Denton Record-Chronicle Football 2015 by Denton Media Company

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August 27, 2015

Football 2015

On the cover

Star Power

The Denton Record-Chronicle’s 2015 football preview magazine focuses on the line of standout quarterbacks who have played for North Texas and local high schools. Guyer’s Shawn Robinson is ranked No. 1 among dual-threat quarterbacks in the Class of 2017 by the website 247 Sports. The junior follows in the line of talented local quarterbacks that also includes fellow Guyer product Jerrod Heard and former Ryan standout James Battle on the high school level and Steve Ramsey, a member of UNT’s athletic Hall of Fame.

Section credits

The logos on the high school pages are courtesy of Texas High School Helmet Project. Staff artist Jason Lee designed the cover of the magazine and the intro page to the quarterback history section. Staff photographer David Minton took the cover photos.

Contents

North Texas McNulty aims to join UNT greats...............6 Ramsey still a UNT legend........................8 Jimmerson, Wilson form top duo........... 10 Extra points........................................... 14 Conference USA preview....................... 15 Cosh takes over UNT defense................ 17 UNT roster............................................. 19 Carlos Harris aims for records............... 20 Kaydon Kirby to anchor offensive line.... 22 Minor among defensive veterans........... 24 Denton ISD high schools Guyer’s Robinson a top talent............... 26 Guyer...............................................28-32 Ryan................................................33-37 Denton............................................38-42 Denton quarterbacks section Looking back at Denton’s best.........51-60 Area high schools Pilot Point, Lake Dallas feature stars...... 46 Preseason all-area team..................48-49 Lake Dallas......................................63-66 Argyle..............................................69-72 Composite schedule............................. 73 State high school polls.......................... 74 Aubrey.............................................75-78 Krum...............................................79-82 Sanger.............................................84-87 Pilot Point........................................88-91 Ponder.............................................92-95 Liberty.............................................96-99 Calvary........................................100-102 Colleges Conference USA schedule................... 103 Big 12 schedule.................................. 104 SEC schedule..................................... 106 2014 Year in Review....................107-108 Section staff Director of sports Larry McBride....... lmcbride@dentonrc.com Section editor Brett Vito.....................bvito@dentonrc.com Staff Writers Adam Boedeker...... aboedeker@dentonrc.com Steve Gamel................ sgamel@dentonrc.com Patrick Hayslip............phayslip@dentonrc.com Photographers David Minton, Al Key, Kristen Watson Special contributors Barbara-Scott Kolb, Jimmy Isbell, Rich Luna, Randy Cummings

Denton Record-Chronicle

Brett Vito SECTION OVERVIEW

Denton lucky to see top QBs like Robinson The opportunity to track the growth of a transcendent talent like Guyer quarterback Shawn Robinson comes along once in a generation for fans in most Texas cities. Robinson burst onto the scene last fall and threw for 2,799 yards and 33 touchdowns while taking the state by storm and establishing himself as one of the best quarterback prospects in the nation in the Class of 2017. When the sports staff of the Denton Record-Chronicle examined the landscape of local football heading into the 2015 season, Robinson was clearly the key story. But he’s just part of the tale. One can make the case Denton has become a cradle of Texas quarterbacks, producing standout after standout on the high school and college levels. Guyer, alone, has featured J.W. Walsh and Jerrod Heard in the last five years before they went on to play for Oklahoma State and Texas, respectively. Heard is competing for the starting job at Texas this fall. And it’s not just Guyer that has been in the business of turning out great quarterbacks. Ryan featured James Battle and Scotty Young. Over at North Texas, the Mean Green won just the third bowl game in program history behind Derek Thompson in 2013. Look further back, and one can see how far Denton’s history of great quarterbacks extends. Steve Ramsey finished his UNT career in 1969 as the all-time leader in touchdown passes in major college football with 69. We tracked that history in this year’s

Carlos Harris aims to make his senior season at North Texas memorable. Page 20

Guyer’s Shawn Robinson is the nation’s top quarterback in the Class of 2017 and has...

Running back Xavier Scott will power Denton’s offense. Pages 38-42

Star Power

Tyreke Davis, Ryan look to reclaim past success. Pages 33-37

The Denton area has several star players on both the college and high school level, headlined by Guyer quarterback Shawn Robinson. Denton Record-Chronicle photographer David Minton shot Robinson and (from top) North Texas wide receiver Carlos Harris, Denton running back Xavier Scott and Ryan linebacker/running back Tyreke Davis for the cover of this year’s magazine.

magazine. Robinson is preparing for his junior season this year and has a whole lot more experience than he did when he first became Guyer’s starting quarterback last fall. He led the Wildcats two rounds deep into the playoffs. That experience should be a huge asset again this season, when the Wildcats are again expected to be among the state’s elite programs. Guyer opens the season ranked No. 9 in Class 6A in the Associated Press Texas high school football poll. While UNT has a long history of featuring standout quarterbacks, it won’t have the benefit of featuring an established player this season. The Mean Green used three different starting quarterbacks last season, including Andrew McNulty. The senior started

the final six games of the year and is in position to hang on to the job heading into the Mean Green’s season-opener at SMU. UNT is hoping that whoever it settles on at quarterback will help the Mean Green bounce back from a 4-8 campaign a year ago and return to the level it played at under Thompson in 2013. UNT finished 9-4 in 2013 and beat UNLV in the Heart of Dallas Bowl, where Thompson was named the game’s MVP. Having a solid quarterback in Thompson was vital for UNT, just like having Robinson helped make Guyer one of the elite teams in the state last season. In a lot of towns, players like Robinson come along once in a generation. In Denton, he’s just adding to the reputation of a city that has long been a cradle of quarterbacks.

August 27, 2015

COVER STORY

DRC Football

McNulty hopes to follow UNT greats By Brett Vito Staff Writer

Derek Thompson paused before hoisting a small trophy into the air, a smile spread across his face at the Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Day in 2014. North Texas had just knocked off UNLV in the Heart of Dallas Bowl behind the senior quarterback, who made a myriad of key plays with a banged up knee and was named the game’s MVP. Thompson became a part of UNT lore that day, not to mention an exclusive club — one that illustrates the challenge the Mean Green face heading into the 2015 season. UNT has posted only four winning seasons since moving back up to what is now the Football Bowl Subdivision in 1995, and depended on a quarterback with a whole lot of moxie each time. Thompson is the latest in the line that also includes Andrew Smith and Scott Hall, a member of the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame. “To say that you need an elite quarterback to get to a bowl game or challenge for a championship or have a memorable season, that might not be true, but they had better have a really good year, be productive and be consistent,” UNT coach Dan McCarney said. That’s the key question for UNT heading into its season opener at SMU on Sept. 12. After the 2014 campaign when nothing went right at quarterback, and a messy offseason, does UNT have the right guy in Andrew McNulty? McCarney won’t officially name a starter until the week of UNT’s opener, but at this point it seems like a foregone conclusion that McNulty will be under center when the Mean Green open the year. “I’m confident that I can get this team to a bowl,” McNulty said. “We have our team goals and that’s one of them. I’m not going to be satisfied until we get there.” No one knows better than McNulty what will be riding on his shoulders this fall. UNT finished 4-8 in 2014 while rolling through three starting quarterbacks. Another down year will make the 9-4 campaign UNT posted in 2013 look even more like an aberration. The Mean Green have posted just one winning sea-

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

North Texas has been at its best since it resumed playing on the major college level in 1995 when it has been guided by quarterbacks who have come through in tough situations, including Scott Hall, Andrew Smith and Derek Thompson. UNT is hoping senior Andrew McNulty, who is projected to start this season, will join that line of players who have led the Mean Green to winning seasons and bowl games in the last 20 years. son in the last decade and are hoping McNulty can follow in the footsteps of Hall, Smith and Thompson and guide UNT to its second winning season in the last three years. Reaching that goal would give UNT two winning seasons in three years and a good case that it’s program is on the rise. The alternative would be a 10th losing season in 11 years and inevitable questions about its direction. McNulty has spent the last few months preparing to face the challenge of being UNT’s most scrutinized player in a critical season. “He asserted himself and became the guy we all expected him to be,” UNT offensive coordinator Mike Canales said.

“He said, ‘I am not going to let anyone, I don’t care who it is, Tom Brady or John Elway, take this job from me.’ He kept the mentality from when he got the job last season through the spring and the summer. He has asserted himself as a leader. He has a quiet confidence.”

A long path to the top spot McNulty didn’t have many reasons to be confident in his future over the last few seasons, when he was passed over time and again for the Mean Green’s starting quarterback job. The stark reality of where McNulty stood just a few months ago is apparent when one looks at how the 2014 season unfolded.

UNT needed to replace Thompson after he graduated and tried Josh Greer for three games before turning to Dajon Williams for the next three. Only after striking out on its first two choices, did UNT give McNulty a chance to start. The Iowa native threw for 1,295 yards with six touchdowns and seven interceptions while leading the Mean Green to a 2-4 record in their last six games. “It was hard at the time, but it hasn’t affected my confidence,” McNulty said of the way the season unfolded. “I attack every single day with confidence and have the confidence of the guys around me. That really pushes me to get better and See UNT QBs on 7

COVER STORY

DRC Football

From Page 6

UNT QBs

lead our offense.” The Mean Green desperately needs that offense to get back on track. UNT’s three quarterbacks combined to average 172.8 passing yards a game, with an efficiency rating of 112.4 that ranked 104th out of 125 teams nationally last season. Those figures represented a dramatic drop from 2013, when UNT averaged 229.8 passing yards a game with an efficiency rating of 133.51 that ranked 53rd nationally with Thompson running the show. “You have practice time with each quarterback, feel them out and know how each throws the ball,” UNT tight end Marcus Smith said. “Overall, it’s tough when you go through 12 games and have three different quarterbacks.” That uncertainty was the reason McCarney named improving at quarterback after riding the merry-go-round in 2014 one of the Mean Green’s biggest challenges heading into the offseason. The plan for spring practice was for McNulty to compete with DaMarcus Smith, who transferred in from Butler County College in Kansas. That idea went up in smoke when Smith was declared academically eligible for the spring. UNT’s options dwindled even more when Williams left the program following spring practice. Smith regained his eligibility before the beginning of fall practice, but by then was far behind and seemingly out of the picture. “We are not just going to throw him in there,” McCarney said of Smith in the early stages of fall drills. “We are not elevating anybody based on hopes or dreams or wishing or hoping or wanting. It’s going to be based on performance each day and consistency in fairness to the guys who have been here.” McNulty is a fifth-year senior, which has given him a distinct advantage in the quarterback race in terms of experience. He worked all through the spring, summer and the early stages of fall practice as the leader of UNT’s offense. “I feel like we have really strong chemistry,” McNulty said of his relationship with his receivers. “A lot of those guys have been here for a while, just like me. We have been building that relationship over time.”

August 27, 2015

NORTH TEXAS Quarterbacks who have led UNT to bowls since 1995

North Texas has played in five bowl games behind three quarterbacks since resuming play on what is now the Football Bowl Subdivision level in 1995. The following is a look back:

Derek Thompson 2013 Heart of Dallas Bowl Derek Thompson was at his best as a senior, guiding North Texas on a five-game winning streak after a 2-3 start. That run helped UNT post a winning record for the first time since 2004. Thompson capped his career by throwing for 256 yards and two touchdowns in UNT’s 36-14 win over UNLV in the Heart of Dallas Bowl.

Scott Hall 2001, 2003, 2004 New Orleans Bowls UNT was in a tough spot after starting 0-5 in 2001 before Scott Hall led the Mean Green on a five-game winning streak. UNT snapped a 42-year bowl drought by earning a New Orleans Bowl berth that year. Hall went on to guide UNT to two more New Orleans Bowls. He was named to the All-Sun Belt team in 2003 and 2004.

Andrew Smith 2002 New Orleans Bowl UNT’s hopes to build on its 2001 New Orleans Bowl appearance took a hit when Scott Hall went down with an injury in the Mean Green’s season-opener at Texas the next fall. Andrew Smith stepped in as a redshirt freshman and led UNT to seven straight wins, including a victory over Cincinnati in the New Orleans Bowl.

Legends describe the path Thompson knows better than anyone the challenges McNulty could face this fall, if he holds off Smith and Greer. The former Glen Rose standout took his lumps just like McNulty did. Thompson broke his leg in a loss at Army and was passed over for the starting job on multiple occasions before starting his last three seasons at UNT. The experience he gained along the way prepared him for his milestone senior season when the Mean Green snapped a string of eight straight losing campaigns. Thompson is hoping for a similar outcome for McNulty, who remains a close

Denton Record-Chronicle file photos

friend. “I’ve always believed McNulty can get it done,” Thompson said. “I’m rooting for him because I’ve seen him work.” Hall and Thompson know the value of work, not to mention experience. Experience is what helped them join the exclusive club of quarterbacks who have led UNT to bowls since 1995. “Each year, it seems to slow down,” Thompson said. “Nothing surprises you anymore. With as many games as I played, I know that over time you get a better understanding of what it takes to be successful.” Hall was successful throughout his

career, but believes he was much better as a senior in 2004 than he was when he helped UNT snap what was then the nation’s longest bowl drought at 42 years in 2001. “The experience really helped,” Hall said. “I started something like 43 games and played in 50. I made a lot of mistakes. By the time I was a senior, I was well versed in what not to do.” While extensive experience helps, UNT’s history shows it isn’t a hard requirement. Hall was a sophomore when he led the Mean Green to the 2001 New Orleans Bowl. A year later, Smith replaced Hall after he tore his pectoral muscle in a loss to Texas. The redshirt freshman guided UNT on a seven-game winning streak capped by a victory over Cincinnati in the New Orleans Bowl. Smith had far less experience than McNulty does now and led UNT to a bowl victory while navigating a tough situation. He’d never played at the major college level when he took over as the Mean Green’s starter. Hall returned a year later and guided UNT to two more New Orleans Bowls while becoming the last Mean Green quarterback to earn all-conference honors. He was a first-team All-Sun Belt Conference selection in 2003 and a second-team pick in 2004. “I’m surprised it has been that long, especially with the offenses North Texas has run,” Hall said. “They have thrown it around and had good stats at times, but not a lot of wins to show for it.” McNulty will likely get a chance to snap that drought this fall. McCarney just doesn’t believe McNulty will have to be an all-conference quarterback for UNT to add to its short list of winning seasons and bowl appearances since rejoining the ranks of major college football programs. Thompson wasn’t an all-league pick during UNT’s run to the Heart of Dallas Bowl. He was solid, though, and occasionally a whole lot more than that. That was the case when he raised a bowl MVP trophy over his head at the Cotton Bowl after he threw for 256 yards and two touchdowns in UNT’s win over UNLV in the Heart of Dallas Bowl. Thompson joined an elite club in UNT history that day that also includes Hall and Smith. UNT’s season could well hinge on finding another player with the talent and fortitude to follow in their footsteps.

August 27, 2015

NORTH TEXAS

DRC Football

Ramsey’s legacy still evident at UNT Quarterback was among best of era in college football By Brett Vito Staff Writer

Becky Schlatholt spotted the mural tucked away behind a concession stand at Apogee Stadium and knew immediately she’d never forget the moment it came into view. The quarterback staring back at her during North Texas’ All-Century Team banquet weekend in 2013 was far too familiar to ever slip from her mind. Steve Ramsey was not only one of the best quarterbacks and players in UNT football history. He was also Schlatholt’s father. Schlatholt’s memories of a man she describes as humble and quiet are still fresh even now as Ramsey’s football legacy quietly fades following his death in 1999 of a heart attack at the age of 51. “He is absolutely one of the best players who ever came through North Texas, but he was there at the same time as Joe Greene,” said Rod Rust, Ramsey’s coach at UNT. “We had so many players drafted in that time. He is just remembered as our winning quarterback. He didn’t have the wow factor, but he was a great player.” Ramsey might not have been the equal of Greene, one of the greatest players in college and pro football history, but he was a star in his own right. Those who saw him play say no discussion of the greatest quarterbacks in UNT and Denton football history is complete without including Ramsey, a stout player with a rocket arm and a calm demeanor that allowed him to guide a team like few others in program history. UNT has memorialized Ramsey over the years in Apogee and beyond. The mural in UNT’s home venue is just one way the school has tried to keep his memory alive. Ramsey was inducted into UNT’s Hall of Fame in 1988 and named the quarterback on the school’s All-Century team. That mural and the memories Ramsey’s teammates shared the weekend

North Texas sports information

Steve Ramsey finished his career at North Texas in 1969 with 69 touchdown passes, a total that was not only a school record, but also an NCAA record. Ramsey, who died in 1999, still ranks among UNT’s all-time leaders in several statistical categories and is remembered as a calm leader with a strong arm by his former teammates. He was the quarterback of UNT’s All-Century team that was named in 2013. UNT honored the members of its All-Century team reassured Schlatholt that one of the greatest quarterbacks in program history will always be a part of local football lore, even if he isn’t around to reminisce about his time with the Mean Green. “We had a lot of fun visiting with his teammates,” Schlatholt said. “It was sad that he wasn’t there. He would have enjoyed seeing all of his old friends more than getting an award.” Visiting with her father’s old teammates is just one of Schlatholt’s enduring memories from the weekend of the All-Century banquet. “We saw his picture up in the stadium,” Schlatholt said. “It was great to see him out there larger than life like that.”

A remarkable football legacy Ramsey was already a UNT legend when he finished off his college career in 1969. Spread offenses had yet to become the standard in college football when Ramsey played. Teams threw the ball, but not many asked their quarterbacks to carry an offense with their prowess throwing the ball like Ramsey did for UNT. Ramsey was one of college football’s original pocket-passing gunslingers and finished his career as the NCAA’s all-time leader in career touchdown passes with 69. That figure isn’t close to ranking in the top 100 now. “If you look at the number of times he threw it per year and per game and com-

pared it to quarterbacks today, it’s different,” said Chuck Mills, one of Ramsey’s former teammates. “He didn’t throw it nearly as many times.” Ramsey threw 1,015 passes in his three seasons, including 414 attempts in his senior campaign. He led the country with 21 touchdown passes as a sophomore before tallying 24 in each of his final two seasons. Former Houston quarterback Case Keenum finished with 2,229 passing attempts — more than double that of Ramsey — while rolling up today’s record of 155 touchdowns in a career that concluded in 2011. Ramsey’s 7,076 career passing yards See RAMSEY on 9

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NORTH TEXAS

August 27, 2015

From Page 8

RAMSEY UNT records

Ramsey

now ranks just third in UNT history behind Mitch Maher and Derek Thompson, who threw for 8,519 yards and 7,447 yards, respectively. “Steve was very accurate in throwing the ball and had a lot of velocity,” said former UNT defensive back Leonard Dunlap, one of Ramsey’s teammates. “He was never afraid to throw it, even if someone was covered.” When Ramsey threw the ball, he was often asked to fit the ball into tight windows down the field. The approach was full of risks and rewards. Ramsey’s 31 interceptions led the nation in his senior season. “The thing I admired about Steve the most is that there are three cardinal sins in football — a fumble, a missed assignment and a missed tackle,” Rust said. “An interception isn’t one of them because a quarterback has to throw the ball before he knows if a receiver is going to be open. Steve was always willing to throw the ball in anticipation of a good result. That shows courage.” That courage resulted in some of the greatest games for a quarterback in UNT history. Ramsey threw five touchdown passes in three separate games in his career. One of those games came in 1968 in a showdown with Cincinnati and the Bearcats’ quarterback Greg Cook, who also ranked among the great quarterbacks of the era. Ramsey threw for what was then a UNT record 433 yards to Cook’s 264, but it was the Bearcats who pulled away for a 55-34 win. “That was a great game,” Rust said. “The third quarter lasted about an hour and a half.” Ramsey went on to play seven years in the NFL, six of them with the Denver Broncos, while racking up 6,437 passing yards. “I played 11 years in the NFL and no one I played with was better than Steve Ramsey,” said Willie Parker, one of Ramsey’s offensive linemen at UNT.

A different kind of QB What Cedrick Hardman, who spent 12 years playing in the NFL, remembers most about his time as Ramsey’s teammate at UNT wasn’t so much the records one of the Mean Green’s all-time great

The following is a look at where former North Texas quarterback Steve Ramsey stands in the school’s record book: CAREER Touchdown passes 1. Steve Ramsey, 1967-69...................... 69 2. Mitch Maher, 1991-94........................ 67 Passing yards 1. Mitch Maher, 1991-94...................8,519 2. Derek Thompson, 2009-13............7,447 3. Steve Ramsey, 1967-69.................7,076 SEASON Touchdown passes 1. Mitch Maher, 1994............................. 26 2(t). Steve Ramsey, 1969........................ 24 2(t). Steve Ramsey, 1968........................ 24 2(t). Mitch Maher, 1993.......................... 24 Passing yards 1. Mitch Maher, 1994........................3,103 2. Derek Thompson, 2013..................2,896 3. Steve Ramsey, 1969......................2,828 7. Steve Ramsey, 1968......................2,516

North Texas sports information

Steve Ramsey went on to play seven seasons in the NFL after graduating from North Texas, including six with the Denver Broncos. He threw for 6,437 yards in the NFL, including 1,931 yards in 1976 with the Broncos, his best pro season. quarterbacks set and games they won together. Ramsey’s character and the way he differed from the stereotype of a college quarterback made a more enduring impression. “Ramsey had these horned-rimmed glasses and looked like a high school chemistry teacher,” Hardman said. “But when he put that uniform on and got under center, he looked like a quarterback.” What made Ramsey successful was more than just a strong arm and good size at 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds. Ramsey’s former teammates say it was his leadership ability and knowledge of the game that set him apart. One of Parker’s lingering memories of Ramsey is seeing him alone watching film to get a jump on the competition. That knowledge allowed him to carry his quiet and calm demeanor over to the field and keep his teammates focused no matter the situation. Ramsey never had a whole lot to say on or off the field. When he did talk — especially in the huddle — his teammates listened.

“He would look everyone in the eyes in the huddle when he called plays,” Parker said. “He made sure everyone knew what his thoughts were. “He understood the game better than anyone else did. He understood it like our coaches.”

A special place The talents Ramsey displayed at UNT translated to the NFL. His best pro season came in 1976, when he threw for 1,931 yards while starting 12 games for the Broncos. Schlatholt could tell while growing up that those seasons in the NFL were not the ones Ramsey cherished most. “He loved North Texas,” Schlatholt said. “He said that was his favorite time and that he loved his teammates and coaches. He viewed them as family. He was very loyal.” Ramsey remained connected with his teammates and UNT’s program while running Ramsey Custom Floors after he retired from the NFL. UNT reached out to Ramsey’s fami-

GAME Touchdown passes 1. Giovanni Vizza vs. Navy, 2007................ 8 2(t). Steve Ramsey vs. Cincinnati, 1968.... 5 2(t). Steve Ramsey vs. UTEP, 1968............ 5 2(t). Steve Ramsey vs. ULL, 1969.............. 5 Passing yards 1. Daniel Meager vs. SMU, 2007........... 601 2. Steve Ramsey vs. ULL, 1969............. 495 5. Steve Ramsey vs. Cincinnati, 1968.... 433 10. Steve Ramsey vs. Wich. St., 1969... 381

ly after naming its All-Century team to ensure his contributions would be recognized when the team was honored before the Mean Green’s spring game back in 2013. Schlatholt and her sons came back to represent Ramsey when he was introduced as one of the 26 players named to the team. Schlatholt pointed out to her sons that the man pictured behind the concession stand at Apogee was their grandfather. “I had someone take a picture of us in front of it,” Schlatholt said. “He never really talked about his football career.” The legacy Ramsey left behind at UNT ensured there will be people talking about his contributions years from now. Even now, as memories of his career fade, no discussion of the all-time great quarterbacks in UNT and Denton history is complete without mentioning Ramsey, the strong-armed quarterback with the horned-rimmed glasses. “Steve was what a quarterback should be,” Hardman said. “He was a no-nonsense guy. Everyone liked and respected him. And he could throw that football.”

NORTH TEXAS

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Jimmerson trying to guide Wilson By Brett Vito Staff Writer

A few years ago, back when Antoinne Jimmerson first arrived at North Texas, he was among the young players on the Mean Green’s roster who needed guidance the most. The bowling ball of a running back was as emotional as he was talented and was prone to mistakes on and off the field. The help veterans like Lance Dunbar provided set Jimmerson on a positive path that has reached an unexpected milestone heading into his senior season. Jimmerson still has his struggles, but has developed to the point where he has a talented youngster who sees him as a mentor in sophomore Jeffrey Wilson. “Wilson is like a little brother,” Jimmerson said. “I want him to be better than me. I see so much potential in him that he probably doesn’t see in himself. Lance taught me a lot of things. I’m willing to teach Wilson and show him the ropes.” Jimmerson certainly has plenty to pass along after three productive seasons at UNT. Jimmerson burst onto the scene as a redshirt freshman in 2012 when he caught a swing pass and turned it into a 78-yard game-winning touchdown in a nationally televised game against Louisiana-Lafayette. The former DeSoto standout has built on that play, quietly racking up 1,579 career rushing yards. He led the Mean Green with a career-best 589 yards last season and matured as a person along the way. Jimmerson experienced a slipup in fall practice when he missed curfew and was arrested on an outstanding warrant for a traffic violation and for walking in the street instead of the sidewalk, but has been on a positive path overall. “I’m so proud of Jimmerson’s growth,” UNT head coach Dan McCarney said. “He is so emotional. You can be that way, if you channel it the right way. It can be a positive. He has emerged as a leader on this team. It started last winter and hasn’t stopped. He has embraced this being his senior year and his last shot.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

NORTH TEXAS: STAR POWER

North Texas running back Antoinne Jimmerson has quietly put himself in position to finish his college career ranked among the Mean Green’s all-time leading rushers. He has 1,579 yards and can move into the top 10 in school history with 499 more. He has also developed into a mentor for talented sophomore running back Jeffrey Wilson.

Jimmerson knows that UNT’s chances to make his last season a memorable one will depend largely on getting a running game that took a step back last season rolling again. UNT averaged 153.2 yards a game last season, down from 180.7 yards a game in 2013, when the Mean Green finished 9-4 and beat UNLV in the Heart of Dallas Bowl. UNT’s hopes to improve its running game will depend in part on its ability to fill the void left by the graduation of Reggie Pegram, UNT’s second-leading rusher with 529 yards last season. The Mean Green’s philosophy has long been to rotate multiple running backs. Wilson seems like a perfect candidate

to step into a major role — and maybe the staring lineup in place of Jimmerson. McCarney has touted the former Elkhart standout as a potential star ever since he signed with UNT. Injuries slowed Wilson last season, when he missed three games and was limited in several others before he came back and rushed for 105 yards in a season-ending loss to Texas-San Antonio. “My first season humbled me and made me so hungry,” Wilson said. “I had to sit out. That left a bad taste in my mouth. It made me grind, work hard and become a better person. I didn’t like See RUNNING BACKS on 13

MEAN GREEN Quick facts

Conference: C-USA 2014 record: 4-8 (2-6 in conference) Coach: Dan McCarney (22-27 in four seasons at UNT, 78-112 in 16 seasons overall) Returning starters: Six on offense, six on defense Key players: WR Carlos Harris, OL Kaydon Kirby, K Trevor Moore, CB Kenny Buyers, TE Marcus Smith, QB Andrew McNulty, DE Chad Polk, LB Fred Scott, DT Austin Orr Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 36,000 Stadium: Apogee Stadium

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From Page 10

Running backs

the way it turned out, but everything happens for a reason.” Jimmerson has dealt with his set of obstacles in his time at UNT, from injuries to falling out of favor and down the depth chart at times. Jimmerson made sure Wilson, who he said analyzes everything about the game and his place in it, had someone to lean on when times were tough last year. “I have become more of a leader, not just by the way I play, but also by being more of a vocal leader,” Jimmerson said. “I want the young running backs here to be better than me.” Jimmerson sees his career as something more than just his opportunity to play the game on the college level and earn his degree. He sees himself as part of the Mean Green’s run of great running backs dating back to the early 2000s, when Patrick Cobbs and Jamario Thomas won back-to-back national rushing titles in 2003 and 2004. Lance Dunbar arrived after Thomas finished his career and went on to break Cobbs’ career rushing record

August 27, 2015

MEAN GREEN Dynamic duo North Texas running backs Antoinne Jimmerson and Jeffrey Wilson form a powerful duo for UNT. The following is a look at both:

Antoinne Jimmerson

Jeffrey Wilson

Vitals: 5-9, 220, Sr. 2014 stats: 120 carries, 589 yards, 5 TDs

Vitals: 6-0, 195, So. 2014 stats: 50 carries, 224 yards, 1 TD

while piling up 4,224 yards. Before he left to begin his career with the Cowboys, Dunbar imparted his knowledge to Jimmerson. Now Jimmerson is trying to pass what he learned on to Wilson, who might start in front of him. The prospect of being a backup doesn’t bother the elder statesman of UNT running backs. Jimmerson just wants to win. That attitude has made an impression on Wilson, who said Jimmerson has

Denton Record-Chronicle/file photo

North Texas running back Jeffrey Wilson carries the ball last season in a loss to Texas-San Antonio. Wilson says he has learned from fellow UNT running back Antoinne Jimmerson, who has become a mentor early in his career.

Wilson’s time appears as if it is coming this fall when he could end up sharing time with Jimmerson. Jimmerson sees the situation as a perfect setup, and a chance for him to be a part of another dynamic duo. Last season, he combined with Pegram to rush for 1,118 yards. Jimmerson and Wilson are hoping to soar well past that total this year. “We can be a great duo,” Jimmerson said. “I want to have the same type of duo that Patrick and Jamario had and bring us a conference championship.”

helped him learn how to handle the responsibility that goes along with playing on the college level. Jimmerson has shown Wilson how important studying the playbook and watching film beyond what is required by coaches is to a player’s success. That lesson is just part of what Wilson has picked up from the senior. “He has told me that you have to be a team player,” Wilson said. “You may not always get the chances you want, but if you stay humble and patient, your time will come.”

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August 27, 2015

Point of concern

North Texas will face a brutal schedule that ranks among the Mean Green’s biggest challenges heading into the 2015 season. UNT will face Power Five conference opponents Tennessee and Iowa on the road, and that’s just for starters. The Mean Green have only five home games and will face the teams picked to finish first through third in Conference USA’s East Division in the league’s preseason poll in Western Kentucky, Marshall and Middle Tennessee, respectively, in crossover games. UNT’s game against West Division favorite Louisiana Tech is on the road. The Mean Green’s bye is also in the opening weekend of the season, leaving UNT with 12 games in 12 weeks. That marathon could easily wear the Mean Green out. “We are going to be smart about things without having an open McCarney week,” UNT head coach Dan McCarney said. “We are going to be really conscious of taking care of the kids who are playing the most on Saturdays.” The way the schedule sets up will put a premium on home games. UNT is paying to bring in Portland State, a team that finished 3-9 last season in the Football Championship Subdivision. The Mean Green also host WKU, UTSA, UTEP and Rice. UNT will have to capitalize on its opportunities at Apogee Stadium and turn the tide on the road. The Mean Green are 16-7 all-time at Apogee and have never experienced a losing season in their home venue, but lost all six of their road games last season and are 5-20 away from Apogee under McCarney. Turning the tide in a season the Mean Green play powers like the Volunteers and Hawkeyes on the road won’t be easy. UNT is 3-34 all-time against teams from the Southeastern Conference and will face one of the league’s better teams in Tennessee, which was 7-6 a year ago. A game at Iowa won’t be easy either. The Hawkeyes finished 7-6 in the Big Ten in 2014 and are among seven teams that played in a bowl on UNT’s schedule.

NORTH TEXAS

Extra Points Keys to a successful year

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Game of the year

There isn’t a bigger game on UNT’s schedule than its opener at SMU on Sept. 12. The Mean Green posted one of their more memorable wins in recent program history last season when they blasted the Mustangs 43-6 at Apogee Stadium. The win was just UNT’s fifth in the teams’ 34game series, but was also its third in the teams’ last five games. A win this season would give UNT back-to-back victories in the series for the first time. A winning streak against the Mustangs would also allow UNT to make a convincing argument that the series is swinging in the Mean Green’s favor. Being able to make that case would do UNT a world of good in terms of positive publicity and a story to sell in recruiting. McCarney and other UNT officials talked all summer long about their hopes that thousands of Mean Green fans will pack the stands at SMU’s Ford Field and make the game seem like a home contest for UNT.

Key newcomers

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

North Texas sophomore Trevor Moore kicks an extra point in a loss to Louisiana Tech last season at Apogee Stadium. Moore enjoyed a tremendous freshman campaign and was a preseason All-Conference USA selection this fall.

Position of strength UNT’s special teams should rank among the best overall units in Conference USA and will play a key role in the Mean Green’s pursuit of a bowl berth. Kicker Trevor Moore was tremendous throughout his freshman season, hitting 15 of his 17 field goal attempts and tying a program record by hitting all 37 of his extra points. UNT could count on coming away with points any time it got within field goal range with Moore at its disposal. Moore was one of three UNT players named to the Preseason All-Conference USA team and is also on the watch list for the Lou Groza Award that goes to the nation’s top kicker. The Mean Green should also be strong in the punting game behind Eric

Keena and Blake Macek, who combined to average 43.2 yards an attempt last season. UNT has a solid duo in the return game, as well, behind wide receivers Darvin Kidsy and Carlos Harris. Kidsy returned a punt and a kickoff for touchdowns last season while averaging 24.9 yards a kick return and 10.1 yards a punt return. Harris averaged 23.6 yards a kick return. UNT’s coverage units were also solid. The Mean Green led C-USA in kickoff coverage with an average of 43.9 net yards per attempt. UNT has emphasized special teams play under McCarney and excelled behind special teams coordinator Tommy Perry.

