Denton Record-Chronicle Football 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

Football 2010

North Texas set to close down Fouts Field this season as move to new venue looms

Denton will depend on new set of playmakers to lead way to breakout campaign

Traditional offensive juggernaut Ryan will rely on a standout defense this year

Busy summer has Guyer prepared to continue success at Class 5A level

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

5

KICKOFF

Football 2010: A changing landscape

Change all around in area football

About the section

On the cover:

The Denton Record-Chronicle’s 2010 football section is based on the changing landscape of the game in the region. The section includes previews of North Texas, Denton, Ryan and Guyer in addition to area high schools.

Denton Record-Chronicle

Brett Vito

Section credits The football helmets featured on the team pages are courtesy of Texas High School Helmet Project. Section cover design by Brett Vito.

Contents Nor th Texas Cover story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-8 Lance Dunbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Keys to the season . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Sun Belt preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Sun Belt capsules . . . . . . . . . . .14-16 Offensive line . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17-18 Tyler Stradford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Roster/schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 High schools Cover story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-22 Guyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23-26 Ryan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27-30 State preview/polls . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Denton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33-36 Lake Dallas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41-43 Preseason all-area team . . . . . .44-45 Argyle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47-49 Aubrey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50-52 Pilot Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53-55 Sanger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56-58 Ponder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59-61 Liberty Christian . . . . . . . . . . . .62-64 Calvary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65-67 2009 in review . . . . . . . . . . . . .70-71

Section staff Spor ts editor Todd Jorgenson tjorgenson@dentonrc.com Staff writer s Brett Vito bvito@dentonrc.com Adam Boedeker aboedeker@dentonrc.com Matthew Muench mmuench@dentonrc.com Marshall Moore mmoore@dentonrc.com Photographer s David Minton, Barron Ludlum, Al Key Copy editor s Matt Crider, Mike Trimble, Dawn Cobb, Matthew Zabel

Football 2010

SECTION OVERVIEW

T

he football scene in the Denton area has changed dramatically over the last several decades.

What was once a one-high school town now has three schools dividing resources and fans.

Only a few years ago, North Texas was a Division I-AA school that played in a rapidly deteriorating venue. UNT still plays at Fouts Field, but that will soon change.

A new stadium is on the way.

When Kansas State visits UNT on Nov. 27, it will be the last game Fouts Field hosts before the Mean Green moves into a new $78 million stadium for the 2011 season.

Any way one looks at it, change is all around this season.

When the Denton Record-Chronicle sports staff sat down to pick a theme for our 2010 preview section, we quickly settled on examining those changes and the way they have affected the game that is part of the fabric of life during the fall in this part of the state.

We tracked down some of the legends in the history of UNT football to ask them about their favorite memories of Fouts Field and what they will miss about the venue.

UNT Hall of Famer Ken Bahnsen recalled scoring the first touchdown in the history of the stadium, all the way back in 1952. Abner Haynes and Leon King could still remember the first few days they spent practicing with teammates at Fouts in 1956 while making history as the first black players to join the team. Hayden Fry coached some of the best teams in UNT history at Fouts during the 1970s, something he still takes pride in.

And then there were the years when UNT dominated the Sun Belt Conference, winning four straight titles and going to four consecutive New Orleans Bowl

North Texas set to close down Fouts Field this season as move to new venue looms

Denton will depend on new set of playmakers to lead way to breakout campaign

Traditional offensive juggernaut Ryan will rely on a standout defense this year

Busy summer has Guyer prepared to continue success at Class 5A level

Staff Photographer David Minton shot North Texas head coach Todd Dodge and quarterbacks Nathan Tune, center, and Derek Thompson in front of the school’s new football stadium from the deck of the Mean Green Athletic Center. The trio will look to send UNT into the new venue on a winning note. Bottom photos from left, Lance Dunbar of UNT, Denzel King of Denton, Ty Hook of Ryan and J.W. Walsh of Guyer will also be critical to their team’s chances of success this season.

games.

The changes occurring at high schools in and around Denton are just as dramatic as those going on at UNT. Just ask some of the high school coaches and administrators in the area.

The population is booming in Denton and the cities that surround it like Pilot Point, Argyle and Aubrey.

Daryl Hellman played at Aubrey and returned to his alma mater as a coach.

That history has given him a unique perspective on the effects population growth have had on area high school football.

Hellman and several of his colleagues in the region said that high school football isn’t the same as it once was when there was just one team in every town in the region.

What hasn’t changed about football in the Denton area is that there are several teams that appear poised to make a run at district and possibly state titles.

Ryan is ranked among the top Class 4A teams in the state, Pilot Point is aiming for its second straight state title, and several other teams in the region are expected to contend for playoff berths.

In that sense, not much has changed about high school football in the Denton area. The region has turned out standout players and teams for years.

That should be the case once again.

BRETT VITO can be reached at 940566-6870. His e-mail address is bvito@dentonrc.com.

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Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

NORTH TEXAS

Legends to say farewell to Fouts

By Brett Vito

Staff Writer

Joe Greene still remembers the day he first heard the cheer echoing down from the stands at Fouts Field.

Greene was anchoring North Texas’ defense that day in 1966 in a game against UTEP, which ran straight into what must have seemed like an oncoming train.

“The year before, I was a freshman and didn’t get to play against them because freshmen weren’t eligible back then,” Greene said. “We lost big, but the next year we played again and held them to minus-44 yards rushing when you counted in sacks. That is the first time I can remember the fans chanting, ‘Go, Mean Green. Go, Mean Green.’”

That moment, which was one of the initial steps toward the school adopting the nickname Mean Green, is one of the milestones the legends of UNT football have thought back on over the last few months as the school prepares to usher out Fouts.

The grand old dame will host her last UNT game this fall.

Over the course of 58 seasons, Fouts has pretty much seen it all. There was the day Abner Haynes and Leon King helped break the color barrier in the Southwest, the seasons that Greene dominated the line of scrimmage, the years that legendary coach Hayden Fry stalked the sidelines and, more recently, a four-year stretch in which UNT won four Sun Belt Conference titles.

Oh, if Fouts could talk, she would have stories to tell.

She can’t speak, but fortunately there are those who are willing to tell the tale for Fouts, the worn-down home of the Mean Green, as she limps to the finish line.

It’s easier to recall the good times now that UNT is about to bid her farewell.

There isn’t any reason to nitpick at all her flaws like cracks in the concrete, leaky ceilings in the locker rooms, or a press box filled with wasps’ nests, now that her replacement is emerging from the ground across the highway.

Now it’s time to listen as current and former UNT coaches, players and school officials recall the good times the old lady has seen as they prepare to bid Fouts

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Former North Texas player and coach Ken Bahnsen scored the first touchdown in the history of Fouts Field in a 55-0 win over North Dakota in 1952. He went on to coach Abner Haynes and Leon King, who were the first black players at the school.

He is among several UNT legends who are looking back on their time at Fouts, which will host its last UNT game this fall. farewell before the Mean Green moves into a new stadium in 2011.

“I’m not going to be sorry to see the progress of having a new stadium, but I will miss the memories at Fouts,” Haynes said. “A lot of my teammates are deceased now and that place is like a home to us. It tells me that your time comes and goes.

We are all in that process. We came from somewhere to here. I’m happy to have traveled that road with teammates and the people who were there at the time.”

Remembering the beginning Ken Bahnsen thought UNT was moving into a palace back in 1952, when Fouts first opened.

Bahnsen was a senior and had played up until that point at UNT’s old 4,000seat venue with a barbed-wire fence around it on a patch of land where the school’s library now sits.

“The lights were 40 feet in the air,” Bahnsen said. “Golly, you could punt it out of the lights in the old stadium. We were so pumped to play in Fouts.”

Bahnsen was around just long enough to make his mark in that first game against North Dakota.

Bahnsen scored the first touchdown in the history of the stadium on a short running play.

Not long afterward, quarterback Don Baker spun one way on another running play, while Bahnsen ran to the opposite side. When Bahnsen stretched out to grab the ball, he was hit in the side of his helmet.

Bahnsen was knocked out cold, making him not only the first player to score at Fouts, but also the first player to be carried off the turf.

“I woke up three hours later and said I wanted to go back out for the second half,”

Bahnsen said. “They told me the game had been over for awhile.”

UNT won 55-0 in its first game at Fouts, which like Bahnsen, was just getting its start. Bahnsen went on to rush for 658 yards that season. He still ranks seventh in UNT history with 2,095 career rushing yards and was also a longtime football coach at the school.

“I kid around with the coaches and the players that I have to get in shape so I can score the first touchdown in the new stadium, too,” Bahnsen said.

Breaking the color barrier

When Haynes looks back on arguably the most historically significant season in UNT history, it isn’t the tough times that stand out. It’s the support he received from the university and Denton See FOUTS on 7

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

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NORTH TEXAS From Page 6

Fouts

communities when he and King, his former high school teammate, became two of the first black players to integrate a college football team in the Southwest.

Haynes and King joined UNT’s freshman team in 1956, just four years after Fouts opened and a full decade before Jerry LeVias played for SMU and became the first black player in the Southwest Conference.

“The encouragement came in so many ways at Fouts Field and in the community,” Haynes said. “I would get dollar bills in the mail from people. We would answer every letter. It was amazing the way people welcomed us.”

Haynes and King practiced with the first white teammates they ever had at Fouts, where they were quickly accepted.

What they experienced on the road was far different.

Haynes and King endured the worst of the abuse in their careers at UNT during a game against Navarro College in Corsicana.

“The fans there were very rowdy and were yelling out, ‘Kill that [expletive],” Haynes said. “We were in a bucket of soup and came together. The Navarro guys tried to punish me and scratch me, but my teammates came to help me.”

Those experiences made Fouts something of a cocoon for UNT’s players.

Bahnsen coached Haynes and King in their first season at UNT and credited them for helping speed the process of integration in the South.

“They made it easy,” Bahnsen said.

“They didn’t have a chip on their shoulders. They were just players. I didn’t have any problem with them at all. I took up for them and they took up for me.”

Haynes went on to a decorated career in professional football and is a member of the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame, while King went on to become one of the first black school administrators in the Dallas Independent School District.

The pair attributes some of their success in life to their experiences at Fouts.

“My time at North Texas really prepared me for what I did later on in life,” King said. “My background at UNT was one of the reasons I was selected to be one of the first black administrators in the DISD.”

The Dallas Morning News file photo

Hayden Fry was North Texas’ head coach during one of the best eras in the history of the program. UNT won at least seven games in each season from 1975-78, posted one of the great wins in program history at Tennessee in 1975, and went 101 in 1977, a total that included a forfeit win over Mississippi State. UNT went 9-2 in 1978, Fry’s final season at the school.

The Greene years There are plenty of standout moments Greene remembers from his days playing at Fouts for UNT in the late 1960s, when he picked up the nickname “Mean” Joe Greene.

UNT won back-to-back Missouri Valley Conference titles in 1966-67 and posted wins over teams like Cincinnati, Tulsa and Louisville.

But just like Bahnsen, what stood out for Greene were the amenities he had never experienced before playing at Fouts and the atmosphere at the stadium during one of the most successful eras in UNT history.

“When I went into the locker room there at the time, I thought Fouts Field was a great place,” Greene said. “Our lockers had wooden frames with chicken wire on the sides. When I was in high school, we dressed in auditoriums and had our pre-game talks in the end zones.”

UNT went 14-1 at Fouts and 23-5-1 overall from 1966-68 while Greene devel-

oped into one of the best defensive tackles in the history of college football. Greene went on to become an All-Pro with the Pittsburgh Steelers and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He was one of several standout UNT players during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Chuck Beatty played with Greene both at UNT and with the Steelers, while the San Francisco 49ers selected UNT defensive end Cedric Hardman with the ninth overall pick in the 1970 NFL Draft.

“There were a lot of talented guys on that team who played within the team concept,” Beatty said. “The competition was good for everybody.”

That was true for Greene, maybe the best player in the history of UNT athletics.

“Playing at North Texas was a springboard for my NFL career,” Greene said. “I was fortunate to play there. The style of play I developed at North Texas was one I was able to take to the NFL. I didn’t have to change what I was doing. Some of the other players I played with in the NFL didn’t have that opportunity.”

The Fry era

By the time Fry arrived at UNT in 1973, the success of the Greene years was beginning to fade. UNT won just seven games in the previous three years combined and was coming off a 1-10 season.

Fry quickly turned UNT around, ushering in another era of success at Fouts. The Mean Green won the Missouri Valley Conference title in Fry’s first season before leaving the league to become an independent.

“It was an inspirational season because the players were down and had been kicked around,” Fry said of his first year at UNT. “I spent my time turning around programs at SMU, North Texas and Iowa.

Every place I ever coached, I inherited a bunch of players who had their tails kicked. Those are the easiest players to motivate.”

By the end of Fry’s time at UNT and Fouts, it was the Mean Green that was doing the kicking. UNT beat Southern See FOUTS on 8

8

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

NORTH TEXAS From Page 7

Fouts

Mississippi, UTEP and New Mexico State at Fouts from 1977-78, when the team also played home games at Texas Stadium.

“There is no question we had one of the best teams in the country,” Fry said. “Even when we went down to Texas when they had Earl Campbell, we took them to the wire.”

