Bears fall on the road in district opener

San Marcos Academy made a strong comeback.

The Bears allowed 34 unanswered points to begin their game against Reicher Catholic on Friday in Waco. But the visitors bounced back in a major way, ending the game on a 28-7 run that began late in the third quarter.

Still, it wasn't enough as SMA dropped its district opener to the Cougars, 41-28.

Senior quarterback Bryce Patterson completed 10 of 25 passes for 113 yards, throwing for two touchdowns and one interception. Patterson also led the team on the ground with 20 carries for 105 yards and a score.

Junior Robby Newman was second in rushing, toting the ball 10 times for 65 yards. Newman was also a recipient of one of Patterson's touchdown throws, finishing the night with three catches for 34 yards. Senior Zach Whitaker caught the other passing touchdown of the night, a 32-yard bomb in the third quarter. Whitaker also recovered a fumble in the hosts' end zone on the ensuing kickoff for another score.

Senior Gordon Murphy led the team with 15 total tackles, including one for a loss. He was followed by juniors Alex Davis and Gino Dipollino with 11 and 10, respectively.

The Bears will look to bounce back at home on Friday when they host New Braunfels John Paul II inside Ingram Stadium at 7:30 p.m.