On The Grid

ON THE GRID 2019 KATY AREA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

READY TO SOAR After breakout season, senior R.J. Smith, junior Jalen Milroe and senior Hayden Burke are ready to lift Tompkins to greater heights.

Tigers eye state-record ninth title, page 14 Spartans look for another playoff run, page 28 Mustangs ready for another step forward, page 32 AND MUCH MORE

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ON THE GRID

I

t wasn’t long ago that this magazine would have been little more than a pipe dream.

As of the final week of July, the Katy Times was going to cease its print product. Hartmann Newspapers had thrown in the towel on a newspaper that had served the Katy community since 1912.

But in the final hour—literally, 53 minutes before a self-placed deadline to sell the paper—Fenice Community Media swept in and saved the day. Based in central Texas and owner of a handful of other community newspapers, Fenice revived the Katy Times; not only that, it brought with it a modern approach, fresh ideas and a completely different way of looking at community news and sports coverage that is so necessary in this day and age.

It is because of Fenice that you are holding our annual high school football preview magazine in your hands. I am eternally grateful to Brandi Chionsini, Scott Coleman and our new publisher Karen Lopez for not only keeping my hometown newspaper alive, but allowing me to stay on as part of this exciting transition.

Without them, there would have been no sports SILVA coverage in Katy, now or in the near future. Maybe forever.

And, let’s be real: Katy, Texas IS sports, and it starts with, of course, football.

This 2019 season figures to be a compelling one for Katy.

Katy High is striving for a state-best ninth state championship, and it has the passing game and secondary play to get it there. The Tigers’ last title was 2015, and folks around town are starting to get antsy. That’s just a product of the standard established by legendary head coach Gary Joseph, his talented and gifted staff, and a group of young men that don’t know what it’s like to not be playing in December.

St. John XXIII, of TAPPS Division V, is actually the city’s latest state champ, having captured the title last year. Now let’s see if coach Clay Richardson’s boys can defend it. They certainly have the talent in stock. It will depend on senior leadership.

Tompkins is on a fast rise in Class 6A, Division I. Winless two years ago, the Falcons opened a lot of eyes, and wowed a lot of people, with a 10-3 run to the third round of the playoffs last season. Much of that core returns, including one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the nation in Jalen Milroe.

After a three-year hiatus, Seven Lakes returned to the postseason last year under first-year head coach Jimmy Hamon. Pay attention to that Spartans defense this year. The front seven could be really special.

Cinco Ranch enters a new era. Following the retirement of the only head coach the Cougars have ever known, the iconic Don Clayton, Cinco Ranch has a familiar face as a successor in Chris Dudley, a longtime former Cougars assistant who led the offense for area finalist Taylor last season.

Speaking of the Mustangs, they have one of the best offensive lines in the state, led by four-star recruits Hayden Conner and Bryce Foster. And keep an eye on junior running back Casey Shorter, who has the chops to be a dynamo in the backfield this year. Coach Chad Simmons enters his second season at the helm, and he’s already established stability and a relentless, no-nonsense mindset in his troops.

Morton Ranch finished a game out of the playoffs last season and has the defense to contend again. Mayde Creek’s offense is always a power in District 19-6A. Paetow had a nice inaugural season of varsity play last year and received a considerable boost in depth with talented transfers Damon Bankston, Johnathan Jolly and D.J. Mourning.

That will be needed in one of the toughest districts in the state, 10-5A, Division II. Perhaps the most exciting brand of football lies in the private school ranks at Faith West Academy, where the Eagles are used to posting scores in the 60’s and 70’s and will boast a dazzlingly talented quarterback in three-year starter Marshall Wales. The Eagles also have a new kicker in fold, and you’ll have to read Jim McCurdy’s team preview to see why that will make a considerable difference this season.

There’s all that, and much more. But just to have the pleasure to write this column means all the difference in the world, and being able to put together the stories and other content in this magazine to give you the best comprehensive coverage of Katy area football means so much more.

I can’t thank Fenice Community Media enough. And I can’t thank you, the community, enough for stepping up and letting your voices be heard when it was initially thought the Times was on its deathbed. You simply wouldn’t let it die.

It’s true what they say of Katy, Texas: the people never give in. You brought the Times to the finish line. Fenice ran it across.

Touchdown.

Just the first of many this season.

I’ll see you around, Katy!

Times Sports Editor Dennis Silva II

INSIDE 5

A TABLE OF CONTENTS: 6 7 10 13 14 18 22 26 28 31 32 35

MAKING THEIR MARKS

A look at the top Katy ISD collegiate prospects

COVER STORY

Feature on Tompkins High’s offense

CINCO RANCH COUGARS FAITH WEST EAGLES KATY TIGERS MAYDE CREEK RAMS MORTON RANCH MAVERICKS PAETOW PANTHERS SEVEN LAKES SPARTANS ST. JOHN XXIII TAYLOR MUSTANGS TOMPKINS FALCONS

ON THE COVER From left to right, Tompkins High senior running back R.J. Smith, junior quarterback Jalen Milroe and senior offensive lineman Hayden Burke pose for a photo in the locker room. Photo by Mark Goodman.

STAFF PUBLISHER: Karen Lopez SPORTS EDITOR: Dennis Silva II SPORTS CONTRIBUTORS: Jim McCurdy PHOTOGRAPHERS: Mark Goodman, Dennis Silva II DESIGNER: Victoria Parker ADVERTISING SALES: Karen Lopez Katy Times 5319 E. 5th St., Katy, TX 77493 / (281) 391-3141 www.katytimessports.com

6

KATY ISD PROSPECTS ON THE GRID

PRIME GROUND Katy ISD football continues to be a fertile recruiting ground for top colleges. The flock of talent is becoming more prominent each year, and the nation is taking notice.

Katy, Texas is now a must-stop for any Power 5 college football coach Here are the top recruits from Katy ISD this season.

The number of offers and schools for each recruit are courtesy of 247sports.com as of August 12.

HAYDEN CONNER, TAYLOR OFFENSIVE TACKLE (VERBAL COMMIT TO TEXAS)

CLASS: 2021 STARS: Four MEASUREMENTS: 6-6, 317.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 22, including Texas A&M, Michigan, Baylor, Georgia, LSU, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.

BOBBY TAYLOR, KATY SAFETY

CLASS: 2022 STARS: N/A MEASUREMENTS: 6-1, 160.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 10, including Arkansas, Baylor, Houston, and Oklahoma State.

BRYCE FOSTER, TAYLOR OFFENSIVE GUARD

CLASS: 2021 STARS: Four MEASUREMENTS: 6-5, 318.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 23, including Texas, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Auburn, Baylor, Florida, Georgia, LSU, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Stanford, and Wisconsin.

HUNTER WASHINGTON, KATY SAFETY CLASS: 2021 STARS: Four MEASUREMENTS: 5-11, 178.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 8, including Ohio State, Houston, Texas Tech and TCU.

JALEN MILROE, TOMPKINS QUARTERBACK (VERBAL COMMIT TO TEXAS)

CLASS: 2021 STARS: Four MEASUREMENTS: 6-2, 194.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 19, including Alabama, Florida, Baylor, Houston, Texas A&M, Oregon, and Virginia Tech.

BRANDON BROWN, MORTON RANCH DEFENSIVE TACKLE (VERBAL COMMIT TO TULANE)

CLASS: 2020 STARS: Three MEASUREMENTS: 6-1, 319.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 20, including Boise State, Navy, North Texas, UTEP, UTSA, and Colorado State.

R.J. SMITH, TOMPKINS RUNNING BACK

CLASS: 2020 STARS: N/A MEASUREMENTS: 5-11, 163.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 14, including Air Force, Illinois State, New Mexico, Tulsa, Princeton, and Yale.

TUNMISE ADELEYE, TOMPKINS DEFENSIVE END

CLASS: 2021 STARS: Four MEASUREMENTS: 6-3, 260.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 26, including Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Houston, Florida State, LSU, Michigan, and Ohio State.

TIAGO SUMBO, SEVEN LAKES DEFENSIVE TACKLE

CLASS: 2020 STARS: Three MEASUREMENTS: 6-2, 280.

NUMBER OF OFFERS: 7, including Louisville, New Mexico State, North Texas, and Louisiana-Monroe.

COVER STORY

7

Tompkins senior receiver Taurean Muhammad

FALCONS’ OFFENSE

FLIES

8

COVER STORY

By DENNIS SILVA II TIMES SPORTS EDITOR

W

hen Tompkins coach Todd McVey discusses his offense, he likes to take a page out of the New England Patriots’ storybook.