That era is best remembered for a single game, though, one UNT played on the road at Tennessee in 1975.

Sears Woods scored all three touchdowns in a 21-14 win over the Volunteers, including a game-winning 98-yard kickoff return after Tennessee had tied the game with 4:28 left in the fourth quarter.

“Coach Fry was a great motivator,” Woods said. “That was one of his biggest strengths. He could communicate and motivate players. He made us believe we could win that game.”

UNT went on to win its last three Denton Record-Chronicle file photo games of the 1975 season, including two at home. The next three years the Mean Former North Texas head coach Darrell Dickey and defensive lineman Brandon Kennedy celebrate a 38-27 win over New Green finished 7-4, 10-1 and 9-2, but was Mexico State at Fouts Field during the 2003 season that clinched UNT’s third of four consecutive New Orleans Bowl berths. never invited to a bowl game.

“There was a great atmosphere at Fouts several milestones along the way, many of our mojo there. We were happy banging after we beat Tennessee,” Woods said. them at Fouts. heads in the 105-degree heat.”

“It wasn’t nice or “There were a lot of people who came to UNT produced back-to-back national The feeling is one that former players big. The fans were a the games, and we won the rest of them rushing champions in Patrick Cobbs and like Greene and Bahnsen and coaches like mile away, but none of that season. It was great for the team and Jamario Thomas in 2003-04 and ran off Fry share. that mattered to us. great for North Texas.”

26 straight conference wins, beginning The grand old dame of UNT football Fry enjoyed those times, but left for with an upset win at Middle Tennessee in hasn’t been pretty for years, but she was We didn’t need the Iowa after becoming frustrated by UNT 2001. their home, the place where they fought fancy weight room or being passed over year after year for a The Mean Green was nearly unbeattogether, earned bowl bids together and things like that. We bowl invitation. able at home after that win over the Blue established a legacy for a program they had our mojo there. hope is on its way to new heights.

“We should have gone to four bowl Raiders, posting a 16-3 record at Fouts “Moving to a new stadium will change games, but never did,” Fry said. “I found during its bowl streak.

We were happy the face of the athletic department,” said out later when I was talking with the guys “I always felt that no matter who was banging heads in the C. Dan Smith, a former player and the at the American Coaches Association that coming in there, we were going to win,” 105-degree heat.” chairman of the UNT Board of Regents we didn’t get an invite because no one said Scott Hall, the starting quarterback — Former UNT quarterback Scott Hall who helped the school get its stadium wanted to play us. on three of those bowl teams. “After the project started. “There is no doubt it will “North Texas is a special place for me. I 2001 season when we beat Middle be a huge benefit to the university in genwould have stayed if we had gotten to a Tennessee and won all those games in a bowl.” row, we had that confidence.” again at home against Arkansas State in eral.”

One last season is all that is left for UNT clinched its first New Orleans 2003 and Idaho in 2004.

The bowl run Bowl berth with a win at Idaho in 2001 “There was definitely excitement at Fouts. And even for a man who worked By the time the 2001 season arrived, before sealing its second straight bowl Fouts at that time,” Hall said. “There was hard to have the old lady replaced, seeing UNT had the longest bowl drought in trip by beating New Mexico State at home a buzz before and after the games. There her go won’t be easy. major college football at 41 years and had the next season.

“A lot of people have bad feelings about was excitement with the fraternities and played in just three bowls in its entire his“The first time we clinched a confer- sororities and in class. It got you excited.” Fouts,” Smith said. “But they will have a tory. ence championship here, the kids flooded Those times were what made Fouts a lump in their throats when they see their last game there.”

The wait was part of what made UNT’s the field,” UNT athletic director Rick special place for Hall. four-year run as Sun Belt Conference Villarreal said. “Even though we had done “It wasn’t nice or big,” Hall said. “The BRETT VITO can be reached at 940champions from 2001-04 so special. it before, it was a really special moment fans were a mile away, but none of that UNT capped each of those seasons with a on campus.” mattered to us. We didn’t need the fancy 566-6870. His e-mail address is trip to the New Orleans Bowl and reached UNT clinched the conference title weight room or things like that. We had bvito@dentonrc.com.

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

9

NORTH TEXAS

UNT turns to Dunbar to carry offense

By Brett Vito Staff Writer

There might not be a player on the North Texas roster that knows the potential Lance Dunbar possesses and the pressure he is under this season better than Brandon Akpunku.

After all, Akpunku spends a significant amount of time chasing the junior running back all over the field in practice.

“Dunbar has limitless potential,” said Akpunku, a returning starter at defensive end. “He is always a step in front of everyone else. He is someone who can lead this team with his legs, get us into the end zone, and take pressure off whoever our quarterback is going to be.”

UNT’s season and the fate of the current coaching staff, not to mention the school’s hopes to field a competitive team during the first season in a new stadium, could well depend on whether Dunbar can meet expectations and play at an allconference level yet again this season.

Dunbar is aware of his role and welcomes it.

“There is more pressure on me,” Dunbar said. “I am going to have to work even harder to try to improve on what I did last year and prove it wasn’t a onetime thing.”

What Dunbar accomplished in 2009 ranks among the great single-season performances for a running back in UNT history.

Dunbar rushed for 1,378 yards, the fourth-highest single-season total ever for a UNT player, in a breakout season few anticipated.

Dunbar began the season as a backup to senior Cam Montgomery and was working his way back from a knee injury that prevented him from playing in the last seven games of his freshman season.

Montgomery carried the load early last season but, the more carries Dunbar received, the better he played.

His breakout game came in the fourth week of the season in a loss to Middle Tennessee. The first time Dunbar touched the ball, he scored on a 66-yard run.

By the end of the night, Dunbar had scored on another 18-yard run and had racked up 101 yards on just five carries.

Dunbar’s career took off from there. He cleared the 100-yard mark in eight of UNT’s last nine games and posted the

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Running back Lance Dunbar exploded onto the college football scene as a sophomore when he rushed for 1,378 yards, despite starting just eight games. UNT will look to Dunbar to carry its offense this season. best game for a Mean Green running back since Jamario Thomas rushed for 247 yards against Colorado in 2004. He posted 238 yards and three touchdowns on just 25 carries in a loss to Florida Atlantic in the fifth week of the season.

UNT is depending on Dunbar to put together several performances like the one he had against FAU and help the Mean Green break a string of five straight seasons in which it has failed to win more than three games.

“Lance is going to be a consistent guy,” UNT head coach Todd Dodge said.

“When he played as a freshman, he produced. When he played behind Cam, he was averaging 8.5 yards a carry. And then

when he got a chance to start, he turned in 100-yard game after 100-yard game and had a few 200-yard games. He’s so explosive. What surprised me most is that when he was in high school he was a 185pound back who could fly. He went to 205 pounds and hasn’t lost any of his speed.”

Dunbar was able to sneak up on opponents early last year when Montgomery was the starter. He also had the advantage of having Riley Dodge at quarterback when he was in the game. Dodge was a threat in the running game and ranked third in total offense in the Sun Belt at the end of the season with an average of See DUNBAR on 12

MEAN GREEN Quick facts Conference: Sun Belt 2009 recor d: 2-10 (17) Coach: Todd Dodge (531 in three seasons at UNT and overall) Returning star ter s: Nine on offense, 10 on defense Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 36,000 Stadium: Fouts Field How to get there: Fouts Field resides off of I-35E and North Texas Blvd. Traveling on I-35E from either direction, north or south,

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NORTH TEXAS

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season

IMPROVE DEFENSIVELY

DO THE LITTLE THINGS RIGHT

North Texas started to see the return of Gary DeLoach as its defensive coordinator pay dividends last season, when the Mean Green dropped the number of points it allowed per game by 12.

UNT still didn’t reach the levels it hoped to attain while allowing 35.6 points a game, but it was a step in the right direction, one the Mean Green hopes to build on this year. UNT returns nearly all of its key players from a year ago and added several junior college transfers it hopes will make an impact.

“We are most definitely capable of making a big jump,” UNT defensive end Brandon Akpunku said. “The whole defensive line is back and so is most of our secondary.

Those guys were part of Robertson our defense dropping 12 points a game last year and know how to get it done. That makes all the difference.”

When UNT looks back on last season, it sees the difference one or two additional defensive stands would have made. UNT lost five games when its defense gave up a touchdown late in the fourth quarter or overtime that proved to be the difference.

One of UNT’s biggest problems was not making enough big plays. The Mean Green tied for 116th nationally with an average of one sack a game and tied for 111th in turnovers forced with 15 among 120 among Football Bowl Subdivision teams.

UNT has emphasized forcing turnovers throughout fall practice. The Mean Green is hoping the adjustments it has made and the experience its key players gained last season will lead to another dramatic improvement in its performance this season.

“The focus and concentration are there,” UNT senior linebacker Craig Robertson said. “We have that want-to. It makes me hungry for that first game.”

Special teams play and turnover margin don’t immediately come to mind when one thinks of the factors that influence a season the way quarterback play does.

One look at UNT’s 2009 season shows how important they are, though.

The Mean Green finished with a turnover margin of minus-14 last season after forcing 15 turnovers while committing 29. All three totals ranked last in the Sun Belt Conference.

“There is no doubt about it, we have to flip our turnover stat,” head coach Todd Dodge said. “That equals about three wins in itself. We also need to improve on special teams.”

Former UNT kicker Jeremy Knott made just 10 of 15 field attempts. UNT also missed six extra points.

Freshman Zach Olen will have every opportunity to take over for Knott. How he performs could determine if UNT improves its special teams play.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

North Texas head coach Todd Dodge, left, and new offensive coordinator Mike Canales talk during UNT’s first scrimmage of fall practice at Fouts Field. One of the challenges the Mean Green faces this season is adjusting to Canales’ offense.

ADJUST TO A NEW OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR North Texas head coach Todd Dodge did what would have seemed unthinkable when he took over the program after the 2006 season and gave up control of the Mean Green’s offense during the off-season.

Dodge came to UNT with a reputation as a passing-game guru. His expertise helped the Mean Green make the transition from a run-based attack to a spread system, one that he turned over to former South Jackson Florida offensive coordinator Mike Canales.

Canales will call the plays, coach UNT’s quarterbacks, and huddle with Dodge to pick Nathan Tune or Derek Thompson to start at quarterback.

How UNT adjusts to Canales’ system and how Tune and Thompson fare will go a long way in determining if the Mean

Green can post a winning season.

Canales and UNT’s players say the transition has been a smooth one.

“I feel good about our offense and the receivers we have,” UNT wide receiver Jamaal Jackson said. “We are going to sling it around. It’s the same offense with a few tweaks like motion that will create matchup problems for a defense. We have grown into a more confident team.”

Tune and Thompson have both quickly adjusted to playing in Canales’ system, which could be a good sign for UNT. “I think we have the right setup,” Tune said. “We have the most talent and depth since I have been here at the skill positions and at tight end, where we really didn’t have anyone last year. We have all of our offensive linemen back and [running back Lance] Dunbar back. We are in a lot better position to be successful.”

leaving UNT to break in a new quarterback under new offensive coordinator Mike Canales.

Dunbar and a loaded offensive line with four starters returning will be the strength of a UNT team that is under pressure to

turn around the program to ensure the coaching staff’s return.

Dunbar is comfortable with facing the situation.

“I’m ready to be the leader and the goto guy,” Dunbar said.

MAKE THE KEY PLAYS LATE Head coach Todd Dodge has said throughout the off-season that the Mean Green was very close to winning six games last season.

He is right. UNT lost five games it led in the fourth quarter, largely because it couldn’t capitalize on key opportunities in clutch situations.

UNT had a field goal blocked late in the fourth quarter of its game against Army, setting up the Black Knights’ game-winning touchdown drive in a 17-13 victory.

The way the game unfolded was a microcosm of UNT’s season.

Louisiana-Lafayette scored the gamewinning touchdown with 27 seconds left in a 38-34 win, while UNT was outscored 21-0 in the second half of a 35-28 loss to Florida International.

“You could take six or seven plays where if we would have made plays, the season could have flipped,” Dodge said.

From Page 9

Dunbar

243.8 yards a game.

Dunbar knows he will be the focal point for not only UNT’s offensive game plan this year, but the main concern for opposing defensive coordinators as well.

Riley Dodge has moved to wide receiver,

UNT’s season could well depend on how Dunbar fares in filling that role.

BRETT VITO can be reached at 940566-6870. His e-mail address is bvito@dentonrc.com.

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

13

SUN BELT CONFERENCE PREVIEW

Dasher, MTSU stocked for run at SBC title

By Brett Vito Staff Writer

Fielding one of the Sun Belt Conference’s elite teams is nothing new at Middle Tennessee under head coach Rick Stockstill.

Preview capsules See pages 14, 16

The Blue Raiders have become accustomed to competing for the Sun Belt title and playing in bowls after making the postseason in two of the last four seasons.

What MTSU hasn’t had to deal with is being the league favorite at the beginning of the season.

That will change this year.

Stockstill Even with four-time defending Sun Belt champion Troy aiming to maintain its grip on the league, the Blue Raiders are the popular pick to come out on top this season.

Denton Record-Chronicle file photo The scenario is one Middle Tennessee quarterback Dwight Dasher, right, runs past North Texas Kellem defensive end Eddrick Gilmore during a game at Fouts Field in 2007.

Stockstill thinks his team can handle.

