IHSFAN Top Ten Team 2023 Presented by
In anticipation of the 2023 season, IHSFAN has compiled its annual list of the area’s Top Ten players. Keep an eye on these ten when the lights turn on this fall.
MASON COCHRAN
Round Rock - QB
1st Team All-District
2022 Stats
1293 Yards Passing
1029 Yards rushing
10 Passing TDs
21 Rushing TDs
JACK KAYSER
Westlake - RB
26-6A- District MVP
2022 Stats
1555 Yards Rushing
265 Yards Receiving
27 Rushing TDs
2 Receiving TDs
12
NOAH LONG
Liberty Hill - RB
3rd Team All-State
13-5A D2- District MVP
2022 Stats
2099 Yards Rushing
22 TDs
WILL HAMMOND
Hutto - QB
12-6A Offensive MVP
2022 Stats
2763 Yards Passing
828 Yards Rushing
30 Passing TDs
9 Rushing TDs
ANDREW PETTER
Georgetown - RB
11-5A D1 – District MVP
2022 Stats
1872 Yards Rushing
416 Yards Receiving
302 Yards Returning
33 Rushing TDs
3 Receiving TDs
BUSH’S TOP TEN 2023
13
JACOB HENRY
Lake Travis* – DL
1st Team All-District
2022 Stats
50 Tackles
8 TFL
4 Sacks
1 Forced Fumble and
1 Fumble Recovery
MILES COLEMAN
Vandegrift - WR
2nd Team All-State
25-6A Offensive MVP
2022 Stats
99 Receptions
1664 Yards Receiving
13 Receiving TDs
2 Passing TDs
1 Punt Return TD
CAI “PEYTON” MORGAN
Weiss - DB
2nd Team All-District
2022 Stats
78 Tackles
6 INTs
14 Pass Break Ups
5 TFLs
2 TDs
TOP TEN 2023
BUSH’S
14
*On April 3rd Jacob announced that he will be transferring to Vandegrift for his Senior season.
KYLE KOCH
Dripping Springs - WR
1st Team All-District
2022 Stats
67 Receptions
1086 Yards Receiving
87 Yards Rushing
14 TDs
CAMERON DICKEY
Crockett - QB/SS
12-5A D2 - Offensive MVP
1st Team All-District
Defense
2022 Stats
1221 Yards Passing
1832 Yards Rushing
28 Rushing TDs
12 Passing TDs
80 Total Tackles
2 INTs
3 Fumble Recoveries and
2 Blocked Punts
BUSH’S TOP TEN 2023 15
12-6A TEAM PREVIEWS 25-6A 26-6A 11-5A D1 12-5A D1 12-5A D2 11-5A D2 13-5A D2 16
17
WESTWOOD
Coach Anthony Wood is entering his 20th season as the Chief of Warrior nation. Last season Westwood finished at 4-6 and swept through their non district schedule before struggling once district play started. The Warriors were extremely balanced as they passed for 149 yards per game and rushed for 168 yards per game. Coach Wood told IHSFAN,” We expect our team to be ready for a breakout season. We had a young group last season and will return a lot of experience.”
The Warriors will return seven starters on offense and 7 starters on defense. The offense will be led by Sr. QB Owen Norrell who will be one of the most experienced QB’s in the district. 1st Team all district Sr. RB Demani Stewart will be the featured back as he looks to improve upon his amazing ’22 season that saw him average 6.1 yards per carry and scoring 10 TD’s. Other leaders on offense will be Sr. OL Cooper Case and Sr. TE Mike Davis.
The defense will feature two 2nd AD players in Jr. LB Caius Coy and Sr. DB Fred Fisher. Other leaders on defense will be Sr. LB/RB two-way stars Ananias Vance and Sr. DB/ WR Scott Uffelman.
MCNEIL
Coach Scott Hermes enters his 4th season as the Mavs Head Coach. The Mavs finished last season at 2-8 as they started the season with two straight wins and then had their share of heartbreaking losses including a last minute 2 point loss to Westwood and one of the year’s most exciting games which was a season finale overtime loss to Cedar Ridge which saw the Mavs with a double digit lead midway through the 4th quarter. Coach Hermes told IHSFAN, “The results were not what we wanted, but I like the direction we are going and I expect us to be more successful on the field this season.
The Mavs will return 7 starters on offense and 6 starters on defense. The offense will be led Jr. RB and District offensive newcomer of the year Joshua Williams, Sr. OL 2nd AD Haden Mican, Sr.OL 1st AD Judson Cook, and Sr.WR 2nd AD Dae’Ron Calhoun.
The defense will be led by Sr. LB 2nd AD Bobby Holland, Sr. DB 2nd AD Keegan McBryde, and Sr. DE Tony Shannon.
Last season saw a very impressive Freshman squad that will see many from that team get their chance to contribute to the Varsity this season.
VISTA RIDGE
Coach Chad Scott heads into his third season as leader of the Rangers. Vista Ridge finished last year at 5-5 just missing out on the playoffs. Coach Scott told IHSFAN, “We look to take another step forward in earning a playoff spot this season. After tying for the fourth spot last season and not making the playoffs the team is a hungry and dangerous group. We will lean on our senior leadership this season.”
The Rangers will return 5 starters on offense and 7 starters on defense. The offense will feature an amazing receiving crew that includes Sr. WR 2nd AD Tian Murray, Sr. WR 2nd AD James Hester, Sr. WR Tanner Brosie, and Sr. RB Isaac Garcia,
The defense will be led by Sr. DE 1st AD Kaden Dees. Other leaders will include Sr. LB Grant Anderson, Sr. DB Tavon McAdams, Sr. DB Josaan Gaines, Sr. LB Karson Smith and Sr. DB Kade Nathman.
