Anahuac Panthers Earn First Win of the Season, Defeating the Liberty Panthers 35-24

By Sharisa Nelson, Sports Reporter

The Anahuac Panthers found the win column Thursday night, September 10th, with a strong 35-24 victory over the visiting Liberty Panthers at home.

After opening the season with two tough games, Anahuac responded with a balanced offensive attack and a determined defensive effort to secure its first victory of the 2026 season, improving its record to 1-2.

The Panthers established themselves on the ground, rushing for 239 yards on 38 attempts. Junior RB #0 Jaytwan Dowdye led the rushing attack with 115 yards on 18 carries, including a pair of rushing touchdowns. Senior RB #4 Darius Richardson added 51 rushing yards on nine carries and a touchdown, while Sophomore RB #3 Treyson Richardson contributed 32 yards on eight carries.

Senior QB #7 Braydon Sutch also found the end zone on the ground, while Senior WR #2 Darion Williams rushed twice for 41 yards and a touchdown, including a long run of 38 yards.

Through the air, Anahuac completed 11 of 18 passes for 188 yards. The Panthers spread the ball around, with WR #2 Darion Williams recording three receptions for 56 yards, including a 36-yard catch. Sophomore WR #10 Carter Rivon led the Panthers with five receptions for 106 yards, a 36-yard long reception and one touchdown. #0 Jaytwan Dowdye added two catches for 20 yards, while #4 Darius Richardson had one reception for six yards.

The Panthers’ offensive production totaled 427 yards, with 239 yards rushing and 188 passing.

The victory was particularly meaningful for an Anahuac team that has continued to put in the work throughout the offseason.

Coach Neece praised his players for their response following the previous week’s loss. “I’m very proud of our kids and how they responded this week. Our guys have been working their butts off since last January so this win feels very good for us. But, it’s back to work on Monday to keep getting better.”

The Panthers will now turn their attention toward another home matchup as they prepare to host the Hardin-Jefferson Hawks on Friday, September 18, at 7:00 pm for Homecoming.

Anahuac will look to carry the momentum from Thursday night’s victory into next week’s contest as the Panthers continue working to build on their first win of the season.