“We have got a very grounded team,” got Phillip back.” and continue that streak of conference Stockstill said. “We know what we have MTSU has more than enough talent on titles,” Troy head coach Larry Blakeney accomplished, but that has no bearing on the defensive side of the ball as well with said. “But that is going to be our goal.” how we are going to do this year. … We defensive back Jeremy Kellem and defenWhile nearly everyone is picking know it’s just a prediction. It will come sive end Jamari Lattimore back. Both MTSU or Troy to win the Sun Belt, severdown to how we perform.” were preseason All-Sun Belt selections. al coaches in the league said it isn’t out of There are plenty of reasons the Sun “We paid attention to it a little bit,” the question that another team could stun Belt’s coaches picked the Blue Raiders to Kellum said of the preseason rankings. everyone and come out on top. win the title this year in their preseason “But we still have to go out there and North Texas will be among those teams poll. Senior quarterback Dwight Dasher, prove it on the field. If we don’t play like looking to make a jump after finishing who returns for MTSU after being named the No. 1 team, we won’t be.” near the bottom of the league standings in the Sun Belt’s Preseason Offensive Player If there is any team with the capabili- each of the last five years. of the Year, had a standout junior season ty to prevent MTSU from meeting UNT head coach Todd Dodge felt like in which he threw for 2,789 yards and expectations, it’s Troy, which is enjoying his team was close to breaking out in rushed for another 1,154. not being a near-unanimous pick to win 2009, when the Mean Green lost six Dasher finished off last season with a the league as it has been in the past. games by a touchdown or less in a 2-10 spectacular performance in the New The Trojans lost quarterback Levi season. UNT was picked to finish eighth in Orleans Bowl, where he rushed for 201 Brown and defensive end Cameron the Sun Belt in the preseason coaches poll. yards and threw for another 162 on his Sheffield to the NFL Draft during the off“I definitely think we have the ability to way to being named the game’s MVP. season in addition to several other key do better, but it is not surprising we were Dasher will have a little more help this players. Linebackers Bear Woods and picked eighth,” Dodge said. “We have not year with the return of Phillip Tanner, Boris Lee along with defensive end won as many games as we thought we who is back from a medical redshirt sea- Brandon Lang were all multiple-season would and have lost a lot of close games. We son following a knee injury. MTSU also standouts for the Trojans that will not be need to turn those close losses into wins.” returns D.D. Kyles, who filled in at run- returning this season. ning back for Tanner last year.

The challenge for Troy will be replacing BRETT VITO can be reached at 940“We are going to try to utilize all of our those players.

566-6870. His e-mail address is skill players,” Stockstill said. “I am glad we “I am not sure if we can win every game bvito@dentonrc.com.

SBC Preseason coaches’ poll As voted on by the league’s nine head coaches. First-place votes are listed in parenthses: 1. Middle Tennessee (5). . . . . . . . . . . . 75 2. Troy (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 3. Arkansas State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 4. Louisiana-Lafayette (1) . . . . . . . . . . 49 5. Florida Atlantic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 6. Florida International. . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 7. Louisiana-Monroe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 8. North Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 9. Western Kentucky. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

SBC All-conference team As chosen by the conference’s nine head coaches and media members selected by league officials.

Offense QB — Dwight Dasher, Middle Tennessee, Sr. RB — Alfred Morris, Florida Atlantic, Jr.; Lance Dunbar, UNT, Jr. WR — T.Y. Hilton, Florida International, Jr.; Jerrel Jernigan, Troy, Sr. TE — Ladarius Green, Louisiana-Lafayette, Jr. OL — Derek Newton, Arkansas State, Sr.; Brad Serirni, Florida International, Sr.; Mark Fisher, Middle Tennessee, Sr., Esteban Santiago, UNT, Sr., Tyler Clark, Troy, Sr. Defense DL — Bryan Hall, Arkansas State, Sr.; Troy Evans, Louisiana-Monroe, Jr.; Jamari Lattimore, Middle Tennessee, Sr.; Brandon Akpunku, UNT, Jr. LB — Demario Davis, Arkansas State, Jr.; Grant Fleming, Louisiana-Lafayette, Sr.; Craig Robertson, UNT, Sr. DB — Tavious Polo, Florida Atlantic, Sr.; Anthony Gaitor, Florida International, Sr.; Jeremy Kellem, Middle Tennessee, Sr.; Bryan Willis, Troy, So. Special Teams K — Alan Gendreau, Middle Tennessee, Jr. P — Spencer Ortego, Louisiana-Lafayette, Sr. Return specialist — T.Y. Hilton, Florida International, Jr. Offensive Player of the Year Dwight Dasher, Middle Tennessee, Sr., QB Defensive Player of the Year Bryan Hall, Arkansas State, Sr., DL

14

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

SUN BELT CONFERENCE CAPSULES ARKANSAS STATE RED WOLVES

Coach: Steve Roberts (ninth season, 41-55 at Arkansas State, 90-88-1 in 16 seasons overall).

50 lettermen, 7-4 starters return from a 4-8 team (3-5 Sun Belt). 25 lettermen lost.

All-conference candidates: OL Derek Newton, DL Bryan Hall Top newcomer s: CB Darron Edwards, WR Dwayne Frampton, DE Brandon Joiner Key player : Running back Derek Lawson provided a secondary threat behind Reggie Roberts Arnold, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards in three of his seasons at ASU. Lawson will start this year and will have to carry the load. He rushed for 695 yards as a redshirt freshman in 2008.

Outlook: Roberts is under the gun and could face a tough road after the departure of three key seniors: Arnold, defensive end Alex Carrington and quarterback Corey Leonard. Ryan Aplin and Phillip Butterfield are competing for the starting quarterback job. Aplin started three games last year as a redshirt freshman.

FLORIDA ATLANTIC OWLS

Coach: Howard Schnellenberger (10th season, 53-55 at Florida Atlantic, 153-132-3 in 25 seasons overall). 32 lettermen, 3-9 starters return from a 5-7 team (5-3 Sun Belt). 18 lettermen lost.

All-conference candidates: RB Alfred Morris, TE Rob Housler

Top newcomers: QB Stephen Curtis, DE Cory Henry Key player : Jeff VanCamp stepped in at quarterback when Rusty Smith was injured last season and threw for 1,372 yards in 10 games. He is projected to start as a senior and could be one of the top quarterbacks in the Sun Belt.

Outlook: FAU came into the 2009 having won bowl games in back-to-back seasons, a streak that came to an end with a five-win campaign.

The Owls lose Smith but return Morris, the 2009 Sun Belt rushing champion.

FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL GOLDEN PANTHERS Coach: Mario Cristobal (fourth season, 9-27 at Florida International). 44 lettermen, 6-2 starters return from a 3-9 team (3-5 Sun Belt). 22 lettermen lost.

All-conference candidates: WR T.Y. Hilton, CB Anthony Gaitor, DB Marcus Bartels Top newcomer s: DL Jericho Lee, WR Glenn Coleman, WR Willis Wright Key player : Hilton is one of the best wide receivers in the Sun Belt and one of the most electrifying players at a non-BCS conference school nationally. He was slowed by injuries last season and still managed to catch 57 passes for 632 yards and five touchdowns. He should return to top form this year.

Outlook: FIU appeared poised for a breakout season in 2009 after improving from 1-11 to 5-7 in Cristobal’s second year, but fell back to 3-9 last season. The Golden Panthers must improve defensively after giving up 35.3 points a game, which will be tough with only two starters returning.

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

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16

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

SUN BELT CONFERENCE CAPSULES LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE RAGIN’ CAJUNS

Coach: Rickey Bustle (ninth season, 38-56 at Louisiana-Lafayette). 43 lettermen, 8-5 starters return from a 6-6 team (4-4 Sun Belt). 20 lettermen lost.

All-conference candidates: P Spencer Ortego, TE Ladarius Green, DB Grant Fleming Top newcomer s: RB Aaron Spikes Key player : Junior quarterback Chris Masson enjoyed a Masson breakout year in 2009, when he threw for 2,406 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Masson could move into the upper echelon of quarterbacks in the Sun Belt this season.

Outlook: ULL has finished 6-6 each of the last two years and will look to break though for a bowl berth behind an experienced defense that returns eight starters, including preseason AllSun Belt linebacker Grant Fleming.

LOUISIANA-MONROE WARHAWKS Coach: Todd Berry (first season). 40 lettermen, 6-4 starters return from a 6-6 team (5-3 Sun Belt). 26 lettermen lost.

All-conference candidates: RB Frank Goodin Top newcomer s: OL Josh Allen, WR Luke Russell, OL Jeremy Burton Key player : Berry called having Goodin a huge plus heading into his first season at ULM. The

senior rushed for 1,126 yards last season and will be the player the Warhawks will depend on to carry their offense.

Outlook: Berry took over for Charlie Weatherbie in the off-season and inherits what could be a solid Sun Belt team with 10 starters returning.

Redshirt freshman Kolton Browning could open the season as ULM’s starting quarterback. He is locked in a battle with returning starter Trey Revell that will go down to the final days before the Warhawks’ season opener against Arkansas.

MIDDLE TENNESSEE BLUE RAIDERS Coach: Rick Stockstill (27-23 in four seasons at Middle Tennessee). 41 lettermen, 8-6 starters return from a 10-3 team (7-1 Sun Belt). 14 lettermen lost.

All-conference candidates: QB Dwight Dasher, S Jeremy Kellum, K Alan Gendreau, DE Jamari Lattimore, RB Phillip Tanner Top newcomer s: OL Preston Bailey, QB Logan Kilgore, CB Arness Ikner, WR Tyler Mason.

Key player : Dasher might be the best player in the Sun Belt. He was named MVP of the New Orleans Bowl last season and is the preseason Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year.

Outlook: This could be MTSU’s window of opportunity to win the Sun Belt title. Dasher is back after leading the Blue Raiders to a win over Southern Mississippi in the New Orleans Bowl.

Running back Phillip Tanner returns after spending the 2009 season as a redshirt due to a knee injury and will look to build on a 714-yard season as a junior.

TROY TROJANS Coach: Larry Blakeney (153-77-1 in 19 seasons at Troy). 44 lettermen, 6-2 starters return from a 9-4 team (8-0 Sun Belt). 25 lettermen lost.

All-conference candidates: WR Jerrel Jernigan, DB Bryan Willis, RB Shawn Southward Top newcomer s: WR Brett Moncrief, CB Jimmie Anderson, OL Demarkus Underwood Key player : Jernigan is among the most explosive players in the Sun Belt and is coming off a standout junior season that saw him catch 71 passes for 1,101 yards. He is also Troy’s quarterback in the Wildcat formation and should be in for a big season.

Outlook: Troy must rebuild defensively and loses the Sun Belt’s Player of the Year in quarterback Levi Brown, but no team has been more consistent in the league the last four seasons.

WESTERN KENTUCKY HILLTOPPERS Coach: Willie Taggart (first season). 44 lettermen, 8-9 starters return from an 0-12 team (08 Sun Belt). 18 lettermen lost.

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Outlook: WKU will look to rebuild under Taggart, a former Hilltoppers assistant who spent the last three years as an assistant coach at Stanford.

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

17

NORTH TEXAS

Experienced line a rock for Mean Green

By Brett Vito Staff Writer

A smile spreads across Lance Dunbar’s face at the mention of the quartet that helped make one of the breakout players last year in the Sun Belt Conference.

Together Esteban Santiago, Victor Gill, J.J. Johnson and Kelvin Drake cleared the way for Dunbar to rack up 1,378 rushing yards while starting just eight games.

The fact they kept him laughing the whole time made the experience all the more enjoyable.

“They are all different,” Dunbar said.

“Esteban is the crazy one. Gill is the one who tries to bully me all the time and Drake is the goofy one who is always cracking jokes. J.J. is goofy, too.”

Put them all together and they form one of the best offensive lines in the Sun Belt, not to mention the foundation for UNT’s offense. Santiago has started 33 games in his career, tops among Mean See OFFENSIVE LINE on 18

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

From left, J.J. Johnson, Kelvin Drake, Esteban Santiago and Victor Gill form the core of an experienced offensive line for North Texas. All four are multi-year starters the Mean Green will rely on to spark its offense.

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18

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

NORTH TEXAS From Page 17

Offensive line

Green players, while Johnson has started 24, Drake 22 and Gill 22.

If UNT is to succeed in a season in which it will have a new starting quarterback in either Derek Thompson or Nathan Tune, a new offensive coordinator in Mike Canales and a new offensive line coach in Jeff Bryant, its veteran offensive linemen will have to lead the way. “I have talked to those guys about it,�

UNT head coach Todd Dodge said of his linemen being the basis for the Mean Green’s offense. “We have not had a unit with the experience they have since I have been here. We have to take advantage of it. ‌ If they continue to improve, we have a chance to be outstanding on that side of the ball.â€?

UNT’s linemen take that challenge seriously as they head toward the end of solid careers. Santiago, Gill and Drake are all seniors, while Johnson is a junior.

Santiago was a second-team All-Sun Belt selection last season and was a preseason first-team all-conference pick this year.

