Judson Rockets Take Control in Hammer Bowl, Defeat Wagner 56–27

CONVERSE, Texas — The Hammer Bowl returned Saturday night, and the Judson Rockets made sure they would be the ones walking away with bragging rights.

Judson defeated the Wagner Thunderbirds 56–27 in a high-scoring District 27-6A matchup, using a strong second half to pull away and secure another chapter in one of the San Antonio area's most recognizable high school football rivalries.

The Rockets entered the matchup looking to build on their first district victory of the season, a 51–41 win over Schertz Clemens the previous week. Wagner, meanwhile, came into the Hammer Bowl at 2–2 overall after splitting its first four games, including wins over Austin and Del Rio.

Rockets Strike Early

Judson wasted little time establishing its offensive rhythm.

The Rockets scored fourteen points in the opening quarter, while their defense held Wagner scoreless to take a 14–0 lead after the first quarter.

Wagner answered in the second quarter, but Judson continued to find ways to move the football. The Rockets added two touchdowns in the quarter, while the Thunderbirds found the end zone once.

At halftime, Judson held a 21–7 advantage.

Judson Pulls Away After Halftime

The third quarter proved to be the turning point.

Judson added 14 points in the third quarter, continuing to put pressure on Wagner's defense. The Thunderbirds managed to answer with 13 points of their own, but the Rockets maintained control of the game heading into the final period.

With the score at 35–20 entering the fourth quarter, Judson's offense continued to attack.

The Rockets exploded for 21 fourth-quarter points, putting the game out of reach and completing the 56–27 victory. Wagner managed one final touchdown in the fourth, but Judson's offensive production proved too much to overcome.

A Rivalry With Plenty of History

The Hammer Bowl is more than just another district game.

Judson and Wagner are both part of the Judson Independent School District, and the rivalry dates back to 2006. The matchup has developed into one of the notable football rivalries in the San Antonio area. Judson High School's own announcements described the 2026 contest as the return of the Hammer Bowl, bringing the two programs back together for another chapter.

The history between the programs has traditionally favored Judson. Prior to Saturday's game, historical records showed the Rockets holding a significant advantage in the series.

But rivalry games carry their own meaning, and Saturday's atmosphere at D.W. Rutledge Stadium reflected the importance of the matchup.

What This Means Moving Forward

With the victory, Judson improves to 2–2 overall and 2–0 in district play, according to the latest game results. The Rockets have now won consecutive games after beginning the season with losses to Hutto and Austin Bowie.

For Wagner, the loss drops the Thunderbirds to 1–3 overall. Wagner's next district matchup is scheduled against East Central on October 9.

Judson will also have a break before returning to district action against Pieper on October 9.

Final

Judson Rockets 56, Wagner Thunderbirds 27

The Hammer Bowl belonged to Judson.

The Rockets delivered another explosive offensive performance and finished the night with a 56–27 victory, adding another chapter to the history between these two Judson ISD programs.

For Wagner, the focus now turns toward the remainder of district play and the opportunity to respond.

For Judson, the Rockets will look to carry the momentum from consecutive victories into the next phase of their season.