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VANDEGRIFT
Coach Drew Sanders enters his 15th season as the leader of Viper nation. Coach Sanders for the second time earned the IHSFAN Coach of the Year award for his squads historic 2022 season. The Vipers finished the ’22 season at 14-2 and found themselves at Jerry World playing in their first ever State Championship game.
Coach Sanders told IHSFAN, “The 2022 Viper football team broke through the glass to make our first state championship appearance. We look forward to making the trip again with a strong senior class led by All State players on both sides of the ball. We are excited to get the season going.”
The Vipers will return 5 starters on offense and 5 starters on defense. The offense will be led by Sr. WR Centex player of the year, District Offensive MVP and IHSFAN Top 10 Team Miles Coleman, Other leaders on offense will be Sr. TE 1st AD Jase Skoglund, and Sr. OL All State and 1st AD Blake Frazier.
The always stingy Viper defense will be led by Sr.DB THSCA Elite Defensive Player of the Year and 1st AD Alex Foster. Other leaders on defense will be Sr. LB All State and 1st AD Ben Booher, and Sr. LB All State and 2nd AD Blaine Becker.
Look for the Vipers continue their hold on the 25-6A championship trophy and with their incredible Senior leadership they may go back to Jerry World to finish the job.
** On April 3rd IHSFAN learned that IHSFAN Top 10 team and 1st AD Sr. DL Jacob Henry will be transferring to Vandegrift from Lake Travis. Henry announced via twitter that he will be playing both on the offensive and defensive lines for the Vipers. This is a HUGE addition to an already strong, talented, and experienced team.
ROUND ROCK
On February 28th Coach Jeff Cheatham (a former IHSFAN Coach of the Year winner in 2016) was promoted to RRISD Athletic Director bringing a close to his amazing 13 seasons as the Dragons head football coach. Coach Cheatham led the dragons to an overall record of 84-60 including an impressive 10 playoff appearances which was highlighted by the 2016 season where the Dragons went 4 rounds deep ultimately falling to the Woodlands. The school did not wait long as they stayed in the family and on March 31st named Defensive Coordinator Cody Moore to take over the reins. Before Coach Cheatham left, he told IHSFAN, “We graduated a strong class of 22 players. Our offense will have Mason Cochran and depth on the offensive line. The defense will have holes to fill but we have a good young group that we will develop during spring and summer workouts.”
The Dragons finished the ’22 season at 9-2. Their sole district loss came in a hard fought 30-22 road loss to eventual state runner-up Vandegrift. The Dragons fell in the first round to Lake Travis.
The squad will return 5 starters on offense and 4 starters on defense. The Offense will be led by Sr. QB 1st AD and IHSFAN Top 10 Team Mason Cochran. Other leaders on offense include Sr. OL 2nd AD Luke Miller and Sr. OL Kie Wooldridge.
The Defense will be led by Sr. DB 1st AD Leonard Moore, Sr DE 2nd AD Asher Chang, and Jr. DE Defensive newcomer of the Year Justin Lee.
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CEDAR RIDGE
Coach Sam Robinson heads into his 7th season as the Raiders head coach. The ’22 Raiders finished the season at 5-6 and needed an exciting 4th quarter comeback against McNeil in the regular season finale to keep their amazing 10-year playoff streak alive. Coach Robinson told IHSFAN, “We will be a tough and scrappy group that will battle to get in the playoffs. Expect some Sophomores starting on the OL and some other key spots.
The Raiders will return 4 starters on offense and 4 starters on defense. The offense will be led by Jr. WR 2nd AD Reese Brooks, Sr. WR John Gentry, Dual threat Sr. QB Jakari Killingsworth, and Sr. OL Nick Ganster.
The defense will be led by Jr. DL 1st AD Jonah Collis, Sr. DB Baran Robinson, Sr. DL Malik Cousin, and Jr. DL Brendyn Mitchell.
STONY POINT
Coach Craig Chessher enters his 20th season as the leader of Tiger Nation. The 2023 season marks his 40th season of coaching and leading young men. The Tigers finished the ’22 season with a 5-5 record. Coach Chessher told IHSFAN, “This year we will be very young with some talent.”
The Tigers will return 2 starters on offense and 5 starters on defense. The offense will be led by So. QB Kinnick Kalbus, Sr. OL Matthew Angiano, and Sr. OL Travis Nutt.
The strength of the team should be the stingy defense led by Sr. DL 1st AD Chima Onyejiaka, Jr. DB 2nd AD Kaden Cook, and Sr. DB 2nd AD Shane Werner.
MANOR
Coach James Keller heads into his 4th season as Mustang Nation’s head coach. Manor finished the ’22 season with the record of 7-4 losing in the first round of the playoffs to Dripping Springs. Coach Keller told IHSFAN, “We will not be as talented as we were in ’22, but this group is having a great offseason, they are working extremely hard, and will make up for it by being more disciplined and focused. We know that 25-6A is very talented and deep, but don’t count the Mustangs out just yet.”
The Mustangs will return 4 starters on offense and 4 starters on defense.
The offense will be let by a Huge and experienced Offensive line that includes JT Thomas, Davarion Godley, and move-ins Micah Brown and Nakia Wilkins-Lee. Other leaders include Jr. WR Peyton Guyton, and Sr. WR Rayshaad Gray.