UNT will need to add one player to that core group at right guard, but has plenty of solid candidates including Matt Tomlinson, Jeremy Bean and Coleman Feeley. “We have to be the bell cow for our offense,� Gill said. “I feel really confident in everyone we have. You look to your left and you have someone there with experience. You look to your right and have someone there with experience. That puts your mind at ease.�

The fact that UNT’s players have gained that experience together while meshing their contrasting personalities has helped make them that much more effective as a unit. Johnson came from one of the Dallas area’s largest high schools in Plano West and has developed into the group’s leader.

Santiago is an El Paso native with wild hair and a lip ring, while Gill is a smalltown product from Argyle. Drake is an older player who missed a season due to injury and has been at UNT since 2006.

Despite their differences, UNT’s linemen have chemistry that has helped them work together. “I trust everyone on the line, and that’s the first thing you need,� Santiago said. “You can have all the talent in the world, but if you don’t have chemistry, it doesn’t matter.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

North Texas’ Kelvin Drake, left, blocks Florida Atlantic linebacker Michael Lockley last season at Fouts Field.

Drake will return at guard this season.

MEAN GREEN Offensive line North Texas will have an offensive line filled with experienced players this season. The following is a look at the Mean Green’s four returning starters: Player Star ts Position Right tackle Esteban Santiago 33 Center J.J. Johnson 24 Left guard Kelvin Drake 22 Left tackle Victor Gill 22

If you don’t trust the person next to you, you are not going to get the block right.�

Thompson is just as confident in UNT’s line as Dunbar. He played just one series at the end of the Mean Green’s loss to Arkansas State in the final game of last season and completed all three of his passes on a four-play touchdown drive.

Thompson never felt much pressure in the pocket during that series, which is something he doesn’t expect to change this year for whoever starts at quarterback. “It’s a great feeling as a quarterback to drop back and know your line is going to have your back,� Thompson said. “We have a lot of guys on our line with experience. That makes your job easier.�

BRETT VITO can be reached at 940566-6870. His e-mail address is bvito@dentonrc.com.

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

19

NORTH TEXAS

Stradford to get his shot at college level

By Brett Vito Staff Writer

New North Texas offensive coordinator Mike Canales heard about Tyler Stradford quickly when he first considered joining the Mean Green’s coaching staff in the offseason.

Everyone, it seemed, was talking about the wide receiver who transferred from Oklahoma and the expectation that he would become a difference-maker the moment he steps on the field.

“Everyone expects Tyler to make an impact,” Canales said. “I am a person who wants players to show me, not tell me. I have heard the hype. We Stradford are hoping he becomes the guy. He has the characteristics you are looking for. The question is if Tyler is willing to pay the price on and off the field to be that guy.”

Stradford says he is ready to make that sacrifice after traveling a long road to get to a school where he will have a chance to play.

Stradford signed with Oklahoma out of New Orleans O. Perry Walker High School in 2007, left the team in the middle of the 2008 season and ended up at UNT, where he sat out last season to fulfill NCAA transfer rules.

“I got buried on the depth chart at Oklahoma and lost focus,” Stradford said.

“It was my first time being far away from home and I acted crazy. I needed to find someplace where I could get focused. I know that I found it.”

UNT running backs coach Shelton Gandy, while he was at Louisiana Tech, had recruited Stradford during his high school career and eventually convinced him to come to Denton. UNT had hoped that the NCAA would grant a waiver request that would have made Stradford eligible last season.

That request was denied, which left Stradford to spend another season without playing in a real game. By the time UNT opens the season at Clemson on Sept. 4, Stradford will have gone three years without playing in an official game.

Stradford called last season a tough time

“It’s exciting. I have been working for a long time, basically since 2006, to show what I can do on the college level.”

— North Texas wide receiver Tyler Stradford

in his life. He wanted to help his teammates and felt like he had the talent to make a difference, but was forced to sit on the sideline while UNT trudged to a 2-10 finish.

“I never had any doubts that I would get a chance to play,” Stradford said. “Coach Dodge told me to be patient and that everything would work out. He told me I have the potential to play at the next level. I am trying to help my team win a championship.”

The knock on Stradford throughout is his career is that while he has exceptional speed and good size at 6-2, he lacks passcatching skills.

Stradford has worked to improve since arriving at UNT, which has helped him gain the trust of his teammates.

“Tyler is a special player,” UNT quarterback Derek Thompson said. “He is a tall receiver who can beat anyone down the field. The fact that he can go and get the ball makes my job and [fellow quarterback Nathan Tune’s] job a lot easier.”

UNT’s other wide receivers see Stradford as one of the pieces the team was missing last season.

“Tyler can stretch the field and give us the deep threat we didn’t have last year,” UNT wide receiver Jamaal Jackson said.

“That will open up our slot receivers.”

Finding what appears to be the right fit at UNT has been particularly rewarding for Stradford.

“It’s exciting,” Stradford said. “I have been working for a long time, basically since 2006, to show what I can do at the college level. I want to be a part of something special and win a championship.”

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BRETT VITO can be reached at 940566-6870. His e-mail address is bvito@dentonrc.com.

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Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

NORTH TEXAS

MEAN GREEN Roster Name James Hamilton Willie Taylor Alex Lott Lance Dunbar Nathan Tune Derek Thompson Jamaal Wilson Ira Smith B.J. Lewis DaWaylon Cook Riley Dodge Chase Baine Tyler Stradford Jamaal Jackson Phillip Roberts Derek Teegarden Breece Johnson Benny Jones John Shorter Darius Carey D’Leon McCord Royce Hill Ryan Downing Steven Ford Jeremi Mathis Brad Graham Matt Ponce Forlando Johnson Robbie Gordon Casey Schutza Hilbert Jackson Weston Squier A.J. Penson Micah Mosley Chris Neal Zachery Orr Marquese Davis Zach Olen Brandin Byrd K. Sashington Jose Serrano Will Wright Will Atterberry Craig Robertson Shelton Gandy

Pos. RB WR WR RB QB QB DB DB WR DB WR QB WR WR DB QB WR WR DB WR DB DB DB DB RB LB RB LB DB WR DB RB LB RB DB LB LB K RB DB K DB P LB RB

Ht. 5-8 5-10 5-9 5-9 6-4 6-4 5-10 5-11 6-1 6-1 6-0 6-0 6-2 5-10 5-11 6-0 6-1 6-2 6-0 5-10 6-1 6-0 6-1 6-0 6-1 6-0 5-11 6-0 6-0 5-10 6-1 5-8 6-1 6-0 5-9 6-0 6-1 5-10 5-10 6-1 5-11 6-2 5-11 6-1 5-8

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No. 44 45 46 47 48 49 49 50 51 53 54 56 57 59 60 64 65 66 68 70 71 72 73 74 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 84 85 86 87 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99

Name Pos. Aaron Bellazin DE Jeremy Phillips LB Julian Herron LB Brandon Akpunku DE K.C. Obi DE Trent Deans K Frank Gaines DE Nick Leppo OL Sean January LB Daniel Prior LB Blake Dunham LB J.J. Johnson C Mason Y’Barbo OL Ryan Foster LB Aaron Fortenberry OL Victor Gill OL Demario Dixon DE Brandon McCoy DE Kelvin Drake C Coleman Feeley OL Antonio Johnson OL Matt Tomlinson OL Jeremy Bean OL Troy Franklin OL John Noble OL Esteban Santiago OL Troy Kokjohn OL Ayodele Adedipe OL Brelan Chancellor WR Christopher Bynes WR Michael Outlaw WR Greg Brown WR Austin Fitzpatrick TE Graylan Hawkins TE Conor G.-Donohue TE Jamize Olawale TE Ryan Boutwell DE Kelvin Jackson DT Draylen Ross TE LaChris Anyiam DE Kyle White DT Jesse DeSoto DT Tevinn Cantly DT Richard Abbe DT John Weber DE Shavod Atkinson DT

Ht. 6-2 6-3 6-2 6-1 6-2 6-0 6-1 6-3 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-3 6-2 6-2 6-4 6-4 6-2 6-2 6-2 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-5 6-6 6-3 6-2 6-5 5-9 6-1 6-0 6-1 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-2 6-3 6-3 6-4 6-4 6-2 6-1 6-4 6-4 6-3 6-2

Wt. 232 212 205 240 240 191 229 280 240 228 202 288 288 227 292 265 260 265 295 299 292 300 300 280 273 320 231 313 168 220 191 232 220 235 253 226 254 310 292 292 309 268 336 357 274 284

Cl. Fr. So. Jr. Jr. So. So. So. RFr. Sr. So. Fr. Jr. Fr. So. So. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. So. Fr. Jr. Jr. So. Fr. Sr. Jr. So. Fr. Jr. Sr. Jr. RFr. Fr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Sr. RFr. So. Sr. So. Fr. Sr. Sr.

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

21

HIGH SCHOOLS

Growth changes small-town football

By Adam Boedeker Staff Writer

Daryl Hellman has spent the vast majority of his life in Aubrey.

And in most communities the size of Aubrey, the general belief is that everyone knows everyone.

That is definitely the case for Hellman, who started kindergarten in Aubrey more than 30 years ago, went on to be a star athlete at Aubrey High School and still holds some passing records for the Chaparrals from when he was the team’s starting quarterback in 1988, which was the first time Aubrey made the playoffs.

He then was the head coach for the Chaparrals from 2001 to 2008 before stepping down to focus on his athletic director duties. Hellman took over the baseball team on a whim in the spring and led it four rounds deep into the postseason.

When Aubrey takes the field for its 2010 football opener under second-year head coach G.A. Moore, the Chaparrals will be competing in Class 3A for the first time in school history, a year after its boys athletic programs began to show signs of becoming a perennial 2A power.

“We’re still a small town, and we still identify ourselves by how our athletic programs are,” said Hellman. “We still have a lot of goals and a lot of things to achieve, but I feel like we’ve been going in the right direction for many years and growth has a lot to do with that.”

Growth has been a resounding trend in Denton and Collin counties in recent years, which has helped revive and strengthen small-town athletic programs in the area.

The 380 effect

When asked what started the change in population growth north of Denton, Hellman quickly had an answer.

When U.S. Highway 380 was widened to six lanes and the Dallas North Tollway was expanded, people in the Dallas-Fort Worth area saw an opportunity to live a simpler, quieter country life while still enjoying the amenities of the city. That quickly led them to communities off of 380 such as Aubrey, Pilot Point, Celina and Prosper.

“It’s the 380 corridor, without a doubt,” Hellman said. “When they widened that to six lanes and they had the tollway go

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Aubrey athletic director Daryl Hellman has lived in the community for almost his entire life. He is a former quarterback and head coach for the Chaparrals. up, it really changed things. From Aubrey, you can get to downtown Dallas on the tollway in 40 minutes and that’s been a big key.”

This year alone, Aubrey has 50 move-in students, brand new to the district, since it turned in its snapshot number of 470 for February’s realignment. As of Aug. 13, the high school’s enrollment was at 530, and Hellman said there were also several new students enrolled at the middle school and elementary school.

Pilot Point, meanwhile, moved up to Class 3A in the 2006 realignment and struggled at the 3A level before moving back down to Class 2A in 2008.

The Bearcats won the Class 2A Division I football state championship in December and now appear more prepared to play in a higher classification.

They too will move up to 3A along with Aubrey beginning this season.

If you build it, they will come In addition to its presence within the

Aubrey city limits, Aubrey ISD draws students from Cross Roads and Krugerville.

Both of these communities sit just south of Aubrey, with Cross Roads sitting directly on 380.

Hellman credited Aubrey’s school board and superintendent for making a key move early in the decade when the community voted to build $7 million worth of new athletic facilities at the high school.

The new athletic complex and football stadium were built in 2003 and used as a measuring stick for other area smallschool towns.

“Before that, you really couldn’t say much about our facilities,” Hellman said.

“In the early 1980s, they were adequate.

Being able to move into that new complex really helped. It increased participation and excitement and community involvement. We’ve kind of been building ever since. It’s all worked out. We got that bond and the complex going before all the growth really hit.

“We went from the outhouse to the penthouse in one bond election.”

The growth of the school and its predicted jump to Class 3A were among the main reasons why Hellman resigned as the head football coach to concentrate on his athletic director duties. The Chaparrals responded by hiring the winningest coach in Texas high school football history in Moore. In his debut season with Aubrey last year, Moore led the Chaparrals to an 11-2 record and set a new school mark for wins in a season.

“There’s been times when Aubrey was a doormat and the punch line of a lot of jokes,” Hellman said. “That was my passion for getting into coaching was to eventually return to Aubrey. I had a lot of school pride, and I’m very proud of where I’m from. I felt like that’s what I wanted to do was come back to my hometown and do all I could to help us be respectable.

“Since 2001, the things we’ve accomSee GROWTH on 22

22

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

HIGH SCHOOLS From Page 21

Growth plished now double and triple all the years before that. It’s been an accumulation of our community growing, the facilities improving and the participation increasing. The results we’re getting from our teams have definitely improved.”

The other end of the spectrum While schools such as Aubrey, Pilot Point, Celina and Prosper have benefited from expanded growth from urban areas into rural ones, other smaller towns in the area haven’t seen the same type of exacerbated growth.

Argyle is a good example.

The Eagles played in the Class 2A state championship game in 2005, and then moved up to Class 3A in the 2006 realignment, where they have remained.

But the growth Argyle has seen in its location just south of Denton has not been nearly as drastic as the towns in northern Denton County.

