Panthers Battle Hardin-Jefferson in Homecoming, Fall 38-19

By Sharisa Nelson

The Anahuac Panthers battled the Hardin-Jefferson Hawks on Friday, September 18th, during Anahuac’s Homecoming game, but the Panthers came up short, falling 38-19.

Anahuac entered the contest looking to build on its early-season progress, but Hardin-Jefferson was able to pull away and secure the victory. The loss moves the Panthers to 1-3 on the season, while the Hawks improved to 2-2.

The Panthers finished the night with 315 yards of total offense, including 175 yards rushing and 140 yards through the air. Anahuac ran the football 39 times and completed 11 of 22 pass attempts.

Senior QB #7 Braydon Sutch led the Panthers’ passing attack, completing 11 of 22 attempts for 140 yards, with a long completion of 42 yards. Sutch also accounted for a rushing touchdown. The Panthers finished with two rushing touchdowns and one passing touchdown during the contest.

Sophomore RB #0 Jaytwan Dowdye led Anahuac on the ground with 23 carries for 90 yards, including a 12-yard run, and scored one rushing touchdown. Dowdye also contributed three receptions for 30 yards, with a long reception of 27 yards.

Sophomore RB #27 Ayvin Kizzie added five rushing attempts for 44 yards, while Senior RB #4 Darius Richardson carried five times for 17 yards. Sophomore RB #3 Treyson Richardson rushed three times for 12 yards, and Freshman RB #32 Jayden Richardson added 11 yards on one carry.

Through the air, Senior WR #2 Darion Williams was a leading target with six receptions for 76 yards, including a 42-yard catch and a receiving touchdown. Senior #5 TE Brad Coates added one reception for 24 yards.

Despite the setback, the Panthers will have an opportunity to regroup quickly as they return to the road for their next matchup.

Anahuac will travel to Tarkington on Friday, September 25th, to take on the Longhorns. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 pm.

The Panthers will look to put together a strong performance on the road as they continue their 2026 football season.