Western Hills opened its 2026 football season Friday with an early spark and three competitive quarters against Burkburnett before turnovers, injuries and costly mistakes helped the Bulldogs pull away in the fourth.
The Cougars wasted little time getting on the board. Senior running back Ashton Richardson took the first handoff of the season 70 yards for a touchdown, breaking multiple tackles along the way. Senior Ricardo Tellez, playing in his first football game, added the extra point for an early 7-0 lead.
Burkburnett recovered and carried a 15-7 advantage into halftime.
Western Hills’ defense kept the Cougars within striking distance through three quarters despite having only a week to prepare for Burkburnett’s Wing-T offense. One practice day was also lost because smoke kept the team indoors.
Mauricio Martinez, Richardson, Brayden Burns, D’Tyree Faulk, Gabriel Christion and Mohammed Soumahoro were among those the coaching staff credited with strong defensive performances.
Offensively, Richardson finished with 122 rushing yards, while Tyler Johnston carried 10 times for 44 yards and a touchdown. Christion led the receivers with two catches for 20 yards.
Faulk also provided a pair of big moments on special teams, converting two fake punts into first downs.
The Cougars now turn their attention to Friday night and a neutral-site matchup against the Pecos Eagles at Big Spring High School. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
After an opener that got away late, Western Hills won’t have to wait long for another chance to put together four complete quarters.
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