“Some people think Argyle is urban and want a more rural location,” said Argyle head coach and athletic director Todd Rodgers. “So Pilot Point and Aubrey are benefiting. Land was purchased up there at a reasonable rate and was developed, so these communities are now changing from these static communities that have been the same size for years to having to deal with an influx of new ideas, new people, and they’re having to manage that.

“It’s bringing a shot to their athletic programs across the board.”

The Eagles are the favorite to win District 9-3A this year, which now features Pilot Point and Aubrey.

“There’s just such solid leadership at those places [Pilot Point and Aubrey] that they’re managing the change and they’re transforming their communities into powerhouse athletic programs,” Rodgers said. “I think it’s a great thing.”

Rodgers said the housing and land prices in Argyle have restricted growth while other small towns are growing at rapid rates. As a result, Argyle has been a 3A school for three realignments and is still on the small end of the classification when it comes to enrollment.

“We haven’t gotten an influx of people because there’s only a small group of people that can afford the zoning here and the prices of the houses,” Rodgers said.

“There’s not a lot of developments that are

Associated Press

Pilot Point’s Jarman Johnson, left, celebrates with his teammates after a 35-18 win over Kirbyville in the Class 2A Division I state title game in December. affordable.”

Rodgers said the growth in the rural towns has been good for area football and that teams such as Lovejoy and Prosper have gotten huge advantages due to the two-year realignment program.

Lovejoy, for instance, turned in numbers to the UIL for this year’s realignment that were just shy of the Class 4A cutoff.

Before school has even started in the first year of the alignment, Lovejoy already has 4A numbers, meaning it will compete at the 3A level for two years before a likely move to 4A. “If we have one great strength, it’s that they’re [the community] behind us, the whole community is,” Rodgers said.

“We’ve got all our chips pushed to the middle of the table, let’s go have fun and win.

That’s the essence of this small-town football and the populations growing, is you can go out there and be a part of something. The community becomes the team.”

Moore, who began coaching in the early 1960s and made his name at Pilot Point and Celina, said the instances where he coaches second-and third-generation kids are a lot more rare nowadays.

“A lot more people are moving to this area, especially the smaller towns, because it is a better atmosphere,” he said. “But it is still a lot different. The pride isn’t there as much as it used to be. It used to be where I knew the parents, the grandparents and

the whole family of a player. You don’t see that anymore. The legacies aren’t there as much.”

Another point of view Ryan head coach Joey Florence has been leading the Raiders for a decade now.

Some would call him the dean of high school coaches in the area because of his long tenure and his success on the field — including four consecutive Class 4A state championship game appearances and two titles.

But Florence hasn’t always been a bigschool coach. He got his start coaching at Class 2A Cooper, and has now coached at every classification except for Class A and 3A. Florence said there are some benefits of growth, but there are just as many negative aspects to it.

“You’re seeing new schools and multiple-school districts, and its changing Texas high school football,” Florence said.

“There’s some good and some bad. It gets more kids participating, obviously, but the negatives are the lack of the one-school mentality where a community rallies around the team and you won’t sell out games. For me, that’s the bad part of it.”

Though small towns like Aubrey, Pilot Point and Argyle aren’t quite to the point where they will be opening multiple high schools, the growth of schools such as

Southlake Carroll show things can change in a hurry. Carroll was a Class 3A school as recently as the mid-1990s and became a 5A school in 2002.

“There’s not as many farmers out there anymore, either,” said Florence, whose father, Mickey, was a longtime coach and administrator at Rockwall High School.

“You’re seeing the smaller schools change, too. I was a third-generation kid at Rockwall. I grew up there when it was a farming community. That was very important to me growing up, that I would be a Rockwall Yellowjacket.

“That’s something that’s unique and what made Texas football special. I’m somewhat concerned now, where you don’t have kids growing up as generational Ryan Raiders, though we are getting some now. That’s where high school [football] is heading, though.”

Moore said he remembers a time when the thriving 5A programs of today were nothing more than a tiny dot on a map.

“I have coached in this area most of my career and it has changed a ton here,” he said. “Everything is growing. When I first started, Allen was playing six-man and Plano was a Class B [2A] school.

Lewisville was Class A. A lot of families are moving here and a lot more kids just want to play football.”

Florence said he fears more towns morphing into what he saw his hometown become.

Rockwall-Heath High School made its varsity football debut in 2006, and when Heath played Rockwall for the first time, Florence saw first-hand the effects of population growth on Texas high school football.

“I’m not gonna say it’s [population growth] all bad,” Florence said. “There’s more kids participating, but at the same time it’s harder for the community to rally around a school.

“My mother had season tickets at Rockwall on the 50-yard line. The first game a few years ago when Heath and Rockwall played for the first time, and Rockwall was the visitor, she wasn’t going to go sit on the visitor side. That’s very difficult to explain to people. Now she’s going to have to go sit on the other side of the stadium my dad helped build. She was not happy. That town hasn’t been the same.

There’s good and bad to it, I guess.”

ADAM BOEDEKER can be reached at 940-566-6872. His e-mail address is aboedeker@dentonrc.com.

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

23

GUYER

Walsh puts in work to help his team

By Adam Boedeker Staff Writer

To say J.W. Walsh had a busy summer would be an understatement.

The Guyer senior quarterback was all over the country honing his skills and helping the Wildcats get on the national map when it comes to high school football talent.

Oh, and he got to get a nice break from the dreaded Texas summer heat while spending time in Oregon and California.

“I think the biggest thing about the summer I’ve had was that there was a lot of big events I was fortunate enough to be a part of,” said the Oklahoma State commit. “All that I went through just helps the Wildcats. It helps me become a better quarterback and a better leader for my team.”

Walsh helped lead his Guyer 7-on-7 team to the championship game of the Nike 7On Tournament in Beaverton, Ore., where the Wildcats lost in double overtime to famed Miami Northwestern.

Then last month, he went to Aliso Viejo, Calif., to participate in the ESPN Rise Elite 11 quarterback camp, which features 12 of the best high school quarterbacks in the country.

“The Elite 11 was a great experience,” said Guyer head coach John Walsh, who is J.W.’s father. “A lot of quarterback camps are money-making schemes, and the Elite 11 is about those 12 guys and a plan to make them better. They did about Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton two hours of film study every day, and they worked with college quarterbacks Guyer quarterback J.W. Walsh will lead the Wildcats this year as they step up to Class 5A competition. Next year, Walsh that are going to be drafted. Two hours on will level up once again — to NCAA Division I football — when he attends Oklahoma State. the field and two hours in the film room rushed for 1,554 yards and 22 scores. every day.

“They made it harder in the film room,” “He’s a better quarterback because of it, Recruiting website Rivals.com ranked John Walsh said. “In high school, if you Quick facts and we feel like we train him well here. Walsh as the No. 4 dual-threat quarter- watch a team, there’s gonna be one, District: 7-5A He’s been raised around good football, but back in the country. maybe two coverages you’ve got to deal 2009 recor d: 13-2, 4A Division I semifinalist Yet, he’s still, by all accounts, better this with. A good high school quarterback, that week was great as far as him realizing Coach: John Walsh (26there’s a lot more to learn and there’s a lot year. after one film session, will have a good 24 in four seasons) “When he got back from Elite 11, he was idea of where those guys will be. But they more room for improvement.”

R e t u rning star ter s: Six offense, six defense just telling me how much it helped him had to break down NFL film and college And that could be a scary bit of news for O f f e n se: Multiple out,” said Guyer senior receiver Quint film where there’s six or seven coverages Guyer’s new rivals in District 7-5A. D e f e n se: Multiple Last season in Class 4A, Walsh led the Gardener. “He said he’s a smarter quarter- going on and they’re mixing up blitzes. He School enrollment: 2,074 Wildcats to their second straight Division back now and it showed him how to read had to answer questions on the spot on Stadium: C.H. Collins Athletic Complex I state semifinal appearance and ended plays and read defense.” those films, and that’s only gonna slow it Assistant coaches: Mitch Stovall, Oschlor down completely for him at the high his career as a 4A quarterback with a 21John Walsh said the biggest thing his Flemming, Chris Johnson, Kyle Keese, Bryan 3 record as a starter. He is coming off his son was able to do at the quarterback school level.”

Kegans, Jeffrey Barnett, Casey Hubble, Brian J.W. Walsh said his team’s depth at the best statistical season last year when he camp was learn how to break down film Valenzuela, Lee Vallejo, Rick Wesson, Derek threw for 2,599 yardswith 27 touchdowns at a higher level than the average high Ramsey, Corey Maxwell and Zane Jillson. and six interceptions in 15 games. He also school quarterback.

See GUYER on 68

WILDCATS

24

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

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26

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

GUYER

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season STAY HEALTHY

have to go 80 yards to score against a stout defense.

The Wildcats have to avoid injuries. As the smallest school in its new 5A district, depth will be an issue. As far as first units go, the Wildcats can match just about anyone in the state with their talent, especially at the skill positions, but if injuries become abundant, they could be in trouble.

BE STRONG IN THE TRENCHES

The new faces on the offensive line have to fill some big shoes from last season as just two starters return from last year’s group that helped lead Guyer to new offensive heights. Those new faces, led by John Ferguson and Jesse Roberson, will have to open holes for Roberson Guyer’s three-headed rushing attack, but more importantly must keep J.W. Walsh on his feet.

FIND SOME DEPTH Two seasons ago, the Wildcats had a highly effective kicker. Now, John Walsh thinks he has his first Division I kicker in junior Josh King. The former Liberty Christian kicker will bring a dynamic the Wildcats’ defense was missing last year – consistently winning the field position battle. King routinely gets his kickoffs through the end zone and should force opponents to

LOCK DOWN OPPONENTS Josh Stewart had two breakout games last year and will look to take his game to a new level this year, when he not only starts at cornerback but also will be getting the ball on offense 6-10 times a game, where he can get in the open field and use his play-making abilities.

Stewart will force opposing coaches to account for him on offense, defense and special teams.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Time Aug. 28 Waxahachie* 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 6 Cedar Hill^ 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 17 Mesquite Horn 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 24 Justin Northwest 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 1 at Coppell 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 8 Keller Central 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 15 at Saginaw 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 21 Keller 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 29 Keller Fossil Ridge 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 5 at Southlake Carroll 7:30 p.m. * — at Standridge Stadium in Carrollton ^ — at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington

Stewart has grown to be valuable asset

By Adam Boedeker

Staff Writer

Guyer senior Josh Stewart can put his finger on the moment he realized he could be a star on the football field.

It was a preseason scrimmage against Midlothian during his sophomore year. Guyer starting cornerback Chuks Orabuchi was injured in a weight room mishap prior to the game, forcing Stewart, then a 5-7, 140-pound cornerback slotted to start the season on the junior varsity squad, into starting duty covering Midlothian star receiver Eddie Johnson, who is 6-3 and 220 pounds and is now a freshman at Baylor.

Stewart shut the big, physical receiver down, holding Johnson to zero catches in the scrimmage.

“He didn’t catch a ball on me, so that gave me faith and I went from there,” Stewart said.

Fast-forward to last December when Guyer met Ryan for a chance

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Guyer’s Josh Stewart runs the ball during a 7-on-7 scrimmage against Lake Dallas on June 30. to go to the Class 4A Division I state semifinals — arguably the biggest high school football game Denton has ever hosted.

Guyer won the game, 28-25, to advance, and Stewart was one of the

big reasons why.

The bulked-up cornerback blanketed Ryan’s top threat, Bud Sasser, and took an interception 75 yards to See STEWART on 68

WILDCATS Roster No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 37 38 39 40 44 45 46 48 49 50 52 54 55 56 57 62 70 72 77 84 88

Name Josh Harris Josh Allen Josh Stewart J.W. Walsh Quint Gardener Jake Smith Alex Luft Jimmy Bean Cameron Hunter Conner Crane Colton Berry Vince Sanders Travis Leach Dominic Ramacher Michael Fischer Colin Hinchey Scotty Adams Daniel Mercer Ellis Jefferson Treavon Walton Ryan Williams Kamrhan Jones Keiondre Ballard Zach Fore Zach Bush Gideon Mazara Sebastian Williams Josh King Dylan Clark Taite Gentry Aaron Wright Jesse Aristondo Nick Blair Dan Kottman Cory Miller Tevin Graves Kyle Jenkins Zac Markwardt Patrick Yoo Leo Garcia Cody Hennesee Diontre Thomas Luis Sarmiento Eric Dorsey Blake Terry Tyler Dean John Ferguson Patrick Morris Matt King Jordan Helal Alec Willis Jesse Roberson Josh Hard Mark Sandy Lance Cullum

Pos. WR/DB FB/LB WR/DB QB WR/DB FB/LB RB/DB DL WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB TE/LB WR/DB TE/DL WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB RB/DB WR/DB RB/LB RB/LB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB RB/DB K/P TE/LB FB/LB FB/DL RB/DB WR/DB FB/DL FB/LB RB/LB FB/LB FB/DL OL/DL FB/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL TE/DE OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL TE/DL WR/DB

Ht. 5-10 5-10 5-10 6-2 6-1 6-0 5-9 6-5 5-9 6-4 6-1 6-1 5-10 6-2 5-9 6-2 6-1 6-2 6-4 6-1 5-10 6-1 5-9 5-8 6-3 5-10 6-1 5-6 6-0 5-10 6-1 5-8 5-8 6-1 5-9 5-9 6-0 5-8 5-9 5-9 6-4 6-2 5-9 5-11 6-1 6-1 6-4 6-1 5-10 5-10 6-1 6-2 6-3 6-1 6-2

Wt. Class 170 So. 215 Sr. 170 Sr. 200 Sr. 200 Sr. 200 Sr. 175 Sr. 220 Sr. 180 Sr. 180 Jr. 178 Sr. 175 Sr. 170 Jr. 220 Jr. 170 Jr. 215 Sr. 180 Sr. 180 Sr. 180 So. 190 Sr. 170 Jr. 190 Sr. 180 Jr. 155 Sr. 180 Sr. 180 Sr. 185 Jr. 170 Jr. 175 Sr. 180 Sr. 215 Sr. 170 Jr. 160 Sr. 235 Jr. 170 Jr. 175 Sr. 185 Sr. 210 Sr. 190 Sr. 180 Jr. 245 Jr. 205 Jr. 200 Sr. 240 Jr. 235 Sr. 205 Sr. 240 Jr. 250 So. 250 Sr. 240 Sr. 230 Sr. 270 Jr. 250 Sr. 205 Sr. 170 Jr.

