The Richland Springs Coyotes continued their strong start to the 2026 football season with a decisive 57-16 road victory over the Gustine Tigers Friday night. Playing on the road for the second consecutive week, the Class 1A Division II No. 3 Coyotes improved to 2-0, while No. 17 Gustine fell to 1-1. Richland Springs produced 330 yards of total offense, including 256 yards rushing and 74 yards passing.
Evan Deeds led the Coyotes with an outstanding all-around performance. He rushed for 195 yards and three touchdowns, caught four passes for 47 yards and two touchdowns, and completed a 5-yard touchdown pass.
Layne Ward passed for 69 yards and three touchdowns while adding 45 rushing yards and another score. He also caught a 2-yard pass. Matthew Woerndell recorded three receptions for 18 yards and a touchdown, while Brice Roesler hauled in a 12-yard touchdown pass.
Roesler led the Richland Springs defense with 16 tackles. Deeds and Ian McKinnerney recorded 13 tackles each, followed by Woerndell and Edgar Flores with eight apiece. Ward and AJ Rosales contributed six tackles each.
The Coyotes will play their home opener Thursday at 7:30 p.m. against Perrin Grace Christian Academy. Perrin Grace enters the matchup with a 1-1 record following a 32-26 victory over Wise County Homeschool.