Two Austin-area football teams head to Class 6A state finals

AUSTIN, Texas - Not one, but two Austin-area high schools are advancing to the state championship: Vandegrift and Westlake.

The two teams will both play in the 6A football state championship game, but in separate divisions.

Vandegrift High School came back from a 14-0 lead to defeat Humble Summer Creek in the semifinal game 34-31 on Saturday night at Baylor’s McLane Stadium in Waco.

"That’s exactly what we’re about and what we preach, we give great effort no matter if we're up 14 or down 14. And the guys actually lived that out. And it was beautiful because that's what the results you get," said Vandegrift head football coach Drew Sanders.

READ MORE: Vandegrift punches ticket to state championship against Southlake Carroll

This is the second time in three years that Vandegrift has made it to the state championship.

"To get to experience this with them, this is just a bunch of guys who decided they wanted to do something, and they did it. We're so proud to be where we are. We have more, but we’re going to enjoy this one tonight," said Coach Sanders.

Meanwhile, another football powerhouse is also making an appearance.

The Westlake High School Chaparrals faced off against Galena Park North Shore on Saturday for the chance to advance to the Class 6A Division I state title game.

The Mustangs had eliminated Westlake in the final four for the past two years. This year the Chaps took the game 35-10.

READ MORE: Westlake headed to state championship final against North Crowley

"Kids made plays, 4th down stops when we had to make the plays. They made them tonight a complete team victory," said Westlake head football coach Tony Salazar.

Fans are excited to cheer on both teams.

"I grew up in Austin, and I know how big football is and how big high school football is. It's great to see Vandegrift. And the playoffs. And it's great to see Westlake in the playoffs," said one fan.

"That's very exciting. We're excited. We'll be cheering them on. Hopefully, it'll be televised, and we'll be able to watch it," said another fan.

"Huge deal. I'm go Vipers and it's awesome that you're going to be playing at Cowboy stadium," said a Vandegrift fan.

Both teams will be playing at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Saturday, Dec. 21:

• Vandegrift Vipers will face the Southlake Carroll Dragons at 3 p.m.
• Westlake Chaparrals will take on the North Crowley Panthers at 7 p.m.

These are the only two Austin-area teams continuing their seasons. The Wimberley Texans fell in the Class 4A Division II state semi-finals to Waco La Vega.