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

27

RYAN

Defense could be Raiders’ strength

By Matthew Muench Staff Writer

Ty Hook wants to make every tackle for Ryan this season.

The senior defensive end wants to cause every fumble, slap every ball and sack every quarterback.

“I want to be in on every play,” he said.

“That’s the way I play.”

Hook has the ability to be in on a lot of plays for the Raiders this season. But he’ll have to fight to be in on all of them.

Ryan is loaded on defense as it enters the 2010 season after a stellar 2009 that saw the Raiders reach the Class 4A Division II Region I final.

“I say I want to be in on every play, but it’s going to be tough with the guys surrounding me,” Hook said. “All of us are going to be fighting to make the big plays.

We are all going to be fighting for that ball. This is not a one-man-show defense.”

He can say that again.

The Raiders’ 4-2-5 defense expects to be one of the best in Class 4A this season, and head coach Joey Florence said his defensive unit is comparable to those that helped Ryan take home state titles in 2001 and 2002.

“We won championships here because we had stars on defense,” Florence said.

“We feel like this year’s unit is really good and has the potential to be really great.

The talent is exciting.”

On a scale of one to 10, how good is this year’s defense?

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton “Potentially they can be a 10,” Florence said. “But they are not a 10 yet. Talent-wise Ryan’s Ty Hook plays defensive end on a unit that has the potential to be one of the best in the state. Hook posted 14 they are going to be as good as the defens- sacks and 117 tackles last season. es we had in the early 2000s. They are just Hook is still the leader on the line, — also are expected to be stars on defense. going to have to show hard work. But no though. doubt, we do have a good group of kids.”

“Our box is going to be hard to get by,” Quick facts Last year he led the Denton area with Hook said. “It is definitely our strong Check the roster.

District: 4-4A Leading the way on the defensive line 14 sacks and also tallied 117 tackles. point.”

2009 recor d: 12-2, 4A Div. II regional finalist are Hook and Mario Edwards, another Currently, Air Force, Wyoming and Trey Mohair and Sterling Fuggett will Coach: Joey Florence defensive end. Edwards, a junior, trans- Louisiana Tech have extended offers to be the leaders in the secondary.

(109-27 in 10 seasons) him.

He said he will decide by the third ferred from Prosper and is expected to be “The key for us is how we play in the R e t u r n i n g star ter s: Six on offense, eight week of the season where he will commit. back end,” Florence said. “But we have a blue-chip recruit. on defense Don’t be surprised if bigger schools also some good speed in our secondary.”

“He is as good as advertised,” Florence Offense: Spread said. “He has a ton of athletic ability. He extend Hook an offer soon.

Having a personality as a defensive Defense: 4-2-5 “Ty is a great player because he is tough team is new for Ryan, which in recent has the talent and he works hard.”

School enrollment: 1,870 Hook is looking forward to playing and physical,” Florence said. “He is a tire- years has been known for its high-scoring Stadium: C.H. Collins Athletic Complex less worker. He takes care of his body and offense. That’s fine with Hook. alongside Edwards.

Assistant coaches: David Thomas, Robert “I haven’t seen him in a game situation, he is one of the better players in the state.

“It’s kind of cool because they [the Butler, Eric Lokey, Matt Tittle, Matt Hudson, but what I have seen in practice has real- His work ethic is second to none.” offense] have had a lot of the attention Billy Miller, Eugene Rogers, Kris Slivocka, ly impressed me,” Hook said. “He is big Ryan’s linebackers — Jonny Paramore, Bret Warnack and Shane Montgomery and athletic and will help us.”

Alex De La Torre and Jordan Richmond See RYAN on 68

RAIDERS

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RYAN

RAIDERS Roster

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season TRUST KNIGHT Quarterback Nash Knight is filling the biggest shoes in the area this season. He has the tough task of replacing Scotty Young, who is now a redshirt freshman at Texas Tech. The Raiders’ offense must stand behind Knight and trust him. Knight may not be as big or strong as Young, but the kid can still sling it. He is a proven athlete who will play Division I baseball at Dallas Baptist next season.

RUN THE BALL

Ryan’s best offensive player heading into the season is Kaylon Alexander. The fleet-footed running back is expected to be a big part of the offense again. Ryan isn’t going to pass like it has the last two years under Young. So the Raiders must Alexander go with their strength on offense by letting Alexander grab a handoff or catch a pass out of the backfield.

DON’T WATCH THE POLLS Everyone likes polls and high school kids may not admit it, but they like to see where they are ranked. Ryan can’t worry about that. Some high school football gurus, project the Raiders to win the Class 4A Region I title this

season. It’s nice to hear, but Ryan needs to make sure rankings don’t hinder its performance on the field.

PLAY TO YOUR STRENGTHS Ryan’s biggest team strength is defense, especially in the box. If the Raiders can stay healthy they will have a good chance of slowing down a lot of good offenses.

Behind linemen Ty Hook and Mario Edwards, along with linebackers Jonny Paramore, Alex De La Torre and Jordan Richmond, the Raiders are shaping up to be one of the best defenses in Class 4A.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 23 Oct. 7 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29 Nov. 5

Opponent Time at Sulphur Springs 7:30 p.m.

Carrollton Newman Smith 7 p.m.

North Garland 7 p.m. at Mesquite 7:30 p.m. at Lake Dallas 7 p.m.

Wichita Falls Rider 7 p.m. at The Colony 7 p.m.

Denton 7 p.m. at Wichita Falls 7 p.m.

Little Elm 7 p.m.

Knight fully aware of task ahead of him

By Matthew Muench

Staff Writer

These days, Nash Knight can’t have a conversation without hearing the name Scotty Young.

It’s understandable, though.

Knight is Ryan’s new starting quarterback, replacing the recordsetting Young, who excelled for the Raiders for two seasons and now is at Texas Tech.

“Pretty much everyone I talk to asks about me replacing Scotty,” Knight said. “It is expected and I know it is going to be tough to replace him. But I am excited to be the guy who has the job.”

Ryan head coach Joey Florence has coached numerous talented quarterbacks during his 10 years at Ryan. He has no worries about Knight.

“Nash is going to step right in for us,” he said. “Yes, we are going to miss Scotty. But part of being a high school football coach is losing great players.”

Knight does not expect to put up

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Ryan quarterback Nash Knight looks to pass during a scrimmage against Grapevine. the flashy statistics that Young tallied his last two seasons.

He knows he won’t throw for as many yards, and he knows he won’t toss as many touchdowns.

But he does know he can do the job.

“Our offense is still going to put

up some big numbers this season,” he said. “We may have lost some good players, but we still have some guys who will step up.”

Stepping up is what Ryan players have done the last decade.

See KNIGHT on 68

No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 48 50 53 55 56 57 58 60 63 65 66 72 73 75 76 81 83 88 90 99

Name Kaylon Alexander Michael Cudd Hunter Wakefield Xaviere Scott Damon Medcafe Kamrun Bowen Trey Mohair Nash Knight Ty Hook Trey Cook Jonny Paramore Xavier Rose Daniel Martin LeDarian Sims Sam Johnson Dominic Thompson Mario Edwards Masinura Price Ron Turner Jordan Richmond Craig Moore Dominique Banks Jerrick Harvey Cedric Harris Corey Cox Sterling Fuggett Ed Martey Jacoby Lawson Devontae Myers Devante Traylor Marcus Holcomb O.T. Walker Alex De La Torre Matt Donahew Taylor Greer Emanuel Smith Dustin Scott Zach Brown Philip Cristales Jose Benitez Colten Gutierrez Jacob Reed Chris Velasco Zach Hopkins Gabe Lopez Luther Currin Aaron Workman Rodrick Jimmerson Favian Ramirez Blake Sprayberry Yusef Logan Matt Griffin Drew Ferguson Ronnie Crawford Tevin McCray Jackson Greenhaw Jordan Williams David Tryon Sam Benton Quincy Jones Travis Reynolds Rahjian Patterson

Ht. 6-1 5-11 5-8 5-8 6-5 6-0 5-10 5-11 6-1 6-1 5-11 5-11 6-2 5-11 6-4 5-10 6-4 6-1 5-8 6-2 5-9 6-3 5-10 5-10 5-9 6-2 5-8 5-7 5-8 5-8 5-9 5-10 6-2 5-10 5-8 5-11 5-10 5-8 5-8 5-10 5-9 5-11 6-1 6-2 5-10 5-10 6-0 5-10 5-10 5-8 5-11 6-3 6-2 5-11 6-4 6-1 6-3 6-0 5-9 6-1 5-10 5-6

Wt. 215 185 170 215 250 220 185 185 230 190 195 170 180 175 180 205 250 250 185 225 160 230 150 150 150 190 160 190 160 175 195 170 225 185 200 230 160 150 160 190 150 175 200 250 230 210 210 240 240 240 270 275 270 270 300 265 225 165 160 170 185 290

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

Pos. RB WR QB/WR LB/RB DT DT FS/WR QB DE WR/CB OLB DB QB/DB DB/WR WR WR DE DT DT LB WR DE DB/RB CB DB DB/WR DB RB DB LB LB/RB CB LB DE LB DL OLB DB Kicker DL Kicker Punter DL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL WR WR WR DL DL

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

31

FX

32

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

HIGH SCHOOLS

Trinity, Lake Travis sit atop preseason polls

By Schuyler Dixon

Associated Press

The defending Class 5A champions fill the top two spots in The Associated Press preseason Texas high school football poll for the second straight year.

Abilene coach Steve Warren, whose team is No. 2, says that should happen every year.

“I think until somebody defeats the defending champs, that’s where they should be — 1 and 2,” Warren said. “I think that’s the way I’ve kind of looked at it every year.”

Euless Trinity is No. 1 after winning the 5A Division I championship a year ago. It was the third title in five seasons for the Trojans, and they are bringing back the receiver who caught the title-winning pass in overtime and a potential star running back who missed most of last season with a knee injury.

Like last year, when Katy and Allen topped the poll, the margin is close.

Trinity earned 15 first-place votes and 235 points while Abilene had the other 10

first-place votes and 231 points.

The voting panel includes 25 Texas media members who cover high school football.

Trinity considered moving receiver Brandon Carter to quarterback after his title-game heroics last year, but he will still catch passes and return kicks.

The other top teams this year are threetime defending champion Lake Travis in 4A, Brownwood in 3A, Daingerfield in 2A and Goldthwaite in 1A. Daingerfield has won back-to-back titles.

Lake Travis has a new coach in Hank Carter after Chad Morris left to become an assistant at Tulsa. Morris inherited a state champion and won a pair of titles in his only two seasons.

Ryan checks in at No. 5 in the 4A poll, behind Aledo, Brenham and Stephenville.

Brownwood is looking for its eighth title and first since 1981 with receiver Jaxon Shipley leading the way. Shipley is the younger brother of former Texas receiver Jordan Shipley, who’s now with the Cincinnati Bengals.

AP PRESEASON STATE POLLS CLASS 5A School 1. Euless Trinity (15) 2. Abilene (10) 3. Katy 4. Austin Westlake 5. RR Stony Point 6. Cedar Hill 7. Katy Cinco Ranch 8. Allen 9. Beaumont West Brook 10. GP North Shore

2009 14-2 15-0 14-2 13-3 13-2 12-1 13-2 10-2 9-4 8-4

CLASS 3A Pts 235 231 182 150 117 89 87 85 48 36

Pr v 2 6 7 3 9 1 — 5 — —

School 1. Brownwood (9) 2. Lovejoy (6) 3. Carthage (5) 4. Cuero (3) 5. Prosper 6. Celina 7. Gilmer (2) 8. Abilene Wylie 9. Sealy 10. Giddings

Pts 239 223 187 134 127 124 79 70 55 33

Pr v 1 6 — — 7 10 — — 4 —

School 2009 1. Daingerfield (20) 15-1 2. Refugio (4) 14-1 3. Newton (1) 12-2 4. Littlefield 10-2 5. Arp 12-1 6. Tatum 6-5 7. Bushland 15-1 8. Godley 12-1 9. New London West Rusk 8-3 10. Altair Rice 10-2

CLASS 4A School 1. Lake Travis (23) 2. Aledo (2) 3. Brenham 4. Stephenville 5. Ryan 6. Angleton 7. Tyler John Tyler 8. Kerrville Tivy 9. Highland Park 10. Smithson Valley

2009 16-0 15-1 13-3 9-3 12-2 11-2 12-2 9-5 11-2 6-4

2009 10-3 12-2 16-0 13-1 11-2 7-5 15-0 12-2 11-1 9-2

Pts 217 214 194 174 73 71 70 65 63 60

Pr v — — 2 3 8 — 1 8 5 7

Pts 245 173 172 135 106 83 77 64 59 46

Pr v 3 5 10 — 1 — 2 8 — 9

CLASS 2A

Sam Pack’s

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

33

DENTON

Broncos see potential for progress

By Todd Jorgenson Sports Editor

Perhaps Dentton Hudspeth was born to play quarterback for Denton High School. After all, he was named after the city in which he has lived his whole life.