The third-year Falcons leader loves to reference Patriots offensive coordinator going to a two-tight end set during a tied game in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LIII against the Los Angeles Rams. The change forced the Rams’ defense to play on its heels as the Patriots changed their attack by going through the air. Spreading out Los Angeles allowed New England to gash the Rams up the middle.

“They went to a whole different thing they hadn’t worked on,” McVey said. “Adjusting is important. It was a fundamental, sound adjustment. That’s how we’re built, to do that on offense and adjust and adapt.”

Tompkins was one of Texas high school football’s best stories last season. The Falcons were winless in 2017. They won 10 games and made a third-round playoff appearance last year.

A big reason was a prolific offense that averaged 34.5 points on 395.9 yards per game. Tompkins had 48 touchdowns on the ground and 11 through the air.

That figures to be the case again this season. Seven starters return, including junior quarterback and Texas verbal commit Jalen Milroe, senior running back and 2,300-yard rusher R.J. Smith, senior receiver Taurean Muhammad, senior tight end Conner Kinslow, and senior offensive linemen Hayden Burke, Santiago Bohlmann and David Peterson. That also doesn’t account for senior running back George Benyeogor, the Falcons’ leading rusher two years ago who missed last season with a torn ACL. Plenty in the cupboard.

“It’s explosive. Deep,” Burke said. “We have good problems, like having too much talent at wide receiver. The offensive line will be just as strong with the returners we have. The backfield is going to be insane.

The receivers are something else. It’s going to be a good year.”

The Falcons run a power spread offense. The 6-foot-2, 194-pound Milroe’s dual-threat ability is the sparkplug. He rushed for 613 yards and 10 touchdowns and threw for 1,404 yards and 10 more TDs. If he doesn’t have an opening, which is rare, he hands off to longtime buddy Smith, who blossomed into one of the top tailbacks in the state last year after an injury-riddled sophomore campaign.

Smith grew up on the fly last season, knowing when and where to pick his spots and when to run inside or bounce outside. He has put on muscle and his understanding of defenses is better.

Milroe was thrown into the varsity fire last season and flourished.

Together, they are humble and hungry. Cliché traits, yes, but true.

“Going into this year, we know we have weapons we can utilize,” Milroe said. “The big thing is we know we can do it. We know we can do good things. Off that, this year our motto is 1-0. Winning that rep, winning that down, winning that opponent. I think as an offense we’re going to have that attack this year that we didn’t have years prior. We have an offense that’s a brotherhood and pushes each other.”

It’s been a workmanlike offseason for the Falcons’ offense. After strength and conditioning camp sessions this summer, players would have a catchand-throw skills training practice on their own. Then they’d head back to campus to take advantage of the open weight room. Then, later that afternoon, Milroe would throw more balls ro his receivers.

When they weren’t working, they were still together. Their favorite hangout is cookouts. Benyeogor is the best cook, with macaroni, pancakes, eggs, bacon, biscuits and pasta being just a few of his specialties.

Milroe cooks quesadillas and fried rice. Almost everyone barbecues.

“The best thing will be our brotherhood and that commitment to the offense. We have guys that aren’t trying to do it for themselves. We’re doing it for the guys next to us. We hang out on weekends together.

We eat together. We just really like being together and having that off the field leads to a togetherness on the field.”

Another year in the system is another year that Milroe and Co. will be more comfortable. McVey expects him to spread the wealth more this season.

Smith averaged 22.8 touches per game last season.

Tompkins will not have a lack of options. Newcomers Marquis Shoulders and Gabe Atkin are talented enough to where they will see the ball some, too.

Fullback Garrett Mack is an able ballcarrier.

“It’s a nice problem, but it’s about getting them to understand what their roles are,” McVey said. “We talk a lot about being selfless. Receivers may block more in one game because that’s the game-plan for winning, or there may be a game where backs are doing something different. It’s getting them to buy into that team concept, which they have. They all agree that whatever it takes to win is most important. Do your best, and when your number’s called, go make that play.

“Our job is putting guys in position to make plays, and helping it evolve as it goes. It’s about a 500-piece puzzle, and right noe we’ve got about eight pieces. So we’re still working on it.”

A scary sentiment for a program quickly on the rise.

“It’s explosive. Deep. We have good problems, like having too much talent at wide receiver. The offensive line will be just as strong with the returners we have.

The backfield is going to be insane. The receivers are something else. It’s going to be a good year.”

— HAYDEN BURKE

ON THE GRID

9

From left to right, Tompkins senior offensive lineman Hayden Burke, senior running back R.J. Smith and junior quarterback Jalen Milroe

10

CINCO RANCH COUGARS

COOKIN’ CARLOS IS A POWERFUL COUGAR FOR CINCO RANCH

By JIM MCCURDY

TIMES CORRESPONDENT

F

orget steak and potatoes. Carlos Abascal is a steak and pasta type of guy.

Abascal, Cinco Ranch’s 6-5, 316-pound offensive guard, has made a name for himself in the trenches up front on the football field. He’s also made a name for himself in the kitchen around his inner circle.

“Whenever we don’t have practice or get home early, I like to prepare food for myself and my family,” said Abascal, one of the area’s highly sought-after linemen. “I just like getting all the ingredients and having fun with what I do.”

What he does on the football field is pave the way for others’ glory. Abascal towers over most. He’s cleared holes for his running backs on many plays and has a distinct grittiness to him.

Only on the field.

You see, after the final whistle, Abascal, who’s received offers from the University of San Diego and Angelo State University, while visiting Yale, Columbia, Bucknell, Tulsa, Wofford and Abilene Christian, is as teddy bear as they come.

“I’m really a caring person,” he said. “It may not seem like that because I’m a really big person, but I care about other people, and I want to help them. The thing I like about football is that it really correlates to life as well. You can put a lot of the stuff you’ve learned (on the field) into life as well.”

That mentality is symbolic of the disposition a great offensive lineman must have: always one who’s there to let others take the glory after his dirty work. The one who will knock you down, and then pick you back up. The one who can put a blueprint on the game and not have his name show up in the box score.

And not have a second thought afterwards.

“I want to inspire others that offensive linemen do have a big impact on the game, more than they realize,” Abascal said. “Every play in football starts up front. Definitely knowing whatever I do on every play has an impact … if I can give my running back more yards or my quarterback more time to make a play, I’m pretty

CINCO RANCH 2019 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT Aug. 31 Cypress Ranch Sept. 6 Jersey Village Sept. 13 at Pearland Sept. 20 at Cedar Park Sept. 28 at Mayde Creek *Oct. 4 Morton Ranch Oct. 10 Taylor OPEN Oct. 25 Katy Nov. 1 at Tompkins Nov. 8 at Seven Lakes *Homecoming

SITE TIME Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium The Rig (Pearland) Gupton Stadium Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium Legacy Stadium

6 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

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7 p.m.

6 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

Legacy Stadium Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

happy. So definitely, I really take a lot of pride in what I do.”

Along with junior Ethan Onianwa (6-4, 282) and senior Stellan Stalter (6-3, 240), Cinco Ranch has men up front who can extend plays by holding a block or carving out holes for shifty runners to skirt through. But the Cougars want more than that this year.

They want wins.

Last year Cinco Ranch went 3-7, leaving way to doubts the Cougars will be much better this year. Abascal wants to change that in a hurry.

“You only get one senior season, so it’s going to be really important for me,” he said. “Last year, we had a really rough year, and a lot of people think we’re not going to be any good this year, so we’ve just got to prove everybody wrong.”

That’s kind of the approach Abascal is taking into this season, knowing that, despite his mammoth size, he only has two offers, one where the school doesn’t provide financial assistance for athletics. He’s out to prove to bigger schools he’s worth investing in.

“Carlos is very physical,” first-year Cougars coach Chris

“I’m really a caring person. It may not seem like that because I’m a really big person, but I care about other people, and I want to help them. The thing I like about football is that it really correlates to life as well. You can put a lot of the stuff you’ve learned (on the field) into life as well.”

— CARLOS ABASCAL

ON THE GRID

11

Cinco Ranch senior offensive lineman Carlos Abascal

12

CINCO RANCH COUGARS

Cinco Ranch junior running back G.J. Kelly

Dudley said. “He definitely embraces the physical aspect of the game.

His mental approach has come along since the end of the year. He’s definitely an athletic kid. Colleges are starting to take notice of that.”

Abascal started every game as a junior, earning second team All-District honors. With a year under his belt and rumblings of schools starting to salivate over his size, the Cougars are going to cash in with Abascal.