UNT brought in several quick-fix junior college players and transfers to bolster its defense who could end up starting. Safety James Gray was a highly regarded prospect coming out of Fort Scott Community College in Kansas and claimed a starting job in spring practice. He could have plenty of company when it comes to new players on the Mean Green’s starting defense. Gray Linebacker Blake Bean transferred to UNT from Buffalo and is expected to start after sitting out last season. UNT is also hoping defensive end Jareid Combs, who posted 17 Bean sacks during his sophomore year at Iowa Central Community College, will make an immediate impact. “There is no doubt that Finney, Gray and some of the additions we made will help us,” McCarney said.

—Brett Vito

DRC Football

CONFERENCE USA PREVIEW

August 27, 2015

WKU ranks as C-USA preseason favorite

By Brett Vito

C-USA Preseason poll

Staff Writer

The balance of power in Conference USA shifted dramatically late last year. Western Kentucky was going to be among the favorites in the league race this fall no matter what happened with the school’s appeal to the NCAA for a sixth season of eligibility for quarterback Brandon Doughty. When Doughty received that extra year, it made the Hilltoppers the clear favorite in C-USA and one of the top teams playing in a league outside the power five conferences nationally. “It was exciting,” Doughty said of receiving the news. “We are trying to get that ring and do something that we haven’t done for a really long time in this program and win that conference championship.” Doughty’s return gives the Hilltoppers a golden opportunity to reach that goal. The Preseason C-USA Offensive Player of the Year threw for 4,830 yards and 49 touchdowns in 2014, when the Hilltoppers featured a historic offensive duo that also included running back Leon Allen. Allen rushed for 1,542 yards, making WKU the first team in major college football history to have a 4,000-yard passer and a 1,500-yard rusher in the same season. “We have a key nucleus coming back that we feel good about,” WKU head coach Jeff Brohm said. “We really like our quarterback, and our running back was tremendous.” Media members voted WKU the favorite in C-USA’s East Division in the league’s preseason poll, while Louisiana Tech was picked to win the West Division. Both teams are coming off milestone campaigns. WKU beat Central Michigan in a 4948 thriller in the Bahamas Bowl when Hilltoppers defensive back Wonderful Terry broke up a two-point conversion pass on the final play of the game. Louisiana Tech knocked off Illinois in the Heart of Dallas Bowl 35-18 in another milestone victory for C-USA, which finished 4-1 in bowl games last season. “We are probably under appreciated and maybe under respected some around the country, but not by those of us who play and coach in this league,” McCarney said. “This is a tremendous

The following is the preseason C-USA poll as determined by media members who regularly cover the league: West Division Team 2014 record (C-USA) 1. Louisiana Tech......................... 9-5 (7-1) 2. Rice......................................... 8-5 (5-3) 3. UTEP........................................ 7-6 (5-3) 4. Southern Miss.......................... 3-9 (1-7) 5. North Texas.............................. 4-8 (2-6) 6. Texas-San Antonio.................... 4-8 (3-5) East Division Team 2014 record (C-USA) 1. Western Kentucky..................... 8-5 (4-4) 2. Marshall................................ 13-1 (7-1) 3. Middle Tennessee..................... 6-6 (5-3) 4. Florida Atlantic......................... 3-9 (2-6) 5. Florida International................. 4-8 (3-5) 6. Old Dominion........................... 6-6 (4-4) 7. Charlotte.......................................... 5-6* *First season as a full member of C-USA

C-USA All-conference team

Western Kentucky sports information

The balance of power in Conference USA shifted when Western Kentucky quarterback Brandon Doughty was granted a sixth year of eligibility in 2015 by the NCAA. Doughty threw for 4,830 yards and 49 touchdowns last season. conference.” McCarney and the Mean Green will enter their third season in the league as a decided underdog in the conference race. UNT was picked to finish fifth out of six teams in the West Division and faces a challenging schedule. The Mean Green will take on WKU, Marshall and Middle Tennessee, the teams picked to finish first, second and third in C-USA’s East Division, respectively, in addition to playing Tennessee and Iowa on the road in nonconference play. UNT’s biggest challenge of all in C-USA play could be its home game against WKU on Oct. 15. The Thursday night television game will be UNT’s shot to spoil what the Hilltoppers hope will be a second straight

milestone season and post a key win. “We think we can be something special,” WKU linebacker Nick Holt said. What WKU accomplished last season helps fuel that feeling among the Hilltoppers’ players and coaches. “We won some close ones and some big games,” Brohm said. “That gives us a lot of momentum heading into this year.” So does the return of Doughty, who has thrown for exactly 7,800 yards in his career. “We’re definitely happy to have him back,” Brohm said. “The strides he made from the previous year to last year were huge. He put a lot of work into it. The fact he wanted to come back, hone his skills, play with his teammates again and try to win a championship meant a lot.”

The following is the preseason All-C-USA team selected by the league’s coaches: Offensive Player of the Year Brandon Doughty, Sr., QB, Western Kentucky Defensive Player of the Year Richard Leonard, Sr., DB, Florida International Special Teams Player of the Year Autrey Golden, Sr., KR, UTEP Offense QB Brandon Doughty, Sr., Western Kentucky; RB Leon Allen, Sr., Western Kentucky; RB Kenneth Dixon, Sr., Louisiana Tech; RB Devon Johnson, Sr., Marshall; RB Aaron Jones, Jr., UTEP; OL Jordan Budwig, Jr., Florida International; OL Darius Johnson, Sr., Middle Tennessee; OL Kaydon Kirby, Jr., North Texas; OL Andrew Reue, Sr., Rice; OL Clint Van Horn, Jr., Marshall; WR Jared Dangerfield, Sr., Western Kentucky; WR Carlos Harris, Sr., North Texas; WR Zach Pascal, Jr., Old Dominion; WR Trent Taylor, Jr., Louisiana Tech; TE Jonnu Smith, Jr., Florida International Defense DL Vernon Butler, Sr., Louisiana Tech; DL Jason Neill, Sr., UTSA; DL Jarquez Samuel, Sr., Marshall; DL Michael Smith, Sr., Southern Miss; DL Michael Wakefield, Sr., Florida International; LB T.T. Barber, Sr., Middle Tennessee; LB Drew Douglas, Sr., UTSA; LB D.J. Hunter, Sr., Marshall; DB Kevin Byard, Sr., Middle Tennessee; DB Crevon LeBlanc, Sr., Florida Atlantic; DB Richard Leonard, Sr., Florida International; DB Bennett Okotcha, Sr., UTSA; DB Wonderful Terry, Sr., Western Kentucky; DB Xavier Woods, Jr., Louisiana Tech Special Teams K Trevor Moore, So., North Texas; P Tyler Williams, Sr., Marshall; KR Autrey Golden, Jr., UTEP; PR Richard Leonard, Sr., Florida International; LS Matt Cincotta, Sr., Marshall

August 27, 2015

WEST DIVISION

Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Head coach: Skip Holtz (13-13 in two seasons at Louisiana Tech, 101-84 in 15 seasons overall) Team: 43 lettermen, five offensive, six defensive starters return from a 9-5 team (7-1 C-USA, first West Division), 23 lettermen lost. Key player: Senior running back Kenneth Dixon scored 28 touchdowns last season, the second-highest single-season total in C-USA history, and is a preseason All-C-USA selection. Dixon will be among the top offensive players in the league Dixon entering the season. Outlook: Louisiana Tech hit on fifth-year senior transfer Cody Sokol last season when he threw for 3,436 yards and 30 touchdowns. Sokol led the Bulldogs to the C-USA West Division title and a win over Illinois in the Heart of Dallas Bowl. Louisiana Tech will look for a similar outcome this fall with former Florida quarterback Jeff Driskel, who is expected to start for the Bulldogs this season. Rice Owls Head coach: David Bailiff (48-53 in eight seasons at Rice, 69-68 in 11 seasons overall) Team: 44 lettermen, six offensive, three defensive starters return from an 8-5 team (5-3 C-USA, tied for second West Division), 21 lettermen lost. Key player: Driphus Jackson threw for 2,842 yards and 24 touchdowns while helping balance out an offense that also featured the one-twopunch of Jowan Davis (956 yards) and Darik Dillard (652 yards) at running back. Jackson threw 24 touchdowns Jackson with just eight interceptions. Outlook: Rice has played in bowl games in three straight seasons and won two of them, including its victory over Fresno State in the Hawaii Bowl last season. The Owls will be among the favorites in C-USA to play in a bowl game again this season. The way a defense with just three returning starters develops could be the key to Rice’s chances to win the West Division title. Southern Miss Golden Eagles Head coach: Todd Monken (4-20 in two seasons at Southern Miss) Team: 59 lettermen, 10 offensive, five defensive starters return from a 3-9 team (1-7 C-USA, sixth West Division), 21 lettermen lost. Key player: Michael Thomas led Southern Miss in receiving yards (592) and touchdowns (five) as a junior. He will be a vital part of the Golden Eagles’ passing attack that powers their offense. Outlook: Monken enters his Thomas third season at Southern Miss hoping to get the Golden Eagles back on track after three straight losing campaigns. The Golden Eagles haven’t been the same since winning the C-USA title in 2011 under Larry Fedora. Southern Miss’ hopes to rebound will depend

CONFERENCE USA PREVIEW largely on the performance of its quarterback. Monken must pick between returning starter Nick Mullens and TCU transfer Tyler Matthews. UTEP Miners Head coach: Sean Kugler (9-16 in two seasons at UTEP) Team: 48 lettermen, six offensive, five defensive starters return from a 7-6 team (5-3 C-USA, tied for second West Division), 20 lettermen lost. Key player: Running back Aaron Jones rolled up 1,321 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2014, when UTEP’s runbased offense churned out 2,701 yards and 27 rushing touchdowns. Outlook: UTEP broke out in 2014, winning five of their Jones last seven games to earn a berth in the New Mexico Bowl. The Miners lost to Utah State, but their first postseason appearance since 2010 was a big step. UTEP’s hopes to build on that bowl appearance will depend largely on its ability to replace quarterback Jamiell Showers. UTSA Roadrunners Head coach: Larry Coker (23-23 in four seasons at UTSA, 83-38 in 11 seasons overall) Team: 31 lettermen, two offensive, four defensive starters return from a 4-8 team (3-5 C-USA, fourth West Division), 32 lettermen lost. Key player: Linebacker Drew Douglas finished with 71 tackles and will be back to help anchor UTSA’s defense that will have to guide the Roadrunners. UTSA has just six returning starters and four of them play on the defensive side of the ball. Outlook: UTSA seemed to be poised for a breakout season Douglas last year. The Roadrunners returned 19 starters from a team that finished 7-5. The promise UTSA possessed never turned into production in a rough year when the Roadrunners struggled to replace quarterback Eric Soza, one of the few key players it lost. UTSA is hoping redshirt freshman Blake Bogenschutz or Michigan transfer Russell Bellomy fill the void this fall.

East Division

Charlotte 49ers Head coach: Brad Lambert (10-12 in two seasons at Charlotte) Team: 55 lettermen, nine offensive, seven defensive starters return from a 5-6 team, nine lettermen lost. Key player: Running back Kalif Phillips rushed for a program record 1,441 yards and 20 touchdowns as a sophomore last season. Outlook: Charlotte could be in for a tough first season in Conference USA. The 49ers face Kentucky and Temple in just its third season of Phillips existence after playing two years at the FCS level. Florida International Golden Panthers Head coach: Ron Turner (5-19 in two seasons at FIU, 47-80 in 11 seasons overall)

Team: 49 lettermen, seven offensive, eight defensive starters return from a 4-8 team (3-5 C-USA, sixth East Division), 24 lettermen lost. Key player: Jonnu Smith led the nation in catches (61), receiving yards (710) and receiving touchdowns (eight) among tight ends last season. Outlook: FIU has posted 1-11 and 4-8 records in two seasons under Turner. Smith The Panthers are hoping to continue their recent uptick the last two years this fall behind 15 returning starters, including Smith. Florida Atlantic Owls Head coach: Charlie Partridge (3-9 in one season at FAU) Team: 32 lettermen, six offensive, six defensive starters return from a 3-9 team (2-6 C-USA, seventh East Division), 20 lettermen lost. Key player: Jaquez Johnson is entering his third season as FAU’s starting quarterback and is coming off a solid junior season that saw him throw for 2,215 and 17 touchdowns with just five interceptions. Outlook: FAU opened a new Johnson stadium in 2011 and has seen recruiting improve since. The Owls signed C-USA’s No. 2 recruiting class in 2014, according to 247 Sports. The key for FAU is to capitalize on the field. The Owls finished the 2014 season with a five-game losing streak and will look to rebound this fall behind 12 returning starters. Marshall Thundering Herd Head coach: Doc Holliday (40-25 in five seasons at Marshall) Team: 67 lettermen, six offensive, five defensive starters return from a 13-1 team (7-1 C-USA, first East Division), 15 lettermen lost. Key player: Devon Johnson was somewhat overlooked in 2014, when quarterback Rakeem Cato was Marshall’s headline player. There is no denying Johnson was a big part of the Herd’s success, though. He rushed for 1,767 yards and 17 touchdowns. Johnson Outlook: Marshall came within a hair of going unbeaten last season. Western Kentucky edged the Herd 67-66 in overtime to hand Marshall its only loss of the season. How transfer quarterback Michael Birdsong fares will go a long way toward determining if Marshall continues to rank among the top teams not only in C-USA, but nationally among teams outside the Power Five leagues. Birdsong played two seasons at FCS James Madison and threw for 2,728 yards as a sophomore in 2013. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Head coach: Rick Stockstill (57-55 in nine seasons at MTSU) Team: 45 lettermen, eight offensive, eight defensive starters return from a 6-6 team (5-3 C-USA,

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second East Division), 21 lettermen lost. Key player: Linebacker T.T. Barber has been a key part of MTSU’s defense for the last three years and was a preseason All-C-USA selection. He has led the Blue Raiders in tackles each of the last two seasons, including Barber last year, when he posted 72 stops. Outlook: MTSU has won at least six games in five of its last six seasons under Stockstill and will look to continue that streak after a disappointing end to 2014. The Blue Raiders started 4-2, but went 2-4 down the stretch and didn’t earn a bowl bid. A season-ending 24-21 loss at UTEP was a killer and will leave MTSU with plenty of motivation.

Old Dominion Monarchs Head coach: Bobby Wilder (52-20 in six seasons at ODU) Team: 36 lettermen, eight offensive, five defensive starters return from a 6-6 team (4-4 C-USA, tied for third East Division), 16 lettermen lost. Key player: Running back Ray Lawry was named C-USA’s Freshman of the Year in 2014 after rushing for 947 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2014. Outlook: ODU had a surprisingly successful run through C-USA last season as it conLawry tinues to make the transition from the FCS ranks. The Monarchs beat West Division champion Louisiana Tech and Rice, both of which won bowl games. The question now is if ODU can still be successful without record-setting quarterback Taylor Heinicke, who threw for 14,959 yards in his college career.

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Head coach: Jeff Brohm (8-5 in one season at WKU) Team: 53 lettermen, seven offensive, nine defensive starters return from an 8-5 team (4-4 C-USA, tied for third East Division), 19 lettermen lost. Key player: Running back Leon Allen was overshadowed by quarterback Brandon Doughty last season, but is one of the top players in C-USA. He rushed for 1,542 yards in 2014 and is a preseason all-league selection. He will get plenty Allen of opportunities to rack up yards while teams focus on slowing down the Hilltoppers’ passing attack. Outlook: WKU has all the ingredients necessary to make a run at the C-USA title. Doughty threw for an FBS-high 4,830 yards and 49 touchdowns in 2014 and received a sixth year of eligibility from the NCAA. The senior is among the Hilltoppers’ 16 returning starters. WKU will have a chance to make a splash in its season opener at Vanderbilt and become a national story. A date at Southeastern Conference power LSU is the only game that WKU doesn’t look like it has a shot to win. — Brett Vito

DRC Football

NORTH TEXAS

August 27, 2015

Injury turned Cosh from ‘Crash’ to coach By Brett Vito Staff Writer

The temperature pushed up toward 100 degrees at Apogee Stadium this spring as Chris Cosh bounced around from drill to drill, watching the members of North Texas’ defense sweat through another workout. Cosh barked instructions while laying out the basic principles of his defense, clearly in his element heading into his first season as UNT’s defensive coordinator. “Coach Cosh is a character and is tough on you, but we need it,” UNT linebacker Fred Scott said. “He pushes us and knows what he’s doing. He’s been a lot of places and knows what he’s talking about.” The journey includes stops at Kansas State, Michigan State and Maryland with several twists and turns mixed in — perhaps none more interesting than how a degenerative neck injury ushered Cosh into coaching in 1983. Back then, Cosh didn’t go by “coach.” He was known as “Crash,” a hard-hitting linebacker for Virginia Tech. Former Hokies assistant coach Lou Tepper still remembers Cosh taking on an Alabama tackle who towered over him. “Chris knocked him to his knees,” Tepper said. Eventually, all those hits added up. By the time Cosh was a senior, he couldn’t find a doctor who would clear him to play due to lingering neck issues. Cosh was ready to leave school before Tepper and Bill Dooley, Virginia Tech’s head coach, cornered him in his dorm room and told him he wasn’t going anywhere. Tepper and Dooley had already decided their recently retired linebacker was going to become a college coach. They were just there to let Cosh know. That meeting was the genesis of Cosh’s coaching career that has stretched into a fourth decade. “I didn’t take to it right away,” Cosh said. “I was coaching the same guys I was playing with and didn’t see myself in that role. That fall we had some young linebackers that I worked with who ended up starting by the second game of the season because some other players got hurt. I took pride in that.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

New North Texas defensive coordinator Chris Cosh got into coaching after doctors would no longer clear him to play due to a neck injury at the end of his career at Virginia Tech. Cosh has gone on to work for some of the top head coaches in college football, including Alabama’s Nick Saban and Kansas State’s Bill Snyder. “It’s what really got me going.” Cosh, 56, has been mentoring some of the great players in college football ever since, from John Abraham at South Carolina to Arthur Brown at Kansas State. Abraham was the 13th overall selection in the 2000 NFL draft and a five-time Pro Bowl selection in a 15-year NFL career, while Brown was the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2012. Cosh’s latest challenge will be getting a UNT defense that took a step back last season after a standout 2013 campaign back on track. Mean Green head coach Dan McCarney has no doubt that Cosh is up to the task. “Chris has a unique way about him,” McCarney said. “He has a fire burning inside of him to excel and have a really good defense, but he never seems to get

out of control or be shaken up. We are lucky to have him. He has been around some great, Hall of Fame coaches. Don’t think that doesn’t rub off.” Cosh has worked for some college coaching legends, including Kansas State’s Bill Snyder and Alabama’s Nick Saban. Cosh worked with Saban while he was the head coach at Michigan State. Cosh quickly developed into a coordinator those elite coaches were comfortable turning their defenses over to after making the transition to coaching at Virginia Tech. “Like anyone who had just left ball, he was high energy and tried to help the guys understand that transition from high school to college ball,” former Virginia Tech linebacker Jesse Penn said. “He let us know we weren’t in high

school anymore. He knew the game and was enthusiastic. “Crash was one of those guys who wouldn’t stand for people being negative. He believed in the system and the program.” Those lessons and values are ones Cosh has been teaching ever since in a career that has taken him through stops all across the country. He arrived at UNT from Buffalo, where he was the defensive line coach for a season. That stop with the Bulls is one of the few in recent years where Cosh wasn’t a team’s defensive coordinator, a role he has filled in 16 of his 30 years in coaching. McCarney quickly snatched Cosh up and returned him to his familiar position See COSH on 18

August 27, 2015

NORTH TEXAS

DRC Football

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton North Texas defensive coordinator Chris Cosh talks to players on the sideline during the Mean Green's spring game in April at Apogee Stadium.

From Page 17

Cosh

after the 2014 season, when John Skladany retired. Skladany served as McCarney's righthand man and defensive coordinator for 13 years at Iowa State and UNT. Tepper described UNT hiring Cosh as a steal for McCamey. Tepper and Cosh worked together on Buffalo's coaching staff. "I thought so much ofhim that when I became the head coach at Illinois, I hired him and he ended up becoming our defensive coordinator;' Tepper said. "There are some guys who have good organizational skills or are teachers. Few are difference-makers. He is. He's one of those guys who can make a defense more than the sum of its parts. "If I were a head coach again, the first call I would make is to Chris Cosh:' UNT's players say Cosh is already making a difference after the Mean Green struggled at times to maintain the elite level of play they reached in 2013. UNT's defense ranked among the nation's elite units under Skladany two years ago, when the Mean Green allowed an average of17.8 points a game. That total ballooned to 29.8 points a game last fall. That decline was due largely to the loss of several key players, including linebacker Zach Orr and safety Marcus Trice. Cosh's challenge is rebuilding in a season UNT will have just two returning

starters on defense. The Mean Green looked to reload by adding several talented junior college transfers, including safety James Gray and linebacker Cortney Finney. Both came out of spring practice in position to start. Cosh is trying to make sure those newcomers live up to their potential and help the Mean Green perform at a high level as a unit UNT's players are confident Cosh is up to the challenge. "He brings energy every day, just like all of our coaches;' UNT defensive lineman Austin Orr said. "He's also good about relating to players and getting to know you on a personal level:' Cosh first displayed those traits after his unexpected start in coaching at Virginia Tech. ''Anyone who loves the game like Chris does is not going to have a problem coaching;' Penn said. "He has the mind for it. It was all about him having the opportunity:' Cosh received that chance at Virginia Tech and has been on the move ever since, tutoring players and coordinating some of the top defenses in college football. The journey is one Cosh never saw coming before neck issues forced him to retire as a player, but it's one he wouldn't change. "You learn from everyone and grow;' Cosh said. "My wife took the moving thing easy because she grew up in a military family. She moved all the time and told me that every time is a journey."

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NORTH TEXAS

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

MEAN GREEN Roster

No. Player Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr. WR 6-0 189 So. 1 Turner Smiley 2 O’Keeron Rutherford WR 6-5 190 Rfr. 3 Calvin Minor LB 6-3 213 So. 4 Jakii Moore DB 6-1 203 Jr. 4 Darvin Kidsy WR 6-0 183 Jr. 5 Andrew McNulty QB 6-1 211 Sr. 5 Matthew Dash DB 6-0 188 Sr. 6 Sed Ellis LB 6-3 201 Jr. 7 Connor Means QB 6-4 215 Rfr. 7 Thaddeous Thompson WR 6-2 202 Jr. 7 Jareid Combs DE 6-3 258 Jr. 8 Josh Greer QB 6-5 212 Jr. 8 Jamal Marshall DB 6-3 203 Sr. 9 Carlos Harris WR 5-8 185 Sr. 10 Rashad Jackson DB 5-10 171 Jr. 10 DaMarcus Smith QB 6-1 216 Jr. 11 Vershad Jackson DB 5-10 170 Jr. 11 Sam Wells DB 6-0 193 Rfr. 13 Josh Cousins QB 6-1 207 So. 13 Kerrick Rhone DB 5-10 180 Sr. 14 Cedric Fernandes DB 5-10 176 Rfr. 14 Chris Loving TE 6-4 258 Sr. 15 Caleb Chumley QB 6-5 240 Fr. 15 T.J. Tauaalo DT 6-2 287 Rfr. 16 Chad Davis DB 5-10 181 Jr. 16 Nate Grimm WR 6-4 207 Rfr. 17 Cortney Finney LB 5-11 220 Jr. 18 Marcus Smith TE 6-4 242 Sr. 19 Quinn Shanbour QB 6-0 191 So. 19 John Schilleci DB 6-0 201 Jr. 19 Tre Johnson WR 5-6 153 Jr. 20 Rex Rollins RB 6-1 206 Jr. 21 James Gray DB 6-0 190 Jr. 22 Antoinne Jimmerson RB 5-9 220 Sr. 23 Kishawn McClain DB 5-11 201 So. 25 Andrew Tucker RB 6-0 203 So. 25 Bobby Jefferson DB 6-1 170 Jr. 26 Jeffrey Wilson RB 6-0 195 So. 27 Blake Bean LB 6-1 223 Sr. 29 Garrett Strauss DB 6-0 195 Fr. 29 Willy Ivery RB 5-9 185 So. 30 Trevor Moore K 5-11 194 So. 30 Jarrian Roberts DE 6-2 252 Jr. 31 Kenny Buyers DB 5-11 185 Sr. 31 Tim Shields WR 5-7 174 Sr. 32 A.J. Ezzard RB 5-10 207 Rfr. 32 Fred Scott LB 5-11 233 Jr. 34 Marcell Porter RB 5-7 177 So. 34 Nate Brooks DB 6-0 170 Fr. 36 Jalen Montgomery LB 5-11 217 So. 36 Cannon Maki FB 5-11 230 Rfr. 37 Brandon Garner LB 5-11 225 Rfr. 37 Connor Davis WR 5-10 193 Jr. 38 Andrew Jones DB 6-1 173 Rfr. 39 Jarrod Lynn FB 6-0 244 Sr. 39 Taylor Robinson DB 5-11 191 Fr. 40 Blake Macek P 5-11 190 Jr. 41 Ashton Preston DB 5-10 183 Fr. 42 Chad Polk DE 6-0 231 Sr. 43 Anthony Wallace LB 6-0 227 Sr. 44 Sid Moore DT 6-1 261 So. 46 A.J. Smith LB 6-2 225 Sr.

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NORTH TEXAS Schedule

Date Opponent Time Sept. 12 at SMU 6 p.m. Sept. 19 Rice* 1:30 p.m. Sept. 26 at Iowa TBA Oct. 3 at Southern Miss* TBA Oct. 10 Portland State TBA Oct. 15 Western Kentucky* 6:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at Marshall* 2:30 p.m. Oct. 31 Texas-San Antonio* 6 p.m. Nov. 7 at Louisiana Tech* 2:30 p.m. Nov. 14 at Tennessee TBA Nov. 21 at Middle Tennessee* 11 a.m. Nov. 28 UTEP* TBA *Conference USA 47 Terrance Johnson 48 Sir Calvin Wallace 49 Roderick Young 50 Kaydon Kirby 50 Dakota Smith 51 Jake Davis 52 Braelon Schwartz 53 William LeMasters 54 Creighton Barr 56 Malik Dilonga 57 Joustin Garror 58 Tony Johnson 60 Avery Fortenberry 64 Sam Rice 65 Micah Thompson 66 Michael Banogu 67 Chris Miles 68 Chett Munden 70 Trey Keenan 71 Elex Woodworth 72 Ryan Rentfro 73 Garrett Gunter 74 Jordan Siegert 76 Harrison Sorge 77 Jordan Murray 78 Connor Trussell 79 Dominick Walker 80 Rodney Bendy 81 Daniel Khan 82 D’Aundrey Bradley 83 Gavin Culberson 84 Eric Keena 85 B.J. Ebozue 86 Kevin Dillman 87 Kelvin Smith 88 Wylie Reinhardt 89 Trey Enterline 89 Willie Robinson 90 Tillman Johnson 91 Austin Orr 93 Julius Combes 94 Mustafa Haboul 95 Eli Howard 97 DeMikal Harrison 98 R.D. Wegmann 99 Andy Flusche

DL DT DT OL DE DS LB LB OL DE LB DS OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL WR WR WR WR P WR TE TE TE DS WR DE DT DT DT DE DT DT DE

6-4 6-2 6-1 6-3 6-4 6-0 6-0 6-2 6-3 6-4 5-11 6-1 6-5 6-4 6-4 6-5 6-4 6-5 6-5 6-4 6-4 6-4 6-5 6-5 6-9 6-5 6-5 6-5 5-11 6-2 5-11 6-2 5-11 6-4 6-2 6-4 6-3 6-0 6-1 6-4 6-1 6-0 6-4 6-3 6-3 6-3

257 308 287 320 234 210 226 213 302 264 223 216 297 297 300 299 299 305 272 284 314 293 313 311 360 303 294 196 180 180 188 175 197 249 252 261 225 185 248 264 313 265 247 324 265 259

Rfr. Jr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Rfr. So. Fr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Rfr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Rfr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Fr. So. Fr. Jr. So. Fr. Rfr. FR. Fr. Jr. So. Fr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. So.

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August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Harris takes aim at UNT’s career marks By Brett Vito Staff Writer

Carlos Harris hadn’t given his place in North Texas history a whole lot of thought up until this summer, when his father brought up what seems like a pretty good point. Harris, the Mean Green’s diminutive slot receiver, enters his senior season within striking distance of UNT’s record for career receptions. Harris already ranks 10th in program history with 136 catches and needs 94 more to surpass Casey Fitzgerald, who tallied 229 from 2005-08. “I never knew about it before that,” Harris said of the conversation with his father, Carlos Harris Sr. “It’s nice to know that I can achieve something like that. It’s not the first thing on my mind. The first thing on my mind is winning, but it would be a great accomplishment.”

Becoming UNT’s all-time leader in receptions would be an unexpected milestone for a player who has exceeded expectations throughout his career. Harris might not have even played college football had it not been for the coaches at UNT, the only school that offered him a scholarship. “I didn’t even have a Division II offer,” Harris said. “I don’t know why. I went to a lot of camps. I’m 5-foot-7. That’s probably why.” Harris has barely budged the tape measure since he joined the Mean Green. UNT bumped him up to 5-8 and 181 pounds on its 2015 roster. A lack of size hasn’t bothered one of the Mean Green’s main offensive threats over the last three years. Harris has rolled up 1,679 receiving yards in three seasons on his 136 See HARRIS on 21

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

North Texas senior wide receiver Carlos Harris leaps up to grab a pass over freshman defensive back Cedric Fernandes during the Mean Green’s spring game on April 18 at Apogee Stadium.

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has been his attitude since he has been here.” Harris is known among UNT’s players for seeking out every possible way to motivate himself and his teammates. If there is anyone who publicly doubts Harris or the Mean Green, he knows about it. And he doesn’t forget it. “Carlos can be edgy at times,” fellow wide receiver Darvin Kidsy said. “A lot of guys look up to him. Being edgy is what helped make Carlos a good player.”

the MVP of UNT’s win over UNLV in the 2013 Heart of Dallas Bowl. The three quarterbacks who tried to replace Thompson struggled to get Harris the ball at times in a losing season. Harris was named to the All-Conference USA team in the preseason this summer, but has never been named firstor second-team all-conference at the end of the year. He’ll have one last chance this fall, when he will also have the opportunity to make a run at UNT’s all-time receptions mark. Harris will have to improve on his junior season totals of 70 catches for 836 yards to get there. Even if he falls short, Harris should end up ranked among some of UNT’s all-time greats, including Johnny Quinn and Ron Shanklin. Quinn played in the Canadian League and was a member of the U.S. Olympic Bobsled team, while Shanklin played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears in the NFL. “I haven’t looked at the history too much,” Harris said. “I know we have had some great receivers, but I haven’t thought a lot about it. It’s kind of cool to be up there with those guys.”

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catches and has a chance to become just the fourth player in UNT history to post at least 2,500 career receiving yards. “Carlos is so easy to take for granted because he is always there, making plays,” UNT coach Dan McCarney said. “You look at him in uniform and think he’s not big enough, but all Harris he does is make plays. He has an unbelievable competitive fire burning inside him. That is why he is a good Division I football player.” That fire has helped Harris set the tone for the Mean Green throughout his career. He has caught at least one pass in all but two games over the last two seasons and posted plenty of big games along the way. He caught 15 passes for 216 yards in a loss to Southern Miss last year. “His success comes from his energy and passion,” UNT quarterback Andrew McNulty said. “He has the attitude that he won’t be stopped. That

The following is a look at where North Texas senior wide receiver Carlos Harris stands in the school’s record book: CAREER Receptions 1. Casey Fitzgerald, 2005-08................ 229 2. Johnny Quinn, 2003-06.................... 187 10. Carlos Harris, 2012-pres................. 136 Receiving yards 1. Johnny Quinn, 2003-06.................2,718 2. Troy Redwine, 1992-96..................2,567 * Carlos Harris, 2012-pres.................1,679 GAME Receptions 1. Marvin Walker vs. Tulsa, 1982............. 22 2. Casey Fitzgerald vs. SMU, 2007.......... 18 3. Carlos Harris vs. S. Miss, 2014............ 15

Being highly dependable has also played a role in Harris’ rise from being a lightly recruited player to one of the more productive wide receivers in UNT history. Undersized receivers don’t get many opportunities to establish themselves at the college level. Harris has taken advantage of his chances. “If anyone asks me about being a receiver, I ask them, ‘If someone throws you a bag of money, would you drop it?’” Harris said. “That’s how I go about catching the ball.” Few players in UNT history have caught the ball and contributed on a consistent basis as often as Harris. Harris’ first career catch went for a touchdown in a loss to Middle Tennessee in his freshman season back in 2012. He moved into the starting lineup the next week in a loss to Arkansas State and has been a key weapon in UNT’s offense ever since. Harris was overlooked at times during his career while playing in the shadow of former UNT great Brelan Chancellor. UNT turned to Harris to be its primary receiver last season after Chancellor graduated. By then the Mean Green had also lost quarterback Derek Thompson,

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August 27, 2015

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NORTH TEXAS

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Kirby emerging as center of attention By Brett Vito Staff Writer

Reality hit home for Kaydon Kirby this spring when he stopped and looked around the field at Apogee Stadium during practice. Cyril Lemon and his ever-present smile were gone. So was the towering presence of Antonio Johnson and Shawn McKinney, the mountain of a man who played next to Kirby for a year. Mason Y’Barbo was still around, slimmed down and wearing coaching shorts in his new role as a graduate assistant, his playing days behind him. Those changes made it clear right then the challenges Kirby faces as the lone returning starter on an offensive line that has long been one of North Texas’ strengths. “That first day was kind of weird,” Kirby said. “To look around and not see Cyril, Antonio and Big Shawn was different.