He’s at least been expected to become the starting quarterback for the Broncos for the past couple of seasons, including last fall, when he was the backup signal caller while serving as a starting outside linebacker on the Denton defense.

This season, Hudspeth gets his opportunity to move into the spotlight full time as the starter under center. It’s a role that has his name on it.

“I used to be made fun of all the time, but now I just laugh it off,” Hudspeth said about his unusual moniker. “It’s a source of pride.”

Broncos head coach Randy Patzkowski said Hudspeth, a junior, has the physical tools and the mental toughness to take the reins for Denton.

“So far he’s been really good,” said Patzkowski, who is entering his sixth season at Denton. “He’s a very smart kid and he’s very football-savvy.”

The Broncos hope Hudspeth will be the leader who helps spur a resurgence in a program that has won just two games in the past three seasons combined, including a 1-9 mark in 2009.

The junior will take the place of Hunter Dozier, who racked up some impressive individual statistics during his two seasons as the starter. Dozier threw for 1,865 yards and nine touchdowns last season while averaging almost 30 attempts per game.

Patzkowski said Denton will transition away from the spread offense it used with Dozier at the helm toward a more traditional run-based approach. He said the decision is simply a matter of playing to the strengths of the roster.

The Broncos lost their top six receivers from a year ago. Four of them graduated and two others transferred, including leading receiver Josh McClure, who is now at Victoria East.

But in the backfield, Denton is more experienced. Denzel King returns for his senior season after being injured for portions of the past two years.

He will be joined by Jerome Emory, who showed promise last year as a sophomore before blowing out his knee against Fort Worth Western Hills, and senior

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Denton quarterback Dentton Hudspeth will move into the spotlight this season when he takes over as the Broncos’ starting quarterback. Hudspeth is hoping to lead Denton to a breakout season.

Darren Smith, who played at the junior varsity level a year ago.

“We have three great backs,” Hudspeth said. “It’s gonna help me a lot because I can get comfortable. When I get comfortable, the offense starts to click.”

King is the running back with more breakaway speed, while Emory is strong and elusive. All three backs likely will split carries early in the season.

“We really shifted gears and decided we were gonna do things differently,” Patzkowski said. “It’s a matter of adapting to our personnel.”

The coach hopes it also is beneficial to Hudspeth, allowing him to deflect some of the pressure early in the season in order

to gain confidence along with experience.

“I think he’s gonna develop into being a really fine quarterback for us,” Patzkowski said. “We’re not asking him to carry the load.

We’re asking him to manage the game.”

Hudspeth originally was supposed to spend his sophomore season as the starting junior varsity quarterback for Denton.

But he wound up as a varsity linebacker and safety because of his athletic ability and a lack of depth for the Broncos.

He took only a handful of snaps in mop-up duty, completing 1 of 4 passes.

But Patzkowski said the experience still was helpful for his quarterback.

See DENTON on 72

BRONCOS Quick facts District: 4-4A 2009 recor d: 1-9 Coach: Randy Patzkowski (7-43 in five seasons) Returning star ter s: Six on offense, five on defense Offense: Spread Defense: Multiple School enrollment: 1,612 Stadium: Bronco Field Assistant coaches: Bill Watkins, Richard Lay, Keith Hall, Todd Ward, Mark Behning, Reginald Seastrunk, Steve Love, Branden Melson, Jack Johnson, Ken Enslow, Pete Hilborn, K.C. Carmona and Glen Harrison

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Good Luck This Season!

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36

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

DENTON

BRONCOS Roster

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season WIN EARLY

PLAY SMART

It is no secret that Denton has struggled during the last four seasons. A lot of that has to do with confidence.

And that all starts in the nondistrict season. If the Broncos can build some momentum early with two or maybe three wins, they could surprise some people with a few wins in District 4-4A.

It may sound like a cliché, but Denton has to take better care of the football. Turnovers have been the Broncos’ downfall during their long skid. If quarterback Dentton Hudspeth can play smart and keep the chains moving, Denton will be able to work the clock and slow the game down.

RUN THE BALL

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF

Hunter Dozier is gone, which means his arm is gone. All four of Denton’s starting receivers from last year have also departed. Bottom line is Denton needs to win with its strength — running backs Denzel King and Jerome Emory. King has the speed and Emory has the size to make plays for the Broncos.

The attitude at Denton has to change from the players’ perspective if the Broncos are to break through for a winning season. If the football team is to follow the paths of Denton’s volleyball, boys basketball and girls soccer teams (each of which overachieved last year and made the playoffs), the Broncos must win a few games and gain momentum with a group of young players trying to gain varsity experience.

King

Denton adjusts to new coordinators

By Todd Jorgenson

Sports Editor

When the right-hand man in Denton head coach Randy Patzkowski’s offensive coaching staff left following last season, he didn’t need to search far to find a replacement.

Richard Lay, who was the offensive line coach for the Broncos, was promoted to replace Patzkowski Cory Campbell, who had been the coordinator in Denton’s spread scheme for Patzkowski’s first five seasons at the school. Campbell left to become an Lay assistant coach at Lake Highlands.

So far, Lay has turned out to be the perfect fit. He has been in coaching for almost four decades at the college and high school levels, as both an assistant and head coach.

That diverse resume proved valuable when Patzkowski was looking for someone to help transition to a new offense that would better suit new Broncos quarterback Dentton Hudspeth.

“He’s a very old-school throwback type,” Patzkowski said. “It probably

“He’s a very old-school throwback type. It probably couldn’t have worked out any better for Dentton and our offensive scheme.”

— Denton head coach Randy Patzkowski on the promotion of Richard Lay to offensive coordinator

couldn’t have worked out any better for Dentton and our offensive scheme.”

Lay has helped the Broncos install a more traditional run-based offense designed to ease Hudspeth into the starting quarterback role after he spent last season primarily playing as an outside linebacker.

It also will allow Denton to feature its stable of three running backs, including three-year varsity starter Denzel King. He is expected to share carries with junior Jerome Emory and senior Darren Smith as the season opens.

Patzkowski said the transition among coordinators has been seamless. He and Lay will share the playcalling duties this season.

“He really helps me see what he sees on the football field,” Hudspeth said of Lay. “He gives the details to me.”

On defense, Patzkowski hopes new coordinator Keith Hall can help improve a unit that allowed 48 points or more in five games last season.

Hall was the head coach at Vernon for the past seven years, where he led the Lions to the Class 3A Division II regional finals in 2006 and 2007.

“He’s a guy who knows defense and has that experience,” Patzkowski said. “He’s very organized and thorough, and he’s as hard a worker as we have on our staff. The players feed off of that.”

The new coaching staff is confident about the potential for improvement in a roster that has 11 returning starters and more experience across the board. Only seven of Denton’s 20 seniors have varsity experience, but the Broncos have a strong junior class.

“Very possibly this could be a year when we start breaking some ground,” said Patzkowski, whose team finished 1-9 last season. “We’re gonna be better than we were last year.”

TODD JORGENSON can be reached at 940-566-6871. His email address is tjorgenson@dentonrc.com.

No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 33 42 43 45 50 55 64 65 66 67 68 72 73 75 77 78 81 88

Name Darren Smith Manny Mendoza Kameron Sneed Julian Howard Jacarian Jordan Ruperto Guttierz Dentton Hudspeth Carlos Fleury Nick Carrell Raylon Sims Cy Ward Denzel King Joey Ayers Isaac Johnson Ezekiel Johnson Jerome Emory Gabe Castro Jamar Franklin Marcos Morales Andrew Villegas Luis Vega Clayton Hubbard Gevontae Maple Wyatt Braden Matthew Perry Tresphord Chintankwa Corbin Rodriguez Miguel Perez Chris Clark Michael Husbands Alex Moreno-Pena Jose Jimenez Nick Behning Russ Atkins Gage Hoadley Alex Howell Henry Davis Andres Pizana Manny Valadez Eduardo Ibarra Alex Martin Denzal Hughes John Tinsley Carl Whitmore Dan Tinsley

Class Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Dallas Woodrow Wilson Aug. 27 Sept. 3 at Carrollton R.L. Turner at McKinney North Sept. 9 Sept. 17 Fort Worth Brewer Oct. 1 Wichita Falls* Oct. 8 at Little Elm Oct. 15 Lake Dallas* Oct. 22 at Ryan Oct. 29 Wichita Falls Rider Nov. 5 at The Colony * — at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex

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Be sure to check out the Denton Record-Chronicle each week for briefs and recaps of all the high school athletic teams.

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

41

LAKE DALLAS

Williams moves from receiver to QB

By Adam Boedeker Staff Writer

Dalyn Williams is preparing to be thrust into the spotlight as a first-year starting varsity quarterback.

But the Lake Dallas junior is no varsity newcomer.

As a sophomore last season, Williams broke through at wide receiver, catching passes from former Falcon quarterback James Franklin, who’s now a freshman at Missouri. He caught 38 balls for 613 yards and six touchdowns, while completing 13 of 15 passes for 117 yards in mop-up duty at quarterback.

That varsity experience from 2009 is what Williams said will make his starting quarterback debut not that big of a deal.

“I think it helped a lot actually because I learned a lot,” Williams said of about last season. “The speed of the game is a lot different. Being at receiver helped me anticipate coverages. If I’m running my route, I might see the [defensive back] is doing this, and I can actually react off him better. I can think like a receiver now so I can expect the unexpected at that position, because it’s something I’ve done before.”

Williams has some big shoes to fill, as Franklin was arguably the most decorated offensive player to come out of Lake Dallas while starting under center for the past two seasons.

But everyone involved with the Lake Dallas program believes Williams will have a seamless transition from receiver to the Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton most pressure-packed position on the field.

“Oh yes, I think he’s gonna surprise Lake Dallas junior Dalyn Williams switches from catching passes to throwing them, as the former wide receiver moves some people,” said junior receiver over to replace current Missouri freshman James Franklin as the Falcons’ starting quarterback.

Dontonio Jordan. “Him and James are basically the same, but Dalyn is more elu- lot of work,” Young said. “That really helps he said the group is coming along. sive than James. He brings the same quarterbacks. We saw him get better and “It’s a little different,” Young said.

Quick facts things to the table that James did.” better through the summer. We knew he “We’ve had linemen that are big and District: 4-4A Williams is also the starting shortstop wasn’t going to be around for spring foot- mobile, but these guys aren’t as mobile as 2009 recor d: 10-2, 4A Division II area finalist for the Lake Dallas baseball team, which ball. ... He just gets better every day here, what we’re used to. You have to change Coach: Michael Young advanced two rounds deep into the play- though. He’s the kid that likes to be here some stuff you do when those guys aren’t (43-15 in five seasons) offs this spring, causing him to miss the early and late working. He’s smart and as fast as what we’ve had in the past. But Returning star ter s: Four on offense, four Falcons’ spring drills. understands defenses.” they’re real big and strong.” on defense That could be a concern for many, as Williams does not have a wealth of That affects Lake Dallas’ senior runOffense: Spread Williams was not able to participate in his experience back with him, as only four ning back Tyler Waller, one of those four Defense: Multiple first set of true practices as a starting quar- offensive starters return from last year’s returning starters.

School enrollment: 1,176 terback, but Lake Dallas coach Michael explosive unit. Perhaps most importantly, Waller suffered a torn knee ligament in Stadium: Falcon Stadium Young said Williams’ time this summer in he only has one offensive lineman coming the fourth quarter of Lake Dallas’ firstAssistant coaches: Jeremy Males, Scott 7-on-7 competition helped establish chem- back from last year’s group in center round playoff win over Birdville, but on Sander, Darrell Dennis, Thomas Hare, istry and timing with his receivers, all of Jordan Brazzel. the season he rushed for 948 yards on 113 Nathan Davis, John Ullrich, Ronnie Smith, which are new except for Jordan.

Young’s biggest question mark heading Chris Hill, Rocky Jones and Dugan Walker “The summer 7-on-7 was a time to get a into this season is that offensive line, but See LAKE DALLAS on 69

FALCONS

42

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

Lake Dallas High School – Go Falcons!