“We’ll definitely be hanging our hats on those guys up front, Carlos and Ethan and Stellan,” Dudley said. “When I think of Carlos, I think of a kid who is dependable. He’s a good kid with a strong work ethic. Those are the kids we love to coach.”

Anyone would. Even those at the next level.

“I definitely want to put my teammates before me,” Abascal said. “I wouldn’t see myself playing anywhere else (on the field) because I like hitting people. I see myself as a really aggressive player, and I like putting that to work every single play.”

Talk surrounding colleges plucking talent from Cinco’s pool, designing plays that go to his side, finding ways to make him more of a leader – everything runs through Abascal.

“That conversation starts with him,” Dudley said. “Carlos, he’s not real vocal. When he does talk, there’s a lot of meaning behind it. He’s someone who picks his spots. He’ll do that as a leader when it needs to be said.”

Other than a few more college offers and wins, there’s only one more thing Abascal wants a say in this year. After all, he remembers what it was like being a freshman, wondering what guys would think of him in his final year of high school.

“I feel like my whole life I’ve been bigger than everybody else, and I

A GLANCE AT THE COUGARS COACH: Chris Dudley, 1st year.

2018 RECORD: 3-7 LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: 2017 RETURNING OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 1/2 NUMBER OF RETURNING LETTERMEN: 11 KEY RETURNERS: Sr. OL Carlos Abascal; Sr. CB Carson King; Sr. DT Isaiah Dycus; Sr. DB Brady Matthews; Jr. LB Increase Oputa; Jr. RB G.J. Kelly; Jr. K Roger Sanguinetti.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Soph. LB Kasey Murry; Jr. QB Clayton Keeling; Jr. OL Ethan Onianwa; Sr. WR Jayden Fitts; Soph. S Odera Nsobundu; Jr. RB Caleb Leapheart; Sr. WR Ian Beavers.

PROJECTED STRENGTHS FOR 2019: Offensive line; linebackers.

PROJECTED CONCERNS FOR 2019: Only three starters and 11 lettermen returning; inexperience at multiple positions.

can push people around,” he said. “In college, I know that will change because there are a lot of big guys. But in my senior season, I want to leave a legacy. I remember being a freshman, looking up to all the other players. This year, I want to be the guy they look up to. I want to have them look at me the way I looked at those other guys.”

That’s easy.

All he has to do is invite them over and serve up one of his delicacies.

Then they’ll know this guy has it all.

ON THE GRID

FAITH WEST ACADEMY EAGLES

KICKER ADDS

JUICE

TO FAITH WEST’S PROSPECTS

By JIM MCCURDY

FAITH WEST 2019 SCHEDULE

TIMES CORRESPONDENT

F

or Faith West Academy, this is more than redemption.

“Playoffs or bust,” first-year head coach Nathan Utt agreed.

Two years removed from a TAPPS Division I six-man football state semifinal appearance, the Eagles are soaring into a 2019 season where optimism abounds and strength in numbers appear to be in place. Faith West went 5-6 a year ago, losing in the first round of the playoffs.

With multidimensional senior quarterback Marshall Wales, a thirdyear starter, back in the fold, the Eagles will scare teams in the air and on the ground. And with senior receiver/running back Dan Owen recovered from a successful rehab after suffering an injury midway through the season last year, FWA is poised to put up points.

Not just via the pass and run.

Junior kicker Andrew Tyrell, a first-team All-State selection last year, is the linchpin on a team that averaged of 60 points per game in 2018.

Six-man field goals are worth four points, and extra points two. Not many six-man teams have bona fide kickers, so if the Eagles can get in the end zone and tack on two more, that’s eight points to every six they may allow.

“Our kicking is key to the game,” Utt said. “Having a guy like Andrew, who can consistently give us the kicks we need, you can win a lot of games that way.”

Of course, so can having a large roster, what with six-man begging for endurance with all the real estate these players cover. Utt is projecting an 18-player roster. That would be Faith West’s largest in four years. A handful of freshmen already accustomed to six-man football at the junior high level add more backbone to what is shaping up to be a promising personnel base.

“In six-man football, one guy can really make a difference,” Utt said.

This year, that might be Wales, who’s used football to strengthen his arm for his pitching aspirations on the baseball field.

13

DATE Aug. 30 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 9

OPPONENT Brazosport Christian Alpha Omega Academy at Veritas Academy at Hill Country Christian Lutheran Logos Prep Academy at Christian School-CH Giddings State at Emery/Weiner

SITE Faith West Academy Faith West Academy Veritaas Academy Hill Country Christian Faith West Academy Faith West Academy Christian School-CH Faith West Academy Emery/Weiner High

TIME 7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

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“I think leadership is an honor for people who put themselves in that position,” Wales said. “Players rely on the quarterback for leadership. It’s very humbling.”

So can being scored upon, which six-man teams experience nearly every play. But that’s what Utt’s 2-2-2 to 1-3-2 alternating zone defensive schemes are designed to help prevent in the 10-minute quarter pinball games.

Still, if there’s a core to do it, this is it.

“I just know from the kids we have coming back, we’re going to have hard-working kids who are committed,” said Utt, who will preach a knowyour-role-and-follow-it mantra. “A lot of times what happens in football, you know your role, but you try to execute someone else’s. In 11-man football, you don’t see the breakdowns as easily.”

Breakdowns aside, the Eagles will operate under the “Marshall Law.” “Marshall is a smart player, and he’s able to find the open receiver,” Owen said.

In six-man football, that’s the name of the game, and Faith West is hoping to do it better than anyone else this season.

14

KATY TIGERS

SECONDARY A BOON FOR

TIGERS

By DENNIS SILVA II

KATY 2019 SCHEDULE

TIMES SPORTS EDITOR

F

or just the second time in the last six seasons, the Katy High defense surrendered double-figures in points per game allowed.

The Tigers’ 14.8 points per game allowed were the most since 2016’s 15.5. Until then, the last time the Tigers gave up as many points was in 2010, when they surrendered 17 per game.

Tackling, or lack thereof, and inexperience were the primary culprits last season. In Katy’s 49-38 loss to eventual state champion North Shore in the third round of the playoffs, the Tigers gave up scoring receptions of 61, 29, 78 and 75 yards.

It was a learning moment for a program used to delivering them.

“We know the flaws we have, and we’ve been working on it all this offseason,” junior defensive back Dalton Johnson said. “Our tackling is a big emphasis for us. It’s a matter of not overthinking and just focusing and doing your job. Trusting what you’ve been taught. That comes with experience, which we have now.

“I think we’re going to see a much better defense. Everybody on this defense saw time on varsity last year. We’ve seen the speed and the strength. We know what to do. That’s going to make a difference. We’re ready.”

It will start with the defensive backfield, as Katy returns three of four starters: Johnson, junior Hunter Washington (who played most of last season with a painful wrist injury) and senior Bryan Massey.

The defensive front will be unproven. The linebacker position is highlighted by the prominence of senior Jaylen Phillips, but otherwise consists of raw potential.

A position desperately in need of maturing last year, the secondary is all grown up this year.

“It’s a great thing to be a part of,” Washington said. “Our chemistry is starting to do better, and that’s where it starts. We’re on the same page.

We understand our weaknesses and our strengths. We just have to put all that together. Last season was tough for us. It didn’t end how we wanted.

But when you have that brotherhood we have, and when you have guys around you who will pick you up, it matters. It just makes you more hungry.”

Helping lead the way will be Johnson and Washington, who have played together since the fourth grade in Katy All-American youth football.

The 6-foot-1, 185-pound Johnson, a safety who amassed 89 total tackles with four tackles for loss, 19 pass breakups, four interceptions and two fumble recoveries in 2018, had a breakout year last season.

“To be honest, I didn’t really expect it,” Johnson said. “I was a sophomore, probably the youngest on the field. I think starting off my freshman year and getting that close bond with guys I played with last year,

DATE Aug. 29 Sept. 6 *Sept. 13 Sept. 21 OPEN Oct. 3 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 7

OPPONENT SITE at North Shore GPISD Stadium at Atascocita Turner Stadium IPN Legacy Stadium Clear Springs Legacy Stadium

TIME 7 p.m.

7 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

at Tompkins at Morton Ranch Seven Lakes at Cinco Ranch Mayde Creek Taylor

6 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium Legacy Stadium Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium Legacy Stadium

*Homecoming

that really helped. We’re all close. Wanting to always be around the ball and make the play comes natural, and that was big, too.”

Washington, at 6-foot and 175 pounds, is perhaps the most decorated of the Tigers’ defensive backs. He boasts tremendous size, quickness and instincts, and has eight offers, including Ohio State, Auburn, Houston, Texas Tech and TCU. Injury-plagued last season, the cornerback is excited to see what he can do this year, with improved technique and strength.

