Magnolia has now lost consecutively for the first time this season. But all is not lost in the District 15-6A playoff race with two games left.
The Bulldogs took their shot at first-place and unbeaten Tomball Friday night, but fell 29-17 at Tomball ISD Stadium.
It was the first road loss of the season for the Bulldogs (4-4, 3-3), who’s record is now even across the board.
Tomball (8-0, 6-0) will travel to Klein Cain next Saturday afternoon with the district title on the line.
Magnolia remains in fifth place in the district standings, a half-game behind Klein Collins. The Tigers fell to Klein Cain Friday night.
The Bulldogs trailed early against the Cougars before cutting the deficit to a 14-10 game in the second quarter. Tomball led 22-17 at halftime and blanked the Bulldogs in the second half.
Magnolia senior Colin Leahey’s touchdown streak intact. He has a rushing score in all eight games this season after reaching the end zone against the Cougars. He totaled 101 yards on 12 carries while also making two catches for 68 yards.
Sophomore Cash Ferrell also had a rushing score while junior Gavin Gonzales kicked a 39-yard field goal.
Sophomore quarterback Chase Lowery was 7-for-12 for 120 yards. Junior tight end Carson Smith had two receptions for 23 yards.
On defense, junior linebacker Tyler Covar led with 11 tackles and a forced fumble. Senior Jace Chadwick recovered a fumble and had five tackles.
Sophomore linebacker Ty Miller had a big night with tackles, including one for all. Junior defensive back Max Lejsek broke up a pass and totaled four tackles. Senior Grayson Holcomb was credited with two pass breakups and three tackles, including one for loss. Junior Aiyhden Noland broke up three passes and made two tackles.
The win was Tomball’s first against Magnolia since 2018. The Bulldogs beat the Cougars in each of the last two seasons as non-district opponents.
Magnolia has a big week ahead as it hosts Magnolia West 7 p.m. Friday in the 17th edition of the Magnolia Bowl.
Shown here earlier this season, Magnolia senior Grayson Holcomb (12) broke up two passes and made three tackles in a loss at Tomball October 26, 2024.