I had been with those guys for three years and started 25 games with them. They’d been there ever since I started playing.” Starting this fall, it’s Kirby who will be the anchor of the Mean Green’s offensive line and the leader the rest of his fellow linemen look to for guidance. That’s new territory for the notoriously quiet junior who has spent the last few months adjusting to his new role and a different set of starters around him. How Kirby fares in helping UNT’s offensive line maintain its standard of excellence will go a long way toward determining if the Mean Green can rebound from a tough season last fall. UNT was held to 21 or fewer points in seven games last season and lost six of them, despite featuring a veteran line that saw two players sign with the New Orleans Saints in Johnson and Lemon. See KIRBY on 23

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

North Texas center Kaydon Kirby is finally getting the attention his coaches and teammates say he has always deserved after playing in the shadows of former UNT greats Cyril Lemon and Antonio Johnson earlier in his career.

NORTH TEXAS

DRC Football

From Page 22

Kirby

UNT head coach Dan McCarney left no doubt when asked how important Kirby will be to the Mean Green's chances to rebound from a 4-8 season without those veterans. "Kaydon's a leader and needs to keep coming along because he used to not say anything;' McCarney said. "Part of that is he had guys around him who had been three- or four-year starters. He's the guy now. All those guys are looking to him. He isn't shying away from that role at all:' It's not that Kirby didn't have the ability to lead before. He just happened to be playing with a few of the top offensive linemen in recent UNT history. Lemon and Y'Barbo started every game for four straight years. Lemon was a four-time all-conference selection and was long considered an NFL prospect, just like Johnson, who might have had the most pro potential of the bunch. Kirby went quietly about his business while his teammates drew all the attention. He was easy to miss at times. The former Flower Mound standout isn't the most physically imposing

lineman UNT has at 6-foot-3 and 329 pounds, and his background didn't indicate he would develop into a cornerstone player for the Mean Green. Kirby arrived at UNT as a walk-on. 'We never overlooked him because we saw the work he put in off the field that carried over to games;' UNT running back Antoinne Jimmerson said. 'We always trusted and believed in him:' No one is overlooking Kirby now. He was one of three UNT players named to the preseason All-Conference USA team, and that was just the beginning of his preseason honors. Kirby was also named to the watch lists for the Rimington Trophy, presented to the nation's top center, and the Lombardi Award that goes to the nation's top lineman or linebacker. "It makes me feel so honored;' Kirby said. "I want to back it up:' Kirby has a history of playing up to his potential. HewasnamedtotheC-USAAll-Freshman Team in 2013, when he was the first UNT player since Andy Brewster in 2001 to start every game of his freshman season at center. Kirby started every game again last season. "He's rock solid and is someone I can

August 27, 2015

look to when I have questions;' said Sam Rice, an SMU transfer who is slated to start next to Kirby at guard this year. "He's really quiet and doesn't talk too much on the field. He's poised, He can yell when he needs to, but is calm and collected. He's not going to panic, which is a good quality to have in a center:' Kirby has started to expand on his role over the last few months as he tries to become more vocal and fill the void left by the departure of Johnson, Lemon and the rest ofhis long-time teammates. "Being more vocal is something I have worked on;' Kirby said. "I have reached out and tried to move into that role:' Kirby has met the challenge of rising from the ranks of walk-ons to become a key player for UNT while being a quiet and overlooked force. Kirby will have to step out of that comfort zone this fall. He knows that and so do his coaches and teammates. They are confident Kirby will respond like he always has by anchoring the middle of what will be a rebuilt offensive line. "He can look at all the preseason honors he has received, love it, embrace it and play like it or go in the other direction;' McCarney said. "I have a feeling he will go in the direction we want him to:'

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton North Texas center Kaydon Kirby lifts running back Antoinne Jimmerson after Jimmerson scored a touchdown last season in a loss to Southern Mississippi at Apogee Stadium.

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NORTH TEXAS

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Minor experience could be big for UNT By Brett Vito Staff Writer

When the official tally was finished this summer, Calvin Minor didn’t qualify for some of the lists fans across the country use to gauge expectations for the upcoming season. The North Texas linebacker started just three games in 2014, so he wasn’t included in all the tallies of the returning starters in college footMinor ball that only include players who started at least half their teams’ games. UNT has only one wire-to-wire starter on defense last season slated to play the same spot this fall in cornerback Kenny Buyers. On the surface, that doesn’t sound like a setup for success. Dig a little deeper and it’s the presence of players like Minor that has UNT feeling good about its chances to improve defensively this season.

“The experience I gained last year really helped,” Minor said. “Even only playing one, two or three games where you start helps give you a feel for the game. There are a lot of people who played and started games last season. That will help us a lot.” UNT has 12 players on defense who started at least one game last year returning following a season in which the Mean Green took a big step back defensively. UNT ranked among the nation’s elite teams during its 9-4 season in 2013, when the Mean Green allowed just 17.8 points a game. UNT had to turn to a host of young players like Minor to fill the voids left by players lost to graduation and were never quite the same while allowing 29.8 points a game last fall. “When we talk about the plan to win at North Texas, No. 1 is playing great defense,” UNT head coach Dan McCarney said. “We have to get back to that. “We need more speed and more athleticism.”

UNT Defensive experience

North Texas has one player who started 12 games in 2014 and returns to the same position this fall in cornerback Kenny Buyers. UNT has several others who started at least once: Player Position 2014 Starts Fred Scott LB *12 Chad Polk DE 10 Sir Calvin Wallace DT 9 Austin Orr DT 6 Sed Ellis LB 6 Jarrian Roberts DE 5 Malik Dilonga DE 3 Jamal Marshall CB ^3 Kishawn McClain S 3 Calvin Minor LB 3 John Schilleci S 1 * Moving from middle linebacker, where he started in 2014, to outside linebacker ^ Started at linebacker in 2014

Experience wouldn’t hurt either. The hope is the players UNT will turn to this fall have the combination of both experience and ability that will help the Mean Green play at a higher level. There are a host of players McCarney expects to make an impact this year who

fit that profile, both among UNT’s veterans and a few key junior college recruits. Fred Scott started all last season and is making only a minor change by moving to outside linebacker from the middle where he played last season. Defensive end Chad Polk wasn’t listed as a starter heading into fall camp, but he started 10 games last season. UNT’s hope is some of its part-time starters last season become full-time playmakers this fall. UNT also added a host of junior college players and transfers who are expected to start. Those players, including safety James Gray, a transfer from Fort Scott (Kansas) Community College, have college experience and confidence in the Mean Green’s defense. “I have gotten to meet the veteran guys over the spring and summer and have bonded with them,” Gray said. “I have also gotten to know the junior college guys coming in, where they are coming from, and what their goals are. “We have playmakers.”

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August 27, 2015

COVER STORY

DRC Football

Guyer’s Robinson next in legendary line By Adam Boedeker Staff Writer

One of the challenges coaches face when it comes to tutoring quarterbacks is finding a way to delicately point to all that is wrong, whether it be flawed mechanics or poor decision-making. Those discussions are key points in the development process that helps talented players get even better. As high school football fans across the state learned a year ago, Guyer quarterback Shawn Robinson is a special talent. When asked where Robinson can improve in 2015 as a junior, Guyer head coach John Walsh was at a loss for words. “When college head coaches come into town and they’re saying the words, ‘I don’t have a guy on campus who can make that throw,’ it tells you something,” Walsh said. “I don’t really know what to say. You got me there.” Robinson burst on to the scene a year ago when he transferred from a smaller Saginaw Chisholm Trail program, where he started as a freshman, and stepped right into the spotlight at one of the premier programs in the state on the south side of Denton. The results were staggering. Robinson led Guyer to a 10-2 record while passing for 2,799 yards and 33 touchdowns and rushing for another 1,416 yards and 17 scores. He averaged 10.3 yards per carry over the course of 12 games. That performance was an early indicator that Robinson is destined to join a long line of successful area quarterbacks that stretches back to the days of North Texas great Steve Ramsey and on to recent high school standouts like Ryan’s James Battle and Robinson’s predecessor at Guyer, Jerrod Heard. Robinson’s performance in a high-profile game against Allen and arguably the greatest prep quarterback in Texas history, Kyler Murray, showed that Robinson was destined for greatness. In that game, Robinson recalled being nervous, and it showed early on when he lost fumbles deep in Allen territory on Guyer’s first two drives. Murray & Co. made him pay, taking an early 27-0 lead before Guyer fought back and ended up losing by two scores in a 55-41 shootout. “Once we scored the first touchdown, that’s when the jitters went away,” Robin-

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Guyer quarterback Shawn Robinson throws a pass in a game against Southlake Carroll last season at AT&T Stadium. Robinson burst on to the national scene as a top high school player and elite recruit last fall. The junior is well on his way to claiming a spot in the illustrious line of quarterbacks in the history of Denton football. son said. “I was nervous all the way until we scored. It was an experience I won’t forget.” His memory of the game isn’t all warm and fuzzy, though. “First two drives,” Robinson said, shaking his head, “fumbles, man. “It was the nerves, I think. But that’s not acceptable. It cost us the game.” While Walsh said he wasn’t happy with those early turnovers, Robinson didn’t do much else to disappoint in his Guyer debut on the big stage at Apogee Stadium. Robinson finished the game with 238 yards through the air and another 170 on the ground to go with two rushing touchdowns. He added a 24-yard touchdown reception for good measure. Midway through that game, Walsh adjusted his expectations for the young

quarterback, who had just celebrated his 15th birthday. “I went into it like I do with every sophomore quarterback,” said Walsh, who previously started J.W. Walsh and Heard as sophomores before they went on to be all-state quarterbacks. “I wanted to protect him in play calls. I realized about the middle of the second quarter of that game that I didn’t have to do that.” The situation was this: Third-and-6 with Guyer needing a first down to hopefully mount a rally against the two-time defending state champs. “I’m fixing to call a play, and he runs to the sideline — this is a 15-year-old, mind you — with a determined look on his face and he said, ‘Call Influence,’ which is a quarterback draw,” Walsh said. “I wasn’t See ROBINSON on 27

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Denton wide receiver Chris Miller, left, Guyer linebacker Michael Carrillo, center, and Ryan linebacker Nick Watts are among the top players in Denton this year.

COVER STORY

DRC Football

From Page 26

Robinson

August 27, 2015

SHAWN ROBINSON The next in a line of great Denton quarterbacks The following is a look at some of the statistical accomplishments and accolades received by Guyer junior quarterback Shawn Robinson, shown below in a game against Allen last season:

planning on it, but I’m like, ‘Well, OK.’ Then he broke two tackles and got the first down. Right then, I knew I didn’t have to protect him. I could treat him like a junior or senior.” Now, Robinson is a junior. He committed to TCU in June, and he’s ranked as the top dual-threat quarterback in the country for the 2017 class by 247 Sports. His talent and success is beginning to become a trend at Guyer, as he’s following J.W. Walsh, who is set to begin his senior season at Oklahoma State, and Heard, a redshirt freshman at Texas, as the bookend of a trio of great quarterbacks who were all three-year starters at the school.

Next in line Robinson was on the same campus as Heard for a couple of months before the two-time state championship quarterback graduated and went on to Austin. While Robinson was trying to acclimate himself to Guyer’s system last spring, Heard was running track and preparing to go to college, so the two didn’t see much of each other. Now, the story has changed a bit. When college football is in its down time, between the end of the regular season and the bowl season, players often come home on the weekends to watch their former high schools play in the playoffs. Both Walsh and Heard were on the sideline at AT&T Stadium watching as Robinson accounted for 505 yards and six touchdowns in the Wildcats’ 58-42 playoff loss to Southlake Carroll. But that isn’t the extent of the two alumni’s relationship with Robinson. When the two are home, they often gather at Guyer quarterback coach Lee Vallejo’s house for a bit of a Guyer quarterback pow-wow. “When we hang out I want it to be not about football,” Vallejo said. “Just guys talking about movies, girls, whatever. We made a point of that. … It’s a fun deal to get them all together and talk about what’s going on in their worlds.” Despite that edict, football is a natural topic of conversation. Call it a fun night of bonding or just hanging out, but Robinson calls it a learning experience. “Every time I see them they give me advice on how to handle stuff, or stuff I’m going to go through as the quarterback here,” Robinson said. “They’ll tell me to

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

4,297

Total yards Robinson posted in the 2014 season as a sophomore in his first year at Guyer. He rolled up 2,799 passing yards, 1,416 rushing yards and had 82 receiving yards for the Wildcats.

Touchdowns Robinson accounted for as a Guyer sophomore. The dual-threat quarterback rushed for 17 touchdowns, passed for 33 and had one touchdown reception on the year.

lean on my teammates and stuff and be a more positive vocal leader. I wasn’t very good at that at first, just with my body language and the way I carry myself.” Vallejo called Robinson “just a pup” the first time the three signal-callers convened last summer. He remembers Robinson was like a sponge and didn’t do a lot of talking, just a lot of listening. “He’s looking up to those guys and wanting to continue what they do,” John Walsh said. “And those two guys are looking down at him and marveling at what he’s doing. It’s a pretty good little brotherhood they’ve got going.”

Sky’s the limit Compared to this time last year, the brightness of the spotlight on Robinson has increased tenfold. Not only is he the top-ranked dual-threat quarterback in the country, he’s the newly appointed gem of the Horned Frogs’ recruiting class for next year.

Robinson is not only a special talent, he’s also young. The junior will be 17 when he graduates high school, a rarity in an age when several boys start school late for maturation purposes.

The number of dual-threat quarterbacks in the country ranked ahead of Robinson by recruiting service 247 Sports. Robinson, a five-star player, committed to TCU earlier this summer.

There was no pomp and circumstance surrounding his commitment back in June and certainly no announcing of finalists on social media, like so many of the country’s top recruits do nowadays. “I’ve just never really been into media like that,” Robinson said of his under-the-radar, out-of-the-blue commitment. “I just never felt the need to let everyone know my top schools and all that. “I had just come back from visiting USC, and I already knew TCU was a good place in the back of my head. USC is a good program, but TCU is where I felt comfortable, so I might as well do it. There’s nowhere else I can see myself.” Now that the commitment is out of the way, Robinson can concentrate on his goal currently in front of him, which is to repeat Heard’s feat and bring the Wildcats two state championship rings. It isn’t a far-fetched idea, as Guyer begins the season as the No. 9 team in the pre-

season Associated Press Class 6A poll. The Wildcats will again open the year against No. 1 Allen, which owns a 43game winning streak. Walsh said he believes Robinson is ready to take his game, and his team, to the next level and possibly do something neither J.W. Walsh nor Heard did — win a state title at the state’s largest classification. He has that feeling about Robinson because of the way he’s tried to do nothing but be himself and not worry about what came before him. “What I like about Shawn and his growth is he didn’t come in trying to be someone he’s not,” Walsh said. “He didn’t come in last year trying to lead when he hadn’t put the time in yet. He slowly earned all the respect he got. He’s done it at a good pace and he’s at a point now where he’s fully in control of this offense and people are looking to him for guidance.” That will be a key role Robinson is expected to take on in 2015 after he was eased into Guyer’s offense by a host of senior skill position players last year. Now, he’ll be the steady hand Guyer’s vast group of inexperienced skill players will look to for stability. “I had to adjust to that role,” Robinson said. “I’m not really vocal just naturally, but I can be. I usually just play, but I have to learn to be a positive vocal leader and also one that gets on your butt if I need to. I need to be a positive leader and encourage my guys.” Walsh agreed and said Robinson is on the right track in terms of whether there is anything he can improve upon this season. “He has to carry us through the fire,” Walsh said. “Last year, if there’s one thing he lacked, it was when the fire got hot, his leadership didn’t rise above the flames. I want to see that happen this year.” Walsh remembers specific instances when both his son, J.W., and Heard led big comebacks late in big games — Walsh in a state semifinal win over Longview in 2010 and Heard in the 2012 Class 4A Division I state championship win over Georgetown. “Going back to J.W. in the Longview game, the fire was hot and we were down and he had to make a play,” John Walsh said. “Jerrod Heard is down 16 in the second half against Georgetown, and I needed him to make plays to turn it around. I need Shawn to be in those big games making those types of plays. “He wants that stuff. He likes the lights to be at their brightest.”

GUYER

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Guyer to lean on two-way standouts By Adam Boedeker Staff Writer

By the time Guyer finished off the 2010 season, the Wildcats had built arguably the greatest offense in program history, thanks largely to the emergence of a few two-way starters. An injury to then-starting wide receiver Quint Gardener midway through the regular season forced the Guyer coaching staff to turn Josh Stewart from exclusively a shutdown cornerback into a twoway star who rarely came off the field. When Gardener returned late in the season, he focused on defense and played offense when needed. Stewart excelled at wide receiver, posting 1,114 receiving yards and 11 touchdown catches before Guyer fell in the Class 5A Division II state championship game to Cibolo Steele. Stewart also recorded 85 tackles, 12 pass breakups and seven interceptions. This year, Guyer head coach John Walsh is doing something he’s never done before. He’s planning to enter the year with a couple of two-way stars and isn’t waiting for the opportunity to present itself in the middle of the season. “In 2010, it wasn’t the plan to do that,” Walsh said. “It evolved into that. We just became that. This year is definitely different.” Stewart was so good as a receiver that he went from being a Texas A&M pledge at cornerback to getting a late offer to play wide receiver at Oklahoma State. Now, he’s in training camp with the Tennessee Titans. This season’s candidates to duplicate what Stewart accomplished are Thabo Mwaniki and Brandon Daniel, and both will have a full season to be two-way contributors if all goes as planned. Daniel, a 5-9, 165-pound senior, began his career at Guyer as a quarterback before moving to cornerback as a sophomore. Last season, Daniel had 36 tackles with four behind the line of scrimmage, six pass breakups and two interceptions. In a senior-laden group of receivers a year ago, Daniel’s offensive work was very limited, but he did catch three balls,

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

GUYER: STAR POWER

Guyer has a history of featuring standout two-way players who shined on both offense and defense, including former Oklahoma State standout Josh Stewart. This season it’s Thabo Mwaniki, right, and Brandon Daniel, who are expected to make an impact on both sides of the ball. Guyer will have them focus on defense early on before their roles expand.

including one for a touchdown. Mwaniki, a junior safety who moved into the starting lineup for Guyer’s third game of the season last year, finished with 56 tackles (five behind the line), a pass breakup and a fumble recovery. He didn’t get any snaps on offense, but his performance in May’s spring game was enough to catch everyone’s attention. Mwaniki (5-10, 175) caught four balls for 147 yards and three touchdowns in the spring game with backup quarterback Luke Stillwell throwing him the ball. From that point, Mwaniki said he was confident he could make the transition to offense.

“It got me really excited,” Mwaniki said. “After that game, I’d go home and watch the plays over and over again smiling and just ready to get to it this season.” As for the actual task of being a twoway star, Walsh said it’s not only a physical challenge from a conditioning standpoint but also a mental task to transition the brain from offense to defense around a dozen times per game. Daniel, Mwaniki, and to a lesser extent, senior wide receiver/defensive back J.T. Ashcraft, are going back and forth from offense to defense several times per practice so that they can learn to make

WILDCATS Quick facts

District: 5-6A 2014 record: 10-2 (7-0 in district) Coach: John Walsh (85-37 in nine seasons at Guyer) Returning starters: Four on offense, seven on defense Key players: QB Shawn Robinson, RB Myron Mason, WR/DB Thabo Mwaniki, WR/ DB Brandon Daniel, OL Gunnar Chance, TE Brian Polendey, DL Cameron Wax, DL Tevan McAdams, LB Michael Carrillo Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple School enrollment: 2,291 Stadium: C.H. Collins Athletic Complex

See GUYER on 44

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Guyer Wildcats 2015 Football Schedule

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DRC Football

August 27, 2015

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DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Guyer’s Polendey tapping into tools By Adam Boedeker

prospect to evaluate. Those coaches and recruiting analysts like what they have seen so far. Polendey is ranked as the No. 8 tight end in the country by 247 Sports in the Class of 2017. This season, it’s up to Polendey to prove the hype surrounding his varsity debut is warranted. “I’ve had some really good players in my 21 years of coaching,” Walsh said. “He’s the first that is 6-5, 240 who can knock off the edge and do so many other things. “In our game plan, he’s our tight end, he’s our H-back, he’s in the backfield and he’s at wide receiver. He’s everywhere. That’s a heck of a weapon.” Polendey’s path to becoming Walsh’s secret weapon hasn’t been a conventional one. As a freshman, Polendey played

Staff Writer

Brian Polendey’s football recruiting profile provides a quick lesson in the art of college recruiting. The Guyer tight end has never played a varsity game and said he recalls going out for a pass twice last season on the junior varsity team. He wasn’t the targeted receiver on either of those plays. Yet, the junior tight end has offers from Houston and Michigan with more likely on the way. It’s easy to see why. In fact, it’s impossible to miss. Polendey stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 245 pounds. He can run, he can catch, and he can steamroll defensive linemen and linebackers as a blocker in the run game. All of those skills give Guyer head coach John Walsh a weapon he’s never had in his 21 years of coaching, and college coaches an unproven, yet appealing,

See POLENDEY on 32

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Guyer tight end Brian Polendey has emerged as a high profile recruit on a national level because of his raw physical skills. He will look to refine them this season while playing for one of the top teams in Texas.

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GUYER

August 27, 2015

Extra Points Keys to a successful year

Position of strength

Last year, the Wildcats enjoyed the best all-around running back they’ve ever had in Anthony Taylor. He was the complete package at running back — speed, power and a capable pass protector. This year, Guyer has three such backs in juniors Christian Moore and Myron Mason and Mason freshman phenom Noah Cain, one of three freshmen on Guyer’s varsity roster to start the season. Mason and Moore split time as Taylor’s backup a year ago and both have elite track speed to go with superb weight room numbers. Cain might be the biggest of all and will quickly work his way into the rotation of what is an embarrassment of riches.

Point of concern

The Guyer offense will still be productive this year, but it’ll have a different look than last year when the Wildcats had three standout senior wide receivers in Alex Honey (SMU), Adam Scott (Harvard) and David Haynes. Now, they’ll be looking to replace a ton of lost production from that threesome. Guyer’s leading returning receiver is J.T. Ashcraft (11 catches, 187 yards and two touchdowns). The Wildcats will move a couple of defensive standouts, Brandon Daniel and Thabo Mwaniki, over to wide receiver hoping they can handle the workload of going both ways while add-

From Page 31

Polendey

football in Covington, Washington, about 40 minutes outside of Seattle. His family moved to Denton in February of his freshman year, after Guyer had won its second consecutive state championship at the Class 4A level. As a sophomore, Polendey spent the entire season as a 6-3, 195-pound tight end. The move was a bit of a rude awakening. “Nothing against the rest of the nation, but Washington football wasn’t quite what this is,” Walsh said. “He’ll be the first to tell you he was a little overwhelmed. Our schemes were all new. It wasn’t simple.” Polendey needed time to adjust.

DRC Football

WILDCATS Roster

Last season was proof that Guyer’s District 5-6A schedule just isn’t too inspiring. A crosstown reunion after a long layoff of playing Ryan ended in a boring blowout, and Guyer waltzed to an undefeated district record. So once again, the biggest game of the year is the Wildcats’ season opener at Allen, a three-time defending state champion. Last year with Shawn Robinson making his debut for Guyer under center against arguably the greatest high school quarterback in Texas history, Kyler Murray, the Wildcats quickly fell behind 27-0 before rallying and eventually losing in a 55-41 shootout. Murray is gone, but top-ranked Allen will simply reload and should still be the toughest game and best test on Guyer’s schedule.

No. Player Ht. Wt. 1 Thabo Mwaniki WR/DB 5-10 2 Myron Mason RB/DB 5-9 3 Shawn Robinson QB 6-2 4 Austin Luna RB/LB 5-10 5 Brandon Daniel WR/DB 5-10 6 Michael Carrillo RB/LB 5-9 7 Dharius Timmons LB 5-9 8 Tevan McAdams DE 6-2 9 Cameron Wax DE 6-1 10 Colton Phillips WR/DB 5-9 11 Donovan Greenhoward WR/DB 6-0 12 Dre’ Dansby RB/DB 5-9 13 Rolondo Ortega QB/DB 6-0 14 De’Vion Harmon WR/DB 6-2 15 J.T. Ashcraft WR/DB 6-1 16 Austin Lee WR/DB 6-2 17 Jalen Sutton TE/DE 6-2 18 Marquese Mitchell RB/DL 5-10 19 Jared Gambell WR/DB 5-9 20 PJ Brousard OL/DL 5-9 21 Christian Moore RB/DB 5-11 22 Noah Cain RB/LB 5-10 23 Wade Mackey TE/DE 6-0 24 Felipe Fontes RB/LB 5-9 25 Dante Ramacher RB/LB 5-10 26 Wilbur Escalante TE/DL 6-3 27 Ben Nwiba TE/DE 6-2 28 Bailey Blackney RB/LB 6-0 29 Bryce Jackson WR/DB 6-1 30 Gio Williams RB/LB 6-1 31 Weston Hall WR/DB 5-11 32 Dylan Bourey WR/DB 6-0 34 JT Bock RB/DB 5-9 36 Ryan Rasor RB/LB 5-10

“It’s more competitive in Texas,” Polendey said. “The biggest thing for me was I just didn’t weigh enough. Two-hundred pounds on the offensive line in varsity football isn’t big enough.” Walsh said by the end of last season, there was thought of pulling Polendey up to the varsity squad, but they couldn’t keep all-district tight end Xavier Brown off the field because he was so effective. Brown was the typical Guyer tight end, which is essentially another offensive tackle who could legally go out on pass routes but rarely did. Polendey could be that, too, but the plan for him is different. “He’s first and foremost a blocker,” Walsh said. “He could be an all-state left tackle. He just has the other rare skills we can utilize. He’s going to line up and

whip that guy in front of him 97 percent of the time. We’re just fortunate enough to do all kinds of other stuff with him.” What exactly will the plan be for Polendey, who will have a height advantage over basically anyone that attempts to cover him? In the short term, nothing too fancy, but by the time the season is in full swing, he could be a hybrid tight end in the mold of NFL All-Pro Rob Gronkowski and redefine Guyer’s offense. “He’s not there yet but we’re hoping he evolves into a third-and-medium and a goal-line guy that becomes a matchup problem,” Walsh said. “Route-running is a little new to him, but he looks a lot more natural than he did in the spring. You can tell he had a great summer of working on everything. Hopefully by playoff time, that role grows.”

ing explosiveness to the offense.

Key newcomer

Brian Polendey will give John Walsh something he’s never had in his 21 years of coaching and something not many high schools have the luxury of using — an elite tight end. At 6-4, 245 pounds, Polendey is a masher up front in the run game but can also hurt opponents as a receiver. He’s improved both his route running and his hands since the spring, and while he’s still a bit raw, he looks to be a game-changing force for the Guyer offense.

Game of the Year

Pos. Yr. 175 Jr. 180 Jr. 205 Jr. 210 Sr. 170 Sr. 180 Sr. 200 Sr. 240 Sr. 250 Sr. 170 So. 175 So. 170 Fr. 180 So. 180 Fr. 195 Sr. 180 Jr. 215 Jr. 220 Sr. 160 Sr. 250 Sr. 180 Jr. 185 Fr. 190 Sr. 195 Sr. 190 Sr. 250 Sr. 225 Sr. 200 Jr. 180 Jr. 190 Jr. 175 Jr. 180 So. 175 Sr. 185 Jr.

GUYER Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 at Allen 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 Ennis 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at Wichita Falls Rider 7 p.m. Sept. 24 at Keller* 7 p.m. Oct. 2 Northwest* 7 p.m. Oct. 8 at Keller Fossil Ridge* 7 p.m. Oct. 15 at Keller Central* 7 p.m. Oct. 23 Trophy Club Nelson* 7 p.m. Oct. 29 at K. Timber Creek* 7 p.m. Nov. 6 Ryan* 7 p.m. *District 5-6A 37 Tucker Nitardy RB/LB 38 Dio Williams WR/DB 40 Warren Bohannon OL/DL 41 Bryson Casmir K 42 Michael Valle OL/DL 43 Mason Alexander RB/DB 44 Chris Luckie RB/LB 46 Michael Benitez WR/DB 47 Thomas Simmons RB/LB 49 Christian Urias RB/DB 50 Hayden Hodapp DS/LB 52 Arian Bhat OL/DL 55 Gunnar Chance OL/DL 56 Santiago Santos OL/DL 60 Gunnar Cox OL/DL 62 Chaz Williams OL/DL 70 Gage Mallory OL/DL 74 Colton Kubicek OL/DL 75 Chad Hickson OL/DL 77 Cesar Vidana OL/DL 81 Axel Roque TE/DL 82 Manuel Rodarte TE/DL 83 Brian Polendey TE/DL

5-9 6-1 5-9 5-9 5-10 5-10 5-9 6-2 5-10 5-9 5-11 6-2 5-11 6-0 6-1 6-1 6-2 6-1 6-3 6-1 6-2 6-0 6-4

170 190 240 170 240 175 175 175 200 160 160 250 245 250 210 240 270 245 290 270 200 220 245

Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. So. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr.

Shawn Robinson, the top-ranked dual threat quarterback in the 2017 class, knows how fortunate he is to have a new weapon unlike one he’s had in past years. “He was a little raw at first, but once we got him catching he looked natural with it,” Robinson said. “You can definitely see where he’s heading and what he’s going to do. He’s ready to roll. He’s way more physical now and he’s also catching everything. He doesn’t drop anything.” While Polendey has a chance to make Robinson’s job easier, he said his quarterback has already done that for him. “I’m spoiled with Shawn,” Polendey said. “It’s cool having a guy like him because he can put the ball where it needs to go. If you have a guy that’s inaccurate then it makes my job a lot harder. He’s not that.”

RYAN

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Sanders, Ryan seeking playoff return By Steve Gamel Staff Writer

The Denton area has established itself as a hotbed for top quarterback talent, with Ryan producing its fair share of decorated field generals who quickly helped put the program on the map. Raiders coach Dave Henigan believes Spencer Sanders is cut from the same cloth, and it’s time for the sophomore to have his chance to shine. This is a pivotal year for Sanders. He had just started to look comfortable under center as a freshman when he suffered a season-ending left knee injury in Week 8. Now that he’s healthy, and a year wiser, Sanders is expected to take the reins for an offense Henigan says has more weapons and needs to be balanced. All of it caters to the strengths of his dual-threat quarterback. How Sanders handles the larger workload will determine if the Raiders regain their luster following last year’s 5-5 campaign, which snapped a 14-year playoff streak. “I don’t look at Spencer as a sophomore. I’ve started sophomores at quarterback, but he’s more like a second-year starter, which really means I’m looking at him like he’s a senior,” Henigan said. “I felt like I had to rein him in a bit last year, but I’ve coached five Division I quarterbacks and that guy is a good one. It’s time to take the chains off and let him play. The best part is he’s ultra competitive. You can win a lot of games with kids like that.” Since 2000, Ryan has produced some top talent at quarterback. The really successful ones — guys like James Battle and Justin Willis — were larger than life with their ability to hurt opponents running and throwing the ball. That duo combined to lead the Raiders to four of their five state title game appearances. Where Sanders fits in the pantheon of great Ryan quarterbacks is still undetermined. But as tumultuous as last year was, he comes into 2015 having already grasped the offense and has three full

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

RYAN: STAR POWER

Ryan quarterback Spencer Sanders showed flashes of potential last season, including throwing for 241 yards and three touchdowns in a win over Hebron. The Raiders are hoping Sanders will continue to develop and establish himself as the next player in a line of great quarterbacks in program history while leading the team back to the playoffs this fall.

seasons in front of him. “It’s not a matter of I should be ready. I am ready,” Sanders said. “This team is better, and I’m more comfortable knowing what I need to do out there. Last year was hard and people can be negative about it all they want, but no one can stop us if we play as a team. We have to move on from it. We can’t let it hold us down. “People may talk [highly] about me, and for that I say thank you. But I don’t let it get in my head.” Sanders showed flashes of brilliance last year, passing for 637 yards, rushing for 386 and accounting for 10 total touchdowns. Like many of his predeces-

sors, Sanders was dangerous in space and boasted a powerful arm. But he and the Raiders struggled at protecting the football. In 10 games, Ryan had 23 turnovers (17 fumbles, six interceptions). Sanders had a mix of rough starts and stellar outings, which made for an upand-down season. In a Week 2 win over Hebron, he completed 11-of-14 passes for 241 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for 18 yards. Over the next three games, however, he tossed three touchdowns and four interceptions. Sanders did get better, but then he See RYAN on 43

RAIDERS Quick facts

District: 5-6A 2014 record: 5-5 (3-4 in district) Coach: Dave Henigan (6157 in 11 years, second year at Ryan) Returning starters: Four on offense, six on defense Key players: QB Spencer Sanders, DL Ken McLaurin, LB/RB Tyreke Davis, LB Nick Watts, DB Alan Rojas, OL Matt Pruett, WR/DB Rodney Gladney, DB/RB Tamar Butts, DB/LB Delano Robinson, DL/TE Earnest Brown IV Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 School enrollment: 2,334 Stadium: C.H. Collins Athletic Complex

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

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August 27, 2015

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Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 ....................... at Rockwall .................... 7:30 p.m. Sept. 3 ............................Hebron............................. 7 p.m. Sept. 10 ..................... at Wylie East........................ 7 p.m. Sept. 25 ................... Keller Central * ...................... 7 p.m. Oct. 2................ at Trophy Club Nelson * ............... 7 p.m. Oct. 9.................. KellerTimber Creek * ................. 7 p.m. Oct. 16................. Keller Fossil Ridge *.................. 7 p.m. Oct. 22..........................at Keller *........................... 7 p.m. Oct. 30........................ Northwest * ......................... 7 p.m. Nov. 6 ............................ Guyer * ............................ 7 p.m. *District 5-6A

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RYAN

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

McLaurin will play key role for Ryan By Steve Gamel Staff Writer

Ken McLaurin did just about everything he could to get over Ryan missing the playoffs last year. The only thing that seemed to work was when he was back in what he called the grind, preparing for this season. That’s not to suggest McLaurin has forgotten about the demise of the Raiders’ 14-year playoff streak. The defensive tackle, who said he comes into this year at 6-2, 280 pounds, is using it as fuel. He believes he has all the tools necessary to be the impact player Ryan needs to right the ship — and begin a new streak. “We all felt like we let the program down. It was heartbreaking and it took me two to three weeks to get my mind off it for even a little bit,” McLaurin said. “The only thing left was to grind. We came in on a mission. We know now what we need to do out there.”