His teammate in the backfield is thrilled as well.

“He’s really improved his tackling,” Johnson said. “He’s always been good in coverage. That’s who he is. But his tackling is better, working a lot more on it, being in the weight room and being more aggressive making the play.”

While Johnson and Washington will be keys, this year’s Katy secondary has better depth and experience. There’s Massey, a UTSA verbal commit. Sophomore Bobby Taylor, son of the former NFL veteran by the same name, is a much-hyped transfer from Houston Heights, with offers from Auburn, Houston, Baylor and Oklahoma State, among others.

Daylin Johnson, a senior and Dalton’s other brother, saw considerable time on the field last year. Sophomore Ronny Schneider is also a talent which big things are expected of.

Washington said this year’s secondary will be better in coverage, with sounder tackling as technique has been a consistent point of emphasis.

He said it will be more aggressive.

The Tigers’ defensive backs, Washington said, have been watching more game film. Not only that, they are better at understanding what and where to look at. One of the studies has been coverage of crossing

ON THE GRID

Katy junior quarterback Bronson McClelland

15

16

KATY TIGERS ON THE GRID Katy junior cornerback Hunter Washington and junior safety Dalton Johnson

routes, a sore point for the Tigers last season. Film has given Katy’s secondary a better understanding of what to expect.

If they can keep their eyes moving, trust the guy next to them, and read their rules, success will come. Experience breeds that confidence and faith. And it’s those intangibles that help dictate who comes out on top in Class 6A, Division I, in December.

“There’s a big sense of urgency,” Johnson said.

“We see that sign on the building every day at practice that says, ‘Are you next?’ with all the state champs. It’s been way too long for Katy not to get a state championship (2015). Every time you see that, and the coaches are yelling at you and pushing you, it just makes you want to work harder, so you can get that ring and accomplish what you’re working for.”

A GLANCE AT THE TIGERS COACH: Gary Joseph, 16th year.

2018 RECORD: 11-2 LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: 2018 RETURNING OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 5/4 NUMBER OF RETURNING LETTERMEN: 31 KEY RETURNERS: Jr. QB Bronson McClelland; Sr. RB Sherman Smith; Sr. TE Samuel Dunn; Jr. TE Fernando Garza; Sr. OL Drew Murphy; Sr. OL Brayden Gammel; Sr. OL Dakota White; Sr. WR Steven Stiles; Sr. WR Jordan Patrick; Sr. LB Jaylen Phillips; Sr. DB Bryan Massey; Jr. DB Hunter Washington; Jr. DB Dalton Johnson.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Sr. RB Ron Hoff; Sr. DB Jacob Foster; Soph. LB Ty Kana; Soph. DB Ronny Schneider; Soph. DB Bobby Taylor.

PROJECTED STRENGTHS FOR 2019: Quarterback; Running Back; Wide Receivers; Secondary; Experience at Tight End. PROJECTED CONCERNS FOR 2019: Offensive line; Defensive line; consistency and depth at all positions.

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18

MAYDE CREEK RAMS

Mayde Creek senior receiver Daniel Huery

ON THE GRID

19

SPEED, SMARTS KILL

FOR MAYDE CREEK STAR HUERY

By DENNIS SILVA II

A GLANCE AT THE RAMS

D

COACH: Mike Rabe, 5th year.

2018 RECORD: 3-7 LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: 2008 RETURNING OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 7/8 NUMBER OF RETURNING LETTERMEN: 22 KEY RETURNERS: Sr. WR Daniel Huery; Sr. ATH JaCoby Wilson; Sr. WR Demetrius Ledet; Jr. WR/S L’den Skinner; Sr. OL Curtis Stripling; Sr. Dezmond Murphy; Sr. DE Trejuan Holmes; Sr. CB Victor Holdman; Jr. FS Joseph Kinyock.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Jr. RB Julius Loughridge; Jr. QB Donte Jones.

PROJECTED STRENGTHS FOR 2019: Experience—16 of 22 returning lettermen were on varsity as sophomores.

PROJECTED CONCERNS FOR 2019: Depth.

TIMES SPORTS EDITOR

aniel Huery is good at math. Very good. Calculus, for instance, is a welcomed class on the schedule next year. The Mayde Creek senior is also gifted in science and physics.

Problem-solving interests him, and he sees the game of football as nothing different.

“I just like to solve problems,” Huery said, breaking into a smile. “It’s like in football. If there’s a problem, I’ve got to solve it.”

More often than not, the 5-foot-9, 155-pounder does.

Need a first down? Give the ball to Huery. Need good field position? Create room for Huery. Need a touchdown? Find Huery.

Or, as Rams coach Mike Rabe puts it: “Get him in as much space as possible and get the ball to him.”

Huery had a breakout season in 2018.

He led the team in rushing, amassing 629 yards and seven touchdowns on 79 carries, good for eight yards per carry. He was second in receiving with 542 yards and three touchdowns on 39 receptions, averaging 13.9 yards per catch.

And he returned 16 kicks for 506 yards and a touchdown, good for 31.6 yards per return.

“He’s an extremely versatile kid,” Rabe said. “He took a couple snaps at quarterback last year, he played slot receiver, outside wide receiver, running back. We can put him anywhere. He returns kicks. He’s got great knowledge of the game, he’s a quick learner and he’s extremely explosive.”

Rabe said Huery is one of the fastest kids on the team. He is, however, the quickest.

“A guy that’s quick can move in a small area really fast, really fluid,” Rabe said. “He looks really comfortable in tight areas, whereas speed is once you get loose, you’re gone. Nobody is going to catch you.”

Huery runs a 4.4 40-yard dash. He’s always been fast. In youth football, when he played quarterback, teammates called him “Speedy.”

He played running back at Cardiff Junior High before Rams coaches moved him to receiver.

“I’m small, but when you have the numbers, they can’t say nothing,” said Huery, who played football and basketball growing up and also runs the 100-meters, 4x100 relay and 4x200 relay for the Rams’ track team. “It’s all about heart, baby.

I’m not surprised by any success I’ve had. When you put in the work, the grind … I earned this.”

But a lot of kids are fast. Many are physically, if not genetically, blessed. Where Huery likes to separate himself is knowledge.

Whether it’s in the film room or asking coaches questions, Huery loves to learn. A game of football is, well, a problem to him. He has to solve it.

Playing quarterback in Katy Youth Football, Huery learned to read defenses with his dad as the offensive coordinator.

Even today, a snap is broken down to a series of problems: Where is the safety playing? If it’s an out route and the defender is playing man up, Huery takes him inside just a bit, fakes in, stems up the defensive back and breaks out. If it’s a deep route and the defense is playing Cover 2, Huery knows to split in between.

If the DB is playing inside of him, Huery knows he can go right past him on the go route.

“My thing is trying to stay 2-3 steps ahead of everybody,” Huery said. “That comes with putting in the extra work. I don’t have the typical height or size, so I try to be a few steps ahead of the defense. You just read things. If you can read defense and know how it’s playing before the snap … speed kills.”

Rabe reaffirms Huery’s wits.

“He’s a real smart kid,” Rabe said. “He’s fun to have a conversation with and he’s real aware of things that are going on.

His GPA coincides with his football intelligence. It doesn’t take

"I’m small, but when you have the numbers, they can’t say nothing. It’s all about heart, baby. I’m not surprised by any success I’ve had. When you put in the work, the grind … I earned this.”

— DANIEL HUERY

20

MAYDE CREEK RAMS ON THE GRID

Mayde Creek senior quarterback John Zalocha

a huge amount of reps for him to figure something out. He’s really easy to coach in that aspect.”

Pound for pound, Rabe said Huery is the strongest kid on the team.

He bench-presses 260-plus pounds and squats well over 400 pounds.

The future petroleum engineer is adept at changing direction, boasts wickedly sleek cutbacks and switches sides of the field effortlessly. His acceleration out of cuts is impressive.

Huery has received some interest from schools. East Texas Baptist has already offered, and he visited Stephen F. Austin just before the end of school in May. But Huery, who’s shooting for 2,000 all-purpose yards this season, wants more. He wants what he feels is his, which is why he’s been, again, one of the hardest workers on the team this summer, putting in just as much time in the weight room as he is working on his hip mobility with offensive coordinator Ryan Henry.

“I think he can play at any level he wants to play. He’s that kind of player,” Rabe said. “He’s not a very big person, but he plays like it. You put him in small spaces, he’ll be hard to touch. In this day and age of the game, everybody wants to put players in big spaces, and when he gets that opportunity, he usually scores from it.”