The defense will be led by Sr. DB 2nd AD Alijah Prosser, Jr. DL Damien Godley and a pair of Jr. LB’s in Jasxon Cofield and Darion Godley.
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AKINS
Akins is coming off a frustrating 0-10 season in 2022 where 17 of its 42 players suffered season-ending injuries. However, on a brighter note, the Eagles return 10 starters on offense and six starters on defense for the 2023 season. Those returning starters and other promising talent has head coach Joey Saxe feeling optimistic. “We had a lot of success with our ninth-grade team this year and we will look for some of them to contribute immediately next year at some key spots,” Saxe said. “We’re going to have an entirely different look on offense and defense and expect to be much more competitive this year.” Expect senior WR Jammal Loving (2nd AD) and junior OL Jamarion Carter to lead the offense but keep an eye on the versatile AB Gonzales as well. He earned a district honorable mention at the quarterback position last year, but also played some snaps at wide receiver. Defensively, the Eagles will be led by senior linebackers Matthew Ybarra and JP Lopez and senior defensive lineman Jacob Rodriguez. And after watching injuries devastate his team’s roster a year ago, Saxe said he is excited to get his players back to work to build confidence for the 2023 season.
ANDERSON
The Trojans took a noticeable step forward in Donald Hatcher’s first year in charge. They finished 4-6, their most wins in a single season since 2019. Now, the goal will be ending their six-year playoff drought. “We are excited for the stability and discipline installed during the 2022 campaign,” Hatcher said. “We experienced some success and look forward to building on that with our talented underclassman.” Those talented underclassmen include Ed Small (Offensive Newcomer MVP), who had a massive season with 1,164 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, and the speedy Zayden Sharp at the receiver position. Meanwhile, in the backfield, look for quarterback Brady Gephart and running back Dayden Williams to step into starting roles following the graduation of Fred Dale and James Idunate respectively, On the other side of the ball, Jesus Antonio Soto will be a defensive leader from the linebacker position. Junior corner Colin Haines should anchor the secondary after being the lone Trojan with an interception last year, while Jack Middleton is expected to be a key player on the defensive line. Anderson only has five starters returning on each side of the ball, but Hatcher will hope the foundation established last year will help the Trojans take another step forward this season.
AUSTIN HIGH
The Maroons certainly won’t be short of experience heading into the 2023 season as nine starters return on offense and seven starters are back on defense. With so many underclassmen playing key roles last year, the Maroons struggled at times, finishing 2-8 in Bernard Riley’s first year in charge. Their high point came against Anderson in week three when Sam Eccles nailed a 48-yard field goal in the final minute to earn a memorable 21-20 victory. This year, the Maroons will be hoping more victories come their way with junior quarterback John Latham and speedy running back Bryson Batts (1st AD) back to lead the offensive backfield. Up front, junior center Joel Pozos (2nd AD) will anchor the offensive line. The Maroons also have a couple of second team all-district selections returning on defense in linebacker Will Peeler and defensive back Kaleel Green, while Riley expects Lawson Stouse to frustrate opposing team’s backfields from his position on the defensive line. District 26-6A will be a gauntlet yet again, but the Maroons will hope the experience they gained last year will help them be increasingly competitive this year as they seek a return to the playoffs.
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DRIPPING SPRINGS
It was a historic season for the Tigers in 2022 as they made it to the fourth round of playoffs for just the second time in their school’s history. Leading the way was an explosive offense that put up 45.6 points per game. However, this year, the Tigers have to replace six starters offensively, including quarterback Austin Novosad. Luckily for the Tigers’ new man behind center, he’ll have reliable receiver Kyle Koch (1st AD and IHSFAN Top 10 Team) to lean on in the passing game and junior running back Jack Tyndall alongside him in the backfield. On the offensive line, the Tigers return sturdy center Jackson Key (1st AD). Defensively, despite returning just five of its starters, three of Dripping Springs’ five leading tacklers are back in defensive lineman Elijah Gonzales (2nd AD) and linebackers Luca Picucci (1st AD) and Tomsen Vickery (1st AD). Meanwhile, look for safety Landon Requard to lead the secondary. And despite some notable roster turnover, hopes are still sky high in Tiger country. “Our expectation is to have a competitive team within our district and region to produce a program that our community can be proud of,” Dripping Springs head coach Galen Zimmerman said.
LAKE TRAVIS
For its standards, Lake Travis had a down year in 2022. The Cavs finished 7-5, the least amount of wins any Lake Travis team has had in a full season since 2003. Luckily for the Cavaliers, they are poised to return to their double-digit win standards in 2023 with eight starters back on each side of the ball. The offense should be loaded as it boasts dual threat quarterback Kadyn Leon (2nd AD), Nico Hamilton (2nd AD), last year’s leading rusher, and Sam Self (Utility MVP), last year’s leading receiver. Leon was especially impressive a year ago, throwing for 22 touchdowns and just one interception. Leading his pass protection on the offensive line will be seniors Legend Cabello (2nd AD) and Mo Oratokhai (1st AD). On defense, Josiah Estes (1st AD) returns to lead the secondary, while 2022 Defensive Newcomer of the Year Gustavo Cordova will look to wreak havoc from his position on the Cavalier defensive line. Behind them, the Cavaliers expect seniors Markus Boswell and Gavin McCullough to heavily contribute from their linebacker positions. With this sheer amount of talent returning for the Cavaliers, expect them to bounce back and challenge for their first outright district title since 2019. ** On April 3rd IHSFAN learned that IHSFAN Top 10 Team Sr. DL Jacob Henry was transferring to Vandegrift to play his senior season.
