FRIENDSWOOD – The 2025 season has officially begun for the Friendswood Mustangs varsity football team. However, in their Week 1 matchup against the Ford Bend Marshall Buffaloes, it wasn’t the strong start they were hoping, after a 24-14 loss.

Friendswood maintained the lead in the first half. With 6:52 to go in the second quarter, junior quarterback Joshua Brister scrambles for eight-yards into the endzone to give the Mustangs a one-point lead, 7-6.

However, in the second half, Friendswood’s winning chances took a turn for the worst. The Mustangs struggled on defensive play-calling giving up two Marshall offensive touchdowns in the second half, the offense failed to find any rhythm, and made costly special teams mistakes, with one instance being a blocked punt that was recovered by the Buffaloes for a touchdown.

Turnovers also became a major issue as well. When throwing to his intended target, wide-receiver Maddux Joy, Brister was intercepted by Marshall cornerback JaQuail Spriggs.

With only a minute remaining left to play in the fourth quarter, Brister connects with Joy for an 11-yard touchdown pass.

Marshall’s Head Coach James Williams, Jr. told KGTX 7 that while he was pleased with the win, there were mistakes they’ll have to to fix.

“I’m proud of this team. We made mistakes, but they fought the entire game and found a way.” said Williams. “The defense played well against the run, and special teams created two huge touchdowns. We’ll go back to work and get better.” he added.

Next week, the Mustangs must find their footing, as they head out to Hall Stadium, to play Fort Bend Willowridge. Their next home game won’t be until Oct. 3, where they’ll square off against Crosby.

Photo credit: KGTX7