MAYDE CREEK 2019 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 at Conroe Sept. 7 Fort Bend Austin Sept. 14 at Aldine Nimitz Sept. 20 at Alvin Sept. 28 Cinco Ranch OPEN Oct. 10 Tompkins *Oct. 18 Taylor Oct. 24 Seven Lakes Nov. 1 at Katy Nov. 8 at Morton Ranch

*Homecoming

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TIME 7 p.m.

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6 p.m.

7 p.m.

6 p.m.

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6 p.m.

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22

MORTON RANCH MAVERICKS

Morton Ranch senior receiver Josh Gaton

ON THE GRID

WRECKING

23

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24

MORTON RANCH MAVERICKS

ON THE GRID

By JIM MCCURDY

Morton Ranch senior defensive lineman Brandon Brown

TIMES CORRESPONDENT

B

randon Brown has his dad to thank.

Brown, a 6-foot-1, 305-pound defensive tackle at Morton Ranch, grew up in New Orleans in a rough environment. His dad removed him from that situation, and now he’s flourishing in Katy.

“I love it,” Brown said. “My dad put me in a (better) position, and I just love it. My dad is a big inspiration.”

One of Katy’s highly-decorated recruits this season, Brown has drawn the eye of roughly 20 schools, and he verbally committed to Tulane, his hometown university, in early August.

Already a terror in wrecking plays, Brown, who is flirting with a 3.0 grade point average, made a name for himself as a sophomore. It carried over to his junior year last season when he was first team All-District and drew attention as a player to watch in the Greater Houston area.

“Whoever gets him is going to get a heck of a player,” Mavericks coach Ron Counter said. “He’s definitely going to be the leader of the team.”

Clocked at five seconds in the 40-yard dash, Brown can go sideline to sideline to run down ballcarriers. He’s a menace in the backfield, and don’t be surprised if you see him chasing down someone in front of him this year.

“He’s one of those rare defensive linemen,” Counter said. “There’s not many guys 6-1, 305 who can run like he does. He’s pretty light on his feet.”

Big-time schools want to see him become more explosive out of his stance. Brown is working on that with his defensive line coach, and if nothing else, he’s trying to prove it to himself this season.

“I’m already explosive,” he said. “My get-off could be faster. I’m just trying to improve my weaknesses and my get-off. My technique is there, but they want me to get off the wall.”

Coming off knee surgery in the offseason after his sophomore year, Brown had no problem bouncing off a wall, if you will. When he stepped onto the field in his first game last year against Cypress Lakes, he tore it up. Better yet, he tore up the Spartans, making seven tackles, including five for loss, a sack and a safety.

Offenses know about him. They try to game plan to take him out of the play, and often double team him, but Brown is OK with that.

“I know since I’ve been getting hype … I’ve just got to deal with it,” he said.

“Either, I’m going to win my battle or help my teammates win their battle.”

As a junior, Brown had 52 tackles, including 39 solos, for an average of 5.2 per game. He had nine sacks, 27 tackles for loss, forced two fumbles and recovered another.

“I think he’s the best defensive lineman in our district,” Counter said.

“He’s pretty quick for his size, he’s got pretty good agility and quickness.

We could even play him at fullback or tight end.

A GLANCE AT THE MAVERICKS COACH: Ron Counter, 3rd year.

2018 RECORD: 5-5 LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: 2016 RETURNING OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 5/5 NUMBER OF RETURNING LETTERMEN: 19 KEY RETURNERS: Sr. DT Brandon Brown; Sr. LB Garrett McLaughlin; Sr. DB Dorian Maynard; Sr. DB Dylan Ford; Sr. OL Justice Guillory; Sr. WR Josh Gaton; Sr. RB Jaelon Moorehead; Sr. QB Jaden Diaz; Sr. K Gabe Garcia.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Jr. DE Jacoby Graham; Soph. FB Zjorey Ross.

PROJECTED STRENGTHS FOR 2019: Experience.

PROJECTED CONCERNS FOR 2019: Staying healthy.

MORTON RANCH 2019 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 Cypress Lakes Sept. 5 at Cypress Ridge Sept. 12 at Westside Sept. 19 at Sam Houston *Sept. 27 Taylor Oct. 4 at Cinco Ranch Oct. 11 Katy Oct. 19 at Tompkins OPEN Nov. 2 at Seven Lakes Nov. 8 Mayde Creek

SITE Rhodes Stadium Pridgeon Stadium Delmar Stadium Dyer Stadium Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium Rhodes Stadium Legacy Stadium

TIME 7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

11 a.m.

Legacy Stadium Legacy Stadium

11 a.m.

6:30 p.m.

* Homecoming

“He was in the backfield a lot. He made plays every week. He plays hard, and he plays with a motor. I think Brandon’s got a chance to play on Sundays (in the NFL). I’ve had 10 or 12 of them, and he has the potential.”

During the spring game earlier this year, Brown fired out of his stance as the quarterback scrambled out of the pocket. Moving left to right, he came flying across the field and whacked the quarterback, showing off his sideline-to-sideline capability.

“Yeah, that’s a player right there,” echoed the response.

Now he has another year left to have fun wreaking havoc as he chases down something bigger than just a quarterback.

“I want to play college ball, but I want to go to the league, play in the NFL,” Brown said.

Either way, as he continues to work on getting off the ball and handling his business in the classroom, Brown is considering communications or science, if not business, to study in college. He never really cared much about science, but one day one of his teachers explained the nuance behind it all, and he’s been hooked on breaking down molecular structures and atomic properties.

Kind of like how he breaks down offenses. Rest assured, for Brandon Brown, there’s a science behind it.

“I think he’s the best defensive lineman in our district. He’s pretty quick for his size, he’s got pretty good agility and quickness. We could even play him at fullback or tight end.”

— RON COUNTER

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26

PAETOW PANTHERS

BROTHERHOOD

By DENNIS SILVA II TIMES SPORTS EDITOR

G

STRONG

rowing up, Alex and Demetrius Elko looked forward to playing football every day.

In the game, the Elko brothers found themselves.

“Alex and I learned at a young age that football can build a strong bond of trust between us,” said Demetrius, a year younger than Alex.

“Everything we did growing up, whether it was sports or not, always was a constant competition. Doing little things like who can do their chores the fastest or who can get the highest score in a video game. We realized that the rush of adrenaline in competing was something we always had in common.”

That passion for competition has been vital for a young Paetow High football program. It’s why, going into the Panthers’ second season of varsity ball this fall, senior linebacker/receiver Alex and junior center Demetrius are team captains, two of three honorary leaders in the program.

“The thing about those dudes is they’re not going to walk into a room and catch everybody’s eye, but I can promise you if you put them on any team, they’re going to eventually stand out because of how hard they work and how committed they are to their teammates,” Paetow coach B.J. Gotte said. “It’s old-school, old-fashioned blue-collar work ethic.”

This upcoming season will boast another first for the Panthers: their first senior class. Alex leads the way.

Last season, the 5-foot-6, 156-pounder did a little bit of everything for Paetow, which went 3-7 in its inaugural year of varsity in Class 5A. Alex rushed for 172 yards on 25 carries and had 91 receiving yards and a touchdown on 11 catches. He also compiled 54 total tackles, seven for losses.

The most memorable part? The final game of the season when he saw time at quarterback, because of injuries, and took snaps from Demetrius.

“It took me back to playing every day outside,” Alex said. “We have a little field by the side of our house, and we’d play football all the time. That was our thing growing up.”

Alex has been invaluable to the Panthers. In grade school and junior high, he mostly played running back, which gave him an understanding of all the positions because “you read all different levels of the field.”

Alex was a team captain last year as well.

“Leadership here means service,” he said. “You’re still a part of the team and you’re still looking for ways to get everybody better. That’s the main focus. It’s easy for people with power to get above themselves and above the team, but, in reality, you’re a part of the team and everybody else is working just as hard as you. The only difference as a leader is keeping an eye out and making sure everybody is staying on the same page. As captain, it’s an honor. But it’s a great responsibility, too.”

Gotte said the team was wide-eyed last year, expectedly so, in adjusting to the speed and physicality of varsity following a year of junior varsity play. Alex, however, was never intimidated by the moment.