WESTLAKE
After its 54-game win streak came to an end in the state semifinals against North Shore last season, Westlake will return hungry in 2023. The Chaparrals will have to contend with some roster turnover as only four starters return on each side of the ball. However, on the bright side, starting running back Jack Kayser (District MVP and IHSFAN Top 10 Team) is back after rushing for 1,500 yards and 26 touchdowns a year ago. Fellow offensive returnees include offensive lineman Tyler Knape (1st AD) and receiver Heath McRee. On the other side of the ball, defensive backs Judson Crockett (1st AD) and Denim Collins (1st AD) are the only two players returning out of Westlake’s nine defensive all-district selections from a year ago. In the linebacking corps, junior Elliott Schaper is poised to play a big role this year after racking up nearly 50 tackles last season. The Chaparrals won three-straight 6A state titles from 2019-2021. After coming up just short last year, head coach Tony Salazar said his team expects to contend for a state championship again this year. “This group of kids have been working hard all off season to get us back to the top,” Salazar said. “That is our plan for the 2023 season.”
26-6A REGION 4 24
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25
WEISS
On January 17, 2022 Weiss promoted Vernon Hughes to take the reins of the program upon the retirement of Steve Van Meter. 2022 marked the Wolves first season in 12-6A saw them qualify for the playoffs finishing 5-6 overall. Weiss traveled further than any other school in the State in the first round of the playoffs to face eventual state champion Desoto. Interestingly enough that first round 17-point win for Desoto was their closest game in their championship run.
The Wolves return 5 on offense and 5 on defense.
Coach Hughes told IHSFAN,” We are excited about the upcoming season. Our defense has a lot of guys that played a lot of football. Although some were not starters, they played significant snaps. We will be talented, but young. We should be in position to secure another playoff spot.”
The offense will be led by Jr. QB Jax Brown, Jr. WR and 2nd AD Adrian Wilson, and Sr. OL Jeshuah Davis.
The defense will be led by Sr.DB 2ndAD and IHSFAN Top 10 Team Peyton Morgan, Sr. DL 1st AD Chad Otutu, and Sr. DL Brian Bacon.
Although the Wolves lost a TON of explosive talent on the offensive side of the ball through graduation but the program is very deep and many new players will get their chance to shine.
HUTTO
In Coach Will Compton’s first season leading Hippo Nation he navigated a tough 12-6A district finishing with the record of 5-5. Coach Compton told IHSFAN, “I feel that we are on the right track. Our players have bought into the way that we are doing things. On the offensive side of the ball, we have some dynamic players back. Our defense made some changes lat in the season that brought improvement. I fell that the ’23 season will be a great one as we plan to compete for a District championship and a playoff run.”
The Hippos will return 7 on offense and 4 on defense.
The offense will be led by district offensive MVP an IHSFAN Top Ten team Sr. QB Will Hammond. The #1 target will be 1st AD Sr. WR Alex Green. Leading the offensive line will be Sr. OL Preston Huneycutt.
The defense will be led by Sr. DL Tristan Compton, Sr. DB Steven Galindo, and Sr. LB Matthew Medrando.
12-6A REGION 2 26
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LEANDER
Coach Kris Price and last season’s squad got off to a red hot 3-0 start ultimately finishing the season at 3-10. Coach Price told IHSFAN, “We are excited about the returners that we have, and we have some very talented Sophomores that will step up into some key roles. We got off to a great start last season and want to do the same this season.” The Lion offense averaged 226 yards through the air and 163 yards on the ground in 2022.
The Lions will return 5 starters on offense and 7 starters on defense. The offense will be led by Jr. QB Logan Mitchell, Jr. WR 2nd AD Zane Wooldridge, and Sr. WR Aidan Parker.
The Leander defense gave up 33 points per game and that is something that they will focus on improving on with their 7 returning starters. The defense will be led by Sr.LB/DL 2nd AD Ethan Rhett, Sr. DL 1st AD Joe Wiese, and Jr. DB Malachi Philen. The Lions also return Sr. P 2nd AD Ivan Rodriguez.
CEDAR PARK
Coach Michael Quintero does not shy away from non-district games to start the season as he played three teams from the very tough 25-6A district including 6A state runner-up Vandegrift. The Timberwolves found themselves in a deep hole starting the season off at 1-5 ultimately the team was able to qualify for the playoffs and finished 4-7. Coach Quintero told IHSFAN, “We are excited for the 2023 season in a tough district. We cannot wait to ge the fall season underway.”
Cedar Park will return 7 starters on offense and 8 starters on defense. The offense will be led by Sr. QB 2nd AD Ayden Arp, Sr. WR 2nd AD Gavin Chapa, and Sr. WR 2nd AD Carter Woehl.
The “Black Rain” defense will be loaded with experience. Leaders of the defense include: Sr. DE Defensive newcomer of the Year Grayson Alex, Sr. LB 1st AD Reid Vines, Sr. DB 2nd AD Garrison Cockerill, Sr. DL 1st AD Caleb Castro, Sr. DL 2nd AD Aiden Breiner, and Jr. DB 2nd AD Garrett Nichols.
Look for the defense to be the strength of the team and with 15 returning starters Cedar Park will definitely be one of the favorites in the district 11-5A D1 race.
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HENDRICKSON
On July 22, 2022 Coach Doug Pearce was named Head Coach of the Hawks after longtime head coach Chip Killian moved to the collegiate ranks. In Coach Pearce’s first season he led the Hawks to a 3-7 record. Coach Pearce told IHSFAN, “We need a lot of our younger players to step up and help provide depth that we have been lacking the last 2 seasons.”
