Judson — None

Hendrickson at A&M Consolidated: Hedrickson — None; A&M Consolidated — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina 

Jarrell at Wimberley: Jarrell — Cantu; Wimberley — Gordon, Plotkin, Tijerina

Leander at Lake Belton: Leander — Tijerina; Lake Belton — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin

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McCallum at Connally: McCallum — Gordon, Cantu, Tijerina; Connally — Plotkin 

Regents at Brentwood Christian: Regents — Gordon, Cantu, Plotkin, Tijerina; Brentwood Christian — None



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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

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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

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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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Austin, TX

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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Austin, TX

Camera Sensor for iPhone 18 Camera to be Made by Samsung in Austin, TX Facility

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Camera Sensor for iPhone 18 Camera to be Made by Samsung in Austin, TX Facility


Samsung is taking steps to provide Apple with image sensors built with advanced technology for iPhones. Reportedly, the sensors for the iPhone will be manufactured in Samsung’s current Austin, Texas facility, and the company is anticipated to soon have production equipment installed for the upcoming project.

The image sensor of the iPhone is expected to have a three-stack design for better low-light performance and a higher density of pixels with multiple layers stacked vertically. This results in less power consumption, a dynamic range that’s higher, and faster speeds for readouts.

Camera Sensor for iPhone 18 Camera to be Made by Samsung in Austin, TX Facility

It’s believed that the new sensor will be made for the upcoming iPhone 18 in 2027. Apple and Samsung have reportedly arrived at a deal where Samsung will be supplying the component for the sensor. This marks the first occasion Apple will be going with another company apart from Sony as their main supplier for image sensors for its iPhones.




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