“When you’re watching kids, especially around other kids, you see leaders emerge,” Gotte said. “You see personalities who are influential, guys who others gravitate to who have a demeanor about them. They stand out, but at the same time the really good ones will perform in competitive situations. That only reinforces their credibility. You can have

PAETOW 2019 SCHEDULE

DATE OPPONENT SITE Aug. 30 at Stafford SMSD Stadium Sept. 6 at Northbrook Tully Stadium Sept. 12 Clements Legacy Stadium OPEN Sept. 28 Cleveland Rhodes Stadium Oct. 4 at Lake Creek MISD Stadium *Oct. 11 Bryan Rudder Legacy Stadium Oct. 18 at A&M Consolidated Tiger Stadium Oct. 26 Huntsville Rhodes Stadium Nov. 1 at Montgomery MISD Ath. Comp.

Nov. 8 at Lamar Consolidated Traylor Stadium

TIME 7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

6 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Noon 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

*Homecoming

a great personality and be an influencer, but, in athletics especially, if you can go out and then perform on the field and help your team be successful, you just gain that much more respect. That’s what Alex has been able to do.”

Demetrius is a raw prospect physically at 5-9, 271 pounds. But it was his love of football that actually got Alex, initially a baseball player, interested in the game. And it’s his quiet, workmanlike efforts that endear him to coaches.

Demetrius started every game on varsity last year at center and has worked tirelessly to improve his hands and footwork. He has also been busy taking notes from his older bro.

“I’ve learned a lot from him,” Demetrius said. “You can just tell from the way he speaks. He speaks what he means to say. When he talks, guys listen. It means a lot to see your brother have that respect, and it’s something I’m focused on earning as well.”

Gotte said Alex is the more assured of the brothers, naturally because of experience. But he respects Demetrius’ willingness to “plant his foot and fight.”

“Demetrius has earned respect through effort and grit,” Gotte said.

“He’s got a never-say-quit attitude. If there’s one thing you can bank on with Demetrius, he’s going to give you everything he’s got, all the time, and he’s going to do the best he can to do what he’s coached to do. Kids respect that. They know they can count on him.”

Gotte emphasized toughness, discipline and detail this offseason. The Elkos embody those traits. Toughness and discipline are second nature to them, thanks to parents who preach “no excuses.” The detail part is a work in progress, though Alex has learned to read opponents’ body language better to see where players apply pressure with their eyes and feet prior to snaps and Demetrius is eager for the “competitive advantage” he’s gained by having a varsity year under his belt.

“We still go out every game looking to do our best,” Alex said. “It just makes it a lot more fun doing it with your brother.”

ON THE GRID

27

A GLANCE AT THE PANTHERS

Paetow senior linebacker/ receiver Alex Elko

COACH: B.J. Gotte, 2nd year.

2018 RECORD: 3-7 LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: N/A RETURNING OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 11/11 NUMBER OF RETURNING LETTERMEN: 44 KEY RETURNERS: Jr. FB Randle Kelly; Sr. WR Johnathan Baker; Sr. OT Cameron Gross; Jr. FS Carl Simon; Sr. LB/WR Alex Elko; Sr. CB Dane Presto.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Jr. RB Damon Bankston; Sr. RB Johnathan Jolly; Jr. WR Jamin Godwin; Soph. ROV Kentrell Webb; Soph. DL Jacob Johnson; Sr. LB D.J. Mourning; Soph. CB Michael Jordan.

PROJECTED STRENGTHS FOR 2019: Game and program experience from returners; ability and athleticism from newcomers.

PROJECTED CONCERNS FOR 2019: Senior and veteran leadership; game and program experience from young newcomers.

28

SEVEN LAKES SPARTANS

Seven Lakes senior defensive lineman Tiago Sumbo

ON THE GRID

29

LIVING THE

AMERICAN DREAM

By DENNIS SILVA II TIMES SPORTS EDITOR

S

even Lakes coach Jimmy Hamon likes to say Tiago Sumbo’s story is the prototypical ‘American Dream.’

The 6-foot-2, 299-pound defensive tackle has only been in America seven years after coming over from Angola because of his father’s job at Chevron. He has only played football for five years.

And still, overcoming tragedy, culture shock and a new language, Sumbo has established himself as a legitimate NCAA Division I prospect.

“It was pretty difficult,” said Sumbo, whose first language was Portuguese. “Whenever I came here, I did not know English. And when I came here, I saw their sports and how they actually take it serious over here when they play football. From there, I just started developing. My English started getting better, and once that happened a lot of things came easier to me.”

In Angola, Sumbo remembers the leniency and freedom of the streets. It was a drastic change when he got to Katy in the sixth grade in 2013.

“Where we came from, we were loud,” he said. “We would listen to music, watch games. Our culture is to enjoy, be free. And when we got here, our neighborhood was so quiet, so peaceful. We weren’t used to that. We were used to making a lot of noise and the police wouldn’t come. Here, it’s different. It was interesting.”

But America’s emphasis on education, Sumbo said, “changed him.” He liked the “no pass, no play” rule, and took advantage by going to school and soaking up everything and anything.

In Angola, athletics take priority over academics, particularly if one is talented in the sport, and you don’t have to pass classes to play. But Sumbo was enamored with the idea of getting his grades to where he could get offers from colleges to pay for his schooling.

“One of my goals was to not make my parents pay for my education,” Sumbo said.

It took three weeks for Sumbo to get comfortable with English, from an understanding standpoint. Speaking it took longer, but he was not shy to talk. That expedited his learning curve.

By his freshman year, Sumbo was speaking fluent English. It took a lot of long nights going home to his room after school and practicing. In the meantime, he was introduced to granola bars and chocolate bars.

“We couldn’t read the wrapper, but we could tell by the picture,” Sumbo said. “My favorite is chocolate mint.”

SEVEN LAKES 2019 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT SITE Aug. 31 Spring Branch Rhodes Stadium Sept. 6 at Laporte Bulldog Stadium Sept. 13 Fort Bend Austin Rhodes Stadium Sept. 19 at Houston Heights Delmar Stadium *Sept. 27 Tompkins Rhodes Stadium Oct. 4 at Taylor Legacy Stadium OPEN Oct. 18 at Katy Legacy Stadium Oct. 24 at Mayde Creek Legacy Stadium Nov. 2 Morton Ranch Legacy Stadium Nov. 8 Cinco Ranch Rhodes Stadium

TIME 7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

11 a.m.

7:30 p.m.

*Homecoming

If Sumbo appears mature beyond his years, he is. He has had to grow up faster than most his age.

His mother died in 2011.

“I was just a little kid,” Sumbo said “I was at the house, playing video games with friends, and I heard my mom had passed away.

People came to the house to check with us. A chopper had brought my dad from America; we saw him in his work clothes. It’s really crazy.”

And then during early July, Sumbo’s older brother died in a drowning. After an early morning workout a week later, he left to go pick out a suit for his brother to wear in the casket.

“It’s hard that he’s gone,” Sumbo said. “He’s not going to be able to see my senior season. He saw me play for the first time against Cinco Ranch last year, and joked, ‘Man, why’d you have me come to a game like this.’ It was a blowout, but it was important just that he was there to support. I wish he could be here to see me this year. Unfortunately, he can’t.”

Sumbo has a matter-of-fact poise when discussing the tragedies. Hamon said that isn’t normal for 18-year-olds, but admirable.

“When we heard about his brother, he showed up the next day for workouts,” Hamon said. “We were surprised, really. We were offering our support and he was just very private. It could be culture

"It was pretty difficult. Whenever I came here, I did not know English. And when I came here, I saw their sports and how they actually take it serious over here when they play football. From there, I just started developing. My English started getting better, and once that happened a lot of things came easier to me.”

— TIAGO SUMBO

30

SEVEN LAKES SPARTANS

Seven Lakes senior receiver Eric Johnson

for him, I’m not sure, but I’m sure it affects him. I’m sure when he gets home at night it bothers him. But he doesn’t show it.”

Sumbo said it’s simply the cards that have been dealt.

“You’ve just got to go through life,” he said. “Things are different for me. I had a different perspective. I grew up fast. It can be hard to adapt to, but at the same time you have to.”

Sumbo had a standout season last year in helping lead the Spartans back to the playoffs. He averaged 5.9 tackles, totaled 10.0 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and one fumble caused.

While he was new to American football, he had played soccer and rugby in Angola. He played rugby barefoot on grass, with no body protection. In ways, American football came easier to him. He could hit with the aid of pads and cleats.

“He’s a big, strong guy,” Hamon said. “One of the strongest guys on our team. And although he’s strong, he still moves very well. He’s athletic and explosive enough to have gotten by people just on physicality. Now teams are double-teaming and have noticed him, and he’s had to concern himself with how he uses his hands and where he places his hands. Pass-rushing-wise, he can improve by setting up better. Everybody in this district has big, strong offensive lineman, and he’s had to hone his technique. That’s where he can improve the most.”

