Matthew “Moose” Lopez
Sports Editor
The Legacy Bowl is a time old tradition that never disappoints. The stands are packed with cheering fans, all of which understand the history behind the Mustangs versus Pirates. Sports has a habit of raising the stakes and importance of the moment. This is only the fourth game of the season, only the first game of district play, but both teams played like their life was on the line. The Natalia Mustangs take down the Lytle Pirates in an absolute slug fest of a game 60-43. This is the first time since the 2022-23 season that Natalia bested Lytle. Head coach Jason Reynolds admitted this was one of the “wildest” games he’s ever been a part of.
“The atmosphere was exceptional and the stakes were high with it being the Legacy Bowl. I felt like our kids handled the pressure well and responded each time our backs were against the wall,” Reynolds said. “Our offensive line was playing with a lot of confidence and Leo [Cortinas] was on another level. It was amazing to witness the resiliency of our kids and I couldn’t be happier for them to bring home the Legacy Bowl Trophy.”
The Mustangs have put up 50+ points in their last two games. Everyone sees the quarterbacks, running backs and receivers make the big play, but the real foundation for scoring comes from the O-line.
“I said it before the game ever started that the game would be won and lost in the trenches,” Reynolds said. “Our offensive line was playing with a lot of confidence and that was the difference maker. Back to back 50+ points and neither game resembled the other. Our kids did a great job of taking a game plan, and executing it.”
On the other side of the ball, the defense gave up…LOGIN TO CONTINUE READING at www.devinenewsmembers.com. You will get instant access to our full E-edition, and begin getting the newspaper delivered to your home next week for $42 a year in Medina County. Support important local city, county, and school news like this!
Mustang #1 Leo Cortinas won the offensive MVP for Natalia. Going for 468 rushing yards and 7 rushing TDs. Both school records according to sources. Photo by Moose Lopez.