Wagner Thunderbirds Look to Reset in Hammer Bowl Against Judson

The Wagner Thunderbirds head into this year’s Hammer Bowl looking to turn the page after a challenging start to the 2026 football season.

Wagner currently sits at 2-2 overall according to the school’s official athletics site. The Thunderbirds opened the season with a 7-0 victory over Austin, followed by a 14-21 loss to O’Connor and a strong 27-7 win over Del Rio. Their most recent game, however, was a difficult district matchup against Steele, with the Thunderbirds falling 56-19.

Despite the loss to Steele, Wagner has shown signs of being a team capable of competing when it executes. The Thunderbirds have demonstrated an ability to play strong defense, including holding Austin scoreless and limiting Del Rio to just seven points.

Offensively, Wagner will need to find consistency moving forward. Quarterback Javontae Hughes has been one of the team's statistical leaders, averaging 59 rushing yards per game and accounting for two passing touchdowns through the available statistics. Wagner will also look to players such as J'anthony Price and Jozyne Scott to provide production in the rushing and skill positions.

The Hammer Bowl Awaits

Now, Wagner turns its attention to one of the biggest rivalry games on its schedule: the Hammer Bowl against the Judson Rockets.

The matchup is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, at 11 a.m. at D.W. Rutledge Stadium. The game also carries significant district importance, with both teams entering the matchup looking to establish themselves in District 27-6A.

Judson enters the game with a 1-2 overall record and a 1-0 district record, while Wagner is 0-1 in district play according to Dave Campbell's Texas Football.

For Wagner, the Hammer Bowl provides an opportunity to respond immediately after the loss to Steele. The Thunderbirds will need to limit explosive plays, establish their rushing attack and avoid the mistakes that allowed Steele to build a large lead.

The rivalry itself adds another layer to the matchup. With both programs sharing Rutledge Stadium and competing in the same district, Saturday's game is about more than simply adding another win to the schedule. It is also an opportunity for Wagner to gain momentum heading into the remainder of district play.

After the Hammer Bowl, Wagner's district schedule continues with East Central, Canyon, Clemens, San Marcos and Pieper.

Southern Sports Report Take: Wagner has already shown flashes of what it can do this season. The Hammer Bowl will give the Thunderbirds an early opportunity to respond to adversity, compete against a district rival and build momentum for the second half of the season.