The big picture, however, remains that Sumbo has set himself up for a much better life than when he arrived from Angola. He has embraced America. He has taken advantage of the opportunity.

For someone from his background, that is significant. “That’s what you come to America for,” Hamon said. “That chance.”

“If all goes well, he’s going to have an education that no one can take away from him and be able to support himself and his family better because of it,” Hamon said. “It’s your classic example of not having a lot when you get here and then it turns into something pretty special for you.”

A GLANCE AT THE SPARTANS COACH: Jimmy Hamon, 2nd year.

2018 RECORD: 6-5 LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: 2018 RETURNING OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 5/6 NUMBER OF RETURNING LETTERMEN: 20 KEY RETURNERS: Sr. WR Jaden Embra; Sr. WR Eric Johnson; Sr. OL Luka Christianson; Sr. OL Diego Ramos; Sr. OL Alex Fontenot; Sr. CB Corey Johnson; Sr. LB Parker Jones; Sr. ILB Nate Hawkins; Sr. DE Jailynn Simon; Sr. DE Tiago Sumbo; Sr. NT Jaymian Simon; Sr. S Trent Vondenstein; Jr. RB Nick David-West; Sr. LB Clay Smith; Jr. RB Milton Jones; Jr. OL Sam Treadaway.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Sr. DB Chris Conklin; Soph.

QB Scott Stanford; Jr. QB Cristian Beltran; Sr. LB Jalen Mosley.

PROJECTED STRENGTHS FOR 2019: Improved offensive line and running game; playmaking at wide receiver; defensive front seven.

PROJECTED CONCERNS FOR 2019: Inexperience at quarterback; secondary.

ON THE GRID

ST. JOHN XXIII LIONS

31

LIONS INTENT ON MAKING

STATEMENT

By JIM McCURDY

TIMES CORRESPONDENT

J

ake Baudler sent a message in a text message. In other words, he was making a statement.

“We will prove our place in Katy football,” St. John XXIII’s 6-0, 250-pound offensive guard/defensive end tapped into his phone.

Last year, St. John XXIII proved its place among the elite in TAPPS Division V, going 10-1 with a playoff win to claim the championship. The Lions went 4-0 in games decided by a touchdown or less, rebounding from a 48-0 loss to Cameron Yoe to win four straight, including the 38-27 playoff win over Saint Mary’s Hall.

A significant core of the 2018 title team departed, putting St. John XXIII in a revamp-in-a-hurry mode, but coach Clay Richardson believes in the physicality of his team, pointing out more than 20 players can squat 300 pounds or more, highlighted by Baudler’s 455.

“I think they’re going to be tough,” Richardson said. “The stronger you are, you feel good about yourself. I think it’s going to make a difference.”

Baudler, who earned first team All-Division V TAPPS last year, has that never-quit mojo, not to mention a 3.5 grade point average.

“He’s just one of those guys who cannot get enough of playing football,” Richardson said. “He’s a smart, smart football player, but he plays with a high motor. When he goes out to hit somebody, they know they got hit.”

Senior linebacker Kyle Paul (6-2, 225) was a second team All-Division V selection last year. He added 30 pounds since last year after re-emerging in football from a one-year layoff.

“When you get hit by him, you’ve been popped,” Richardson said. “He wants to be one of those two or three guys the rest of the team looks up to, one of those guys the rest of the team follows into the burning fire, so to speak.”

Senior wide receiver Jake Williams (5-11, 170) blew out his ACL in the final division game last year after accounting for three receiving touchdowns and seven rushing.

“He’s a guy we need to get the ball to a little bit more,” Richardson said.

ST. JOHN XXIII 2019 SCHEDULE DATE Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 *Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 9

OPPONENT at Bay Area Christian Fort Bend Christian Westbury Christian at Brazos High Frassati Catholic High at Cameron Yoe Cristo Rey Jesuit at Kelly Catholic Bishop Gorman The Village School Division 5 Playoff game

SITE Bay Area Christian St. John XXIII High St. John XXIII High Brazos High St. John XXIII High Cameron Yoe High St. John XXIII High Kelly Catholic St. John XXIII High St. John XXIII High TBD

TIME 7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

TBD

*Homecoming

Junior quarterback Matt Jasek, the backup last year, is the one to do that. And he’ll have the protection of 6-4, 350-pound freshman offensive tackle Deossie Yancey, who was invited to Louisiana State University’s spring game as an eighth grader and also attended Rice’s camp.

“Our biggest challenge this year is finding the leadership,” Richardson said. “Talent-wise, I think we’re going to be as good, if not better, than we were last year. I feel like we have the guys who can do it. They just haven’t done it yet. We will compete, compete, compete, never quit. Hopefully these guys will pass it on to the next group.”

Baudler doesn’t see that as a problem after last year.

“I just think we had a great brotherhood, and stuck together in close games,” he said. “It’s going to be tough to go out there and win 10 games again, but we’ll do our best. I hope we come back this year to win another state championship.”

32

TAYLOR MUSTANGS

Taylor junior running back Casey Shorter

ON THE GRID

33

SHORTER STANDS

TALL

By DENNIS SILVA II TIMES SPORTS EDITOR

A

s a sophomore last season, Casey Shorter was part of a three-headed monster at running back with fellow sophomores Brandon Campbell and Julius Loughridge.

It was a system that worked. The Mustangs produced 208.8 rushing yards per game, staying true to their offensive identity en route to another trip to the area playoffs.

But during the offseason, Campbell departed to Pearland and Loughridge took off to Mayde Creek. All of a sudden, Shorter found himself the unquestioned RB1 on the depth chart as an incoming junior.

“Those guys were good teammates and great athletes, so it’s an adjustment,” said Shorter, who rushed for a team-best 938 yards and seven touchdowns on 170 carries last season. “I was very used to a three-man rotation. So now a big thing has been working on endurance, not getting tired. More stamina. More speed. I’ve gained more muscle, but lost weight to improve speed and agility.

“It’s a big responsibility, but it’s exciting to know I can be the guy for my team and hopefully lead them towards something big.”

Coach Chad Simmons has seen the 5-foot-11, 215-pounder take his newfound responsibilities seriously.

“He’s been one of our top guys coming in to work out in the summer,” Simmons said. “He’s embraced weight-lifting, which is a big part of durability and staying

A GLANCE AT THE MUSTANGS COACH: Chad Simmons, 2nd year.

2018 RECORD: 6-6 LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: 2018 RETURNING OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 9/6 NUMBER OF RETURNING LETTERMEN: 25 KEY RETURNERS: Jr. OL Hayden Conner; Jr. OL Bryce Foster; Jr. OL Abe Okezie; Sr. QB Dalton Burden; Jr. RB Casey Shorter; Sr. RB Gavin Belue; Sr. RB/WR CJ Tolbert; Sr. WR Griffin Dougherty; Sr. WR Tanner Isola; Sr. DE Mike Orecheneg; Sr. DT Jahmai Edwards; Jr. DB Trevor Woods; Sr. DB Braden Hay; Jr. DB Cecil Ivy; Sr. LB Martin Newlin; Sr. DT Greg Osaghae; Sr. DE Shannon Johnson; Sr. OL Luke Sykes; Jr. K Renan Baeta.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Sr. OL Mike Tulenko; Sr. OL Gunnar Elliot; Sr. RB Marcus Grant; Sr. DT VJ Bronson; Sr. LB Ke’Ondre Dotson; Jr. LB Ahmed Thomas; Jr. LB Jacob Cortez; Jr. LB Aano Filoialii; soph. DB Jaden Burr; Sr. DB Damion Albanese.

PROJECTED STRENGTHS FOR 2019: Experience on offense; size and athleticism on offensive line; full year in offensive and defensive systems; improved passing game; experience at safety; athletic defensive line.

PROJECTED CONCERNS FOR 2019: Depth in some areas; need to stay healthy; extremely competitive non-district and district schedules.

34

TAYLOR MUSTANGS

Taylor senior quarterback Dalton Burden

healthy, and he’s really bought in. He’s doing a good job of being prepared for what’s coming.”

Shorter, who bench-presses 295 pounds, has been workmanlike under new running backs coach Paul Cochran, who has pushed his tailbacks harder, with an emphasis on getting stronger and faster.

Taylor has a unique weapon in the brute, speedy Shorter, who played basketball and football growing up. Shorter played wide receiver and safety in junior high before being moved to running back as a freshman.

Coaches saw a hard runner who did not give up yards and was difficult to bring down.

“He does a number of things well,” Simmons said. “He’s got great game speed. He’s a strong, powerful kid, and he can carry his pads to where it doesn’t slow him down. He knows how to use his body. He’s got a low center of gravity and great balance, amazingly good hands. Good vision. He sees a cut and goes. He knows when to plant his foot and get downhill.”