The Hawks will return 8 starters on offense and 6 starters on defense.
The offense averaged 20 points per game and will be led by Sr OL 2nd AD Luka Matamoros, and Sr. RB Carson Workman.
The defense will be led by Sr. DL Brayden Durocher, Sr. DB Spencer Distefano, and Sr. LB Braxton Brown.
GLENN
Coach Brandon Krauskopf heads into his 3rd season as the leader of Grizzly nation. 2022 was a season of what ifs for Glenn. The Grizzlies lost 5 games by a combined 25 points including a heartbreaking double overtime 2-point loss to eventual state runner up College Station that ultimately proved to be a turning point in the season. Coach Krauskopf told IHSFAN, “I was extremely happy in the way we competed in the toughest district in 5A, but it did not bounce our way. This year we just need to finish tight football games versus top opponents to accomplish the goals we set. With the core of our offense returning and a young athletic defense that will grow, I believe we will be right back in the mix in the district of doom.”
The Grizzlies will return 7 starters on offense and 3 starters on defense.
The offense will be led by Jr. RB 1st AD DJ Dugar who rushed for 1414 yards and scored 14 TD’s. Other leaders on offense will be Sr. OL 1st AD Cameron Morrison, and Sr. OL Tyler Mailloux.
The defense will feature Sr. DE Jordan Thompson, Sr. LB Lathan Coffee, and Sr. LB Traevian Mack.
11-5A DI REGION 3 30
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GEORGETOWN
After starting the 2022 season 2-2 through 4 games Coach Chuck Griffin and his Eagles may have been the hottest teams in Texas as they ran off 8 straight wins with their high scoring offense. The Eagles went 3 round into the playoffs before falling to eventual state runner-up College Station. Coach Griffin told IHSFAN, “We should be pretty solid, with good talent coming back on defense. If we can fill a couple of OL and WR spots, our offense should still be explosive. We have the best RB and QB in the district and we expect another good year.”
The Eagles return 5 starters on offense and 5 starters on defense. The offense averaged 43.6 points per game last year and will be led by Sr. RB District MVP and IHSFAN Top 10 Team Andrew Petter, Sr. QB District Offensive MVP Noah Booras, and Sr. TE 1st AD Jacob Weishiemer.
The defense will be led by Sr. DL 1st AD Michael Valenta, Sr. LB Landry Leggett, and Sr. DB Leo Diaz.
EAST VIEW
In April of 2022 Coach Michael Wall was named Head Coach of the Patriots. In Coach Wall’s first season at the helm the Patriots finished with the record of 1-9. Coach Wall told IHSFAN, “We look forward to giving ourselves a chance to make a run for a playoff spot, using our strength at the skill positions to help us get us there.”
The Patriots will return 6 starters on offense and 8 starters on defense.
The offense will be led by Sr. WR 2nd AD T.J. Duncan, Jr. QB Ty Blair, Jr. WR Kieston Rainey and Sr. RB Jae’lin Edmondson. The Patriot offense average 20 points per game in ’22.
The defense will be led by Sr. LB Luis Castillo, Jr. LB Isaiah Davenport-Bell, and Jr. DL Jacob Vasquez. The Patriot defense gave up 49 points per game last season.
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HAYS
Les Goad and his Hawks finished the 2022 season with the record of 6-4 and just missed out on a playoff spot in 12-5A D2. Coach Goad told IHSFAN, “We will be very inexperienced on the offensive side of the ball as most positions are open. We will rely on our defensive experience to help us compete for a playoff spot.”
The Hawks will return 4 starters on offense and 8 starters on defense. The offense will be looking for many to step up as they lost a bunch of talent through graduation in an offense that averaged 41 points per game. Leaders on the offensive side of the ball are Sr. QB Tyler McInvale, Sr. OL Dorien Hill (also was 2nd AD at LB), and Sr. OL Imanol Galvan.
The defense will be loaded with familiar faces and will be the strength of the team. Leaders on defense will include: Sr. DE 1st AD Dillan Lofton, Sr. LB 2nd AD Dorien Hill, Sr. LB 2nd AD Kaiden Richason, Sr. LB Matthew Melendez, Sr. LB Justin Lancaster, Sr. DE Jace Thomas, Sr. DB Alex Villalobos, and Jr. DB Chase Macier.
LEHMAN
On February 13th Chris Castillo was named the head football coach of the Lehman Lobos following Coach Bruce Salmon who was had a record of 7-43 in his 5 years at the reigns. Coach Castillo left the same position at Highlands High School in San Antonio. The Lobos finished 2-8 last season. Coach Castillo told IHSFAN, “We expect to be competitive with a renewed energy and some new faces. The Logos will take a daily approach to improvement with the goal of improving on our previous season’s record.”
Lehman will return 6 starters on offense and 6 starters on defense.
The offense which averaged 127 yards through the air and 118 yards on the ground last season will be led by Sr. WR 2nd AD Noah Long, Jr. RB Mo Bayo, and Sr. OL Joshua Harmer.
The defense, which gave up 41.8 points per game last year will be led by Sr. LB Peter Cienega, Sr. DL Joaquin Ramirez, and Jr. DB Anthony Mata.
12-5A DI REGION 3 34
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ROUSE
Coach Josh Mann heads into his 16th season at the helm of Raider Nation. Last season the Raiders finished with the record of 6-6 going two rounds into the playoffs before losing to Lake Creek. Coach Mann told IHSFAN, “Our standard expectation and goals stay the same year to year, which is to develop great young players and put ourselves in a position to make the playoffs and compete for a district championship.”
