Football Game Preview: Hidalgo Early College Pirates vs. La Vernia Bears

The Hidalgo Early College Pirates will face off against the La Vernia Bears at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. Both come into the contest bolstered by wins in their previous matches.

Hidalgo Early College took a loss when they played away from home two weeks ago, but their home fans gave them all the motivation they needed on Friday. They strolled past Valley View with points to spare, taking the game 31-14. The Pirates' offense stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most points they've scored all season.

Roberto Gallegos

Rushing Touchdowns (Career)

11/07/25 vs Valley View	3
10/17/25 vs Zapata	1
10/10/25 @ Tuloso-Midway	1
10/03/25 @ Grulla	1
09/26/25 vs Lopez	1

Roberto Gallegos was his usual excellent self, rushing for 101 yards and three touchdowns, while also picking up 36 receiving yards. Those three rushing touchdowns gave him a new career-high. Javier Martinez was another key player, picking up 171 receiving yards.

Meanwhile, La Vernia waltzed into their matchup on Friday with seven straight wins... but they left with eight. They came within four points of losing the streak, but they secured a 25-21 W against the Ricebirds. Given the Bears' advantage in MaxPreps' Texas football rankings (they are ranked 155th, while the Ricebirds are ranked 446th) , the result wasn't entirely unexpected.

Hidalgo Early College better keep an eye on COOPER NULL. He was instrumental in La Vernia's win, rushing for 107 yards and three TDs. TY CARTER helped out on the ground, rushing for 88 yards.

La Vernia was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 269 rushing yards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now rushed for at least 179 rushing yards in 18 consecutive games dating back to last season.

La Vernia's record now sits at 9-1. As for Hidalgo Early College, their victory (their first of the season) made their record 1-9.

Thursday's contest might be decided on the ground. Hidalgo Early College has been excellent on the ground this season, having averaged 156.3 rushing yards per game. However, it's not like La Vernia struggles in that department as they've been averaging 264 rushing yards. There's a good chance Thursday's matchup turns into a tough fight on the ground. Check MaxPreps after the action for a full breakdown of the game and more football content.