McLaurin said the Raiders are intent on improving a defense that forced just 13 turnovers in 10 games last year while giving up an average of 30.8 points per game. That unit had just one returning starter from the previous season, when Ryan went four rounds deep in the playoffs. The Raiders return eight players on defense this year that either started or saw significant snaps. With that type of concentrated talent on tap for 2015, the belief is that it won’t be long before Ryan is back in the playoff hunt. And make no mistake about it, the defensive turnaround starts with McLaurin. “[Ken] obviously has the size, and he’s at a similar weight to what he was last year. But his body has changed so much. He’s more muscle now, and it proves See McLAURIN on 37

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Ryan defensive tackle Ken McLaurin is among a host of veterans determined to guide the Raiders back to the playoffs this season after a 14-year streak of making the postseason ended last fall.

Ryan High School – Go Raiders! Good Luck This Season

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RYAN

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Extra Points Keys to a successful year

Position of strength

Ryan’s defense was one of the bigger question marks coming into last season. This year it is easily the strongest, with eight returners who either started or saw significant snaps last year. Defensive lineman Ken McLaurin had 9 1/2 sacks in 2014 and has been a hot target in the recruiting scene this offseason. He’s part of a front line head coach Dave Henigan says features some of the best players in the area, inRojas cluding Earnest Brown IV. Henigan expects Brown to have a break out season. Cornerback Alan Rojas had six interceptions as a first-year starter last year at free safety, and will make the move to cornerback in 2015. Tyreke Davis should have an even bigger year after posting 111 tackles as a sophomore. Davis is a twoway star at running back and linebacker.

Point of concern

Offensively, Ryan has a bevy of young playmakers with Spencer Sanders at quarterback, Davis at running back and a complement of steady skill players. But the offensive line returns just one starter from last year off a unit the Raiders re-

lied heavily on to pound opponents with their run game. How quickly they jell will go a long way in determining the success of the offense. Matt Pruett played guard last year, but is expected to move to either center or tackle to compensate for the inexperience.

Key Newcomer

There’s been plenty of hype this offseason about the sophomore wide receiver duo of Tauskie Dove and Gabriel Douglas. It is unclear just how much of a factor both will be in 2015, but Ryan coaches are touting a balanced attack and will need depth at receiver to make it happen. Dove and Douglas are tall guys, and are sure to find their way into the lineup.

Game of the year

Last year, Henigan said the most important game on his team’s schedule would be the District 5-6A opener against Keller Central. He couldn’t have been more correct. Unfortunately for Ryan, Central came away with the win and the loss ultimately caught up with the Raiders come playoff time. Ryan missed the postseason, snapping a 14-year streak. It’s a safe bet that if Ryan wants to get back to the playoffs, it must find a way to win this year’s rematch with the Chargers.

RAIDERS Roster No. Player 1 Randy Gray 2 Gabriel Douglas 3 Spencer Sanders 4 Alan Rojas 5 Ken McLaurin 6 Tamar Butts 7 Toby Burch 8 Rodney Gladney 9 Kaelin Murray 10 Delano Robinson 11 Nick Watts 12 Josh Branch 13 Jimmy Love 14 Keith Cole 15 Mark Villarreal 16 Jason Gulley 17 Creed Gentry 18 Jesse Delarosa 19 Kosi Eldridge 20 Jalil Hayes 21 Tyreke Davis 22 Jordan Rucker 23 Tyler Duhon 24 Jacob Sparks 25 Keith Cole 26 Lonnie Green 27 Ben Salaudeen 29 Steven Johnson 30 Brock Marion 31 Sam McClanahan 32 Max Wright 33 Andrew Flores 34 Thomas Wilson III 35 Claude Sheppard 37 Tyler Carullo 38 Zechariah Hays 44 Mario Caballero

Pos. Yr. DB/WR Jr. WR/DB So. QB So. DB/WR Sr. DT Sr. DB/RB So. LB Jr. DB/WR Sr. DE Jr. DB/LB Jr. LB Sr. QB Jr. DB Jr. WR/RB Sr. WR Sr. DB Jr. QB Jr. K/P Sr. DB So. RB Sr. LB/RB Jr. DB So. WR Sr. LB Jr. WR/RB Sr. DB Sr. WR Sr. DB Sr. DE Jr. DB Sr. DB Sr. RB Sr. DE Jr. OL/TE Sr. LB Sr. DE Jr. DT Sr.

From Page 36

McLaurin

how hard he’s been working,” Ryan coach Dave Henigan said. “He is without a doubt the leader of that defensive front, and he’s going to have to play a lot of snaps.” McLaurin had a standout season last year — he racked up 43 tackles and 9 1/2 sacks — but the Ryan coaching staff, and college recruiters, are intrigued by his potential this season. McLaurin is tall and hard to miss, both in size and sheer power coming off the line. And because he has so much talent around him on a front line that includes Earnest Brown IV and Thomas Wilson III, it will be hard for opposing offenses to decide who to double-team. “We are focused on getting our hands on the ball as much as possible this year,” McLaurin said. “It’s going to be a fun defense to watch, and I want to be one of the guys making the big plays.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Ryan defensive tackle Ken McLaurin, right, wraps up Keller Fossil Ridge quarterback Bryce Baccarini last season at Keller ISD Athletic Complex. By Aug. 19, McLaurin had racked up offers from 11 college programs, most notably Boise State, SMU and North Texas. Some of his other offers included

Iowa State, Nevada, Massachusetts and Illinois. Henigan said that interest in McLaurin will likely continue to grow through-

RYAN Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 at Rockwall 7:30 p.m. Sept. 3 Hebron 7 p.m. Sept. 10 at Wylie East 7 p.m. Sept. 25 Keller Central * 7 p.m. Oct. 2 at Trophy Club Nelson * 7 p.m. Oct. 9 Keller Timber Creek * 7 p.m. Oct. 16 Keller Fossil Ridge * 7 p.m. Oct. 22 at Keller * 7 p.m. Oct. 30 Northwest * 7 p.m. Nov. 6 Guyer * 7 p.m. *District 5-6A

48 50 52 53 57 58 60 62 63 66 70 72 73 75 76 77 80 81 83 88 90 96 99

JoJo McCage Shawn Slimak Jr. Clayton Belshaw Nate Wilson Jacob Roberts Andrew Young Nick Back Jerrik Burson Kevin Kronenberger Sergio Hernandez Matt Pruett Will Wilson Scot Bullard Benntt Church Eve Torres Dawson Lahart Shawn Garrett Adam Robertson Tre’ Button Chritauskie Dove Patrick Mobley Jon Nugent Earnest Brown IV

K/P OL OL OL OL HB OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL WR K/P WR WR DT DT DE/TE

Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr.

out the season. But McLaurin said he is trying to take it all in stride. “It’s all happened fast, but I’m focused on this season,” McLaurin said. “I can handle all this stuff after football.” As good as he felt like he played last year, McLaurin said he should have been able to contribute more, especially on a defense that was considerably younger than the year before. He said last season’s struggles took shape during the offseason when he spent the bulk of that summer with family in Mississippi. It wasn’t as much the time away, but rather that he simply didn’t get into the gym enough. He spent this offseason at home, and has been focused on one thing ever since. “I stayed home this time. My coaches challenged me to run and lift weights every day and I did my best to live up to that challenge,” McLaurin said. “I focused on running, and I’ve also packed on more muscle. I’m just focused on being a leader. My teammates that look up to me will expect me to keep my head on straight.”

DENTON

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Denton to lean on Scott, offensive line By Patrick Hayslip Staff Writer

Denton head coach Kevin Atkinson knows first-hand about the importance of a strong running game. Early in his career, when he was a receivers coach for Flower Mound Marcus, Atkinson and his team took an undefeated record into the 1995 Class 5A Division II state championship. Marcus could throw it around that season, but an inability to run the ball cost the Marauders in a loss to San Antonio Roosevelt. The Broncos shouldn’t have that problem this fall, not after running back as senior Xavier Scott broke out in last season’s surprise campaign that saw Denton qualify for the playoffs for the first time in four years and win a playoff game for the first time in over a decade. Scott erupted for 2,303 yards and 28 touchdowns on 280 carries behind a strong offensive line featuring Ace Ventura. That performance established Scott as one of the dominant backs in the North Texas area after he posted 707 yards as a sophomore. After his breakout 2014 campaign, Scott has big plans for 2015 for both himself and his team, but those thoughts are dangerous if you ask the humble back. Scott utilizes a phrase Atkinson taught him that helps him stay in the moment and not think too far ahead. “See a little, see a lot. See a lot, see nothing,” Atkinson always tells Scott. What does that mean to Scott? It tells him to not get too far ahead of himself, despite his lack of a Division I offer or his lofty goal of making a run at 3,000 yards this season. One of the knocks on Scott is speed, but he knows he has plenty of other attributes he can lean on, despite the perceived slow pace at which he operates. “I understand I’m not as fast, but I use my vision and my power and my stiff arm,” Scott said. “I’m just focused on winning a state ring. That’s pretty much it. I understand I don’t have any offers, but I think of what [Atkinson] says. See

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

DENTON: STAR POWER

Denton offensive lineman Ace Ventura was a key component of the Broncos running game last season, when he helped clear the way for Xavier Scott to rush for 2,303 yards and 28 touchdowns. Denton made the playoffs for the first time in four seasons in 2014 largely because of its running game. Ventura will look to help keep the Broncos rushing attack rolling this fall.

the holes, trust the holes and don’t try to bounce it outside or think every run is going to be a touchdown.” Scott is known for his patient, bull-dozing approach to the position. Ventura, Denton’s lone returning starter on its offensive line and a key component in the Broncos’ running game, thinks Scott is in for an even better senior season and hopes he can help his teammate achieve his 3,000-yard goal. “I think he is going to be even better this year,” Ventura said. “He’s a good running back and a good player. He clicks with us [offensive line], too. It’s a good connection. If there is no connection, there is no team. I think we’re going to

make it happen. We’ll help him rush for as many yards as many times as he wants. We have answers for everything. We’ll make it happen.” Denton will depend on Ventura to anchor the unit after it lost Judd Terry, Rowdy Clark, David Deramee and Kade Wagner, so he knows the importance of seizing the leadership role. “Last year when we lost to Aledo in the playoffs, I realized that would be the last moment to play with those guys,” Ventura said. “After that game, the offensive line came over to me and said, ‘You’re the boss now.’ That was pretty cool. I have to

BRONCOS Quick facts

District: 5-5A 2014 record: 8-4 (4-3 in district) Coach: Kevin Atkinson (1517 at Denton and 65-72 overall) Returning starters: Five on offense, three on defense Key players: RB Xavier Scott, WR Chris Miller, WR Emerson Espinosa, QB Colt Atkinson, OL Ace Ventura, OL Grant Polley, DB Kobe Thomas-Joshua, RB Caleb Osuofa Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 2,086 Stadium: Bronco Field

See DENTON on 43

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Denton Broncos Varsity 2015 Football Schedule

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Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 ......................Wilmer Hutchins .................. 7 p.m. Sept. 4 ............................ Granbury........................ 7 p.m. Sept. 10 ................at Carrolton Creekview............. 7 p.m. Sept. 25 ..................... Chisholm Trail * .................. 7 p.m. Oct. 2............................ at Boswell *...................... 7 p.m. Oct. 9............................. at Brewer * ...................... 7 p.m. Oct. 16....................Wichita Falls Rider *............... 7 p.m. Oct. 23............................. at Azle * ........................ 7 p.m. Oct. 30............................Saginaw * ....................... 7 p.m. Nov. 5 ........................ atWichta Falls *................... 7 p.m. *District 6-5A

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DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Colt Atkinson steps in at QB for Denton By Patrick Hayslip Staff Writer

Since Denton quarterback Colt Atkinson was a kid, his desire to succeed and his drive to win have shaped his competitive spirit. He’s been told he’s too short, too slow or that he was only on the team because of his dad, head coach Kevin Atkinson. Colt Atkinson’s motivation to prove those notions wrong isn’t selfish. He wants to show that he can win not for himself, but for the team. Those competitive ways were prevalent at a very young age, according to Kevin Atkinson. “I just think he’s very competitive and he’s always been that way,” Kevin Atkinson said. “It was hard to play board games when he was little. He wants to win and that’s what you want. He wins. I think his time on JV definitely gives him confidence on what we’re asking the team to do and with the type of of-

fense we run. He can do it on this level, too.” Atkinson doesn’t know much about losing, going 10-0 on the junior varsity squad last season, which has helped smooth the transition to his varsity role. He said that success was crucial to his learning curve, especially when it came to play selection. Atkinson has plenty to learn as he tries to translate his JV success to the varsity level while filling the shoes of last season’s starter, Christian Rodriguez. Colt Atkinson realizes matching the intangibles Rodriguez brought might be tough, especially when it comes to leadership qualities, which Rodriguez had in spades. Even knowing that, Colt Atkinson said he’s been waiting for this moment for a long time. “I know there is going to be tons See ATKINSON on 42

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Denton quarterback Colt Atkinson will try to establish himself as a top high school signal-caller this fall while playing for his father, Broncos head coach Kevin Atkinson.

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DENTON

August 27, 2015

Extra Points Keys to a successful year

Position of strength

Despite losing starting quarterback Christian Rodriguez to graduation, the Broncos’ offense is still in good hands. The wide receiver corps, although different from last season, is perhaps the strongest it has been in years, which is saying something considering Denton’s wealth at the position since head coach Kevin Atkinson arrived three seasons ago. Speedy junior Chris Miller, who runs a 4.4 Miller 40-yard dash, will be a valuable intermediate wideout for firstyear starting quarterback Colt Atkinson. After missing most of last season to injury, senior Emerson Espinosa returned for the final two games and was productive. Healthy and healed, Espinosa is a strong bet to break out as a reliable downfield threat. Senior Brent Broadbent, senior Nate Seng, junior Lynn Brice, and senior Cole Rivers round out one of the deepest wide receiver groups in recent program history.

Point of concern

The Broncos are thin on defense, returning just three starters from their 8-4 squad a season ago. A defense that bent and didn’t break will be searching for playmakers in positions across the board, especially on the defensive line, which lost Dailon Homes, Kyle Panter and Adam Bershell.

From Page 41

Atkinson

of pressure after what Christian did turning this program around,” Atkinson said. “They are huge shoes to fill, but I’ve been waiting for this moment my whole life ever since I was 5 years old on the sideline with my dad. I’m just trying to prove to my teammates, friends and coaches that I can get the job done this year.” Kevin Atkinson knows how valuable Rodriguez was to last season’s 8-4 squad, but thinks his son can help create his own niche by following Rodriguez’s lead. “It’s hard to replace a guy like that,” Atkinson said. “He can leave stepping stones, but you have to put your own

Filling a void on the line is Ace Ventura, who will also spend time as one of the Broncos’ top offensive lineman. Atkinson said the Broncos can’t afford to not utilize what Ventura can do.

DRC Football

BRONCOS Roster

The Broncos open their District 5-5A schedule with three opponents they scored wins against in last year’s breakout season that began with a 6-0 start. The same three opponents, Saginaw Chisholm Trail, Saginaw Boswell and Fort Worth Brewer, stand in the Broncos’ way of another stellar district start, but it was Boswell that gave the Broncos the most trouble in their first home game of the season. A deflection by all-state receiver Key’andre Hearvey on defense secured Denton’s last second 47-43 victory. This time around, the Broncos will be on the road against a Boswell squad that is surely looking for revenge, especially having just missed out on the playoff fun despite its 7-3 record.

No. Player Pos. Yr. 1 Lynn Brice WR Jr. 2 Caleb Osuofa RB/DB Jr 3 Colt Atkinson QB Jr. 4 Eddy Vasquez QB Sr. 5 Xavier Scott RB Sr. 6 Kobe Thomas-Joshua DB Sr. 7 Adrian Wilson RB So. 8 Tony Tony-Itoyah DB So. 9 Chris Houston WR Jr. 10 Emerson Espinoza WR Sr. 11 CJ Herrera RB Jr. 13 Brenton Broadbent QB Sr. 14 Chris Miller WR Jr. 15 Zac Wall DB Sr. 16 Nate Seng WR Sr. 17 Hayden Smallwood DB Sr. 19 Emonnie Miller DB Sr. 20 Daniel Duggan DB Sr. 21 Josh Napier DB Sr. 22 Ray Martinez RB Sr. 23 Tino Rodriguez WR Sr. 24 Chase Audirsch LB Jr. 25 Hayden Gray LB Sr. 26 Brandon Traughber DB Sr. 27 Cody Roche DB Sr. 28 Oscar Aviles RB Sr. 29 Aristotle Montgomery DB Sr. 30 Keegan Murphy LB Sr. 31 Micah Phillips DB Sr. 32 Jackson Anderson RB Sr. 33 Antonio Mitchell DL Jr. 34 Kenny Bowen LB Jr. 35 Eric Borst LB Jr. 36 Skyler Cancino DL Sr. 37 Javion Brewster DL Sr. 38 Victor Marquez RB Sr. 39 Andre Everett DL Sr. 40 Mitch Damon DL Sr.

spin on that. You don’t duplicate a quarterback, but you learn from what he did wrong and right, and Christian did a lot of right. “The thing that I think Colt brings is knowledge. He understands the scheme. He’s very elusive. I think he may have a chance to extend some plays more so than what we have [in the past]. He should be able to get out of the pocket and do some things with the football that we haven’t had in a while.” With 2,000-yard rusher Xavier Scott in the backfield and a host of talent at the wide receiver position, Atkinson’s challenge will be simple — don’t try to do too much and capitalize on his chances — especially when teams focus much of their attention on Scott. “I really just have to work on taking

what the defense gives me,” Atkinson said. “We do a lot of deep balls and stuff, but I just have to be smart about it. If they cover it, I have to drop it off and get the easy yards. It is pretty tough, but the good thing is I’ve been around this playbook my entire life.” Rodriguez’s positive energy is also something Colt Atkinson wants to duplicate along with his short memory. “My biggest problem right now is to forget the first play,” Colt Atkinson said. “You can throw a great throw one play, but you have to forget it. My job is going to be easy with [receivers] Emerson [Espinosa], Chris Miller, Brent [Broadbent], Cole Rivers, Chris Houston, Nate Seng and, of course, Xavier. All I have to do is get them the ball and let them do what they’re made to do.”

Key newcomer

Atkinson called junior linebacker Kenny Bowen the strongest player the Broncos have in their program. Bringing strength, speed, a nose for the football and a physical attitude, Bowen will be needed for a defense in transition. Playing in just a few varsity games at the end of last season at nose guard, fullback and halfback, Bowen is due for a steep hike in playing time.

Game of the year

DENTON Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 Wilmer Hutchins 7 p.m. Sept. 4 Granbury 7 p.m. Sept. 10 at Carrollton Creekview 7 p.m. Sept. 25 Chisholm Trail * 7 p.m. Oct. 2 at Boswell * 7 p.m. Oct. 9 at Brewer * 7 p.m. Oct. 16 Wichita Falls Rider * 7 p.m. Oct. 23 at Azle * 7 p.m. Oct. 30 Saginaw * 7 p.m. Nov. 5 at Wichita Falls * 7 p.m. *District 5-5A 41 Caleb Word 43 David Guajardo 44 Jaden Aland 45 Alejandro Valente 46 Logan Dorsey 47 Wade Marley 50 James Fuller 52 Drake Foster 55 Jacob Dean 56 Marcus Miyatake 57 Don Smith 60 Dre Lara 61 Aaron Hassell 64 Matt Hawkins 65 Ace Ventura 72 Spencer McDaniel 75 Grant Polley 76 Jamaal Jackson 77 Justin Lubonne 78 Donte Tucker 80 Cole Rivers 81 Robert Reyes 85 Joseph Smaniego 88 Marquel Fugett

RB LB LB DL DL LB OL LB DL OL DL OL DL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL WR K WR LB

Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr.

Ray Watson/special contributor

Denton quarterback Colt Atkinson throws a pass during the Broncos’ spring game on May 22 at Bronco Field. Atkinson is expected to start this fall for Denton.

HIGH SCHOOLS

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

From Page 33

Ryan

hurt his knee trying to make a play he shouldn't have. "It was just like a movie;' Sanders said. "You get to the top, and then something bad happens:' On the play, which happened in a 3514 loss to Keller, Sanders was just more than a foot from the sideline when he turned and tried to hit receiver Shomari Cann in the middle of the field. His knee gave out. "The first thing that came to my mind was that I let my team down;' said Sanders, whose mother, and older sister Carissa Sanders, also suffered similar left knee injuries during their athletic careers. "I should have run out of bounds, but I tried to make a plaY:' The knee injury, and the details of last season, are in the past now. Sanders wants to be remembered for what he intends to prove this year, and going forward. He'll have plenty of weapons to choose from. Ryan was a run-heavy team last year and should have similar success in that department in 2015, but the sophomore wide receiver duo of Tauskie Dove and Gabriel Douglas combined with senior Rodney Gladney are just some of the versatile playmakers in the Raiders' new-look passing game. If a young offensive line can come together quickly, Sanders has a dream situation. 'We are going to be a different offense than we were last year. If we have to run the ball the whole game in order to win, then that's what we are going to do. If we need to throw it a ton, then we know we can do that, too;' Henigan said. "Spencer is fully capable. I have no doubts that he is ready to lead this team:'

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton Ryan quarterback Spencer Sanders is expected to improve this season after gaining experience last fall.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton Denton wide receiver Chris Miller races up the sidelines in a game against Fort Worth Brewer last season. Miller helped the Broncos break their playoff drought in the 2014 campaign and is one of several key players returning for the Broncos.

From Page 38

Denton show leadership now and develop myself even more:' Denton will see opponents load the box with eight defenders to try to stop Scott, who posted 202 yards in the Broncos' 40-33 hi-district playoff win over Birdville along with two 300yard, five-touchdown performances last season. Seeing defenses designed to stop Scott is sure to open up opportunities for starting quarterback Colt Atkinson and his arsenal of talent at wide receiver.

"The reason we had so many yards throwing last season is because they were trying to take away Xavier;' Colt Atkinson said. 'We have to be able to do that. There's a weakness somewhere and it's up to us to find it and exploit it. I'm not afraid to throw the football:' The Broncos' season was cut short in the area round by Aledo, which has won a state title in five of the past six seasons, so there is an added motivation for better playoff positioning this year. Scott and the Broncos will have to play well just to get to the playoffs in District 5-5A, which had one of the tighter playoff races in the state last season. The league was so competitive, a 7-3 Saginaw

Boswell squad was squeezed out of the playoff picture via tiebreaker. The Broncos finally put together a winning season, which included the program's first 6-0 start to a season since 1987, and cracked the playoff picture in Atkinson's third season as Denton's head coach. Now that some tradition has been built, the struggle is to stay motivated and not expect success. "There's a little more proof out there;' Atkinson said. "It's not just about the team relying on faith. That was the hardest part about the culture change. Now, it's up to us to keep it going. I think we've got an extremely motivated group:'

August 27, 2015

HIGH SCHOOLS

DRC Football

Michael Clements/special contributor Guyer wide receiver Brandon Daniel celebrates a touchdown catch during a game against Keller Fossil Ridge last season at C. H. Collins Athletic Complex. Daniel is expected to take on a larger role in the Wildcats' offense this season, when Guyer will look to make another deep playoff run.

From Page 28

Guyer

that adjustment "It's a process;' Walsh said. "You have to practice in a manner that they're in condition and their brain is ready to transition from both sides of the ball. We hop them around all practice long. They learn to do it in games. We're not expecting Week 1 for it to work like magic. In 2010, with Josh, [Gardener] and Cameron Hunter, it was a process and it took sometime:' Walsh's philosophy on two-way players has always been a defense-first mentality - perhaps a bit surprising given Walsh's

background as an offensive coach. "They're 100 percent defense, and they get as much offense as they want;' he said. "They want the ball. I don't have to beg them to come over. They're always in my hip pocket. I'd guess in the [season-opening] Allen game [on Aug. 28], it'll be maybe 40 percent offense and then it'll grow slowly after that:' Quarterback Shawn Robinson said any time he gets with Daniel and Mwaniki will be a plus. He hopes the duo can physically handle the grind of going both ways. "Any time they're out there, something good is coming out of it;' Robinson said. "Yes, I want them out there, but they need them on defense, too. They get stops, come over on offense and we'll get

it going. If not, I'm good with the other guys we have, too:' Robinson described both players as "explosive" and said either can take a pass from him and quickly turn it into a 70-yard touchdown. But as similar as they might be in some regard, Robinson said they have their differences. "Brandon is more of a shifty guy;' Robinson said. "Thabo is more of a catchthe-ball-and-make-a-move, maybe two, get-up-field-and-go guy. They're both explosive, but Brandon is more of the slippery guy. They both catch and run well:' While Mwaniki is making his debut on offense, the return to offense for Daniel has been a long time coming. After he was moved from quarterback

to defensive back as a sophomore, the dynamic playmaker immediately was itching to get back to having the ball in his hands more often than not. "That was a weird change for me;' Daniel said of the move from offense to defense. "Going back to offense is comfortable for me. I know what I'm going to be able to do. It's going to be fun:' The Guyer coaching staff began planting the idea in Daniel's mind to go both ways at the end oflast season, and naturally the most celebrated two-way player in school history was brought up. "They started telling me I'd go both ways around the end of last year;' Daniel said. "They wanted me to be like Josh Stewart and do things like he did:'

Area high schools Pilot Point’s Bailey, Lake Dallas’ Brewer are ...

Do-it-all threats

COVER STORY

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Killer B’s: Bailey, Brewer can do it all

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

DaCoven Bailey, Pilot Point

DaCoven Bailey rushed for 1,164 yards in addition to tallying 1,046 receiving yards as a junior last season, when he scored 32 touchdowns. Bailey holds Pilot Point records for most rushing yards in a game with 307 and most passes caught in a season with 68.

Ray Watson/special contributor

Keegan Brewer, Lake Dallas

Keegan Brewer rolled up 1,053 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns on 69 catches last season, rushed for 275 yards and intercepted seven passes on defense in addition to playing a key role on special teams returning punts and kickoffs.

Pilot Point, Lake Dallas stars a QB’s best friend By Steve Gamel Staff Writer

Look at most Denton-area team rosters, and there’s bound to be a handful of athletes who play multiple positions. That number balloons in the smaller classifications, where the majority typically play on both sides of the ball. Then there are do-it-all threats like Pilot Point’s DaCoven Bailey and Lake Dallas’ Keegan Brewer. In two seasons, Bailey and Brewer went from young bit players to centerpieces for their respective teams — playing everything from running back, receiver and quarterback to defensive back and return specialist.

Bailey responded by leading Pilot Point to the third round of the Class 3A playoffs in 2014, the Bearcats’ deepest run since winning a 2A title in 2009. Brewer rebounded from an injury-plagued sophomore year to lead the Falcons back to the postseason after a one-year hiatus. Now as seniors, both Bailey and Brewer will play vital roles for teams that will start the season with new quarterbacks, but still harbor high expectations for 2015. How they fare in remaining versatile while also helping newcomers at the most important position on the field adapt will help determine the team’s fate. “As a coach, you hope [do-it-all threats] are not rare, but they are. The

fortunate teams may get one every few years, and they have to possess a lot of skills,” Pilot Point coach Rob Best said. “In 2009, we had Jarman Johnson, and we did the same things with him. He was very impressive, and DaCoven can get there, too.” Michael Young said there hasn’t been a player in his 10 full seasons as coach at Lake Dallas like Brewer, which is saying a lot for a program that produced quarterbacks James Franklin and Dalyn Williams along with offensive lineman Daryl Williams, who was drafted by the Carolina Panthers a few months ago. See AREA on 47

ON THE COVER Area schools Area high schools Pilot Point’s Bailey, Lake Dallas’ Brewer are ...

Do-it-all threats

Pilot Point’s DaCoven Bailey, left, and Lake Dallas’ Keegan Brewer fill a variety of roles for two of the Denton area’s top teams.

DRC Football

COVER STORY

From Page 46

Area

The Texas high school football landscape is saturated with athletes who can change the outcome of a game with one play — seemingly whenever they want. Even in the Denton area, where top-tier talent is never in short supply, very few have the ability to flip the script from anywhere on the field. “You’re not going to find too many kids who are valuable and can do that many things,” Young said. “I may not see a player like [Keegan] again in my career, so we’re going to take advantage of it while we can.”

Coming to Pilot Point Bailey wouldn’t have been a featured weapon for the Bearcats if it weren’t for one of the most disastrous hurricanes in United States history. He was just 7 years old when his family packed up and left their home in New Orleans in 2005 — two weeks before Hurricane Katrina made landfall. At the time, Bailey was too young to understand the ramifications of the impending storm, which did a great deal of damage and displaced hundreds of thousands of people in the Gulf Region. “As kids, we just thought we were going on a road trip. Once we found out we weren’t going back, we were hurt. But we also kind of knew what was going on, so it was for the best,” Bailey said. “We were originally going to move to California, but my step dad, at the time, knew a friend who sold houses and he got us a nice place in Pilot Point. “I was only in the second grade. I’m not trying to be racial, but it was the first time I had been around a lot of white people. But they all accepted me from the very beginning, and I knew this could be home.” Football was an easy sport to gravitate to in Pilot Point, and the coaches quickly caught on to Bailey’s athleticism. Best made no secret that he has taken a page straight from Argyle and what its coaching staff did with former standout Ian Sadler, who is now a sophomore at Texas Tech. Argyle, which has played in a state title game in three of the last four seasons, is known for producing multi-faceted athletes, and this year won’t be any different. But in Pilot Point, Sadler is still the benchmark. Sadler was named offensive

Denton Record-Chronicle file photos

Pilot Point running back DaCoven Bailey, left photo, and Lake Dallas wide receiver Keegan Brewer are both vital to their teams because of the variety of roles they fill. Both will be among the top players in the Denton area this fall. MVP of the Class 3A Division II state title game in 2013 and finished his senior season with 2,378 all-purpose yards and 38 touchdowns. “I’m not going to put him [Bailey] at that level yet, but his skill sets are similar,” said Best, who believes Bailey’s snap count could exceed 90 percent in 2015. “We can put him in the slot and throw it, we can put him outside and throw the deep ball, we can put him in motion and hand it off or we can put him in the backfield and let him run. “He’ll play defense sporadically for us, and last year returned a kickoff 92 yards for a touchdown. That right there shows you what type of player he can be, and we’ll put him in as many positions as we can to use those skills.” Best said he knew as soon as Bailey, who is also a basketball, baseball and track star at the school, caught a couple of passes as a freshman that he had a special player on his hands. At that time, Bailey was a part-time wide receiver. The next season, he caught 64 balls for 955 yards and nine touchdowns, rushed for another 280 yards and three scores, averaged 20 yards per kick return and recorded 31 tackles and two interceptions. He tallied 1,164 rushing yards, 1,046 receiving yards and 32 total touchdowns as a junior. He holds the school record for most rushing yards in a game (307 in 2014) and most passes caught in a season (68). “I’m not a selfish person, but I want the ball in my hands and for my coaches and teammates to trust in me,” Bailey said.