The Raiders return 7 starters on offense and 4 starters on defense.
The offense will be led by Sr. RB 1st AD Justin Cannon, Jr. TE 1st AD Mason Rieger, Jr. WR 1st AD Noah Fabila, Sr. WR 1st AD Trent Johnson, Sr. OL 2nd AD Tye Rybasrski, Jr. WR Judson Mann, and Jr. TE Armari Haywood.
The defense will be led by Sr. LB 1st AD Preston Welton, Sr. DL 1st AD Nico Fisher, and Sr. LB Caden Heitzman
ELGIN
2022 marked a HUGE turnaround for the Wildcats as they finished an impressive 7-4 after going winless in 2021. Coach Heath Clawson heads into his third season as the leader of Wildcat nation with high hopes on building on the squads impressive ’22 campaign. Coach Clawson told IHSFAN, “I expect our ’23 season to be another step forward. Our district runner-up performance showed that we have put in the work. We are working to be a program that doesn’t rely on great talent to win games. We want to be consistent with our teamwork and dedication to hard work and playing as a team.”
The Wildcats return 5 starters on offense and 7 starters on defense.
The offense will be led by Sr. QB 2nd AD Nathen Lewis, Sr. OL 2nd AD Hunter Gibson, Sr. WR 2nd AD Blake Courtney, and Sr. OL Aiden Beckett.
The defense will be led by Sr. DE 1st AD Rogelio Huitron, Sr. LB 1st
AD Derrius Holiday, Sr. DE 2nd AD Dennis Lavigne, and Jr. LB 2nd AD Jackson Clowdus.
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PFLUGERVILLE
Coach Charles Taylor heads into his 6th season as the Panthers head coach. The Panthers finished the ’22 season with the record of 3-7. Coach Taylor told IHSFAN, “We had a roster of 54 last year but we were really young. We had 20 sophomores and 2 freshmen contribute. We are looking to compete for a playoff spot this year as we missed it by one game last year.”
The Panthers will return 5 starters on offense and 5 starters on defense.
The offense will be led by So. QB Cole Taylor, Sr. OL 2nd AD Max Mendoza, and Sr. WR Christian Baham.
The defense will be led by Jr. LB D’Angelo Porter, Jr. DL Sonny Davis, and Jr. DL Donnie Wright.
The Young Panthers gained a ton of game time experience last year and should have enough to qualify for one of the 4 available playoff spots.
CONNALLY
Coach Charles Burton was hired to lead the Cougars in 2023. Coach Burton is no stranger to the sidelines as he was recently on the staff at Lake Travis and before that he was head coach at Del Valle. Coach Burton told IHSFAN, “We are looking to establish a physical identity and be consistent and efficient in all 3 phases of the game.
The Cougars will return 9 starters on offense and 9 starters on defense making them one of the most experienced teams in the area.
The offense will be led by Sr. WR District All-Purpose MVP Owen Garcia, Sr. WR 2nd AD Landon Bradley, and Se. QB Kaden Nguyen.
The defense will be led by Sr. DB 2nd AD Lawrence Doe, Sr. LB Alvaro Ruiz, and Jr. DE Jaydus Bell.
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CROCKETT
Crockett made some noise last year as the Cougars snapped a five-year playoff drought thanks to a 5-2 record in district play. Heading into 2023, Crockett is poised for another successful season with 10 starters returning on offense and nine back on defense. Leading the way is quarterback Cameron Dickey (2022 District Offensive MVP and IHSFAN Top 10 Team). He finished last regular season with 1,221 passing yards, 1,832 rushing yards, and 40 total touchdowns. Other notable returners for an offense that averaged over 35 points per game last year include speedy junior receiver Jamari Wilson (1st AD) and versatile senior ATH Chris Giles (1st AD). Defensively, the Cougars are led by Caleb Dickey (District Defensive Lineman of the Year), who is Cameron’s younger brother. In the regular season last year, Caleb had 37 tackles for loss from his spot on the defensive line. Cameron (1st AD) is also an important player for Crockett at defensive back, while Giles will also contribute on the defensive side of the ball. Crockett will be a team to keep an eye on this season because after the Cougars fell in the bi-district round of playoffs and let a big lead slip against McCallum in its district opener, Norton said his team has some “Unfinished Business” to handle in 2023.
EASTSIDE
Eastside may be in the midst of a 38-game losing streak, but head coach Luis Becerra said the Panthers are hopeful of making progress in 2023. “We will be installing a new offense this spring that we feel will utilize our personnel in the best way possible,” Becerra said. “We are excited about what this new scheme will allow us to do.” The Panthers will have some new faces leading that offense this year with only three offensive starters back from 2022. Their biggest strength will be on the offensive line where seniors Miguel Saenz-Trevino and Luis Perez both return. In the backfield, Adrian Trevino (2nd AD) is back after rushing for nearly 200 yards last season. Defensively, Becerra is optimistic about a unit that returns nine starters, several of which are underclassmen. Defensive back JaMykal Jones (2nd AD) should lead the secondary, while Becerra expects junior defensive tackle Jaden Benson (2nd AD) and senior linebacker DaQuan Bunton to be impact players in the front seven. Last year, the Panthers made strides as they took the field following a one-year hiatus from varsity football. Now, it remains to be seen if 2023 is the year they find the victory that has eluded them for so long.
