Holy Cross of San Antonio

Just Business

Previewing Holy cross vs Hill Country Christian

by Jacob Bermudez ('25) on November 06, 2025

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            After an emotional 47-0 Senior Night win that saw four seniors reach the end zone, Holy Cross now turns its attention to the regular-season finale on the road against Hill Country Christian of Austin. The stakes couldn’t be clearer: win, and the Knights secure the third seed in the district and host a first-round playoff game. Lose, and the road to state starts away from home. 

            But if this season has proven anything, it’s that this group isn’t rattled by pressure. They’ve faced adversity from start to finish. Through it all, Holy Cross has stayed locked in. This team doesn’t listen to the noise. They just work. 

            That mindset has fueled one of the most balanced seasons the program has seen in recent years. Sophomore quarterback Rocky Orozco has shown poise beyond his age, throwing for 1,165 yards and 19 touchdowns with a passer rating of 122.6, while adding 551 rushing yards and 7 scores on the ground.

            In the backfield, senior Taylor Flores has been the tone-setter: physical, determined, and reliable. He’s piled up 1,151 yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging nearly 128 yards per game, embodying the hard-nosed, disciplined style that defines Holy Cross football. 

            Through the air, senior Julian “J.R.” Salas continues to be a big-play threat with 443 yards and 8 touchdowns, while sophomore Crew Hudson adds a deep-threat element, averaging 25.8 yards per catch and finding the end zone five times. It’s an offense built on trust, balance, and execution.

            Defensively, the Knights have been just as tough. Led by playmakers like juniors Andrew Ybarra and A.J. Eguia, and seniors Diego Flores, Nate Espinoza, Aiden Olivarez, Jayden Olivarez, and Chris Ponce, Holy Cross has built a reputation for its relentless pursuit of the football. Whether it’s stuffing the run, flying to the ball, or making game-changing stops on third down, this group plays fast, physical, and with heart. Sophomore Michael Gonzalez has also emerged as a spark, bringing energy and toughness to the defensive front. 

            As the Knights prepare for Friday’s trip to Austin, there’s no need for extra motivation. They know what’s at stake, and they know who they are. From here on out, it’s not about revenge or proving anyone wrong. It’s about handling business. Together. 

           Because for Holy Cross, it’s not personal. It’s just business.