Making his mark In 2013, Lake Dallas came into the season with a sophomore starting at quarterback and several more fresh faces, including Brewer. Young, whose team at the time was boasting an 11-year playoff streak, still felt like everything would be OK because of senior Josh Jackson, a physical wide receiver who had already committed to Iowa. Jackson was lost for the season in the Falcons’ second district game, so Young turned to Brewer — until he got hurt. “That really says something when a sophomore means that much to your team, and when he was out, that really hurt us,” Young said of Brewer. “We knew he’d be special over the last two years, and he really has been.” Like Bailey, Brewer was also a movein at a young age. Growing up in Kansas, Brewer was mostly a soccer junkie and was following in the footsteps of his parents — both former soccer players. His mother, Tammy Brewer, was inducted into the Friends University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011. His sister, Keeley, plays at Oklahoma City University. He eventually moved to the Lake Dallas school district, and it didn’t take long to fall in love with football. Many still consider Brewer’s sophomore year as his breakout season, but last year was a true coming-out party. In 11 games, Brewer amassed 1,053 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns on 69 grabs. He also rushed for 275 yards and three scores and intercepted seven passes on defense. He handled punting duties and

August 27, 2015

was a return specialist. “I make it a point to know what each person on the team is doing when we run plays in practice,” Brewer said. “I do it so I can step in to any position without any problems when the coaches need me to. “There are times in games where we’ll go into halftime and I’ll have them dry my jersey because I’m just soaked in sweat. I feed off that, though. It gets me going. I may come out for one play, but then I’m right back in there.” The remarkable thing about Brewer is he’s managed to be a two-way star in Class 5A, where players tend to be more specialized. Young says Brewer could be successful no matter what classification or sport he plays in. “He’s on our fishing team, and he could be one of the best soccer players in our district if he wanted to. He’s just that type of athlete, and he wants to win every battle,” Young said. “As a wide receiver, it’s more difficult to continually get him the ball, so we move him around as much as possible. We are always looking at what other teams are doing and see how that can be useful for Keegan in our system. We have to get him the ball.”

Expanded roles

Both Bailey and Brewer will need to add mentor to their roles in 2015 as both teams will break in new quarterbacks. In Pilot Point, Hunter Balderas will be calling plays instead of Travis Garrett, who graduated. Balderas was an all-district linebacker for the Bearcats last year. Meanwhile in Lake Dallas, junior Spencer Frederickson is expected to start the season in place of senior Dagan Haehn, who tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during the Falcons’ spring game in May. The thought is that Haehn could return mid-season, but for now, it’s Frederickson’s job. “I’ve played on the same field with Dagan ever since I can remember, so it’s different and I know I have to step up while he is out,” Brewer said. “In state 7-on-7, Spencer did a great job. He’s a good quarterback and he got us there. When he gets a little too hyped up I just tell him to keep cool, and if we’re going to run a particular play, to just make sure he knows where he wants to throw first.” If either quarterback is in doubt, just throw it to the do-it-all threat. “Big players make big plays,” Bailey said. “So when my team needs me, I give it 100 percent.”

August 27, 2015

PRESEASON ALL-AREA OFFENSE

QB Nick Starkel, Liberty, Sr.

WR Thabo Mwaniki, Guyer, Jr.

Starkel passed for 1,609 yards and 19 touchdowns, despite an injury-shortened season in 2014. He has committed to Oklahoma State and spent the summer at the Elite 11 quarterback camp in Oregon.

Mwaniki finished with 56 tackles as a safety in 2014 and showed the ability to be a two-way starter with duties as a receiver. In Guyer’s spring game, he racked up nearly 150 receiving yards and three touchdowns.

RB Xavier Scott, Denton, Sr.

OL Gunnar Chance, Guyer, Sr.

Scott was an offensive juggernaut for the Broncos, who qualified for the playoffs for the first time in four seasons. The bulldozer of a running back surpassed the 2,000yard rushing mark on 280 carries.

Chance was the leader of the Wildcats’ offensive line in 2014 when Guyer averaged 542.6 yards and 50.3 points per game. The first-team all-district selection allowed zero sacks and tallied 17 pancake blocks.

RB Taylor Sweatt, Argyle, Sr.

OL Cody Pierce, Lake Dallas, Sr.

Sweatt was the defensive MVP of last year’s Class 4A Division I state title game and finished 2014 with 190 tackles. He now makes the move to running back and is expected to be a difference-maker.

The 6-5, 305-pound lineman didn’t allow a sack all last season. As a first team all-district 6-5A selection, Pierce had 31 pancake blocks and has been steady on the line since his sophomore year.

WR DaCoven Bailey, Pilot Point, Sr.

OL Ty Smith, Argyle, Sr.

Bailey lined up at wide receiver and running back last season while tallying 120 carries for 1,164 yards and 21 touchdowns along with 64 receptions for 1,046 yards and 11 more touchdowns.

Smith is the lone returning offensive linemen for the Eagles. At 6-4, 275 pounds, the senior tackle has already committed to Air Force and will be relied on to provide veteran leadership for a young offensive line.

WR Keegan Brewer, Lake Dallas, Sr. Brewer caught 18 TD passes and tallied 1,053 receiving yards while also rushing for three more touchdowns and 275 yards. Defensively, he led the area with seven interceptions as a defensive back.

WR Drew Estrada, Argyle, Sr. Estrada burst on to the scene last year with big-play ability Argyle will utilize this season. The senior racked up 1,151 receiving yards on 61 catches. He also scored 17 touchdowns.

DRC Football

OL Ace Ventura, Denton, Sr. Michael Clements/special contributor

Guyer quarterback Shawn Robinson looks to throw a pass during a game at C.H. Collins Athletics Complex last season. Robinson threw for 2,799 yards and 33 touchdowns last season and also rushed for 1,416 yards.

Player of the Year QB Shawn Robinson, Guyer, Jr. The Guyer junior established himself as one of the best quarterbacks in the country with a breakout sophomore season as a 15-year-old star under center. Robinson led the Wildcats to a 10-win season in their first year back at the state’s largest classification after back-to-back state championships in the old Class 4A. Robinson, who committed to TCU in June as the country’s No. 1 dual-threat quarterback in the 2017 class, completed better than 60 percent of his passes for 2,799 yards and 33 touchdowns with only five interceptions. On the ground, he was equally lethal, rushing for 1,416 yards and 17 scores while averaging 10.3 yards per carry. Surrounded by senior skill players a year ago, Robinson was able to focus solely on his on-field performance, but now he’s one of the elder statesmen on the offense in regards to experience and has stepped into more of a leadership role over the spring and summer.

As one of Denton’s two returning offensive lineman, Ventura will try to clear the way for running back Xavier Scott while also protecting the blind side of quarterback Colt Atkinson in the Broncos spread formation.

OL Cesar Vidana, Guyer, Sr. Vidana tallied 23 pancake blocks a year ago and allowed two sacks while helping to anchor an offensive line that paved the way for Guyer, which averaged 542.6 yards and 50.3 points per game.

PRESEASON ALL-AREA DEFENSE

DRC Football

DL Cameron Wax, Guyer, Sr.

Huther was the Indians' defensive stalwart last season , when he finished with 138 tackles. He was named the District 6-4A (Division I) defensive MVP in a district that featured powerhouse Argyle.

DL David Bearden, Argyle, Sr.

LB Coleton Spradley, Krum, Jr.

Bearden posted 93 tackles and 13 sacks, forced a fumble and recovered three more in 2014. His performance earned him Class 4A first-team AP all-state honors. He returns to lead an experienced line.

Spradley led his team with 124 tackles, with 26 coming behind the line of scrimmage as a sophomore. He forced a fumble, recovered two and was named the District 3-4A (Division II) Newcomer of the Year.

DL Ken Mclaurin, Ryan, Sr.

DB Brandon Daniel, Guyer, Sr.

After racking up 43 tackles and 9 1/2 sacks last season, Mclaurin enters this season as the leader of a Raider defense that returns a bevy of talent around him. He's been red hot on the recruiting scene.

Daniel was an all-district cornerback in 2014. His footwork made it difficult for receivers to shake him. He posted 36 tackles and six pass breakups to go with two interceptions and a forced fumble.

DL Earnest Brown IV, Ryan, Jr.

DB Alan Rojas, Ryan, Sr. Rojas won the starting free safety job last season and racked up seven pass breakups and six interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. He'll make the move to cornerback this season.

Brown IV returns with a chip on his shoulder after a knee injury suffered early in the basketball season. Healthier than ever, Brown is part of a stout front that should set the tone for a veteran Raider defense.

LB Tyreke Davis, Ryan, Jr.

LB Kain Cox, Lake Dallas, Jr. Cox was a first-team All-District 6-5A selection in 2014 and is one of the Falcons' top returning leaders of defense as he is in his third year starting. Cox is somewhat undersized, but makes up for it with speed.

LB Jarrod Huther, Sanger, Sr.

Wax excelled in 2014 and has put on 40 pounds since that should help him handle Class 6A offensive lines. He posted 40 tackles, including 13 behind the line, and 14 quarterback hurries a year ago.

Davis was the Denton Record-Chronicle's Newcomer of the Year as a sophomore after he posted 111 tackles. His role will change as he plays more at running back, but Davis is still a playmaker on defense.

August 27, 2015

DB Kobe Boyce, Lake Dallas, Sr. Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton Guyer linebacker Michael Carrillo celebrates on the field during a game last fall. Carrillo has been key player for Guyer for years and posted 110 tackles last season. He will be among the top defensive players in the area in 2015.

Player of the Year LB Michael Carrillo, Guyer, Sr. Carrillo's history as a dominant two-way player in middle school shows he could likely be one of the best running backs in the area , but due to the Wildcats' assembly line of standout tailbacks, he's been able to focus his time at linebacker. All of Guyer's opponents' offensive players probably wish that wasn 't the case. Carrillo is the epitome of an intimidator, giving the Wildcats' defense a nasty edge it prides itself on . He isn't the biggest linebacker, but his strength and physicality makes up for a relative lack of size. Make no mistake , however, he isn't 100 percent brute, he's also a tactician at the strong side linebacker spot. Carrillo finished the 2014 season with 110 tackles, including 20 stops behind the line of scrimmage - both team-highs a season ago. Carrillo also registered five quarterback hurries and forced a fumble while helping pace a Guyer defense that finished as a top-15 total defense among Dallas-Fort Worth Class 6A teams a year ago.

Boyce is trying to establish himself as Lake Dallas top cornerback. The newcomer is long, athletic and has good speed while being a sure tackler. He will try to solidify the position for the Falcons.

DB Preston Brooks, Krum, Sr. Brooks was a defensive stalwart and a turnover machine for the Bobcats in 2014 , coming up with four interceptions last season along with 12 pass breakups. He will anchor Krum 's secondary this fall.

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August 27, 2015

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James Franklin excelled at Lake Dallas before a standout career at Missouri

North Texas great Mitch Maher led Mean Green to 1994 Southland Conference title

From North Texas to local high schools, Denton has long been a...

Quarterback Factory James Battle led Ryan to consecutive state titles in 2001 and 2002

Jerrod Heard guided Guyer to two memorable state championships

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Guyer’s Robinson latest in line of great area QBs By Brett Vito Staff Writer

The natural expectation following Guyer’s run to the Class 4A Division I state championship in 2013 was that the Wildcats would take a step back, especially when it came to the quarterback spot. Jerrod Heard was one of the best high school quarterbacks not just in Texas, but in the country, as a senior. Thanks to the arrival of Shawn Robinson, the Wildcats hardly missed a beat. Calling the sophomore a move-in wasn’t really fitting. He burst in and quickly solidified his status as one of the nation’s best high school players. The arrival of Robinson also strengthened the Denton area’s case as one of the

state’s quarterback hotbeds. Robinson is rated the No. 1 dual-threat quarterback in the Class of 2017 in 247 Sports’ rankings. Heard was the site’s No. 1 dual-threat quarterback in 2014, while J.W. Walsh also excelled at Guyer before being named the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Robinson Year in 2012 at Oklahoma State. That trio is just the latest in a long line of area greats at both Denton area high schools and North Texas. “It’s really unique to find not just good quarterbacks, but high quality, championship quarterbacks,” Guyer coach John

Denton Record-Chronicle/Hiroyuki Komae

Scott Hall, North Texas, 2000-04

Scott Hall is one of the most productive quarterbacks in North Texas history, both from a team and individual perspective. Hall led the Mean Green to Sun Belt Conference titles in 2001, 2003 and 2004 and also played a key role in UNT’s 2002 championship season when he helped mentor Andrew Smith after suffering a torn pectoral muscle in a season-opening loss to Texas. Hall led UNT to 24 wins in his career and a 19-1 record in Sun Belt Conference play. He is UNT’s career leader in passing efficiency with a 132.26 rating and also ranks third in TD passes with 50 and fifth in passing yards with 5,975. He was inducted into the UNT Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013.

Walsh said. “It says a lot about the programs that are being run here.” UNT featured Heart of Dallas Bowl MVP Derek Thompson two years ago and has a long history of great quarterbacks. Steve Ramsey capped his UNT career in 1969 as college football’s all-time leader in touchdown passes with 69. Ramsey went on to throw for 6,437 yards in seven NFL seasons, mostly with the Denver Broncos. Ryan also has a history of great quarterbacks over the last decade, including Justin Willis, Scotty Young and James Battle. All three ranked among the elite high school quarterbacks and college recruits in the state. Several area schools have also produced great high school quarterbacks

Denton Record-Chronicle/Hiroyuki Komae

Justin Willis, Ryan, 2003-04

Justin Willis had some big shoes to fill when he replaced James Battle as Ryan’s quarterback, but he lived up to the expectations and helped guide the Raiders to another Class 4A title game in 2003 and spot in the regional final in 2004. He was 26-4 as a starter and was named second-team all-state after his senior season. Willis tossed 32 touchdown passes, threw for almost 3,000 yards and rushed for another 1,080 yards and 13 touchdowns during his senior year. He went on to have a standout career at SMU. Willis holds the SMU record for career touchdown passes with 51. He also ranks seventh all-time at SMU for career passing yards with 4,991.

who went on to succeed at the college level, including James Franklin of Lake Dallas. Franklin was the MVP of Missouri’s win over North Carolina in the 2011 Independence Bowl and capped his career by leading the Tigers past Oklahoma State in the 2014 Cotton Bowl. Robinson is just the latest in that line of great players and will look to build on Denton’s legacy as a quarterback hotbed. “I’m excited to get back to work,” Robinson said in June after committing to TCU. “Now it’s just about getting better and helping this team get that state title.” The following is a look back at the players who established Denton’s quarterback legacy, both at UNT and area high schools.

The Dallas Morning News/John F. Rhodes

J.W. Walsh, Guyer, 2008-10

J.W. Walsh helped Guyer shock the state by leading the Wildcats to the Class 4A Division I state semifinals in the program’s third season after it posted a 1-19 record in its first two campaigns. He repeated the effort as a junior before leading the Wildcats to the Class 5A Division II state title game in Guyer’s first year in the state’s largest classification. Walsh ended his career with 7,199 passing yards and 3,999 rushing yards to go with 71 passing touchdowns and 49 rushing scores. He was selected to play in the U.S. Army All-American Game before beginning his career at Oklahoma State. Walsh was selected as the Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year. He’s now a senior at OSU, where he has battled injuries.

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August 27, 2015

North Texas Some of the best seasons in North Texas history have come when the Mean Green featured great quarterbacks. UNT won the Southland title behind Mitch Maher, the Heart of Dallas Bowl with Derek Thompson and made the f-AA playoffs behind Scott Davis.

Getty Images/Sarah Glenn

Derek Thompson, 2009-13 Derek Thompson capped his North Texas career with one of the more memorable performances in program history, throwing for 256 yards and two TDs in a 36-14 win over UNLV in the Heart of Dallas Bowl. Thompson was named the MVP of just the third bowl win in UNT history. He ranks second at UNT all-time in passing yards (7,447) and is fourth in passingTDs (42).

North Texas sports information

Jordan Case, 1978-79

Jordan Case was North Texas' starting quarterback for two seasons, including the 1978 campaign under legendary coach Hayden Fry (above). Case threw for 2,608 yards in two seasons and led the Mean Green to a 9-2 campaign in 1978. He was inducted into the UNT Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001 and continues to be an influential booster for the Mean Green .

The Dallas Morning News/Louis Deluca

Mitch Maher, 1991-94 Mitch Maher holds numerous North Texas records, including those for career passing yards (8 ,519), completions (640) and passing attempts (1,149). He led UNT to the Southland Conference title his senior season in 1994, when he was named the conference's Offensive Player of the Year. He was inducted into the UNT Athletic Hall of Fame in 2000.

Vidal Carlin, 1965-66

North Texas sports information

Scott Davis, 1987-90

Scott Davis led North Texas to the Division 1-AA playoffs in 1987 and 1988 and was the Southland Conference's Player of the Year in 1989. He threw for 6,923 yards and led UNT in total offense in four consecutive seasons, beginning in 1987, when he was the Southland's Freshman of the Year. Davis was inducted into the UNT Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999.

North Texas sports information

Vidal Carlin led North Texas to the Missouri Valley Conference title as a senior in 1966 and left the school as its leader with 3,233 career passing yards and 25 TD passes. Carlin threw for 307 yards in a game against Arkansas in 1965, one of his eight 200-yard passing games. The St. Louis Cardinals selected Carlin in the 1967 NFL draft before he went on to play for Atlanta and Houston. He was inducted into the UNT Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006.

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

North Texas/high schools North Texas and Ryan have produced quarterbacks who have ranked among the elite players in Texas and beyond. Steve Ramsey played seven seasons in the NFL after leaving UNT, while James Battle, Scotty Young and James Franklin were elite national recruits.

North Texas sports information

Steve Ramsey, North Texas, 1967-69

Steve Ramsey was the quarterback on North Texas’ All-Century team that was named in 2013 and was the NCAA’s leader in career TD passes with 69 when he finished his time at UNT. Ramsey still holds UNT’s mark for career passing TDs. He was a three-time all-Missouri Valley Conference pick and played in the East-West Shrine and the Hula Bowl games. He was inducted into the UNT Athletic Hall of Fame in 1988.

The Dallas Morning News/ Erich Schlegel

James Battle, Ryan, 2000-02

James Battle led Ryan to three straight Class 4A state championship games, winning two of them in 2001 and 2002. The dual-threat star racked up a 42-4 record during his Raider career and was regarded as one of the best high school quarterbacks in all of Texas. As a senior, Battle threw for 2,989 yards and 31 touchdowns while also rushing for 872 yards and 19 scores. He signed with TCU, but ultimately never played a down for the Horned Frogs.

The Dallas Morning News/John F. Rhodes Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Scotty Young,Ryan, 2008-09

Scotty Young finished his career at Ryan as one of the most prolific passers in state history. As a senior, Young threw for 4,467 yards and 64 TDs while earning state player of the year honors. He threw for 4,495 yards and 65 TDs as a junior and enjoyed a short career at Texas Tech, then Louisiana Tech.

James Franklin, Lake Dallas, 2007-09 James Franklin racked up 4,825 passing yards with 45 touchdowns while rushing for 2,433 yards and 37 more scores in 2008 and 2009 at Lake Dallas before heading off to Missouri. Franklin was a three-year starter and led the Tigers to a Cotton Bowl victory over Oklahoma State in his final collegiate game. He now plays for the Edmonton Eskimos in the Canadian Football League.

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

High schools Denton area high schools have produced a series of great quarterbacks over the last decade, including several who have gone on to play in college. Former Guyer standout Jerrod Heard is competing for the stating job at Texas this fall.

Dane Evans, Sanger, 2009-11 Dane Evans led Sanger to 9-0 starts in both his junior and senior seasons. He threw for 3,411 yards as a junior before tallying 3,265 yards as a senior. Evans threw for 8,781 yards and 93 touchdowns in three seasons with the Indians before continuing his career atTulsa, where he enters his senior season as a starter.

The Dallas Morning News/Louis Deluca

Jerrod Heard, Guyer, 2011-13 While J.W. Walsh helped put Guyer's program on the map, Jerrod Heard took the Wildcats to another level. Heard was a three-year starter and is one of two Denton lSD quarterbacks (along with James Battle) to win two state championships. Heard went 13-1 as a starter in the postseason. Over the course of his career, the U.S. Army All-American passed for 6,512 yards and rushed for 4,949 while adding a perfectly symmetrical 67 touchdowns on the ground and 67 more through the air. Heard signed with Texas, where he is competing for the starting job as a redshirt freshman this year.

Austin Aune, Argyle, 2008-11 Austin Aune led Argyle to its first state championship game at the Class 3A level while throwing for 3,411 yards and 33 TDs as a senior. The Eagles fell , 21-14, to Wimberley when Aune had the flu , but that loss didn't diminish his legacy. In his three seasons as a starter,Aune passed for 7,203 yards and 73 TDs. He earned a football scholarship to TCU but received a $1 million signing bonus after the New York Yankees selected him in the second round of the MLB draft. Aune is still playing pro baseball.

Dalyn Williams, Lake Dallas, 2009-11 Dalyn Williams stepped in at quarterback for Lake Dallas when James Franklin left for Missouri and developed into a star. Williams led all of Dallas-Fort Worth Class 4A quarterbacks in passing with 3,945 yards and 37 touchdowns to go with 823 rushing yards and another 11 touchdowns as a senior before heading to Dartmouth , where he won Ivy League Rookie of the Year as a freshman and was named the Ivy League's first-team quarterback as a junior in 2014.

INSIDE SPORTS

Denton Record-Chronicle SECTION 8 WHO TO CALL

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LAKE DALLAS

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Lake Dallas features wealth of talent By Rich Luna For the Denton Record-Chronicle

How do you replace Josiah Tauaefa? That’s the big question facing the Lake Dallas defense going into 2015. Tauaefa was a three-year starter and stalwart on defense for the last two seasons, amassing nearly 160 tackles and twice being named the district’s top defensive player. Behind Tauaefa, the Falcons held opponents to 26.3 points per game, but graduation and UT-San Antonio have taken Tauaefa away. So now, the Falcons must reload their defensive line and, yes, there is a plan. “You don’t replace a Josiah,” said defensive line coach Kord Smith. “But what we’ve got is a lot of talent. Our only weakness is lack of experience. They’re going to make some mistakes, but they’re a down-to-earth group of kids who are going to come around. If we can be injury free, all these kids are going to be ok.” Lake Dallas will rely on the likes of Devante Traylor, Jacob Schuster, Damion Hyde, Jacob Biggerstaff and Garrett Hunt to make up a rotation the coaching staff hopes will help lead the Falcons to a second straight District 6-5A championship and a deep run into the playoffs. Offensively, the Falcons are loaded with veterans at the skill positions. It starts with running back Courtenay Holder (102 rushes, 723 yards, 14 touchdowns), a likely 1,000-yard rusher, and wide receivers Keegan Brewer (69 catches, 1,053 yards, 18 TDs) and Tristan Bowen (26-331, 2 TDs). Then there’s the offensive line anchored by three returning all-district performers in Segun Ijiyera, Chase Stanley and Cody Pierce. The one name missing from that group is two-year starting quarterback Dagan Haehn, who threw for more than 2,700 yards and 32 touchdowns last season, completing about 67 percent of his passes, while rushing for 715 yards and six scores. He tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in the spring game and had surgery in May. DATCU proudly supports the

Lake Dallas Falcons!

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

LAKE DALLAS: STAR POWER

Lake Dallas defensive linemen Jacob Biggerstaff, left, and Devante Traylor will face the challenge of helping replace former Falcons standout Josiah Tauaefa, who signed with Texas-San Antonio after completing a standout high school career in 2014. Lake Dallas is hoping a roster deep in talent will help it build on a 9-2 season.

While Haehn could return late this season, the Falcons will be guided at quarterback by junior Spencer Frederickson, who threw for 429 yards and four touchdowns in Lake Dallas’ spring game. So with an effective offense that averaged 482 yards and 45 points per game in 2014 in place, the question comes back to defense, and the reality is that the Falcons are actually solid even with the inexperience on the defensive line. They’ve got a proven linebacker corps led by returning all-district performers Holder and Kain Cox. “We’ve got some skill at linebacker and with our defensive backs,” said head

coach Michael Young, who is now 79-34 in 10 seasons at Lake Dallas. “Up front, we’re going to be fine.” Traylor, a 6-1, 215-pound senior, started a few games in 2014 and could be the leader on the line. Young, who has only missed the playoffs once in his tenure at Lake Dallas, said this year’s team could be one of the finest at the school, and certainly believes the Falcons can advance much deeper in the playoffs than last year’s bi-district loss to Wichita Falls. “Athletically, we’re better than we’ve been,” he said. “The kids know there’s a lot at stake and we have a chance to have a special season. I think it can be.”

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FALCONS Quick facts

District: 6-5A 2014 record: 9-2 (6-0 in district) Coach: Michael Young (79-34 in 10 seasons at Lake Dallas) Returning starters: Seven on offense, six on defense Key players: WR/RB Keegan Brewer, RB Courtenay Holder, OL Chase Stanley, OL Cody Piece, OL Segun Ijiyera, WR Tristan Bowen, QB Spencer Frederickson, QB Dagan Haehn Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 1,292 Stadium: Falcon Stadium

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DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Lake Dallas Falcons 2015 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 28 ............ Frisco Wakeland ................. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 ............. Frisco Centennial ............... 7:30p.m. Sept. 11 ........... Lovejoy ............................... 7:30p.m. Sept. 18 ........... at Kimball ............................ 7:30p.m. Sept. 25 ........... at Grapevine* .................... 7:30p.m. Oct. 2 ............... Carter-Riverside* ............... 7:30p.m. Oct. 8 ............... at Birdville * ........................ 7 p.m. Oct. 15 ............. Eastern Hills *..................... 7:30p.m. Oct. 30 ............. at Poly* .............................. 7 p.m. Nov. 6............... Dunbar * ............................. 7:30p.m. *District 6-5A

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LAKE DALLAS

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Falcons turning to Frederickson at QB By Rich Luna For the Denton Record-Chronicle

Quite often, the heart and soul of a football team rests with the quarterback. In the case of Lake Dallas, that would be Dagan Haehn — the returning District 6-5A Most Valuable Player. The two-year starter had a stellar junior season in 2014, throwing for more than 2,700 yards and 32 touchdowns, completing about 67 percent of his passes, while rushing for 715 yards and six scores. He led the Falcons to a 9-2 record, including a perfect 6-0 league record on the way to a district championship. To say expectations for 2015 were sky high would be an understatement. Lake Dallas, bumped in the first round of the playoffs last year, seemingly had the makings of an offensive juggernaut with Haehn, wide receivers Keegan Brewer and Tristan Bowen, running back Courtney Holder, and three returning all-dis-

trict linemen forming the nucleus of a unit that averaged more than 480 yards and 45 points per game last season. Then Haehn tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in the spring game. He had surgery in May and could return late this season. So with Haehn on the sideline, is all lost for Lake Dallas? Not even close. Enter Spencer Frederickson, a 6-foot1, 170-pound junior who was 37-of-46 for 429 yards, four touchdowns and one interception in the spring game. Now elevated to the No. 1 spot, Frederickson knows he has a job to do. “I felt bad for Dagan, but I knew I had to step up,” Frederickson said. “I want Dagan to come back. We all do.” Haehn said he has not lost sight of his role on the sidelines as a team leader, especially when it comes to Frederickson. “I’m there for him,” Haehn said. “He’s like a sponge, he absorbs everything.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Lake Dallas quarterback Spencer Frederickson, left, will take over early in the season as Dagan Haehn recovers from a knee injury he suffered in spring practice after a standout 2014 season.

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LAKE DALLAS

August 27, 2015

Extra Points Keys to a successful year

Position of strength

Having three returning first-team all-district offensive lineman can go a long way toward helping solidify a team’s run game and pass protection, and that’s exactly the situation Lake Dallas is in. Center Chase Stanley, guard Cody Pierce and Pierce tackle Segun Ijiyera will be joined by Justin Cadenhead, Connor Puckett and Griffin Knox to form a front line that averages nearly 255 pounds. The group will be a handful for all of Lake Dallas’ opponents.

Point of concern

While the offensive line is solid, the defensive front will need to gain experience early. The Falcons lost tremendous talent and leadership in three-year starting tackle Josiah Tauaefa (UT-San Antonio) to graduation and will be looking to Devante Traylor, Jacob Biggerstaff, Damion Hyde, Ben Williamson and Garrett Hunt to step up.

Key newcomer

The Falcons already have a couple of impact players at wide receiver in seniors Keegan Brewer, a first team all-district performer in 2014, and Tristan Bowen, honorable mention all-district. This season, Lake Dallas will add Brendan Contreras to the mix. The 5-9, 165-pound junior will not only create space for the veteran wideouts but will also be another versatile option for the passing attack. Contreras caught eight passes for 185 yards and one touchdown in the spring game.

Game of the year

The Falcons open the season with three home games and go on the road once before opening District 6-5A play at an always-tough Grapevine squad. Two games later, it’s a road game at Birdville and the regular season concludes with a home game against Fort Worth Dunbar. “We need to get past those three teams if we want to win the district championship,” Young said. “Our goal is to be playing the best football we can, and we’ll need to be against those teams.”

DRC Football

FALCONS Roster No. Player Ht. Wt. Pos. Yr. 1 Chris Slater 6-3 200 WR Jr. 2 Devante Traylor 6-2 220 DL Sr. 3 Kobe Boyce 6-1 185 DB Sr. 4 Anson Truong 5-8 150 DB Sr. 5 Dagan Haehn 6-3 215 QB Sr. 7 Spencer Frederickson 6-0 185 QB Jr. 8 Dalton Anderson 5-11 205 DL Sr. 9 Brendan Contreras 5-10 165 WR Jr. 10 Zack Karmel 5-10 165 DB Sr. 11 Marcial Apaez 5-10 160 K So. 12 Keegan Brewer 5-11 185 WR Sr. 13 Bryson Porter 5-10 150 WR Jr. 14 Courtenay Holder 6-0 200 LB Sr. 15 Zach Russell 5-11 170 LB Jr. 16 Alex Peppard 5-10 180 DB Jr. 18 Sebastian Negrete 6-0 170 RB Sr. 20 Matt Clark 5-10 150 DB Sr. 21 Adam Tipps 5-10 150 DB Jr. 22 Brian Griffin 5-10 185 RB Jr. 24 Garren Schantz 6-0 175 LB Jr. 25 Devin Turner 6-0 185 LB Sr. 26 Kyle Rountree 6-0 175 DB Sr. 27 Diondre Moton 5-10 185 LB Sr. 28 Wafic Saade 5-8 180 DL Sr. 32 Juan Aguilar 6-1 210 DL Jr. 33 Daniel Rivera 6-2 180 WR Sr. 35 Jacob Schuster 5-11 215 LB Jr. 36 Tristan Bowen 6-2 190 WR Sr. 37 Jacob Peppard 5-10 180 DB Sr. 43 Damion Hyde 6-2 215 DL Jr.

LAKE DALLAS Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 Frisco Wakeland 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 Frisco Centennial 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 Lovejoy 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Kimball 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at Grapevine* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2 FW Carter-Riverside* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at Birdville* 7 p.m. Oct. 15 FW Eastern Hills* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at FW Polytechnic* 7 p.m. Nov. 6 FW Dunbar* 7:30 p.m. *District 6-5A 44 Kain Cox 48 Garrett Hunt 61 Garrett Alberts 65 Justin Cadenhead 70 Segun Ijiyera 71 Chase Stanley 73 Connor Puckett 74 Griffin Knox 75 Cody Pierce 80 Ben Williamson 81 Travis Guevara 82 Jacob Biggerstaff 86 Tristan Moody 87 Christian Gomez 88 Tyler Williams

5-11 6-0 6-0 6-1 6-3 6-2 6-0 6-1 6-5 6-2 6-2 6-1 5-11 5-10 6-2

190 210 270 235 250 270 240 250 280 210 185 225 175 165 185

LB DL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL DL WR DL WR WR DB

Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr.

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

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DRC Football

August 27, 2015

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ARGYLE

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Move to new spot fits Argyle’s Sweatt By Steve Gamel Staff Writer

When Taylor Sweatt hit the field for the first day of fall workouts earlier this month, he was so focused on showing his mettle as Argyle’s new featured running back that he forgot to temper that excitement. On several carries, he bulled forward without first waiting for the pulling blockers to clear a hole. It was an exercise in patience, something Sweatt didn’t always worry about last year when he was playing defense. “At linebacker, you can go as soon as you see it, but with this you have to let things develop,” Sweatt said of being a running back. “I was jumping on them [blockers] too fast instead of being patient. I was just excited.” It’s not every day you see a coach take his leading tackler — Sweatt had 190 tackles last year and was the defensive MVP in a Class 4A Division I championship game loss — and make him an offensive player. But Argyle coach Todd Rodgers is so confident in Sweatt that he’s moved him to the one position his team relied on the most a year ago. Sweatt is filling a hole left vacant by running back Nick Ralston. Ralston, now at Arizona State, rushed for 2,771 yards and 46 touchdowns last year and carried the ball 54 times in the title game. Now it’s time for Sweatt to step in on offense for a team that has advanced to a state title game in three of the last four seasons and has enough returning starters to make another deep run. “Taylor is a team player. Someone has to step up and fill that position, and he’s going to do that. That’s the type of player he wants to be,” Rodgers said. “We want to play to his strengths, and there may be situations where he gets more carries and others where we have to balance that with him occasionally playing defense. “Everything I’ve seen says Taylor Sweatt is going to be very successful at running back.” That’s because Sweatt can step in anywhere on the field and be successful. It also helps that Argyle returns seven

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

ARGYLE: STAR POWER

Argyle senior Taylor Sweatt has filled a variety of roles for the Eagles and will try another one out this season, when he will see significant time at running back. Sweatt has played defense throughout his career and was the defensive MVP of the Eagles’ Class 4A Division I state title game loss to Navasota a year ago. He will see time on defense again this year.

starters on defense. “Last year, I built confidence in my team with each game, because we had lost so many guys from the year before. Now, our team looks real good. I have a ton of confidence in my teammates from the start,” Sweatt said. Heading into his third varsity season, Sweatt has been a defensive end, linebacker and free safety. If he’s asked to play defense this year, it will likely be at defensive end, Rodgers said. Even though Rodgers said he feels confident with Sweatt’s move, he hinted that Argyle might not be as reliant on the run game this year. The offense returns five starters and features a new starter at

quarterback in Dane Ledford. Ledford was the team’s backup last year and is more mobile than his predecessor, Cooper Rodgers. He’ll have plenty of weapons around him in senior wide receivers Drew Estrada, Gage McCook and tight end J.C. Chalk (Clemson). Estrada nabbed 1,151 receiving yards and 17 total touchdowns last year. Whatever his role is, Sweatt is willing to be patient, but only to a certain point. “Coach likes to have those backs that are tough and not afraid to get in the trenches,” Sweatt said. “I’m definitely not a fancy runner, but I’m working to get better each day. I’m fine with whatever is best for the team.”