LASA
In its first-ever season in a UIL district, Raptor head coach Derrick Lewis said his team showed tremendous potential that could foreshadow what is to come. “We were 10 yards and two dropped passes away from the playoffs in our first year of UIL competition,” Lewis said. “The boys have a sour taste in their mouth. That taste of success has made them hungry.” That hunger and the return of eight starters on each side of the ball could be a recipe for success in 2023. Most importantly for the Raptors, dual threat quarterback Roman Edwards (1st AD) returns to lead the offense. He threw for over 1,400 yards a year ago and added another 440 yards on the ground in 2022. LASA’s top two receivers graduated, but senior Tate Smith will be back to give Edwards a reliable target in the passing game. Up front, Lewis expects center Juyeop Lee to lead the offensive line. Defensively, linebacker Abel Perez was one of LASA’s leading tacklers as a freshman a year ago, while defensive tackle Luis Salazar and safety Barrett Seibeneicher should be two other key contributors on defense this season. The battle for the final two playoff spots in this district should be fierce, and LASA will hope to be right in the mix with the experience it gained a year ago.
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LBJ
LBJ will have a new man at the helm this year after Jahmal Fenner took a job on The University of Texas coaching staff. Luckily for the Jaguars’ new coach, they’ll have plenty of talent returning at the skill positions on an offense that averaged 55 points per game a year ago. Senior receiver Fatu Mukuba (1st AD) is back as is promising sophomore running back Caleb Crenshaw (Offensive Newcomer of the Year), who rushed for 645 yards and three touchdowns in 2022. The Jaguars also have some options at quarterback as last year’s starter Ali Scott (2nd AD) returns along with Jayson Zardavets, who battled through injury last season. However, up front, LBJ will need growth on both its offensive line and defensive line after graduating several key players. And while five starters are back on offense, the defense returns just two. On that side of the ball, the Jaguars are most excited about their secondary which will include junior corners Christian Watson (Defensive Newcomer of the Year) and KJ Houston and sophomore safety Yaheim Riley (2nd AD). Due to its inexperience in the trenches, LBJ may experience some growing pains early in the season, but the Jaguars expect to be in the mix again for another deep playoff run come November.
MCCALLUM
McCallum Heading into last season, the Knights had to replace 20 of their 22 starters. But despite fielding such a young team, the Knights still had a successful 2022 season. They finished with a 7-4 record and earned their 20th playoff berth in the last 21 seasons. This year, head coach Tom Gammerdinger expects the Knights to be deeper thanks in part to the 12 returning players that were on the varsity roster as sophomores a year ago. The Knights have high hopes for running back Mitchell Butler, who was one of those sophomores that had an impact a year ago, while offensive lineman Henry Snyder (1st AD) and tight end Thurston Roberts will bring senior leadership to an offense that returns five starters this season. The defense also has five starters back, including defensive end Edward Bomba (2nd AD). Gammerdinger is also looking for defensive tackle Nathan Barnes to be a key player in the trenches, while linebacker/defensive back Tony Andrews should lead the Knights on the back end. McCallum should extend its playoff streak this year, but the biggest question will be if the Knights can close the gap on LBJ with what Gammerdinger believes is an improved roster.
NAVARRO
Navarro made positive strides in Sebastian Velasquez’s first year in charge as the Vikings snapped a 14-game losing streak with wins over Eastside and LASA. This year is a chance for another step forward with seven starters back on each side of the ball. The Vikings’ biggest strength should be the running back position as they return Marcus Dennis (1st AD), who led the team last year with 544 rushing yards, and Neveon Shaw (2nd AD), who rushed for 130 yards as a freshman last season. Bryan Nieto (2nd AD) is also back after having an impact at both quarterback and wide receiver last season. On the other side of the ball, Velasquez expects defensive lineman Jacobi Simmons (1st AD), linebacker Brandon Galvan and safety Daemion Cervantes (2nd AD) to each lead their respective units. Navarro had a chance at the playoffs in its final game last season before falling to Northeast. After coming close, a year ago, Velasquez is eager to see his team progress in 2023. “Knocking on the door to the playoffs and not opening it has left us feeling loathsome,” Velasquez said. “We can put up a fight in ballgames, but we must learn to finish and to have faith in each other.”
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41
DAVE CAMPBELL’S ALL-ACCESS
NORTHEAST
The Raiders took advantage of the all-Austin ISD district as they returned to the playoffs for the second time in three years after posting a 4-3 record in district play. Looking forward to this season, the Raiders have the pieces in place to earn another playoff appearances with eight starters back on offense and another six returning on defense. Offensively, Northeast loves to run the football (they attempted just 14 passes a year ago). Fortunately for the Raiders, they return two of their top three rushers in seniors Amari Joyner (1st AD) and Clifton Washington (2nd AD). Paving the way up front for the rushing attack will be lineman Ener Martinez Olvera (2nd AD). On the other side of the ball, promising junior corners Cinque Antonio Kiara and Jovon Pierre-Paul will anchor the secondary. Another bonus for the Raiders is the return of special teams ace Evan Vasquez, who was a first team all-district punter a year ago as well as a reliable kicker. As the Raiders aim for back-to-back playoff appearances this season for the first time since 2015-16, head coach Abdul Mustafa said his team must strive for consistency in order to build upon their successes from last season.