Shorter, who has been praised by Simmons for his leadership in his work habits and confidence in his skillset, won’t be alone on an island in the backfield.

The Mustangs are hopeful that senior Dalton Burden’s first full varsity season as the starting quarterback enlivens the passing game. Seniors Marcus Grant and C.J. Tolbert provide different dynamics as ballcarriers, which will allow Simmons to use Shorter as slot receiver to take advantage of his ball skills. And then there’s the offensive line, one of the toughest in the state behind four-star national recruits Hayden Conner and Bryce Foster, and veteran stalwart Luke Sykes.

“He has gotten used to the speed of the game, and you can really tell how much of an impact player he is if you watch the games,” Foster said.

“He understands where the play is supposed to go, and he trusts his O-line. I’m excited to see what he is going to do this season. His numbers in the weight room are going up and his speed numbers are going down.”

TAYLOR 2019 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 Atascocita Sept. 5 at Cypress Springs Sept. 14 Deer Park *Sept. 20 Dickinson Sept. 27 at Morton Ranch Oct. 4 Seven Lakes Oct. 10 at Cinco Ranch Oct. 18 at Mayde Creek Oct. 25 Tompkins OPEN Nov. 7 at Katy

SITE Legacy Stadium Cy-Fair FCU Stadium Legacy Stadium Legacy Stadium Legacy Stadium Legacy Stadium Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium Rhodes Stadium

TIME 6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Legacy Stadium

6 p.m.

*Homecoming

When it’s all put together, Simmons sees an offense that will be more diverse in formation, more balanced in run-pass, with the ability to spread people out of the box and “throw on our terms.”

Whether it’s a three-back rotation like last year, where Simmons stayed with whoever was running the ball well that particular game, or like a few years ago when all-time Mustang rushing leader Ean Beek was toting the rock, Shorter will have a say in things.

He’s ready for it.

“Casey has made Bryce and I look good since the sixth grade,” Conner said. “He’s the toughest runner I’ve ever blocked for. He just does his job to help the team. He’s not worried about stats, rankings or offers. He just wants to help us win.”

ON THE GRID

TOMPKINS FALCONS

35

Tompkins senior running back R.J. Smith

SMITH IS A

STAR

36

TOMPKINS FALCONS

By DENNIS SILVA II

A GLANCE AT THE FALCONS

R

COACH: Todd McVey, 3rd year.

2018 RECORD: 10-3 LAST PLAYOFF APPEARANCE: 2018 RETURNING OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE STARTERS: 6/5 NUMBER OF RETURNING LETTERMEN: 20 KEY RETURNERS: Jr. QB Jalen Milroe; Jr. DE Tunmise Adeleye; Sr. RB RJ Smith; Sr. DB Jesse Jensen; Sr. WR Taurean Muhammad; Jr. DB Colby Huerter; Sr. LB Michael Spath; Sr. LB Kobee Madriz; Sr. OL Hayden Burke; Sr. OL David Peterson; Sr. OL Santiago Bohlmann; Sr. TE Conner Kinslow; Sr. DB Pryce Powell; Sr. RB George Benyeogor.

KEY NEWCOMERS: Sr. DE Trey Hermann; Jr. DE Justin Bevrotte; Sr. DB Josh Dibrell; Soph. DL Eti-ini Bassey; Jr. DB Dru Polidore.

PROJECTED STRENGTHS FOR 2019: Experience at skill positions and on offensive line.

PROJECTED CONCERNS FOR 2019: Defensive line (just one returner).

TIMES SPORTS EDITOR

.J. Smith’s initial hint that greatness may be in his genes came early during his elementary school years, when he picked up a library book on Major League Baseball’s Tampa Bay Rays and saw his father, Bob Smith, in it.

“I came home and was like, ‘Is this Daddy?’ And my mom said yeah,” said the Tompkins High senior running back, one of the top rushers in the entire state. “I came home and was like, ‘Is this Daddy?’

And my mom said yeah. That’s when I realized he actually played in the majors. It was a book on all the players who’d played for the Rays and who stood out, and he was in there. It was pretty cool.”

Indeed, Bob Smith played five seasons in the majors, all with the Rays. It wasn’t long after his career ended that he started training R.J. “At first, I used to think he was being tough on me just to be tough on me,” Smith said. “But now I can see he was just trying to make me better and make me a good man.”

Missions accomplished. The 5-foot-11 ½, 178-pound Smith opened a lot of eyes last season, rushing for 2,391 yards (8.5 yards per carry) and 30 touchdowns and hauling in 14 catches for 192 yards and three more TDs, helping lift the Falcons from a winless campaign in 2017 to a third-round playoff appearance in 2018.

Of Tompkins’ 395.9 yards per game, Smith accounted for 198.7 of them, or 50.2 percent.

“It wasn’t surprising to us, because we knew what he can do,” Bob Smith said. “He’s been doing that stuff since he’s been little.”

Last season was a breakthrough for Smith, who missed five games of his sophomore season with rib injuries. He was named to the Class 6A all-state team.

“It really raised my confidence, knowing what I can do for my team and for myself,” said Smith, a two-year team captain and four-year varsity letterman. “From my sophomore year to my junior year, it was like I was a totally different person.”

He boasts exceptional speed, quickness and vision.

“When you add all that to instinct, you can do a lot of good things,” Bob said.

The Falcons’ coaching staff used him in myriad of ways: as a downhill runner, outside, in motion, jetsweep, power game.

Now coach Todd McVey is eager to see his young star take that next step.

“My expectation of him is everything but playing, because I know he’s going to play hard. That’s not my concern,” McVey said. “For him, it’s about leading.

He’s quiet. He won’t rah-rah. My expectation more than anything else will be at practice, making sure he’s getting everyone else to practice as hard as he does. What’s going to be his legacy? He needs to help lead that. He gets to tell the stories of when it was not good and when it was good, and we have to continue doing what it’s taken to be good. That’s his role.”

But as spectacular as Smith is off the field—and he’s spectacular enough that national publications have taken notice—it’s who he is off the field that impresses.

He is quiet. He is humble. He is understated. It’s

rare that such an individually gifted talent is all about the team.

“I love that guy,” senior offensive lineman Hayden Burke said. “That guy is one of the best guys out there, even off the field. He’s someone who believes in himself and he believes in his teammates.”

He is trusted. He is genuine.

“If I ever need anything, I know I can call on R.J. and he’ll be there,” said junior quarterback Jalen Milroe, who has played football with Smith since they were teammates at WoodCreek Junior High. “Seeing what he’s worked for and what he’s earned, to see him keep improving and getting better, we can count on him.”

That comes from his upbringing.

“That’s our family. We work hard and let our work speak for ourselves,” Bob said. “He’s a quiet kid, he’s humble. That’s kind of his own personality as well, because he understands that’s what’s necessary to not only grow as a player but as a person.”

Bob started coaching Smith in basketball as a youngster, and at one time he thought he might be better suited for the court than the gridiron. Smith trained, trained, trained and trained some more under Dad. But once Smith reached 12 years old, Bob “handed him off” to other coaches and just tried to sit back and be a father.

Smith said while his dad is hands off as far as training, where he does have a significant presence is the “hard work and character part,” because “that stuff matters everywhere, not just sports.”

Smith is conscious of how he comes off around others. Bob has taught him how to be mature, how to show yourself, how to brand yourself. Whether it’s with the media or just working out, Smith is intent on doing more than what everyone else does.

“It’s helped me a lot,” Smith said. “He’s been there.

He knows what to do. It drives me knowing I have someone to follow who got to where I want to go. It’s really an advantage, as far as him telling me what it takes to reach certain things or how to approach certain situations.

“I never want to come off as someone who’s cocky.

But I am confident in myself. I believe in what I can do.”

ON THE GRID

37

Tompkins junior quarterback Jalen Milroe

TOMPKINS 2019 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT Aug. 31 at Fort Bend Austin Sept. 6 Klein Cain Sept. 14 Alvin *Sept. 20 Clear Creek Sept. 27 at Seven Lakes Oct. 3 Katy Oct. 10 at Mayde Creek Oct. 19 Morton Ranch Oct. 25 at Taylor Nov. 1 Cinco Ranch OPEN

*Homecoming

SITE Mercer Stadium Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium Rhodes Stadium Rhodes Stadium Legacy Stadium Rhodes Stadium Rhodes Stadium Rhodes Stadium Legacy Stadium

TIME 6 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

7 p.m.

11 a.m.

7:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

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