EAGLES Quick facts

District: 6-4A (Division I) 2014 record: 15-1 (5-0 in district) Coach: Todd Rodgers (13131 in 12 seasons at Argyle) Returning starters: five on offense, seven on defense Key players: RB/DL Taylor Sweatt, QB Dane Ledford, TE J.C. Chalk, WR/DB Drew Estrada, WR/DB Gage McCook, DL David Bearden, DL Hudson Speed, OL Ty Smith, LB Shane McKinney, DL Jacob Forrer, LB Casey Harper, DB Dylan Sadler, DB Spencer Cullen Offense: Spread Defense: 50 defense/multiple School enrollment: 698 Stadium: Eagle Stadium

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Argyle Eagles 2015 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 28 .... at Abilene Wylie .................. 7:30p.m. Sept. 4 ..... at Denison ........................... 7:30p.m. Sept. 11 ... at Celina .............................. 7:30p.m. Sept. 18 ... Graham ............................... 7:30p.m. Sept. 25 ... Paris .................................... 7:30p.m. Oct. 9....... Carrollton Ranchview *........ 7 p.m. Oct. 16 ..... at Dallas Wilmer Hutchins* 7:30p.m. Oct. 23 ..... Dallas Carter* ..................... 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 ..... at Dallas Pinkston * ............. 7:30p.m. Nov. 6 ...... Sanger* .............................. 7:30p.m. *District 6-4A

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ARGYLE

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Estrada set to do it all to spark Eagles By Steve Gamel Staff Writer

Ask Drew Estrada what his role is at Argyle, and he’ll say it’s whatever the coaching staff needs him to do. That’s as unselfish an answer as you can get, and the playmaker means every word of it. Estrada, a senior, is listed as a wide receiver on the Eagles’ roster, but he’s much more than that. His versatility — he’s been compared to former Argyle great Ian Sadler despite Estrada repeatedly dismissing the comparison — will land him anywhere on the field and drive opponents crazy. Last year he nabbed 1,151 receiving yards, 179 rushing yards and 17 total touchdowns in an offense built to suit running back Nick Ralston, now at Arizona State. Argyle coach Todd Rodgers said this year’s attack will rely less on the run game because of guys like Estrada, who still has time to be an elite punter,

kicker and play defensive back, if needed. “All I can do is thank my coaches for putting me in those spots,” Estrada said. “I take it as a great opportunity.” Estrada has been taking advantage of opportunities his entire career. He burst onto the scene in the 2013 Class 3A Division II state title game with a key interception to seal a five-point win against Fairfield. He turned heads as a do-it-all threat last year and led the Eagles to the 4A title game, where they lost in double overtime to Navasota. “He wears a lot of hats for us,” Rodgers said. “He’s a dynamic wide receiver, but he can be a running back and he’s a defensive guy that can cover anyone.” As unselfish as he is, there is one thing Estrada wishes he could do for the team. “I played a little bit in the return game last year, but I’m hoping to be one of the deep guys this time, Estrada said. “I think [Rodgers] will be open to it.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Argyle wide receiver Drew Estrada has the ability to make an impact in a variety of ways because of his speed and quickness. Estrada finished with 1,151 receiving yards and will be a vital part of Argyle’s offense again this fall.

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ARGYLE

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Extra Points Keys to a successful year Position of strength

need to be a little more patient as the early part of the season plays out. “We need to let them [offense] figure it out. It’s a process,” Rodgers said. “Everyone has to find their role and find their niche. People are going to be stars on different nights.”

The Eagles ran roughshod over the opposition last year with only eight returning starters from the 2013 Class 3A state championship team. They were minus 29 seniors from that year, but won their first 15 games and made it to another title game. Imagine what they can do with 12 returning starters Speed from that young squad. That’s what Argyle coach Todd Rodgers is pinning this year’s hopes on — experience. The Argyle defense is the most experienced of the two units, and players like David Bearden, Hudson Speed and Jacob Forrer will more than help offset the loss of Taylor Sweatt, who is now the featured running back.

Key newcomer

Rodgers said Dane Ledford could be a huge bright spot at quarterback. With great arm strength and the ability to escape from the pocket, he offers a little more versatility than what the team had in previous years. Ledford also knows what it takes to start for the Eagles. He was a defensive back last year and recorded 97 tackles.

Game of the year

Argyle’s season opener against Abilene Wylie is again being looked at as a tone-setter. It is also one of three road games the Eagles will have to start the season. Argyle will travel to Denison and Celina before its first home game against Graham. Rodgers said he will learn a lot about his team from that early fourgame stretch to start the season.

Point of concern

Offensively, Argyle has a new quarterback, little experience on its offensive line and a new running back to replace Nick Ralston (Arizona State). Rodgers said as comfortable as he is with the athletes he does have back, the coaching staff will

EAGLES Roster No. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 15 17 19 20 23 24 25 26 27 28 32 33 36 37 41 42 43 44 45 46 48 49 55

Player Dane Ledford Drew Estrada Dylan Sadler Gage McCook Matt Rowe Taylor Sweatt Scott Smith Pierce Davies John Tarwater Spencer Cullen Brett Lambert Gage Campell Colton Liggett Garrett Carter John Phillips Cale Nanny J.C. Chalk Matthew Shubert Hudson Speed Caleb Holt Brian Massey Brett Lundy Wade Pennington Omar Borrayo Dakota Carpenter Shane McKinney Jacob Forrer Casey Harper Hayden Mouser Chase Estrada Blake Lewellen Matthew Horton Peyton Patterson

Pos. Yr. QB Jr. WR Sr. DB So. WR Sr. LB Sr. LB Sr. WR Sr. DB Jr. DB Jr. DB Sr. DB Sr. DB So. DB Sr. DB So. RB Jr. DB So. TE Sr. DB So. DL Sr. K Sr. RB Jr. DE So. DL Jr. RB Jr. DL Sr. LB Sr. DE Sr. LB Jr. DL So. DE So. WR Sr. DE Jr. OL Jr.

ARGYLE Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 at Abilene Wylie 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 at Denison 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at Celina 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 Graham 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 Paris 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9 Carrollton Ranchview* 7 p.m. Oct. 16 at Wilmer Hutchins* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 Dallas Carter* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at Dallas Pinkston* 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 Sanger* 7:30 p.m. *District 6-4A (Division I) 61 64 65 66 68 70 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 81 83 89

Brady Llewellyn Bryce Hege Caelan Keenan Matt Castle John Fullingham David Bearden Adam Dyer Hunter Blackwell Jack Williams Preston Coyle Bryson Hudgens Jaxon Frazier Praytush Joshi Ty Smith Chad Book Holden Bell Grant Weitzer

OL OL OL DL OL DL DL OL OL OL OL OL DL OL K K DE

Sr. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr.

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DRC Football Friday, Aug. 28 Wilmer Hutchins at Denton, 7 p.m. Frisco Wakeland at Lake Dallas, 7 p.m. Guyer at Allen, 7:30 p.m. Ryan at Rockwall, 7:30 p.m. Argyle at Abilene Wylie, 7:30 p.m. Celina at Liberty Christian, 7:30 p.m. Ponder at Fort Worth Castleberry, 7:30 p.m. Krum at Pilot Point, 7:30 p.m. Melissa at Sanger, 7:30 p.m. Pottsboro at Aubrey, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3 Hebron at Ryan, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Granbury at Denton, 7 p.m. Frisco Centennial at Lake Dallas, 7 p.m. Ennis at Guyer, 7:30 p.m. Argyle at Denison, 7:30 p.m. Liberty Christian at Springtown, 7:30 p.m. Ponder at Callisburg, 7:30 p.m. Krum at Venus, 7:30 p.m. Sanger at Plainview, Okla., 7:30 p.m. Anna at Pilot Point, 7:30 p.m. Aubrey at Burkburnett, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 Ryan at Wylie East, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Denton at Carrollton Creekview, 7 p.m. Guyer at Wichita Falls Rider, 7 p.m. Lovejoy at Lake Dallas, 7 p.m. Argyle at Celina, 7:30 p.m. Liberty Christian at Melissa, 7:30 p.m. Nocona at Ponder, 7:30 p.m. Sanger at Krum, 7:30 p.m. Pilot Point at Aubrey, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY, SEPT. 12 UNT at SMU, 6 p.m.

COMPOSITE SCHEDULE Friday, Sept. 18 Lake Dallas at Dallas Kimball, 7:30 p.m. Graham at Argyle, 7:30 p.m. Ponder at Howe, 7:30 p.m. Paradise at Krum, 7:30 p.m. Lone Grove, Okla. at Sanger, 7:30 p.m. Pilot Point at Gunter, 7:30 p.m. Aubrey at Van Alstyne, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY, SEPT. 19 Rice at UNT, 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 Guyer at Keller, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Saginaw Chisholm Trail at Denton, 7 p.m. Keller Central at Ryan, 7 p.m. Lake Dallas at Grapevine, 7:30 p.m. Paris at Argyle, 7:30 p.m. Liberty Christian at Fort Worth Nolan, 7:30 p.m. Tom Bean at Ponder, 7:30 p.m. Krum at Boyd, 7:30 p.m. Whitesboro at Sanger, 7:30 p.m. Pilot Point at Bonham, 7:30 p.m. Carrollton Ranchview at Aubrey, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY, SEPT. 26 UNT at Iowa, TBA Friday, Oct. 2 Denton at Boswell, 7 p.m. Northwest at Guyer, 7 p.m. Ryan at Trophy Club Nelson, 7 p.m. Carter-Riverside at Lake Dallas, 7:30 p.m. Bishop Lynch at Liberty Christian, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY, OCT. 3 UNT at Southern Miss, TBA Thursday, Oct. 8 Guyer at Keller Fossil Ridge, 7 p.m. Lake Dallas at Birdville, 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 9 Denton at Fort Worth Brewer, 7 p.m. Keller Timber Creek at Ryan, 7 p.m. Carrollton Ranchview at Argyle, 7:30 p.m. Midland Christian at Liberty Christian, 7:30 p.m. Paradise at Ponder, 7:30 p.m. Bridgeport at Krum, 7:30 p.m. Sanger at Dallas Carter, 7:30 p.m. Callisburg at Pilot Point, 7:30 p.m. Aubrey at Bonham, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY, OCT. 10 Portland State at UNT, TBA Thursday, Oct. 15 Western Kentucky at UNT, 6:30 p.m. Guyer at Keller Central, 7 p.m. Lake Dallas at Fort Worth Eastern Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16 Wichita Falls Rider at Denton, 7 p.m. Keller Fossil Ridge at Ryan, 7 p.m. Argyle at Wilmer Hutchins, 7:30 p.m. Liberty Christian at Bishop Dunne, 7:30 p.m. Ponder at Boyd, 7:30 p.m. Krum at Aubrey, 7:30 p.m. Carrollton Ranchview at Sanger, 7:30 p.m. Pilot Point at Van Alstyne, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22 Ryan at Keller, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23 Denton at Azle, 7 p.m. Trophy Club Nelson at Guyer, 7 p.m. Dallas Carter at Argyle, 7:30 p.m. Trinity Christian vs. Liberty Christian, Apogee, 7:30 p.m. Brock at Ponder, 7:30 p.m. Anna at Krum, 7:30 p.m. Sanger at Dallas Pinkston, 7:30 p.m. Whitesboro at Pilot Point, 7:30 p.m.

August 27, 2015

Aubrey at Bridgeport, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 UNT at Marshall, 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29 Guyer at Keller Timber Creek, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30 Saginaw at Denton, 7 p.m. Northwest at Ryan, 7 p.m. Lake Dallas at Fort Worth Poly, 7:30 p.m. Argyle at Dallas Pinkston, 7:30 p.m. Liberty Christian at Prestonwood Christian, 7:30 p.m. Ponder at Bowie, 7:30 p.m. Krum at Bonham, 7:30 p.m. Wilmer Hutchins at Sanger, 7:30 p.m. Pottsboro at Pilot Point, 7:30 p.m. Aubrey at Celina, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY, OCT. 31 UTSA at UNT, 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5 Denton at Wichita Falls, 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6 Ryan at Guyer, 7 p.m. Fort Worth Dunbar at Lake Dallas, 7:30 p.m. Sanger at Argyle, 7:30 p.m. Plano John Paul III at Liberty Christian, 7:30 p.m. Breckenridge at Ponder, 7:30 p.m. Celina at Krum, 7:30 p.m. Pilot Point at Farmersville, 7:30 p.m. Anna at Aubrey, 7:30 p.m. SATURDAY, NOV. 7 UNT AT Louisiana Tech, 2:30 p.m. SATURDAY, NOV. 14 UNT at Tennessee, TBA SATURDAY, NOV. 21 UNT at Middle Tennessee, 11 a.m. SATURDAY, NOV. 28 UTEP at UNT, TBA

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Class 6A 1. Allen (14)..............................................231 2. DeSoto (8).............................................214 3. Katy (2).................................................200 4. Cedar Hill (1).........................................157 5. Manvel...................................................153 6. Cibolo Steele...........................................98 7. Dallas Skyline..........................................93 8. Euless Trinity............................................53 9. Guyer...................................................50 10. Converse Judson....................................46 Others receiving votes: Southlake Carroll 26, Pearland 15, Spring Westfield 13, Lake Travis 12, Dickinson 6, Arlington Martin 4, Austin Westlake 2, Hewitt Midway 1, SA Northside Brennan 1. Class 5A 1. Aledo (19).............................................243 2. Cedar Park (5).......................................210 T3. Ennis....................................................170 T3. Temple..................................................170 5. Crosby...................................................153 6. Mansfield Timberview...............................99 7. Richmond George Ranch..........................77 8. Tyler.........................................................66 9. Austin Vandegrift (1).................................50 10. Lufkin....................................................32 Others receiving votes: Houston Stratford 28, Longview 17, Fort Bend Ridge Point 16, Kerrville Tivy 15, CC Flour Bluff 9, Mansfield Lake Ridge 6, Lancaster 3, Everman 3, Brenham 3, Richmond Foster 3, Mesquite Poteet 1, Port Neches-Groves 1. Class 4A 1. Navasota (19)........................................243 2. Argyle (3)...........................................215 3. Gilmer (2)..............................................172 4. Graham.................................................133 5. West Orange-Stark (1)............................116 6. Stephenville.............................................82

AP HIGH SCHOOL POLL T6. Carthage................................................82 8. La Grange................................................78 9. Celina......................................................62 10. Kennedale.............................................43 Others receiving votes: Texarkana Liberty-Eylau 36, Liberty Hill 29, Gladewater 27, Sinton 23, Abilene Wylie 12, Jasper 5, La Marque 3, Burnet 3, China Spring 3, Cuero 3, El Campo 2, Tyler Chapel Hill 2, Van 1. Class 3A 1. Cameron Yoe (20)..................................245 2. Mineola (1)............................................193 3. East Bernard (4)....................................176 4. Newton..................................................156 5. Shallowater............................................127 6. Kirbyville................................................115 7. Brock.....................................................100 8. Franklin....................................................54 9. Teague.....................................................37 10. East Chambers......................................34 Others receiving votes: Waskom 31, Blanco 29, Pottsboro 25, Cisco 18, Wall 10, Hallettsville 5, Elysian Fields 5, Arp 4, Eastland 2, Rockdale 2, Pilot Point 2, Crockett 1, Brownfield 1, Brady 1, Malakoff 1, Odem 1. Class 2A 1. Canadian (20).......................................242 2. Bremond (4)..........................................210 3. Refugio (1)............................................205 4. Mason...................................................143 5. Seagraves..............................................127 6. Albany....................................................126 7. Shiner......................................................99 8. Tenaha.....................................................47 9. Mart.........................................................43 T9. Alto........................................................43 Others receiving votes: Bruni 37, Centerville 15, Crawford 11, Iraan 9, Iola 6, Stratford 6, Crosbyton 4, Hico 2.

DRC Football

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Argyle coach Todd Rodgers, left, encourages his team from the sidelines during a 42-35 loss to Navasota in last seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Class 4A Division I state title game. Argyle opens the season ranked second in the Associated Press Class 4A poll.

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AUBREY

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Moore takes on larger role for Aubrey By Jimmy Isbell For the Denton Record-Chronicle

At the end of every two-a-day practice this fall, Aubrey coach Keith Ivy has been pulling his team aside to preach one specific phrase. Ivy may have felt like he was repeating himself ad nauseam, but after last season’s struggles, he stressed its importance. And it’s something he hopes his players have clued in on. “We’re not worried about yesterday, we’re only worried about today,” Ivy said. “Last season is in the past. This year, we’re looking to prove, not to anyone but ourselves, that we aren’t the [same] team.” The Chaparrals finished 1-9 in 2014, and over the last three seasons have combined to win five games. There’s a renewed level of confidence this year, though, as Aubrey returns 12 starters. Several of those players will shoulder even more responsibility in 2015. That includes senior Cameron Moore, who is expected to play on offense and defense. Moore is entering his third season as the Chaps’ starting cornerback. He will also play what Ivy referred to as a utility back on offense. It is in this role that Ivy hopes to take advantage of Moore’s athleticism, moving him between wide receiver and running back. Moore said he is ready for the challenge, and has worked each day to prove it. “I expect to make a lot of plays at receiver this season, [especially] in space where I know I am good,” Moore said. “Coach told me that I’d be successful at it. “After playing defense, it helps to know how to find the open space.” Moore is not incredibly imposing at 5-foot-8 and 160 pounds, but teams can’t underestimate the do-it-all threat. He’s one of the surest tacklers on the team and isn’t afraid to fight the far bigger receivers he’ll face each week. Offensively, he should provide a spark for a unit that was shutout three times last year while averaging just more than 11 points per game. “I’ll take great pride in leading these guys, because I’ll know how each of us

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

AUBREY: STAR POWER

Cameron Moore is entering his third season as a starting cornerback for Aubrey and will be expected to contribute on offense as well this fall. The Chaparrals are hoping that Moore will provide a spark following a 1-9 season in which they were shut out in three games. Moore isn’t the biggest player at 5-foot-8 and 160 pounds, but is fast and aggressive.

has worked day in and day out to play for each other and not ourselves,” Moore said. “I hope to lead these guys by being vocal and making sure we stay positive and confident in ourselves. “I just want to prove the naysayers wrong, reverse what happened last season, and have some fun with my friends by winning a bunch of ball games.” Moore represents a changing of the guard attitude at Aubrey. As difficult as last season was, those struggles were compounded by a lack of focus and maturity, Ivy said. That’s why Ivy decided he would open each position up this season — stressing that there were no guaranteed spots heading into fall camp.

Changing old habits and creating an environment where a team responds in a positive way to adversity can be a challenge, but Ivy believes he has the players to meet that challenge. “I love how no spot is a guaranteed spot on both sides of the ball,” Moore said. “Coach Ivy is taking a different approach than last season, and I know it will work for us. Each day we know we have to compete, and if we don’t, our coaches won’t hesitate to pull us. “At first, the thought of [potentially] losing my spot was upsetting, but it pushes me harder, along with the other previous starters to earn that spot all over again. It’ll pay off when we’re winning.”

CHAPARRALS Quick facts

District: 3-4A (Division II) 2014 record: 1-9 (1-4 in district) Coach: Keith Ivy (1-9 in one season at Aubrey) Returning starters: Six on offense, six on defense Key players: OL Andres Ramirez, LB Shingi Maraire, CB/RB Cameron Moore, Jon Delbosque RB, TE/DE Jordan Redfearn, DE Will Green, OL David Bray, OL Enrique Perez, LB Ross Brumkey, WR Seth Even, LB Taner Kemmener Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 535 Stadium: Chaparral Stadium

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Aubrey High School – Go Chaparrals! Aubrey Chaparrals 2015 Football Schedule Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 ...........Pottsboro................................ TBA Sept. 4 ............at Burkburnett......................... TBA Sept. 11 .........Pilot Point............................... TBA Sept. 18 ..........at Van Alstyne........................ 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 ..........Carrolton Ranchview * ........... 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9..............at Bonham * ........................... 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16............Krum * .................................... 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23............at Bridgeport * ........................ 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30............at Celina * .............................. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 .............Anna * .................................... 7:30 p.m. *District 3-4A

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AUBREY

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Maraire moving up in Aubrey’s defense By Jimmy Isbell For the Denton Record-Chronicle

At first glance, Aubrey’s Shingi Maraire looks more like a long-distance runner than a hard-hitting linebacker. But it’s clear the stringy junior has little to prove. Maraire, who stands at 5-foot-10 and weighs 160 pounds, was one of the few bright spots last year for a team that won one game. Maraire will switch from strong safety to outside linebacker this fall. Aubrey coach Keith Ivy believes he could become the catalyst for a turnaround season. “He really progressed at outside linebacker for us over the spring and so far in two-a-days,” Ivy said. “He’s picked up the different calls and keys to the position.” Maraire may not be the biggest guy on the team, but Ivy pointed to his speed, uncanny strength and pure athleticism as a reason for his breakout season. As a sophomore, Maraire racked up

58 tackles and one interception at strong safety. With just five starters returning on defense, getting the play-making Maraire closer to the ball is a wise move, Ivy said. “He’s locked in every time he steps on the field, but most of all, he’s a kid who is flying to the ball on every single play,” Ivy said. Maraire said he is comfortable no matter where he plays, especially if it helps his team. “In middle school, I played a lot of outside linebacker,” Maraire said. “I loved that position. Whether I was asked to contain, to drop back and defend a tight end or step up and deliver a hit, it was the most fun I’ve had playing the game.” Maraire will lead Aubrey’s defense in what he hopes is a breakthrough season. “We aren’t the same team from last year, and myself and the rest of the leaders on the team will make sure of that,” Maraire said.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Aubrey linebacker Shingi Maraire excelled at safety last season and will move up to outside linebacker for the Chaparrals this season. The switch will allow Aubrey to take advantage of his abilities as a playmaker.

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DRC Football

Extra Points Keys to a successful year Position of strength

After winning just one game in 2014, the Chaparrals are pinning their hopes on a veteran defense to help right the ship. Cornerback Cameron Moore leads a speedy secondary, while Shingi Maraire could be one of the better outside linebackers the team has Moore had in quite a while. “Our defense will be the key in us gaining confidence in ourselves from the start of the season,” head coach Keith Ivy said. “We’ve got the guys to make a statement in our district.”

Point of concern

Aubrey is well versed in what can happen when a game begins to get away after a one-win season in 2014. The big question for the Chaps is if they can learn to respond in a positive way in those situations. Ivy wondered if his players will be able to pull together instead of arguing and complaining. Changing old habits and creating an environment where a team responds in

a positive way to adversity can be a challenge. Ivy believes his team can meet that challenge, but won’t find out for sure until Aubrey inevitably runs into tough times this season.

CHAPARRALS Roster No. Player Ht. Wt. Pos. Yr. 1 Shingi Maraire

5-10 160 RB/DB

Jr.

2 Joey Dye

6-0 160 WR/DB Sr.

3 Tanner Gardiner

5-9 165 RB/DB

4 Cameron Moore

5-8 155 WR/DB Sr.

5 Jon Delbosque

5-9 155 RB/DB Sr.

6 Eduardo Antonio

5-7 160 RB/LB Sr.

Ivy said that Gatlin Grisso, brother of former Aubrey quarterback Grayson Grisso, will take on an expanded role in the Chaps’ game plan. As a freshman last year, Grisso was a playmaker at multiple positions. “Gatlin is the type of kid that will do what’s asked of him, and will go the extra mile,” Ivy said.

7 Taner Kemmerer

6-0 195 FB/LB Sr.

8 Grayson Grisso

6-3 195 QB/DB

GAME of the year

Key newcomer

Ivy knows his players are looking forward to facing Krum. After Aubrey knocked off Bonham for its lone win last season, the Bobcats came in ended the Chaps’ hopes to make it two wins in a row. Most teams may be looking at the Chaps as an easy victory. Ivy wants to change that and knock off key area rivals, including teams like Krum.

Jr.

9 Hunter Hazen

5-11 170 WR/DB Sr.

10 Porter Sciba

5-10 170 RB/LB

Jr.

AUBREY Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 Pottsboro Sept. 4

7:30 p.m.

at Burkburnett

7 p.m.

Sept. 11 Pilot Point

7:30 p.m.

Sept. 18 at Van Alstyne

7:30 p.m.

Sept. 25 Carrollton Ranchview* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9

at Bonham*

7:30 p.m.

Oct. 16 Krum*

7:30 p.m.

Oct. 23 at Bridgeport *

7:30 p.m.

Oct. 30 at Celina*

7:30 p.m.

Nov. 6

7:30 p.m.

11 Gatlin Grisso

6-1 165 RB/DB So.

12 Taylor Swarbrick

6-0 165 QB/DB So.

13 Pablo Vera

5-8 155 RB/DB So.

14 Seth Even

6-0 185 WR/DB Sr.

15 Cesar Pena

5-8 155 RB/DB So.

52 Randy Posey

16 Bobby Dow

5-9 165 RB/LB

54 Zane Perkins 5-9 185 OL/DL Jr. 56 David Gray 6-0 240 OL/DL Sr. 61 Nathan Ellison 5-11 230 OL/DL Sr. 65 Jacob Kendrick 5-9 225 OL/DL Sr. 70 Andres Ramirez 6-0 245 OL/DL Jr. 72 Jordan May 6-2 215 OL/DL Sr. 76 Tyler Loftin 6-2 275 OL/DL Sr. 77 Travis Parker 6-1 285 OL/DL Jr. 80 Scott Parrish 6-4 210 WR/DL Jr. 88 Jordan Redfearn 6-2 270 TE/DL So.

Jr.

20 Lawson Schweng 5-9 175 RB/DL Sr. 21 Braxton Bowie

6-0 180 WR/DB Sr.

24 Spencer Neumann 5-8 160 QB/DB So. 26 Seth Mellick

5-9 160 WR/DB Sr.

30 Anthony Rouk

5-10 175 RB/DB Sr.

33 Kevin Williams

5-11 215 TE/DL Sr.

36 Ross Brumley

5-10 205 TE/LB Sr.

50 Derek Stevenson 6-0 200 OL/LB

Jr.

51 Marco San Miguel 5-10 195 OL/DL Sr.

Anna*

*District 3-4A (Division II) 6-1 225 OL/DL Sr.

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KRUM

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Krum to lean on experienced defense By Randy Cummings For the Denton Record-Chronicle

Funny how one year can make all the difference to a football coach, when one area of his team that caused sleepless nights 12 months earlier evolves into what clearly now is an area of strength. It’s certainly that way for Krum. A year ago, head coach Gary Robinson had concerns about his linebackers, including two untested sophomore starters in the Bobcats’ 3-4 scheme. Skip ahead to this fall and Krum’s linebackers stand out as perhaps the strongest area on a defensive unit loaded with the return of eight starters from last year’s 7-5 club. Those two players, now juniors, are Coleton Spradley (5-10, 190) and Tylor Morris (5-10, 160). After leading the Bobcats in tackles last season — Spradley with 135 from his inside position and Morris with 128 from the outside — the two teammates are back to anchor a defensive unit primed to be a force in District 3-4A (Division II). “Our strength is definitely going to be on defense,” said Robinson. “We’re going to be pretty quick on defense. We’re not very big, but I think with the eight kids coming back and the experience we have, I think we’ll be able to fly to the football. “Our kids always do a great job of getting off blocks and running to the football, and they usually get there in a pretty bad mood and they’ll hit you. We take great pride in swarm tackling.” Krum will also field returning starters at cornerback, with seniors Blaine Brooks and Preston Brooks. The latter easily led the Bobcats with 12 pass deflections last year while the two combined for 90 tackles from the secondary. “Those guys are knowledgeable with the coverages, and they’ve just about seen everything,” said Robinson. “It’s good when you go into a season with that experience and you don’t have to do a whole lot of teaching.” Offensively, the Bobcats have a twoyear starter in senior Colten Graham (5-10, 210) at quarterback around which to build. Krum expects to have plenty of

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

KRUM: STAR POWER

Krum returns several of its key defensive players from last year’s team, including linebacker Coleton Spradley, left, and safety Brandon Reeves. Spradley finished with 135 tackles last season, when Reeves added 105. Both will also be key players on offense for the Bobcats, who are looking to build on a 7-5 finish last season.

depth at wide receiver to rely on and junior Brandon Reeves, who’s played on both sides of the ball as well as on special teams during his career, is anticipated to be one of Graham’s favorite targets. “I think we’ll pass the ball more,” said Reeves, who made 105 tackles last year at safety. “We’ve been pretty much a runheavy team, but I think we’ll pass more. We have a bunch of good receivers, a bunch of good athletes and I think we’ll try to spread the ball around.” This summer Krum advanced to the state 7-on-7 tournament, which should benefit its passing offense. Robinson says Reeves, who will play outside linebacker as well as receiver this season, played a

big role in Krum going 3-3 in the event. “He’s one of our two-way players that will never come off the field,” Robinson said. Graham’s 23 games as Krum’s starting quarterback figures to be a key to the Bobcats’ offense. He’s always had a strong, accurate arm and ability to make smart decisions running the option. Now, as a senior, Graham’s leadership qualities make him the perfect cornerstone for the offense. “I’ll be ready for every game, no doubt about it,” Graham said. “I don’t think there’s a curveball that could be thrown my way that would shock me. It’s great to feel comfortable.”

BOBCATS Quick facts

District: 3-4A (Division II) 2014 record: 7-5 (3-2 in district) Coach: Gary Robinson (25-19 in four seasons at Krum) Returning starters: Six on offense, eight on defense Key players: QB Colten Graham, CB Preston Books, LB Tylor Morris, LB Coleton Spradley, WR/LB Brandon Reeves, LB Blaine Brooks, WR Matt Robinson, RB Haeden Knight, RB Christian Martinez Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 School enrollment: 550 Stadium: Bobcat Stadium

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Krum Bobcats 2015 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 28 ............ at Pilot Point.. .......... 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 ............. at Venus .................. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 ........... Sanger .................... 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 ........... Paradise .................. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 .......... at Boyd .................... 7:30p.m. Oct. 9 ............... Bridgeport* ............. 7:30p.m. Oct. 16 ............. at Aubrey* .............. 7:30p.m. Oct. 23 ............. Anna* ..................... 7:30p.m. Oct. 30 ............. at Bonham * ............ 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6............... Celina* ................... 7:30 p.m. *District 3-4A

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KRUM

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Graham grows into role with Bobcats By Randy Cummings For the Denton Record-Chronicle

Colten Graham’s career path as Krum’s starting quarterback has followed a rather challenging and unusual path. But that’s not to say the senior signal-caller hasn’t survived and thrived. He’s done both. Graham found himself as an emergency fill-in under center two years ago as a sophomore just days before the season-opener when Krum’s expected starter was dismissed from the squad. The 5-10, 210-pound Graham not only led the Bobcats to a playoff berth in 2013, but came back last year and repeated the feat by pacing Krum to a 7-5 record and a playoff run that included the young program’s historic first postseason victory. Now a veteran with 23 games of starting experience under his belt, Graham prepares for his last season as a senior while reflecting on his incredible debut

that seems so long ago. “It’s kind of surreal, especially how it got started when I got thrown in as a sophomore,” Graham said. Graham began to flourish last season when he passed for 763 yards and five touchdowns and was Krum’s second-leading rusher with 629 yards. Krum head coach Gary Robinson knew Graham, at least physically, was capable of handling the quarterback duties when he called on him two years ago. So he wasn’t totally shocked that Graham quickly gained the support of his older teammates before coming back last year to lead Krum to a 40-6 bi-district playoff victory over Dallas Lincoln. “We threw him in the fire [as a sophomore] and he got us in the playoffs,” Robinson said. “It’s been fun to watch him grow as a leader and that’s what you want out of your quarterback. He’s always had the tools.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Colten Graham was thrown into the starting lineup at quarterback two years ago for Krum and has grown into the role ever since. He enters his senior season looking to lead the Bobcats back to the playoffs.

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KRUM

August 27, 2015

Extra Points Keys to a successful year Position of strength

While the Bobcats’ entire defense should be strong this season, the return of experienced veterans at linebacker and cornerback give Krum two areas that opponents will have to consider when mapping out an offensive game plan. Seniors Blaine Brooks and Preston Brooks are returning starters from a year ago and are in their P. Brooks third year of playing at the varsity level. Preston Brooks tied for the team lead with four interceptions and was second in sacks with three a year ago. Blaine Brooks had 38 tackles and a pair of pass deflections.

Point of concern

Graduation hit the Bobcats’ offensive line hard, creating the loss of four seniors from a year ago. As a result, four spots up front need to be filled. Senior JR Gipson (6-1, 250) is the likely candidate to take over at center while junior tackle Everett Gunnoe (6-4, 250) gives Krum another big body up front that will be called upon

Preston Shifflett 5-11 145 WR/DB Jr.

Jacob Enis

6-1 175 WR/DB Sr

Key newcomer

Matt Robinson

5-9 140 WR/DB Sr.