TRAVIS
Travis had an up-and-down 2022. The Rebels finished 4-6 overall, their most wins in a single season since 2016, but were 2-5 in district play, coming up short of the playoffs. “Last year we had some success,” Travis head coach Joe Frank Martinez said. “But we need to continue to improve and get stronger and more physical.” Luckily for Travis, it returns eight starters on each side of the ball. Offensively, the Rebels have a true gamebreaker at quarterback in Jordan Davis (Offensive Newcomer of the Year), who rushed for 608 yards and 10 touchdowns a year ago. Joining Davis in the backfield are running backs Christian Rodriguez, Frank McChriston, and Ruben Ekanga. And with Dominic Juarez leading a veteran offensive line, the Rebels should boast a strong rushing attack. Defensively, the Rebels have talented defensive linemen Anthony Powell (2nd AD) and Benny Rodriquez leading the way in the trenches. And while linebacker has some question marks, Martinez has high hopes for cornerback Ronald Sauls and the secondary, which has several key returnees. Travis broke an eight-year playoff drought back in 2021, and despite falling short last season, expect an experienced Rebel team to be back in the playoff mix this fall.
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LIBERTY HILL
Coach Kent Walker kept the perennial powerhouse known as Panther nation moving down the tracks with another amazing season in 2022. Liberty Hill finished the season with the record of 13-2 just missing out on their second consecutive trip to Jerry World. Coach Walker told IHSFAN, “We will always have high expectations here at Liberty Hill. We have a lot of work to do between now and the first day of summer workouts, but we feel like we are going to have a really good team. We will need to have some youngsters step it up. If they do, we should have another great year.”
The Panthers will return 5 starters on offense and 2 starters on defense.
The offense which gained 7,071 rushing yards and 91 TD’s will surely continue to produce. The Panthers offensive leaders will include: Sr. RB 3rd All-State- District MVP and two-time IHSFAN Top 10 team, Sr. RB Joe Pitchford, Sr. RB 1st All State- 1st AD Ben Carter, So. RB Jack Pitchford Offensive newcomer of the year, Sr. TE Trent Holcomb 1st AD, and Sr. OL 1st AD Alex Richardson.
The defense lost 9 starters to graduation and will have a ton of new Panthers that will try to make their mark. The defense will be led by Sr. LB Samuel Knox, Sr. LB Carson Hollen, Sr. DL Avery Mannette, and Sr. DL 2nd AD Jacob Morris.
Look for Liberty Hill to once again make a deep playoff run and compete for the district championship.
LOCKHART
The Lockhart Lions had a breakout season in 2022 with an 8-4 season record and a 3rd place finish in district 13 5A-D2 that resulted in a strong playoff run into the area round. With that massive momentum the Lions look to take further steps and return lots of talent that seem to indicate this team will indeed do that.
Off District MVP SR Ashton Dickens and Def District MVP SR Zakaya
Gathings lead that charge of returnees. The offense will also once again feature 1st Team AD TE Sr. Trent Holcomb, 1st Team AD OL Sr. returnees Alex Richardson and Brady Stephenson along with 2nd Team AD Sr. Ricardo Diaz who will anchor the trenches.
Holcomb who is also a 1st Team AD DL along with 2nd Team AD DL Tyler Stanton will work along the front and 2nd Team AD LB Eddie Mendoza and 2nd Team AD LB Quavon Reese also return for their Sr. seasons. Special teams return 1st Team AD K Connor Hawkins. The Lockhart program is surging in the right direction and HC Todd Moebes and the staff at LHS continue to build and excite the faithful fans in Lion Country.
13-5A DII REGION 4 44
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45
BASTROP
Coach Jake Griedl enters his second season at the Bears head coach. Last season the team finished with the record of 2-8. Coach Griedl told IHSFAN, “We are expecting to be a better team than we were in 2022. Last season we were extremely competitive, but struggled to close out games. Our average loss was by 7.1 points. We will still be young in certain positions, but that youth already has varsity playing experience due to our extreme youth in ’22. We are looking forward to turning the corner as a program this season.”
The Bears will return 4 starters on offense and an amazing 10 starters on defense.
The offense will be led by Jr. WR 1st AD Keyshon Moore, Sr. OL 2nd AD Tavion Nichols, and Sr. OL Matthew Martin.
The defense will be led by Sr. DE 2nd AD Wesley Donner, So. DL 2nd AD Tiki Hola, Jr. DB 2nd AD Andy McCarus, So. LB Val Regalado.
CEDAR CREEK
Coach Josh Thomas enters his second season as the Head Coach of Cedar Creek. Last season the squad finished 0-10. Coach Thomas told IHSFAN, “This group has had a great off-season. When you come off a tough season like last year, you only have two things you can do. You can sit and wait for change or you can get to work and make things happen. We have had great leadership from our ’24 class and they have forced our younger guys to step up their game. I believe this team has a chance to do something special and we cannot wait for the upcoming season to arrive.”
This season Cedar Creek will return 8 starters on offense and 7 starters on defense.
The offense will be led by Sr. TE/DL (2-way starter) 2nd AD Mason Thomas, So. QB Blaze Orr, Jr. QB Dillon Dubee, Sr. RB K’Veahon Houston, Sr. WR 2nd AD Kade Maters, Sr. WR 2nd AD Kole Masters, and Sr. WR 2nd AD Roy Rose.
The defense will be led by Sr. DB 1st AD Chris Nino, Jr. LB Benjamin Young, and Sr. DE Grant Davis.
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25-6A 26-6A 12-6A 11-5A D1 12-5A D1 11-5A D2 12-5A D2 13-5A D2 Vandegrift Westlake Weiss Georgetown Hays Rouse LBJ Liberty Hill Vandegrift Westlake Weiss Georgetown New Braunfels Rouse LBJ Liberty Hill Vandegrift Westlake Weiss College Station Hays Belton LBJ Liberty Hill
PREDICTIONS 2023 DISTRICT
Rick Epstein
Jeff Power
Canyon 47
Rodney Rodriguez
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