Weslaco rolls past PSJA, 44-0
PHARR, Texas — The Weslaco High Panthers overpowered PSJA Early College High School Bears 44-0 on Friday night at PSJA Stadium, delivering a statement win in District 31-6A play and spoiling the Bears’ homecoming celebration.
Weslaco (6-2, 3-0) took control early, capitalizing on short fields and quick strikes to build a commanding first-half lead. The Panthers scored on each of their first possessions, turning turnovers and special-teams breaks into points while their defense swarmed PSJA’s backfield throughout the night.
By halftime, the Panthers led 31-0 and never looked back, adding two more touchdowns in the second half to secure their third straight district victory. The win keeps Weslaco atop the 31-6A standings and within reach of a postseason berth.
“Our goal was to score every single drive,” said Weslaco quarterback Chris Luna after the game. “This game meant a lot to us… we lost a cheerleader, Larissa, and one of our brothers. It meant a lot to us as a team, as a unit, as one brotherhood. So we play for her and for ourselves — but for every single one of our brothers that helped our offense function and just play for each other.”
Luna’s composure and leadership fueled a balanced Weslaco attack, as the Panthers mixed steady runs with timely completions to sustain drives. The offense complemented a relentless defense that recorded multiple sacks and pressured PSJA into repeated third-and-long situations.
“You wish for games like this when you’re little and you wish for thrillers,” Luna said. “Every single drive counted… we had zero punts and that’s what really helped us function with our game. We’re taking it one play at a time and just moving the ball forward.”
For PSJA (0-8, 0-3), senior running back Johnny Sanchez provided bright moments with his tough running, while quarterback Dylan Rodriguez and receiver Ramsey Arroyo connected on several chain-moving plays. But consistent defensive pressure and negative plays kept the Bears from capitalizing on their few scoring chances.
The night carried emotional weight for Weslaco beyond the scoreboard. The Panthers’ halftime band and drill team performances were dedicated to the memory of Larissa Nicole Rodriguez, a beloved Weslaco High senior whose passing earlier in the year deeply affected the school community. Pink ribbons on uniforms and boots symbolized her lasting impact.
“It’s effort over ego over here,” Luna said. “We’re putting it all out there for our community. Right now our community’s hurting with the loss… we’re gonna do everything we can to put God in the center and keep football and family first.”
With two games left, Weslaco remains unbeaten in district play and looks to continue its momentum as the playoffs approach. PSJA, still in search of its first district win, visits Edinburg North next week before closing the regular season at home against La Joya.