Justin Adams

5-10 150 WR/LB Jr.

Jose Trejo

5-6 150 RB/LB Jr.

Blaine Brooks

5-5 130 WR/DB Sr.

Derek Longley

5-10 205 QB/LB Jr.

Jackson Smith

5-9 150 WR/DB Jr.

Coach Gary Robinson is excited about two new members of the Bobcats, running backs Haeden Knight and Christian Martinez. Martinez is a senior who last played at Katy while Knight is a junior from Sanger. Both joined the Krum program this summer but have been able to showcase their abilities during two-aday workouts. “Both of them are good, explosive runners,” Robinson said.

Game of the year

Ask the players who they’ve got circled on the Bobcats’ schedule and most of them would point to a home date against Sanger on Sept. 11. After all, the neighboring cities make for a natural rivalry. But for Robinson and his coaching staff, it would be Krum’s district opener against Bridgeport on Oct. 9 at home. The matchup comes after Krum’s open date and will be played at Bobcat Stadium, setting up as the ideal district opener.

10 Christian Martinez 5-8 160 RB/LB Sr. 11 Colton Barnette

5-7 140 WR/DB Sr.

12 Brandon Reeves

5-8 160 QB/LB Jr.

KRUM Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 at Pilot Point 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 at Venus 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 Sanger 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 Paradise 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at Boyd 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9 Bridgeport * 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at Aubrey * 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 Anna * 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at Bonham * 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 Celina * 7:30 p.m. *District 3-4A (Division II)

15 Justin Thompson 5-8 160 WR/LB Sr.

50 DJ Hampton

19 Colten Graham

55 Raymond Barrington 6-4 215 T/DE Jr.

5-10 205 QB/LB Sr.

5-11 210

T/DE Sr.

5-9 165 RB4/LB Jr.

56 JR Gipson

6-1 250 C/DE Sr.

21 Dakota May

6-2 200 WR/LB Jr.

58 Everett Gunnoe

6-4 250

22 Preston Brooks

6-1 160 WR/DB Sr.

60 Evan Shipley

6-0 210 G/DE Jr.

23 Donald Brown

5-9 160 RB/DB So.

20 Matt Hull

32 Coleton Spradley 5-11 200 RB/LB Jr. 33 Tylor Morris

5-11 180 RB/LB Sr.

42 Ryan Gipson

6-0 190 RB/LB Jr.

63 Isaiah Magana

T/DE Jr.

5-8 200 G/DE Sr.

65 Mikey Hidalgo

5-10 240

G/NT Sr.

67 Zane Howard

5-10 270

G/NT Jr.

72 Travis Draper

6-1 265

T/NT Jr.

75 Matthew Medina 5-6 250

G/NT Jr.

44 Haeden Knight

5-10 170 RB/DB Jr.

81 Colton Oster

5-9 140 WR/DB Jr.

48 Josh Cummins

5-10 180 RB/LB So.

88 Justus Martinez

6-3 170 WR/DB Jr.

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DRC Football

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SANGER

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Young backfield to lead way for Sanger By Jimmy Isbell For the Denton Record-Chronicle

At the start of Sanger’s 2014 season, its offensive backfield consisted of two senior standouts — all-state running back Tre’von Jackson and dual-threat quarterback Brandon Mann. But before the regular season came to an end, both had suffered season-ending injuries. Freshman quarterback CJ Jackson took over under center, and sophomore safety Peyton Howard was getting the bulk of the carries in place of Jackson. Both helped the Indians secure a playoff berth and make it to the second round. Head coach Chuck Galbreath believes his young backfield will pick up where they left off last season. “CJ did what we asked him to do last season,” Galbreath said. “Now, he’s got a summer and an offseason under his belt and has secured the quarterback spot for us. “We essentially had to play half the season without him [Tre’von], but Peyton stepped in and slashed for a few yards here and there, having a pretty good season in the end.” After Tre’von Jackson’s injury in a Week 6 win over Dallas Carter, Howard posted three 100-yard performances in relief and ended up earning all-district honors. Howard rushed for 643 yards and scored 11 touchdowns in the final six games of the season. As well as he did, the safety-turned-running back was learning on the fly against some of the top teams in Class 4A. Galbreath knew if Tre’von Jackson ever went down, that Howard would have little to no issues in the backfield. Even still, it’s a daunting task for any athlete to excel on both sides of the ball. “We asked a lot of Peyton last season,” Galbreath said. “He stepped up for us, playing both safety and running back during the last half of the season. He’s an athlete who has the type of stamina to do that, so we know what we we’re going to get with Peyton in the backfield.” Howard agreed. “I just know that I will run the ball

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

SANGER: STAR POWER

Sanger found its backfield of the future in quarterback CJ Jackson, left, and running back Peyton Howard late last season when it lost all-state running back Tre’von Jackson and quarterback Brandon Mann to injuries. Sanger is hoping the experience Jackson and Howard gained late in the season will help the Indians this fall.

hard, protect CJ and make the plays I’ll need to make on defense for our team to succeed,” Howard said. Even with Howard shouldering more responsibility this season, he’ll have some help on offense from Jackson. Jackson can take pressure off his running back because of his own dual-threat abilities. It’s an ability Galbreath said he has yet to have in his eight years as Sanger’s head coach. That includes Mann, who rushed for 488 yards and passed for 830 more. “I don’t think I’ve ever had a pure dual-threat quarterback here, and CJ is just that,” Galbreath said. “He’s confident in his abilities and will be able to extend

plays when we need him to.” Jackson’s varsity starting debut came in Week 10 against Argyle, which rolled to a 44-7 win. Jackson knew after the loss that he had to press on to take on Springtown in the first round of the playoffs. He commanded the offense to a 31-21 win. It was Sanger’s first playoff victory since 2006. With Jackson and Howard leading the rushing attack this season, Galbreath expects Sanger to control the clock. “I plan on winning,” Jackson said. “It won’t be easy, but we’ll be more of a balanced team, so we won’t have to focus on just one guy trying to do it all for us like we had with Tre’von last year.”

INDIANS Quick facts

District: 6-4A (Division I) 2014 record: 9-3 (3-2 in district) Coach: Chuck Galbreath (48-37 in eight seasons at Sanger) Returning starters: Five on offense, five on defense Key players: LB Jarrod Huther, QB CJ Jackson, RB Peyton Howard, WR Braven Smith, DB Grant Carter, K Dakota Branch, WR Gavin Brown, DB Ryan Pollard, OL Colten Robare Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 School enrollment: 768 Stadium: Indian Stadium

DRC Football

Sanger Indians 2015 Football Schedule Date

....

}.;~

~- ~

:-=~~

Opponent

Time

Aug. 28 .. .... Melissa ................................ 7:30p.m . Sept. 4 ....... at Plainview, Okla ............... 7:30p.m. Sept. 11 .... at Krum ................................ 7:30 p.m . Sept. 18 ..... Lone Grove .......... .... .... ....... 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 ..... Whitesboro .......................... 7:30p.m. Oct. 9 ......... At Dallas Carter* ................ 7:30p.m. Oct. 16 ....... Carrollton Ranchview * ....... 7:30p.m. Oct. 23 ....... At Dallas Pinkston* ............ 7:30p.m . Oct. 30 ....... Wilmer-Hutchins * ...... .. ....... 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 ........ at Argyle* .................... ....... 7:30p.m. *District 6-4A

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SANGER

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Huther grows into leader for Sanger By Jimmy Isbell For the Denton Record-Chronicle

When Sanger’s Jarrod Huther was a freshman, he always pictured himself as a timid guy trying his best to bark out defensive calls to teammates who were much older and far more experienced. That was a long time ago. Huther, now a four-year starter at linebacker, is still calling the shots, but his bark is much louder and carries far more weight. “The kid benches 400 pounds, was voted Most Valuable Defensive Player in District 6-4A last season, and will probably be the valedictorian of his graduating class,” Sanger coach Chuck Galbreath said. “He’s a kid you want on your football team.” Huther racked up 138 tackles in 2014 while leading a Sanger defense that gave up an average of just less than 22 points per game. Sanger won nine games and made it to the second round of the play-

offs. Huther’s consistent play was particularly vital in a season Sanger lost several key players to injury. Huther helped fill the void, further validating the team’s trust in him. “I felt like my freshman year, I was trying to learn the ropes of the position and the overall speed of the game,” Huther said. “Now the game is slower for me, the defensive calls come to me as second nature, and I react quicker.” Those changes are an indication of how far Huther has come. “It was difficult to demand that respect, earn the right to lead by example, and be a vocal captain who my teammates would listen to,” Huther said. “I just want to be the best player and teammate I can be. Last season we had some awesome guys on the team who stepped up in times when we were down, and I hope to be one of those guys for our team this season.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Sanger linebacker Jarrod Huther has come a long way since he started at linebacker as a freshman for the Indians. Huther is entering his fourth year in Sanger’s starting lineup and will be a key player for the Indians this season.

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SANGER

DRC Football

Extra Points Keys to a successful year Position of strength

This year, Sanger will rely on the speed and veteran presence of its defense. Led by a duo of returning three-year starting safeties and a four-year starting middle linebacker in Jarrod Huther, the Indians hopes to contend against the best teams in Huther District 6-4A (Division I). Six of Sanger’s returning starters are defenders. Huther led the team in tackles last season with 138.

Point of concern

Injuries are always a concern for any team, but for Sanger, injuries plagued their most productive players last season. When running back Tre’von Jackson and quarterback Brandon Mann fell victim to season-ending injuries, the team relied on sophomore Peyton Howard to carry the load and CJ Jackson, a 15-yearold quarterback who led the JV team to a 9-1 record and a district championship, to take over in Mann’s absence.

Key newcomer

For an offense with two sophomores looking to start, Galbreath couldn’t pick just one key player. “We’ve got several of them,” Galbreath said. “CJ [Jackson] is not technically a newcomer because he did finish the season for us, but he’s still a sophomore looking to gain more experience.” The sure-handed sophomore wide receiver Gavin Brown looked good last season as a freshman. His vision, balance and hands will help in the run and pass game.

Game of the year

The last game of the regular season for Sanger is, year in and year out, the game of the year. “Last game of the season, Argyle is always the big game for us,” Huther said with a grin. “We’re definitely going to have to do our homework the week prior. “Aside from that, we’re not going to let ourselves get beat before we walk out on the field. Obviously, we respect the heck out of that team, but we’re going to take it to them this year.”

August 27, 2015

INDIANS Roster No. Player Ht. Wt. Pos. Yr. 1 Braven Smith 6-4 190 WR/DB Jr. 2 Gavin Brown 5-9 165 WR/DB So. 3 Dakota Branch 5-11 150 PK Sr. 4 Dameom Moser 5-10 160 RB/DB So. 5 Turner Barnes 5-8 170 FB/LB Sr. 6 Peyton Howard 5-10 170 RB/DB Jr. 7 Clay Webster 6-2 225 TE/LB So. 8 Eli Wilson 6-0 165 WR/DB So. 9 Trent McMillin 6-1 180 WR/DB Jr. 11 C.J. Jackson 5-10 150 QB/RB So. 12 Tanner Cason 6-1 180 WR/DB Jr. 13 Justin Rachut 5-8 140 WR/DB Sr. 14 Austin Nortman 5-8 140 WR/DB Sr. 15 Zach Saxer 5-9 150 PK Sr. 16 Nathan Phillips 5-11 170 WR/DB Sr. 17 Chris Cassaday 5-11 205 RB/DE Sr. 20 Clayton McCollum 5-11 180 WR/DB Sr. 21 Lane Dillon 5-10 180 WR/DB Sr. 22 Grant Carter 5-7 150 RB/DB Sr. 24 Miguel Garza 5-10 215 TE/DL Jr. 28 Cody Hunter 5-9 160 RB/DB Jr. 33 Jarrod Huther 6-0 210 RB/LB Sr. 40 Daniel Deacon 5-11 180 RB/LB Jr. 41 Conner Hazel 5-10 185 TE/LB Sr. 42 Gavin Erwin 6-1 180 OL/DE Jr. 44 Joseph Yarnall 5-11 180 FB/LB Jr. 50 Jonathan Hammons 6-4 230 OL/DE Sr. 51 Nick Pinzel 6-2 195 OL/DL Jr. 52 Ryan Langley 5-9 260 OL/DL Sr.

SANGER Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 Melissa 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 at Plainview, Okla. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at Krum 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 Lone Grove 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 Whitesboro 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9 At Dallas Carter* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 Carr. Ranchview* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 At Dallas Pinkston* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 Wilmer-Hutchins* 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 at Argyle * 7:30 p.m. *District 6-4A (Division I) 53 Eric Tovar 54 Tucker Broxson 55 Jake Galbreath 56 Mikey Rodriguez 58 Kamerson Lange 59 R.J. Flores 61 Dayton Howard 65 Colten Robare 66 David Stewart 70 Cantrell Marion 72 Tanner Polley 74 Damon Lippert 75 Jason Saldana 76 Jonathan Havis 77 Taylor Gleaton 80 David Brown

5-6 6-1 5-8 5-11 5-10 6-0 6-0 6-1 6-3 6-5 6-2 5-10 5-10 5-9 5-11 6-1

170 200 200 240 260 220 240 270 210 240 260 250 190 210 230 170

OL/DL Sr. OL/DL So. OL/DL So. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DT Jr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DE So. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL So. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Sr. WR/DB Sr.

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PILOT POINT

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Tight playoff loss motivates Pilot Point By Patrick Hayslip Staff Writer

When the final seconds ticked off the clock to end last season’s Class 3A regional semifinal game against eventual state runner-up Mineola, the Pilot Point Bearcats began turning the page of their defeat, but a new goal and measuring stick was set. Tying the game at 27 with 1:21 remaining, Pilot Point looked to be headed for overtime, but instead, Mineola scored the game-winning touchdown with 41 seconds left and left the Bearcats wounded and wondering what could have been. Since that day, the Bearcats have a new goal: Win the state championship. “I think it does two things,” head coach Rob Best said. “One, I think the team recognizes what it took to get there and they like being there. Two, the team that beat us got to the big dance, so we have a great idea of what type of team it takes to get there. It motivates us each week to build and be prepared and take what we call the next step.” The Bearcats have made the playoffs the past two seasons, including last season’s 10-3 campaign, and with 23 seniors this season mostly in key positions at the heart of this year’s team, the built-up desire to win has reached a fever pitch. “If you’re a junior, all you know is sevenwin-plus seasons,” Best said. “If you’re a senior, they’ve had three solid years. That’s the kind of attitude and atmosphere that they’ve functioned at. That’s where the expectations are. The great thing about Pilot Point is we have great tradition. It’s been here long before I got here and it will be here long after I’m gone.” Despite the senior core, led by wideout and offensive dynamo DaCoven Bailey, who posted gaudy numbers across the board to the tune of 33 touchdowns on 1,246 rushing yards and 1,046 receiving yards, the Bearcats are losing quarterback Travis Garrett to graduation. Stepping into his shoes is his backup, senior Hunter Balderas, who spent all of last season on the other side of the ball for Pilot Point at linebacker.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

PILOT POINT: STAR POWER

Hunter Balderas will step in at quarterback this season for a loaded Pilot Point team that features several star players, including DaCoven Bailey, a multi-purpose star. The Bearcats have 23 seniors a season after finishing 10-3. If Balderas can handle the quarterback job, Pilot Point could have what it takes to make a deep playoff run.

With the wealth of defensive knowledge and the supporting cast around him, Balderas is confident he can transfer that to the offensive side of the ball. “We know what we can do and we know what we want to shoot for too and that’s a state championship,” Balderas said. “I know the experience will help out. Last year, we didn’t lose by much. It came down to the last second, which was horrible for us. We knew that easily could have been us going to the state championship. It’s horrible, but now we know what we have to beat.” With the luxury of Bailey and RyLee Hellman at the wideout position and Ty Hellman at running back, Balderas will

have time to settle into the quarterback role, but reps and experience are going to be integral as the Bearcats navigate the early part of their schedule before entering their treacherous District 5-3A (Division I) schedule with the likes of Pottsboro, Whitesboro, Farmersville, Callisburg and Van Alstyne. Much like Garrett did, Best expects Balderas, who will focus all of attention to the quarterback position, to make his own imprint on the team and is excited to see the team bend around his talents. “He’s a really good pitcher in baseball, which often time correlates,” Best said. “He throws a really good deep ball and he’s got good some good athletic skills.”

BEARCATS Quick facts

District: 5-3A (Division I) 2014 record: 10-3 (3-2 in district) Coach: Rob Best (26-17 overall) Returning starters: Six on offense, six on defense Key players: WR DaCoven Bailey, OL Carlos Giron, OL Tyrone Bruce, FS Jaron Wilson, WR Rylee Hellman, RB Ty Hellman, QB Hunter Balderas, LB Taylor Barrett, LB Coltyn Gallaway, LB Chase Hammer Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 435 Stadium: Massey Stadium

DRC Football

Pilot Point Bearcats 2015 Football Schedule Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 .............. Krum ............................ 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 ............... Anna ............................. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 ............. at Aubrey ...................... 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 ............ at Gunter ...................... 7:30p.m. Sept. 25 ............. at Bonham .................... 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9................. Callisburg *................... 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 ............... at Van Alstyne* ........... 7:30p.m. Oct. 23 ............... Whitesboro* ................ 7:30p.m. Oct. 30 ............... Pottsboro* ................... 7:30p.m. Nov. 6 ................ at Farmersville * ........... 7:30 p.m. *District 5·3A

•**

~thoT~asJ Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Michael House, M.D. Lyn Ward , M.D. Chad Kennedy, M.D. Christopher Allmon, M.D. 2535 W. O ak Street Denton, Texa s 76201 940 382.1577

~~ Texas Health

<d7 Presbyterian Hospital® DENTON Physician Referral and Health Line 1-877-THR-WELL www.texashealth.org/denton

3000 1-35 North , Denton , Texas 7620 1 940.898.7000

CA~

.::.?:?.?: ."* ""*"

AJtlli'•

.JAMES WOOD

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PILOT POINT

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Hellman providing Pilot Point power By Patrick Hayslip Staff Writer

The Pilot Point Bearcats can throw a litany of looks at defenses from an offensive standpoint, thanks to their wealth of multipurpose players. Perhaps the Bearcats’ best collection of athletes is at wide receiver. With DaCoven Bailey stealing most of the headlines, it’s easy to overlook 5-foot-10 senior wideout RyLee Hellman, but that’s exactly what the Bearcats and head coach Rob Best hope. “Some teams are fortunate to have an athlete like DaCoven, but not another athlete to go with him so defenses can be designed to take him away,” Best said. “In this case, we’ve got RyLee, so they have to play us pretty straight up. They complement each other.” Bailey and Hellman have more than just being a receiver in common, they are both fast, but it’s their versatility that

makes both dangerous. Like Bailey, Hellman can line up in the slot, outside and the backfield. “Riley personifies versatility,” Best said. “He’s an outstanding competitor. He was on the 400-meter relay that went to state with DaCoven. He was an all-district basketball player. Ever since he came here, he’s demonstrated that he likes to compete and likes to win.” Hellman has some lofty goals for this season, which stem from what he felt was a lackluster performance against Mineola, which ousted Pilot Point in last season’s regional semifinals. “After losing to Mineola, it makes us want to work harder and harder and get back to where we were and hopefully see them again someday to show them who should have won,” Hellman said. “We could have played a lot better than we did. I feel like we left a lot out on the table.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

RyLee Hellman fills a variety of roles for Pilot Point and is a perfect complement to DaCoven Bailey, the Bearcats star wide receiver. Pilot Point is hoping Hellman will help lead the way on a deep playoff run.

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PILOT POINT

DRC Football

Extra Points Keys to a successful year Position of strength

Exemplifying what coach Rob Best and the Pilot Point Bearcats want to do on offense is their receiving corps. Boasting three of the four Class 3A state qualifying 400-yard relay in Clayton Williams, RyLee Hellman and of course DaCoven Bailey, the trio has check marks in skills across the board. Williams With Hunter Balderas sliding in to take over for Travis Garrett at quarterback, the wideout selection will provide a crucial, stabilizing force while Balderas gets his feet wet.

Point of concern

With Balderas taking his talents to the offensive side of the ball, the Bearcats will have to restock their depth on defense. Juniors Taylor Barrett, Coltyn Gallaway and Chase Hammer will all be asked to step up and act as spackle for the offensively-rich Bearcats. Pilot Point runs a gap-oriented 4-3 defense that relies on communication and teamwork, so it will

be integral to play together as one unit according to Best.

Key newcomer

With the departure of running back John Groff, Ty Hellman will step into complementary running back role alongside DaCoven Bailey. Accompanying the wealth of talent at the wideout position, Hellman provides a speedy option in the Bearcats’ spread offense. Best likes his great instincts and vision and with his ability to make a good first cut along with his speed and agility, Hellman fits right in to Pilot Point’s zone blocking scheme.

Game of the year

Last season, the Bearcats had no closer shave for a win than against District 5-3A rival Van Alstyne. Pilot Point roared back from a 21-0 deficit and claimed a 49-48 victory in the final seconds with a defense stop on Van Alstyne’s two-point try. On Oct. 16, the Bearcats will go on the road this time to face Van Alstyne and need to get off to a strong start in district play.

August 27, 2015

BEARCATS Roster No. Player Ht. Wt. Pos. Yr. 1 Quincy Kemp 5-10 150 QB/DB So. 2 Carson Blagg 5-10 150 DB Jr. 3 Christian Patten 6-0 165 WR/DB Sr. 4 Ty Hellman 5-6 135 QB/DB So. 5 Rance Kenney 6-1 175 WR/DB Jr. 7 Joel Tetmeyer 5-10 160 WR/DB Jr. 8 Jaron Wilson 6-0 170 WR/DB Jr. 9 Joseph Davis 6-0 175 TE/DB Sr. 10 Trevor Tincher 5-10 135 WR/DB Sr. 11 Connor Walker 5-10 145 WR/DB So. 12 RyLee Hellman 5-10 145 WR/DB Sr. 14 Hunter Balderas 5-10 180 QB/LB Sr. 15 Jaime Tavera 5-9 155 K So. 16 Exavion Bowen 5-9 150 WR/DB Sr. 20 Chase Hammer 6-0 175 TE/LB Jr. 21 Hunter Harmuth 5-8 140 WR/DB Sr. 23 Tyler Gray 5-7 165 WR/DB Sr. 24 Austin Garcia 6-2 180 TE/DE Sr. 25 Zachariah Devereaux 5-8 185 RB/LB Jr. 27 David Colmenero 5-9 125 WR/DB So. 30 Gage Martin 5-11 160 TE/DE Jr. 32 Athens Gochis 5-9 195 TE/DL Sr. 33 DaCoven Bailey 6-0 185 RB/DB Sr. 35 Raymond Bhikhai 5-9 145 RB/LB Sr. 40 Darrion Green 5-10 175 TE/DE Sr. 45 Taylor Barrett 5-7 160 RB/LB Jr.

PILOT POINT Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 Krum 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 Anna 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at Aubrey 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Gunter 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at Bonham 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9 Callisburg * 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at Van Alstyne * 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 Whitesboro * 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 Pottsboro * 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 at Farmersville * 7:30 p.m. *District 5-3A (Division I) 47 Coltyn Gallaway 5-9 50 Ezequiel Trejo 5-10 51 Jose Molina 6-0 55 Tyrone Bruce 5-8 56 Eric Summar 5-10 61 Francisco Estrada 5-10 62 Anthony Sheltman 6-2 66 Basil Gist 5-10 68 Parker Hale 6-1 72 Cooper Walker 6-1 76 Cody Binyon 6-1 77 Carlos Giron 5-10 85 Clayton Williams 6-1 89 Ricky Echols 6-1

165 195 265 250 305 290 200 250 250 190 225 280 170 250

RB/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL TE/DE OL/DL OL/DL WR/DB OL/DL

Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. Sr.

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August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Hard knocks shaped Ponder’s Aguilar By Patrick Hayslip Staff Writer

New head coach Russell Ballard has a fond memory of Jonathan Aguilar, Ponder’s successor at running back in the Lions’ heavy ground attack, but it wasn’t with the ball in his hands. As many Class 3A players do, playing both sides of the ball, Aguilar was the Lions’ top defensive threat at safety in their run to the playoffs a year ago after a 7-3 mark in the regular season. In the Lions’ second District 4-3A game against Boyd, Aguilar found himself alone between the running back and the end zone. As he reared up to tackle him, something happened. “Their tailback comes right up the gut with a defensive breakdown and he mounts up and tries to tackle him,” Ballard said. “Well, the first thing to hit the ground was the back of Aguilar’s head as he trucks into the end zone. Aguilar pops up and he’s ready to play again. You can’t tell from one snap to the next that he just got run over. He’s just a player.” Ballard is drawn to Aguilar for several reasons including his hard-nosed work ethic and toughness, but it’s Aguilar’s lack of success and how he’s dealt with it that has truly impressed him. “You gravitate towards kids that have had success after success,” Ballard said. “He has been one of those kids that hasn’t always been successful, but his failures have driven him.” Taking the biggest step in program history with its first playoff appearance ever against state powerhouse Wall, Ponder has the pleasure of raising expectations for the first time. Now, it’s not enough to make the playoffs. The Lions are looking to take the next step and build the foundation of their program. With the most wins in school history last season, the Lions have the winning attitude and the ways to back it up. As they enter their District 4-3A schedule against Paradise, Boyd, Brock, Bowie and Breckenridge, the Lions will be playing with a newly established outward perception and respect. But it’s

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

PONDER: STAR POWER

Ponder running back Jonathan Aguilar bounced back from a tough hit early in his career and has gone on to become a key player for the Lions, who are looking to build on a 7-4 finish a year ago. Aguilar will play a critical role in Ponder’s offense that is making the move to the Wing-T this season after using more of a power running game last season.

their inner confidence that will be what helps them win when the cards are dealt, according to Ballard. So when the team comes together at the end of every practice with their hands in the middle of their huddle and “break out” as the players and coaches call it, they yell in unison three short words. “We will win,” Ballard said. “I think for a long time in Ponder, I don’t know if the people or the kids believed that. Every day we break it out, we say those three words. The neat thing here lately is the more we say them, the more you can hear them believe in them. It’s one thing to say it. It’s another to believe it. I think that’s a big step for us.”

Aguilar will be at the heart of the Wing-T offense that makes the transition from former head coach Glen Schuelke’s Power-I. “I definitely think it was a conscious decision by the staff to go misdirection and we don’t have the same type of linemen this year,” Ballard said. “Last year we averaged 270 pounds across the line. We’re a little lighter and we have kids that can run a little bit more. The Wing-T gives opportunity to move around the guards and get them in front of those speedy backs.” There are some variables for Ponder as See PONDER on 95

LIONS Quick facts

District: 4-3A (Division I) 2014 record: 7-4 (3-2 in district) Coach: Russell Ballard, first season at Ponder Returning starters: Five on offense, three on defense Key players: RB/S Jonathan Aguilar, OL/ LB Mitch Fruth, WR Jordan Freeman, RB Ethan Hill, QB Shane Scott, OL Justin Stout, WR Peyton Ford, OL Ben Dankesreiter, TE/DE Trevor Anderson, OL/DT Zack Johnson Offense: Wing-T Defense: Split School enrollment: 375 Stadium: Ponder Field

DRC Football

Ponder Lions 2015 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 28 ..... at Castleberry .................. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 ...... at Callisburg ..................... 7:30p.m. Sept. 11 .... Nocona ............................ 7:30p.m. Sept. 18 .... at Howe ............................ 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 .... Tom Bean ........................ 7:30p.m. Oct. 9........ Paradise* ........................ 7:30p.m. Oct. 16 ...... at Boyd* .......................... 7:30p.m. Oct. 23 ...... Brock* ............................. 7:30p.m. Oct. 30 ...... at Bowie* ........................ 7:30p.m. Nov. 6 ....... Breckenridge* ................. 7:30p.m. *District 4-3A

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PONDER

DRC Football

Fruth to fill variety of roles for Ponder By Patrick Hayslip Staff Writer

On the Class 3A level, players are often needed to play on both sides of the ball, and the Ponder Lions are no different as they have several holes to fill in a multitude of areas. Thankfully for Ponder and head coach Russell Ballard, the Lions have a senior 6-foot, 210-pound force in Mitch Fruth, who has experience all over the field at offensive line, defensive line and linebacker. If the Lions are going to win their first playoff game in their program’s history, Fruth will most certainly be at the center of that success. Playing offensive line and defensive line primarily last season, Fruth will be called upon to resurrect the Lions’ obliterated linebacker corps that lost all four starters — including leading tackler Jacob Whited. “He’s a big strong kid and he runs pretty well for his size,” Ballard said. “In

our scheme, 200-pound linebackers are a good thing. He’s going to fit that role really well. He’ll play both sides of the ball, but he sees the game kind of a like a coach does. He’s played so many positions, he knows how things fit, which definitely helps us.” Ponder has a junior and senior-laden squad that should be primed to cover for key players the Lions lost to graduation. Fruth has confidence that he and the defense can come together as a unit and be a focal point of a team that often finds itself in close games. “We need to play fast and play hard,” Fruth said. “We need to make the right reads and hold the right holes. The offensive linemen can hit the linebackers and it ruins our defensive plans. We’re having to replace a lot of good athletes and we’re doing a good job at it. We have people behind us that know what is going on and we can trust.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Ponder senior Mitch Fruth will fill a variety of roles for the Lions this season, including anchoring the Lions’ defense from his linebacker position. Ponder is hoping Fruth can lead the way to the program’s first playoff win.

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PONDER

DRC Football

Extra Points Keys to a successful year Position of strength

As the Lions enter the 2015 season with the same commitment to running the football, their offensive line will again be relied upon as the backbone of the team. Unlike last season when the Lions were led by 290-pound Chris Aivaliotis, Ponder sports a more athletic line highlighted by seniors Wagner Justin Wagner and Ben Dankesreiter along with junior Justin Stout. With the shift in its offensive scheme from the Power-I to the Wing-T offense, Ponder will look to lean on the overall speed of the offense.

Point of concern

Ponder’s defense was hit hard by graduation and returns just three starters. The Lions lost all four of their starting linebackers in addition to losing three of its four defensive linemen. Senior Mitch Fruth will be counted on significantly to slide in at inside linebacker while also filing in on the offensive line.

Key newcomer

The Lions are expecting big things out of sophomore Kaden McEwen as he attempts to plug the holes in Ponder’s decimated linebacker corps. The Lions lost leading tackler Jacob Whited and third-leading tackler Zach Simpson from the second level of their defense. At 5-8, McEwen doesn’t throw around a ton of weight, but his speed and athleticism have him slotted for outside linebacker. He will also add to the Lions’ depth at running back.

Game of the year

In the past two seasons, the Lions have won four out of a possible 10 district games. Two of those wins have been against Paradise, which the Lions have toppled the last two seasons — each time to open their district schedule. Last season, Ponder beat Paradise 21-14, taking a 21-7 lead on Trey Dunlap’s second touchdown. With Dunlap gone, running back Jonathan Aguilar will have to help the Lions open district play with a win if they want to make the playoffs for the second time in program history.

August 27, 2015

LIONS Roster No. Player Ht. Wt. Yr. 1 Danny Rivera 5-5 125 Sr. 2 Trevor Anderson 6-0 180 Jr. 4 Jose Rivera 5-5 165 Sr. 5 Jordan Freeman 5-11 160 Sr. 9 Shane Scott 6-1 175 Jr. 16 Chris Kirkland 6-2 195 Jr. 17 Ryan Weides 5-11 152 Jr. 20 Ethan Hill 5-11 160 Jr. 21 Jonathan Aguilar 5-8 150 Jr. 22 Kaden McEwen 5-8 125 So. 24 Ivan Rodriguez 5-8 205 Sr. 33 Garrett Johnson 5-10 160 Sr. 34 Austin Bennett 5-10 183 Sr. 44 Magnum Sampson 6-1 170 Sr. 48 Colton McCarroll 5-9 170 Jr. 51 Jacob Poole 6-3 313 Sr. 52 Isaiah McKlemurray 5-9 155 Sr. 54 Mitch Fruth 6-0 210 Sr. 65 Jack McKenna 5-11 250 Sr. 66 Ben Dankesreiter 5-10 205 Sr. 67 Blake Sullivan 5-11 316 Sr.

From Page 92

Ponder

they will be without last season’s starting quarterback, Brady Anderson, who is out for the season with an injury. Taking the reins is junior Shane Scott, who was the team’s backup last season.

PONDER Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 at FW Castleberry 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 at Callisburg 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 Nocona 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Howe 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 Tom Bean 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9 Paradise* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at Boyd* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 Brock* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at Bowie* 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 Breckenridge* 7:30 p.m. *District 4-3A (Division I) 71 73 77 79 84 88 89

Justin Stout Justin Wagner Zack Johnson Hunter Ferryman Zach Allen Jacob Summerlin Peyton Ford

6-0 5-8 6-1 5-8 5-7 5-10 6-1

190 250 240 190 125 150 165

Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr.

With the Lions’ offensive line as their engine, Ballard and Ponder are betting on Aguilar’s speed to help get the Lions back to the playoffs. “Honestly, I’m just going to try my best,” Aguilar said. “I was a part of the first Ponder team to make the playoffs and now I want to be a part of the team that wins a playoff game.”

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LIBERTY

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Fast-rising QB Starkel to lead Liberty By Rich Luna For the Denton Record-Chronicle

The last time quarterback Nick Starkel was in a football game for Liberty Christian, he ended up going down in the third quarter with a shoulder injury against Bishop Dunne in October. What he thought was a separated joint turned out to be a broken humerus bone in his left arm above the elbow. He would end up in a brace for three months, losing more than 20 pounds off this lanky 6-foot-4 frame. Yet, half a year later, there he was on national television this summer with some of the nation’s premier high school quarterbacks competing in the invite-only Elite 11 at Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. Trent Dilfer, a Super Bowl winning quarterback and one of the mentors at the Nike event, told The Oklahoman newspaper that Starkel might be among the best pure passers in the history of the Elite 11. “It was football heaven,” Starkel said. “It was also very humbling.” Then there were the knocks on the door from the likes of SMU, Pittsburgh, UCLA and others all wanting Starkel for their college programs. He eventually committed to Oklahoma State. But Starkel is not dwelling on the past, whether it was the injury or the summer that most quarterbacks can only dream about. His focus is clear — help his Liberty Christian teammates achieve the ultimate goal of winning a state championship. “Right now, I just want to be the best overall player I can be,” said Starkel, who has regained his weight back to 185 pounds. “I think we can be really good this year. We’ve got a strong offensive line, our receivers are really good — the chemistry is there with them — and we’ve got the right mindset … one play at a time, oneplay warriors, that’s how we play.” With five returning starters on offense and five on defense, Starkel and the Warriors will need some things to go their way if they’re to improve on a 7-5 season that ended in the TAPPS Division I area

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

LIBERTY: STAR POWER

Liberty Christian quarterback Nick Starkel emerged as a top college football prospect over the last year. Starkel shined at the prestigious Elite 11 quarterback camp and fielded several scholarship offers before committing to Oklahoma State. The Warriors will look to ride Starkel’s arm to a standout season while facing a tough schedule that includes Celina.

round with a 20-7 loss to Houston St. Thomas. The Warriors played the final five games without Starkel, who completed 106-of-160 passes for 1,609 yards and 19 touchdowns with four interceptions. But in a district that includes Bishop Dunne, the defending state champion, and state runner-up Plano Prestonwood, the Warriors will need all their weapons. Starkel’s top target is likely to be Justus Lee, a 5-11, 185-pound senior, who led the team in catches (43), receiving yards (894) and scoring (10 TDs). Lee and Starkel have played together since the seventh grade. Jalen Hurt (348 yards) will provide experience at receiver while Kyleb Howell

(262 yards) is the top returning rusher. “We’ve got a solid receiving corps,” said Lee, who also will handle all kicking duties this season. “We all run good routes, we’ve got good speed. He [Starkel] and I have been together a long time and we have a tight relationship … he’s my brother. On the field, our timing is good.” Second-year coach Barton Hundley knows, however, Starkel is key if the Warriors are to contend for their first state title since 2007. “He [Starkel] just knows where to go with the ball,” Hundley said. “He makes quick decisions and he’s not afraid to step up in the pocket. He can be as good as he wants to be.”

WARRIORS Quick facts

District: TAPPS District 1-1 2014 record: 7-5 (4-3 in district) Coach: Barton Hundley (7-5 in one season at Liberty Christian) Returning starters: Five on offense, five on defense Key players: DB Kason Howell, RB/LB Kyleb Howell, DB Jon Copeland, WR/DB Justus Lee, QB Nick Starkel, WR/DB Sterling Deary, OL/DL Will McClain, WR Jalen Hurt, OL, Cam Keller, Garrett Sawyer, CB Givon Washington, OL/DL Tyler Cox Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Stadium: Warrior Stadium

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Liberty Christian High School-Go Warriors! Liberty Christian Warriors 2015 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 28 ....... Celina .......................................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 ........ at Springtown * .......... .... .... .... .... .... .......... 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 ...... at Melissa ................................................. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 ...... Open .................................. .... .... .... .................. TBD Sept. 25 ...... at Nolan Catholic *................................... 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2........ .. Bishop Lynch *.........................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 9.......... Midland Christian *................................... 7:30p.m. Oct. 16 ........ at Bishop Dunne Catholic *.. .... .......... .. .... 7:30p.m. Oct. 23 ........ at Trinity Christian Academy* ................. 7:30p.m. Oct. 30 ........ at Prestonwood Christian Academy * ...... 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 ......... Plano John Paul Ill * ................................ 7:30 p.m. *District Games

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LIBERTY

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Liberty’s McClain back from injury By Rich Luna For the Denton Record-Chronicle

Will McClain remembers the play just like it was yesterday. Nearly two years ago on a September evening in the junior varsity season opener again Springtown, the then-sophomore Liberty Christian lineman was rushing the opposing passer, arms extended. “My [right] arm got pulled back and something popped,” he said. “It was really painful.” Initially, he didn’t think much of it and suited up for every game the rest of the 2013 season. But something wasn’t right. While initial X-rays did not reveal any damage, an MRI two months after the season showed a torn labrum in his shoulder. He had surgery in April of last year and that meant he would not play in 2014, his junior year, and there was a possibility he wouldn’t play again.

“I lost all my strength,” he said. “The rehab took a lot longer since I had found out [about the injury] so late. My dad [John] was real supportive; we understood I might not be able to play again and that was hard.” When the season kicks off, McClain will indeed be back on the field, wearing No. 52 and playing on Liberty’s lines. “He’s come back tough and hungry,” said Warriors coach Barton Hundley. “When the game is taken away from you for a year, it requires a different kind of dedication and commitment.” McClain has boosted his size to 230 pounds on his 6-foot-2 frame and is ready to be back on the field. “I questioned whether I’d play again,” McClain said. “Not being able to play my junior year, I felt I lost so much. I had a dream to play in college and thought I’d lost that, but maybe I still have a chance after all.”

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Liberty’s Will McClain is back playing for the Warriors after missing his junior season with a shoulder injury. He will play on Liberty’s offensive and defensive lines during his senior season.

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LIBERTY

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

Extra Points Keys to a successful year Position of strength

Quarterback Nick Starkel, 6-foot-4, 185-pound senior, who is committed to Oklahoma State, completed more than 66 percent of his passes in 2014, throwing for just over 1,600 yards and 19 touchdowns with four interceptions. He played in just seven games due to a left shoulder injury and was in a brace for three months, but came back strong enough to be inHundley vited to the prestigious Nike Elite 11 quarterback showcase. “He just knows where to go with the ball,” said Warriors head coach Barton Hundley. “He makes quick decisions and he’s not afraid to step up in the pocket. He can be as good as he wants to be … If he stays focused and committed, you might see him playing on Sundays [in the NFL].”

Point of concern

Depth will be an issue for the Warriors and that means they’ll need to avoid injuries, both in pre-district and throughout district. They’re already coping with

injuries to two key players, senior cornerback Givon Washington (ribs) and lineman Tyler Cox. The offensive line is unproven with just two returning starters, Cam Keller and Garrett Sawyer.

Key newcomer

Two move-ins could make an immediate impact. Sterling Deary, a 5-10, 155-pound junior from Flower Mound, will see playing time at wide receiver and defensive back. Hundley will also look for strong play from lineman Brooks Talkington, a 6-3, 220-pound junior who transferred from Coram Deo Academy.

Game of the year

Liberty will face a host of tough teams throughout the season. The Warriors open against Class 4A power Celina, winners of four state titles since 2000. Liberty then faces a brutal TAPPS Division 1 District schedule that includes defending state champion Bishop Dunne and runner-up Plano Prestonwood. Another highlight is the matchup against Trinity Christian at North Texas’ Apogee Stadium on Oct. 23.

WARRIORS Roster No. Player Ht. Wt. Pos. Yr. 2 Dylan Hernandez 5-7 165 WR/DB Sr. 3 Nick Horton 6-1 195 WR/LB Sr. 4 Nick Murray 5-7 175 WR/DB Sr. 5 Kason Howell 6-0 180 QB/DB So. 6 Kyleb Howell 6-1 220 RB/LB Sr. 7 Sam Bergstrom 5-9 165 WR/LB Sr. 8 Jon Copeland 5-10 165 QB/DB So. 9 Justus Lee 5-11 185 WR/DB Sr. 10 Dakota Sanchez 5-9 170 RB/DB Sr. 11 Jalen Hurt 5-9 155 WR/DB Jr. 12 Griffith Grant 6-2 180 TE/LB Sr. 13 Luke Laufenberg 6-3 220 TE/DE Sr. 14 Nick Starkel 6-4 185 QB Sr. 15 Cole Croce 6-1 170 WR/DB So. 16 Grant Sawyer 6-3 165 WR/LB So. 17 Coleman Fish 5-9 145 WR/DB Sr. 18 Jake Smither 6-0 160 QB/DB So. 19 Ty Wheeler 5-7 140 WR/DB So. 20 Isaac Taylor 5-8 170 WR/DB Jr. 21 Sterling Deary 5-10 155 WR/DB Jr. 22 Givon Washington 5-11 160 WR/DB Sr. 23 Logan Haire 5-7 155 WR/DB Jr. 24 Kade Johnson 5-11 165 RB/LB So. 25 Ryan Vollenhals 5-7 160 RB/DB Sr. 28 Matt Ramirez 5-9 150 WR/DB Jr. 32 Grant Hudgeon 5-8 150 RB/DB So. 33 Caleb Bridges 5-11 200 RB/LB Jr. 40 Jonathan Clemons 5-11 165 TE/DE Jr. 42 Gage Cuevas 5-9 175 RB/LB Jr. 43 Cole Hawkins 5-9 180 RB/LB So. 50 Cam Keller 5-8 205 OL/DL So.

LIBERTY Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 Celina 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 at Springtown 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at Melissa 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at Nolan Catholic* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2 Bishop Lynch* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9 Midland Christian* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at Bishop Dunne* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23 at TCA Addison* 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30 at Prestonwood* 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 Plano John Paul II* 7:30 p.m. *TAPPS District 1-1 51 52 54 55 58 61 64 68 72 74 75 77 79 80 81 82 88

Joseph Tedford 5-11 Will McClain 6-2 Sadler Engel 6-2 Garrett Sawyer 6-0 Brooks Talkington 6-3 Brock Shanks 5-8 Brent Uys 5-10 Austin Gibson 6-0 Tanner Seidler 6-0 Taylor Mitchell 5-8 Hayden O’Rear 5-11 Garrett Johnson 6-0 Tyler Cox 5-11 Connor Holzkamper 6-2 Charles Christian 6-2 Cole Shiftlet 5-11 Strange Wilson 6-0

185 OL/LB 230 OL/DL 230 OL/DL 230 OL/DL 220 OL/DL 205 OL/DL 210 OL/DL 180 OL/DL 200 OL/DL 170 OL/DL 180 OL/DL 260 OL/DL 255 OL/DL 155 WR/DB 180 WR/DE 165 WR/LB 170 WR/DB

TCA Trojans vs. LCS Warriors Friday, October 23 7:30 p.m. at Apogee Stadium University of North Texas

Jr. Sr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. So. So. So. Sr. Sr. So. So. So. Jr. H1

100

CALVARY

August 27, 2015

DRC Football

Memories of playoff loss spark Calvary By Randy Cummings For the Denton Record-Chronicle

For the 13 returning lettermen back for the 2015 Calvary football season, the sting of last fall’s playoff exit lasted long after the players walked off the field following the 50-6 dismantling the Lions received at the hands of Waco Live Oak in the semifinals. In fact, head coach Stacey Johnson says the memory of that elimination is still strong in many of the players’ minds. “A lot of them have already told me that they got a chip on their shoulder — the seniors mainly,” said Johnson, who served as the Lions’ offensive coordinator last year before being named head coach earlier this year. “They feel like they left something on the field last year. That last game, it was pretty bad. When you take a loss like that, you never forget that loss.” Take away that last game and Calvary enjoyed an otherwise successful season. Despite a final 6-5 overall record, the Lions swept through district play with a perfect 3-0 mark, earned a first-round bye in the playoffs and then defeated Dallas Tyler Street before that disappointing loss to Live Oak. Johnson believes the players, as well as himself, learned from that game. “We came out and were doing pretty good and then the wheels fell off,” Johnson remembered. “We all learned from that game that we can play with any team if we just come out and play.” High expectations are again in order for the Lions. It helps that while Johnson is making his head coaching debut with the Lions, the players are familiar with him since he was on last year’s staff. He’s added two assistants — offensive coordinator Jordan Swinford and defensive coordinator Joey Longoria — but plans only minor alterations to Calvary’s offense. Unlike a year ago, the Lions are likely to evolve with a pass-first scheme with the arrival of 6-5, 190-pound junior quarterback James Helzer, who last played as a freshman before focusing on basketball last year. “He’s got a strong arm and he’s a good

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

CALVARY: STAR POWER

James Helzer, right, focused on developing his basketball skills last season before changing course and coming out for the football team this season. Helzer is 6-foot-5 and will have a good target in the passing game in Brayden Humphrey, who earned all-state honors as a defensive back last season. Humphrey will also play on offense this season.

leader,” said Johnson. “He’s a smart kid, so he can get the passes to the kids. He can also read defenses real good. So we’ve got faith in him. We’ll give him the reins and let him go with it.” Helzer’s transition to quarterback will be aided by the return of all-district center Zack Masey, a junior. And he will have a capable receiving group led by returning senior tight end Jake Tanis, sophomore wide receiver Lane Pirkle, who missed last year’s playoffs with a concussion, and junior Caleb Yosten. When the Lions choose to run the ball, Johnson will rely heavily on the tandem of returning senior Brayden Humphrey, who earned all-state honors as a defen-

sive back last year, and sophomore Blake Mikeal, an all-state kicker who got some time in the backfield a year ago. Defensively the Lions will build around the return of senior Gavin Mercer, who earned all-state honors last season as a defensive back. Mercer is also a special teams standout. Tanis (LB) and Humphrey (DB) also earned all-state recognition on the defensive side of the ball to give the Lions plenty of experience there. Junior defensive lineman Jacob Hood is returning following a season cut short by a knee injury, and newcomer Mike Talbot, a senior, could supply needed speed to the defensive line.

LIONS Quick facts

District: TAPPS Six-Man Division II, District 1 2014 record: 6-5 (3-0 in district) Coach: Stacey Johnson (first season) Returning starters: Five on offense, five on defense Key players: B/DB Brayden Humphrey, TE/ LB Jake Tanis, DB Gavin Mercer, OL Zach Masey, DL Nathan Schaeffer, QB James Helzer, WR Lane Pirkle, WR Caleb Yosten, K Blake Mikeal Offense: Spread Defense: 1-4-1 School enrollment: 130 Stadium: Bronco Field

101

DRC Football

Denton Calvary Lions 2015 Football Schedule Date Opponent Time Sept. 28 ....... Watauga .................................. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 ......... Calvert ..................................... 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 ....... at Forrestburg ......................... 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 ....... at LucasChristian ....................... 12 p.m. Oct. 2........... Saint Jo ................................... 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9........... at Johnson County Sports .......... 7 p.m. Association Oct. 23 ......... Carrollton Christian ................. 7:30p.m. Oct. 31 ......... Plainview Christian ....................... 1 p.m. Nov. 6 .......... Dallas Fairhill .......................... 7:30 p.m. *District

•** ~

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CALVARY

August 27, 2015

Extra Points Keys to a successful year Position of strength

The Lions leaned on their running game a year ago and two returning veterans from that backfield should form a strong foundation for a rushing attack this year. Senior Brayden Humphrey returns as the Lion’s primary ball carrier from a year ago. Johnson calls him a “pounder” and will rely on him Humphrey getting tough yardage up the middle. Sophomore Blake Mikael also got playing time at running back last year and could be the change-of-pace to complement Humphrey.

Point of concern

Family vacations and summer baseball kept many of the Lions’ wide receivers busy in the offseason, so the group had to bear down in the preseason. Sophomore Lane Pirkle is the cornerstone of the group after a solid freshman season a year ago that ended early in the playoffs when he suffered a concussion. Junior Caleb Yosten (5-10, 160) is another returning letterman.

DRC Football

LIONS Roster

Key newcomer

No. Player Ht. Wt. Yr. 1 Jake Tanis 6-3 200 Sr. 3 Blake Mikeal 5-7 150 So. 4 Tanner Gerwig 5-7 130 Fr. 5 Lane Pirkle 5-10 145 So. 6 Hudson Evans 5-4 120 Fr. 7 Caleb Yosten 5-10 160 Jr. 8 Trey Fisher 5-8 150 Fr. 9 Brayden Humphrey 6-0 200 Sr. 10 Pj Orr 5-6 140 Fr. 11 Kyle Parson 5-10 160 Jr. 12 James Helzer 6-5 190 Jr. 18 Mason Fellers 5-10 160 So. 19 Gavin Mercer 6-0 170 Sr. 20 Noah Elder 6-0 170 Jr. 22 Nathan Schaeffer 6-3 190 Jr. 27 Jacob Hood 5-7 160 Jr.

Junior quarterback James Helzer, technically speaking, will be a newcomer to this year’s team after sitting out last season to concentrate on playing basketball for the Lions. The 6-5, 190-pounder, however, played football as a freshman and Johnson anticipates that Helzer will make an easy transition to putting the pads back on and running the Lions’ offense. He obviously has great size for a quarterback and is athletic, a combination that should make him one of the players that Calvary opponents will key on.

CALVARY Schedule

Date Opponent Time Sept. 28 Watauga 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 Calvert 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Forrestburg 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 at Lucas Christian 12 p.m. Oct. 2 Saint Jo 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9 at J.C. Sports Assoc. 7 p.m. Oct. 23 Carrollton Christian 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31 Plainview Christian 1 p.m. Nov. 6 Dallas Fairhill 7:30 p.m. 33 42 44 88

Mike Talbot Gabe Pucci Zach Masey Mark Croff

5-7 6-0 6-0 5-9

160 160 215 180

Sr. So. Jr. So.

Game of the year

Season-opening games are always big, but Calvary’s debut on Aug. 28 against Watauga is important on several fronts. Sure, it’s the first game of the season, but it’s also a home game against a team the Lions lost to last year in a game they felt they could have played out better. Also, Watauga advanced to the state final last year before losing, so there’s plenty of motivation for the Lions to show they’re ready to compete with one of the state’s better programs.

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DRC Football Thursday, Sept. 3 Charlotte at Georgia State UTSA at Arizona Saturday, Sept. 5 Florida Atlantic at Tulsa Florida International at UCF Southern at Louisiana Tech Purdue at Marshall Jackson State at Middle Tennessee Old Dominion at Eastern Michigan Wagner at Rice Mississippi State at Southern Mississippi UTEP at Arkansas Western Kentucky at Vanderbilt Saturday, Sept. 12 North Texas at SMU Presbyterian at Charlotte Miami at Florida Atlantic Florida International at Indiana Louisiana Tech at Western Kentucky Marshall at Ohio Middle Tennessee at Alabama Norfolk State at Old Dominion Rice at Texas Austin Peay at Southern Mississippi UTEP at Texas Tech Kansas State at UTSA Saturday, Sept. 19 Rice at North Texas Charlotte at Middle Tennessee Buffalo at Florida Atlantic North Carolina Central at Old Dominion Southern Mississippi at Texas State UTEP at New Mexico State UTSA at Oklahoma State Western Kentucky at Indiana Saturday, Sept. 26 North Texas at Iowa Florida Atlantic at Charlotte Florida International at Louisiana Tech Marshall at Kent State Middle Tennessee at Illinois Appalachian State at Old Dominion Rice at Baylor Southern Mississippi at Nebraska Incarnate Word at UTEP Colorado State at UTSA Miami (Ohio) at Western Kentucky Saturday, Oct. 3 North Texas at Southern Mississippi Temple at Charlotte Florida International at Massachusetts Louisiana-Lafayette at Louisiana Tech Old Dominion at Marshall Vanderbilt at Middle Tennessee Western Kentucky at Rice UTSA at UTEP Saturday, Oct. 10 Portland State at North Texas Rice at Florida Atlantic UTEP at Florida International Louisiana Tech at UTSA Southern Mississippi at Marshall Middle Tennessee at Western Kentucky Saturday, Oct. 17 Western Kentucky at North Texas Charlotte at Old Dominion Marshall at Florida Atlantic Florida International at Middle Tennessee Louisiana Tech at Mississippi State UTSA at Southern Mississippi Saturday, Oct. 24 North Texas at Marshall Southern Mississippi at Charlotte

CONFERENCE USA SCHEDULE

August 27, 2015

103

What to watch for in C-USA North Texas struggled in a breakout year for Conference USA, which went 4-1 in bowls. UNT finished 4-8 in 2014 and will look to bounce back this fall. The following is a look at three key games for the Mean Green:

Denton Record-Chronicle file photo

Rice at North Texas

1:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 19 The last time Rice visited Apogee Stadium, it was a landmark night for North Texas. The Mean Green and cornerback Kenny Buyers came up with an epic eight-play goal-line stand in a 28-16 win. Rice came back to beat UNT 41-21 last year in Houston. This time the teams will face off in their Conference USA openers. The winner will get an early jump in the race for the West Division title.

Florida Atlantic at UTEP Old Dominion at Florida International Middle Tennessee at Louisiana Tech Army at Rice Western Kentucky at LSU Saturday, Oct. 31 UTSA at North Texas Marshall at Charlotte Florida International at Florida Atlantic Louisiana Tech at Rice Western Kentucky at Old Dominion UTEP at Southern Mississippi Saturday, Nov. 7 North Texas at Louisiana Tech

Denton Record-Chronicle file photo

Western Kentucky at North Texas

6:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 15 The preseason favorite in Conference USA’s East Division will play at Apogee Stadium in a rare Thursday night game. North Texas is 16-7 all-time at Apogee, but will face a test from the Hilltoppers and their quarterback Brandon Doughty. The preseason C-USA Offensive Player of the Year threw for 4,830 yards and 49 touchdowns last season. UNT will look to speed rusher Chad Polk to pressure Doughty.

Charlotte at Florida International Florida Atlantic at Western Kentucky Marshall at Middle Tennessee Old Dominion at UTSA Rice at UTEP Saturday, Nov. 14 North Texas at Tennessee UTSA at Charlotte Middle Tennessee at Florida Atlantic Florida International at Marshall UTEP at Old Dominion Southern Mississippi at Rice Saturday, Nov. 21 North Texas at Middle Tennessee

Denton Record-Chronicle file photo

Texas-San Antonio at North Texas

6 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 31 North Texas has never beaten UT-San Antonio, its emerging rival from across the state. The Mean Green were eliminated from the Conference USA West Division title race by the Roadrunners in 2013 and lost to them again last year, 34-27, in San Antonio. Tight end Marcus Smith caught a touchdown pass in UNT’s loss to UTSA last season and will be a key part of the Mean Green’s plans for revenge.

Charlotte at Kentucky Florida Atlantic at Florida Western Kentucky at Florida International Louisiana Tech at UTEP Old Dominion at Southern Mississippi Rice at UTSA Saturday, Nov. 28 UTEP at North Texas Charlotte at Rice Florida Atlantic at Old Dominion Southern Mississippi at Louisiana Tech Marshall at Western Kentucky Middle Tennessee at UTSA

104

BIG 12 SCHEDULE

August 27, 2015

Thursday, Sept. 3 Oklahoma State at Central Michigan TCU at Minnesota Friday, Sept. 4 Baylor at SMU Saturday, Sept. 5 Sam Houston State at Texas Tech South Dakota State at Kansas South Dakota at Kansas State Akron at Oklahoma Georgia Southern at West Virginia Texas at Notre Dame Northern Iowa at Iowa State Saturday, Sept. 12 Stephen F. Austin at TCU UTEP at Texas Tech Kansas State at UTSA Liberty at West Virginia Iowa at Iowa State Oklahoma at Tennessee Memphis at Kansas Central Arkansas at Oklahoma State Lamar at Baylor Rice at Texas Saturday, Sept. 19 Tulsa at Oklahoma Louisiana Tech at Kansas State UTSA at Oklahoma State Texas Tech at Arkansas California at Texas SMU at TCU Iowa State at Toledo Saturday, Sept. 26 Kansas at Rutgers Maryland at West Virginia Oklahoma State at Texas TCU at Texas Tech Rice at Baylor Saturday, Oct. 3 Kansas at Iowa State Kansas State at Oklahoma State West Virginia at Oklahoma Texas at TCU Baylor vs. Texas Tech (AT&T Stadium) Saturday, Oct. 10 Iowa State at Texas Tech TCU at Kansas State Oklahoma State at West Virginia Baylor at Kansas Texas vs. Oklahoma (Cotton Bowl) Saturday, Oct. 17 West Virginia at Baylor Oklahoma at Kansas State Texas Tech at Kansas TCU at Iowa State Saturday, Oct. 24 Kansas State at Texas Texas Tech at Oklahoma Kansas at Oklahoma State Iowa State at Baylor Thursday, Oct. 29 West Virginia at TCU Saturday, Oct. 31 Oklahoma at Kansas Oklahoma State at Texas Tech Texas at Iowa State Thursday, Nov. 5 Baylor at Kansas State Saturday, Nov. 7 TCU at Oklahoma State Texas Tech at West Virginia Kansas at Texas Iowa State at Oklahoma Saturday, Nov. 14 Kansas State at Texas Tech

DRC Football

What to watch for the Big 12 Former Guyer quarterback J.W. Walsh and former Argyle wide receiver Ian Sadler will play for Oklahoma State and Texas Tech, respectively, this fall. The following is a look at two of their key games.

The Dallas Morning News/Andy Jacobsohn

Oklahoma at Oklahoma State

TBD, Saturday, Nov. 28 Oklahoma and Oklahoma State will cap their regular seasons with their annual rivalry game that will also be former Guyer standout J.W. Walshâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final regular season game with the Cowboys. Walsh has thrown for 3,130 yards at OSU and will be a key player again this year. Kansas at TCU Texas at West Virginia Oklahoma State at Iowa State Oklahoma at Baylor Saturday, Nov. 21 Iowa State at Kansas State TCU at Oklahoma

The Dallas Morning News/Tom Fox

6:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 26 Texas Tech will wrap up the regular season with a game at rival Texas on Thanksgiving. The Red Raiders are looking to bounce back from a 4-8 season and could turn to Sadler for a boost offensively. The sophomore caught 23 passes for 336 yards and two touchdowns last season.

Baylor at Oklahoma State West Virginia at Kansas Thursday, Nov. 26 Texas Tech at Texas Baylor at TCU

Texas Tech at Texas

Friday, Nov. 27

Saturday, Nov. 28 Kansas State at Kansas Oklahoma at Oklahoma State Iowa State at West Virginia Saturday, Dec. 5 Texas at Baylor West Virginia at Kansas State

DRC Football

August 27, 2015

105

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August 27, 2015

Thursday, Sept. 3 South Carolina vs. North Carolina (at Charlotte, NC..) Saturday, Sept. 5 Alabama vs. Wisconsin (at Arlington) UTEP at Arkansas Auburn vs. Louisville (at Atlanta, Ga.) New Mexico State at Florida UL Monroe at Georgia UL Lafayette at Kentucky McNeese State at LSU UT Martin at Ole Miss Mississippi State at Southern Miss SE Missouri State at Missouri UAB at Tennessee (at Nashville Tenn.) Texas A&M vs. Arizona State (at Houston) Western Kentucky at Vanderbilt Saturday, Sept. 12 Middle Tennessee at Alabama Toledo at Arkansas (at Little Rock, Ark.) Jacksonville State at Auburn East Carolina at Florida Georgia at Vanderbilt Kentucky at South Carolina LSU at Mississippi State Fresno State at Ole Miss Missouri at Arkansas State Oklahoma at Tennessee Ball State at Texas A&M Saturday, Sept. 19 Ole Miss at Alabama Texas Tech at Arkansas Auburn at LSU Florida at Kentucky South Carolina at Georgia Northwestern State at Mississippi State UConn at Missouri Western Carolina at Tennessee Nevada at Texas A&M Austin Peay at Vanderbilt Saturday, Sept. 26 UL Monroe at Alabama Texas A&M vs. Arkansas (at Arlington) Mississippi State at Auburn Tennessee at Florida Southern at Georgia Missouri at Kentucky LSU at Syracuse Vanderbilt at Ole Miss Central Florida at South Carolina Saturday, Oct. 3 Alabama at Georgia Arkansas at Tennessee San Jose State at Auburn Ole Miss at Florida Eastern Kentucky at Kentucky Eastern Michigan at LSU Mississippi State at Texas A&M South Carolina at Missouri Vanderbilt at Middle Tennessee Saturday, Oct. 10 Arkansas at Alabama Florida at Missouri Georgia at Tennessee LSU at South Carolina New Mexico State at Ole Miss Troy at Mississippi State Thursday, Oct. 15 Auburn at Kentucky Saturday, Oct. 17 Alabama at Texas A&M Florida at LSU Missouri at Georgia Ole Miss at Memphis

SEC SCHEDULE

DRC Football

What to watch for in the SEC Former Argyle kicker Cole Hedlund will be a redshirt freshman at Arkansas this season and is competing for playing time early in his career

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Texas A&M vs. Arkansas

TBA, Saturday, Sept. 26 Arkansas and Texas A&M will meet in a neutral site game at AT&T Stadium early in the season that could play an important role in the race for the Southeastern Conference’s West Division race. Former Argyle kicker Cole Hedlund will return close to home for the game.

Louisiana Tech at Mississippi State Vanderbilt at South Carolina Saturday, Oct. 24 Tennessee at Alabama Auburn at Arkansas Western Kentucky at LSU Texas A&M at Ole Miss Kentucky at Mississippi State Missouri at Vanderbilt Saturday, Oct. 31 UT Martin at Arkansas Ole Miss at Auburn Florida vs. Georgia (at Jacksonville, Fla.) Tennessee at Kentucky South Carolina at Texas A&M Vanderbilt at Houston Thursday, Nov. 5 Mississippi State at Missouri Saturday, Nov. 7 LSU at Alabama Arkansas at Ole Miss Auburn at Texas A&M Vanderbilt at Florida Kentucky at Georgia South Carolina at Tennessee Saturday, Nov. 14 Alabama at Mississippi State Arkansas at LSU Georgia at Auburn Florida at South Carolina

Kentucky at Vanderbilt TBA at Missouri North Texas at Tennessee Western Carolina at Texas A&M Saturday, Nov. 21 Charleston Southern at Alabama Mississippi State at Arkansas Idaho at Auburn Florida Atlantic at Florida Georgia Southern at Georgia UNC Charlotte at Kentucky LSU at Ole Miss Tennessee at Missouri Citadel at South Carolina

Texas A&M at Vanderbilt Friday, Nov. 27 Missouri at Arkansas Saturday, Nov. 28 Alabama at Auburn Florida State at Florida Georgia at Georgia Tech Louisville at Kentucky Texas A&M at LSU Ole Miss at Mississippi State Clemson at South Carolina Vanderbilt at Tennessee Saturday, December 5 SEC Football Championship (at Atlanta, Ga.)

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DRC Football

2014 YEAR IN REVIEW

August 27, 2015

107

2014: A year to remember Several Denton area teams posted memorable seasons last fall, including Argyle. The Eagles advanced all the way to the Class 4A Division I state title game before falling in double overtime to Navasota. The Denton Record-Chronicle's photographers captured the excitement. 2014 HIGHLIGHTS

• North Texas entered the season aiming to build on a win over UNLV in 2013 the Heart of Dallas Bowl, but finished just 4-8. The Mean Green hammered rival SMU 43-6, but lost to Rice, Texas-San Antonio and UTEP, their three Texas rivals in Conference USA.

• Denton won its first playoff game since 2002 and made its first postseason appearance since 2010. The Broncos started 6-0 for the first time since 1987 in Kevin Atkinson 's third season at Denton before losing to eventual state champion Aledo.

• Nick Ralston carried the ball 54 times and the load for an Argyle team playing in the state championship game for the third time in four seasons. The Eagles came up short of repeating as state champions but played an instant classic in a 42-35 double-overtime loss to Navasota.

• Shawn Robinson arrived on Guyer's campus in the spring of 2014 and instantly turned heads by winning a crowded competition to be the team's starting quarterback. He proved worthy, accounting for more than 4,000 yards and 51 touchdowns while leading Guyer to a second-round playoff berth.

• Ryan 's program turned the page and began a new chapter under Dave Henigan after the retirement of legendary head coach Joey Florence, who became the athletic director for Denton lSD. The Raiders struggled with youth, injuries and turnovers while going 5-5 and seeing a 14-year playoff streak end. • Krum won its first playoff game when the Bobcats beat Dallas Uncoln in the Class 4A Division II bi-district round. Krum made the playoffs in each of its first two seasons, but lost both times.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Argyle head coach Todd Rodgers hugs running back Nick Ralston after the Eagles fell 42-35 to Navasota in the Class 4A Division I state title game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton Guyer wide receiver Alex Honey dives to make a catch deep into Plano territory at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton Krum linebacker Coleton Spradley, center, celebrates after recovering a fumble in a playoff win over Dallas Lincoln at Brewer Bear Stadium in Fort Worth.

108

August 27, 2015

2014 YEAR IN REVIEW

DRC Football

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

North Texas linebacker Fred Scott, left, safety Sheldon Wade and cornerback James Jones, right, bring down Texas running back Jonathan Gray at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.

Pilot Point quarterback Travis Garrett, left, and wide receiver DaCoven Bailey celebrate after the Bearcats scored a touchdown in a playoff game against Mineola at City Bank Stadium in Forney.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Denton Bronco defenders gang tackle Fort Worth Brewer wide receiver Givani Patton at Bronco Field.

Ryan running back Tyreke Davis (21) is upended in a game against Justin Northwest at Northwest lSD Stadium in Justin.

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