Lake Dallas Falcons 2010 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Fri., Aug. 27 Fri., Sept. 3 Fri., Sept. 10 Fri., Sept. 17 Thurs., Sept. 23 Fri., Oct. 1 Fri., Oct. 8 Fri., Oct. 15 Fri., Oct. 22 Fri., Oct. 29

Richardson Pearce Red Oak at Arlington Sam Houston at Sherman x-Ryan x-at Wichita Falls Rider x-The Colony x-at Denton x-Wichita Falls x-at Little Elm

Time

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

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x – District 4-4A game

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

43

LAKE DALLAS

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season KEEP MAKING BIG PLAYS

In the past few seasons, Lake Dallas has made a living making big plays and scoring touchdowns in a hurry. With speedsters such as Alvin Blackmon, Joey Knight and Tyler McGee before him, the Falcons will look to Dontonio Jordan to be the big-play, go-to receiver in the Falcons’ quick-strike spread attack.

PROTECT THE QUARTERBACK With only one offensive line starter returning from last season, the Falcons’ starting five is big and strong, but lacks the mobility of previous units and the Falcons will have to adjust their offense to the new style of blocking, which should not be a big problem.

FIND SOME DEPTH Head coach Michael Young is a big fan of his starting defensive front four with Patrick Alonzo back as the only returning starter. But the concern for Young Young is the depth on the defensive line. Last year, the Falcons were

nine deep and could rotate in fresh legs at their discretion. That doesn’t appear to be the case this season.

LOCK DOWN OPPONENTS One of the unquestioned strengths of the Falcons is their secondary. Safety Ferrando Joseph returns and is joined at safety by Denton transfer Daveon Parrish. The Falcons also have one of the biggest cornerbacks in the area in 6-3, 185-pound Travis Simon, leading Young to praise the group’s athleticism.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 23 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

Opponent Richardson Pearce Red Oak at Arlington Sam Houston at Sherman Ryan at Wichita Falls Rider The Colony at Denton Wichita Falls at Little Elm

Time 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

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FALCONS Roster No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 19 20 21 22 23 24 27 32 36

Name Pos. Ht. Wt.Class Michael Jurcak WR 5-9 155 Jr. Daveon Parrish DB 6-1 175 Jr. Tre Dickerson RB 5-11 160 Jr. Keenan Benson DB 5-10 160 Jr. Logan Waller LB 5-11 190 Sr. Brian Fonville WR 5-9 165 Sr. Matt Fiala DB 5-10 170 Sr. Alex Hamilton DL 6-1 230 Sr. Jarrett Cheadle WR 6-1 175 Jr. Dalyn Williams QB 6-0 185 Jr. Tyler Vance WR 6-1 180 Jr. Marshall Dominy QB 6-0 175 So. Tim Drozd DB 5-9 165 Jr. Ryan Vaught TE 6-1 200 Sr. Brandon Womack K 5-10 155 Jr. Brandon Dillie LB 5-10 180 Sr. Kody Wade DB 5-9 180 Sr. Tyler Waller RB 5-7 170 Sr. Aran Farrell WR 6-2 180 Sr. Dontonio Jordan WR 5-11 185 Jr. Charles Gowans DB 5-11 185 Jr. Ferrando Joseph DB 5-10 180 Jr. John Parson LB 5-11 195 Jr. Jacob Jones LB 5-9 165 So.

No. 37 40 43 44 48 55 58 60 61 62 64 66 67 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 84 85

Name Pos. Travis Simon DB Daltyn Marchuk LB Vinnie DePiazza DB Kyle Brewer DL Za’chary Clark DL Zach Rosser DL Justin Howse LB Chris Woodmansee DL Luke Medlicott DL Patrick Alonzo DL Lee Vinton DL Sam Baird OL Adam Garcia DL Jordan Brazzel OL Paul Farris OL Darrell West OL William Stinson OL John Laubacher OL Brandon Charles OL Andrew Gresham OL Nick Crumholt OL William Medlicott OL Colton Lively TE Gunnar Sanchez DL

Ht. 6-3 5-10 5-9 6-2 6-0 6-0 5-8 5-10 6-1 5-10 5-8 6-1 6-1 5-9 5-7 5-10 6-0 6-4 6-3 6-3 6-0 6-2 6-0 5-11

Wt.Class 185 Sr. 180 Jr. 165 Sr. 210 Sr. 215 Jr. 240 Sr. 170 Jr. 220 Jr. 205 So. 270 Sr. 210 Sr. 220 Jr. 200 Sr. 240 Sr. 230 Sr. 260 Sr. 305 Sr. 315 So. 285 Jr. 315 Sr. 190 Sr. 240 Jr. 215 So. 195 Jr.

http://drchighschoolblog.dentonrc.com

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44

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

PRESEASON ALL-AREA TEAM: OFFENSE QB Dane Evans, Sanger, Jr.

OL Will Allen, Pilot Point, Jr.

Evans led all Class 3A quarterbacks in the Dallas-Fort Worth area with 2,389 passing yards during a breakout sophomore campaign. He threw for 21 touchdowns with only seven interceptions, and was last year’s offensive newcomer of the year in 9-3A.

The offensive line was a major reason why Pilot Point rolled to an undefeated season and won the Class 2A state title last year. Allen was a first-team all-district choice at center, and returns as one of the more experienced members of the Bearcats’ offense this year.

RB Kaylon Alexander, Ryan, Sr.

OL Henry Davis, Denton, Jr.

After thriving last season behind the potent Ryan passing attack, Alexander should take on a more prominent role in the offense this season. He’s coming off a junior year in which he rushed for 957 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning first-team all-district honors.

Davis made an impression as a sophomore and looks to become one of the keys to a Denton resurgence this season. After earning second-team all-district honors in 2009, he is part of an experienced offensive line in front of new quarterback Dentton Hudspeth.

RB Tyler Waller, Lake Dallas, Sr.

OL Boone Feldt, Pilot Point, Jr.

Waller had 948 rushing yards and six touchdowns and was voted as a firstteam all-district selection in 5-4A during the 2009 season before tearing a knee ligament in Lake Dallas’ playoff win over Birdville, a game in which he rushed for 155 yards.

With his brother Cam graduated and headed to Arkansas, Feldt becomes the anchor of the offensive line for the Bearcats as they transition to Class 3A this season. He will be responsible for protecting the backfield for last year’s 2A Division I state champions.

RB Treavon Walton, Guyer, Sr.

OL John Ferguson, Guyer, Jr.

Walton should have a breakout season following the departure of Jaimaine Wilhite from the Guyer backfield. After a broken arm ended his season before Guyer’s playoff run a year ago, he has bulked up to 6-1 and 190 pounds and should be the go-to ball carrier.

Ferguson (6-4, 240) is drawing praise from Guyer’s coaching staff though he has yet to start a varsity game. He helps fill a void from last year’s line, which lost three of its five starters, and he has big shoes to fill replacing Stanford freshman Cole Underwood.

WR Michael Cudd, Ryan, Sr.

His 940 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns would be enough to lead many teams, but ranked third among receivers in Ryan’s high-octane offense in 2009. Look’s for Cudd’s big-play ability to have more of an impact working with new quarterback Nash Knight.

WR Quint Gardener, Guyer, Sr.

Gardener posted 616 receiving yards and five touchdowns last season.

He was a key contributor during the Wildcats’ run to the Class 4A state semifinals last year, and made a strong impression on college scouts at the Nike 7On tournament this summer in Oregon.

OL Alec Willis, Guyer, Sr.

Player of the Year: J.W. Walsh, QB, Guyer In two seasons as Guyer’s starting quarterback, Walsh is 21-3, having started just eight games in 2008 due to injury. His three losses came in two Class 4A Division I state semifinal games to Longview, and to Ryan last year in the regular-season finale. Now Walsh is a senior and is poised to have his best statistical season yet while hoping to help break the Wildcats into Class 5A on a successful note. Walsh had a superb season in 2009, throwing for 2,599 yards with 27 touchdowns and just six interceptions. He also rushed for 1,554 yards and 22 touchdowns, earning him the status as the fourth-ranked dual-threat quarterback in the country by recruiting website Rivals.com. The Oklahoma State commit honed his skills this summer at the ESPN Rise Elite 11 camp. The senior signal caller also led his Guyer 7-on-7 squad to the final of the Nike 7On tournament in Beaverton, Ore., where it lost in double overtime to perennial powerhouse Miami Northwestern.

Willis used his athleticism to emerge last season as the Wildcats made a run to the Class 4A state semifinals. He has added some muscle during the offseason and should become a line leader for Guyer after receiving second-team all-district honors in 5-4A last year.

K Chad Hedlund, Argyle, Sr. Hedlund converted 14 of 20 field-goal attempts last season, including a seasonlong 50-yard boot that helped to defeat powerhouse Prosper, and made 53 of 56 extra points. The TCU commit also had 19 touchbacks and was voted as a first-team allstate 3A kicker.

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

45

PRESEASON ALL-AREA TEAM: DEFENSE DL Jimmy Bean, Guyer, Sr.

LB Jordan Richmond, Ryan, Sr.

Taylor Bible and Robert Satterfield might be gone, but Bean looks to uphold the strong performance of the Guyer defensive line.

The Oklahoma State commit posted 60 tackles, seven sacks, 23 quarterback hurries and blocked two kicks last season for the Wildcats.

Along with De La Torre and Paramore, Richmond could round out one of the strongest linebacker corps for any Class 4A team in the state. After recovering from a shoulder injury, Richmond’s experience is expected to be a valuable asset for the Ryan defense.

DL Mario Edwards, Ryan, Jr.

LB Jake Smith, Guyer, Sr.

Edwards (6-4, 250), a blue-chip recruit, will be one of the focal points of the elite Ryan defense after transferring from Class 3A Prosper, where he was an honorable mention all-state choice following a season in which he accumulated 57 tackles and three sacks.

His experience will be key in the front seven this year for the Wildcats after a season in which Smith was a second-team all-district choice. The UT-San Antonio commit collected 93 tackles and had a return touchdown for Guyer during the 2009 campaign.

DB Storm Griffin, Argyle, Jr.

DL Blake Terry, Guyer, Sr. After a standout season at middle linebacker, Terry will move to defensive end this season to help the Wildcats add depth up front. Last season, the Kentucky commit had 135 tackles, three sacks and two forced fumbles to earn first-team all-district honors.

Griffin was an honorable mention all-state selection in Class 3A last season, when he accumulated 85 tackles as a member of the stout Argyle defensive unit that helped lead the Eagles to a perfect regular season. He is one of the top returnees for Argyle.

LB Trent Cantrell, Argyle, Sr.

DB Ferrando Joseph, L. Dallas, Jr.

Cantrell is one of the few returnees from a stout Argyle defense that led the Eagles to an unbeaten regular season a year ago.

He had 110 tackles and will be counted on to help replace the loss of fellow linebackers Blake Dunham and Murphy Ellis to graduation.

Emerged as one of the top defensive playmakers in District 5-4A as a sophomore last year, when he recorded 45 tackles and a team-high four interceptions. This season, the secondary is expected to be one of the strongest in recent years for the Falcons.

LB Alex De La Torre, Ryan, Jr. De La Torre emerged as one of the top linebackers in the area as a sophomore, leading the Ryan defense with a monstrous 156 tackles, including 25 for loss. He added nine sacks and two forced fumbles and made the first-team all-district defense in 5-4A.

LB Jonny Paramore, Ryan, Sr. Another in the stable of excellent Ryan linebackers, Paramore is coming off a junior year in which he tallied 121 tackles, including 12 for loss, plus two sacks and three forced fumbles. He is also one of the more versatile players on defense for the Raiders.

DB Josh Stewart, Guyer, Sr.

Player of the Year: Ty Hook, DE, Ryan The senior defensive end is at the top of a defense that could arguably be the best in Class 4A this season. Hook (6-1, 270) was a pest for opposing quarterbacks and running backs during his junior campaign in 2009 as he helped lead Ryan to a share of the District 5-4A title. He has great speed for a player his size, including a 40-yard dash time of 4.38 seconds. He posted an area-high 14 sacks and tallied 117 tackles last year. He is expected to be a huge threat on the line again alongside transfer Mario Edwards and in front of top-tier linebackers Alex De La Torre, Jonny Paramore and Jordan Richmond. Hook already has scholarship offers from Wyoming, Louisiana Tech and Air Force.

Don’t be surprised if schools from bigger conferences start knocking on Hook’s door. Oklahoma, Texas A&M and Oklahoma State are a few of the big schools who have shown interest in the senior.

Stewart has turned into a monster in the Guyer secondary, where he posted 53 tackles, 13 pass breakups and five interceptions a year ago. The Texas A&M commit blocked two kicks and returned an interception for a touchdown during a playoff win over Ryan.

Util. Justin Griffin, Aubrey, Sr. Griffin is back on both sides of the ball after missing part of last season with an injury.

He still led Aubrey into the playoffs with 1,083 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns.

He might be even better on defense, where Griffin posted 54 tackles and had four interceptions as a safety.

46

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

47

ARGYLE

Key junior tandem returns for Argyle

By Adam Boedeker Staff Writer

Austin Aune entered last season at Argyle looking to split time at quarterback as a sophomore.

Adam Khan started last season as a junior varsity wide receiver.

And though their paths were slightly different last season, they both went from part-timers to full-time starters at the varsity level and helped lead the Eagles to the third round of the Class 3A Division II playoffs.

Aune was seemingly thrown to the wolves last season, making his first career start in the Eagles’ District 9-3A opener against defending state champion Prosper. He led Argyle to a 17-14 win to begin an unbeaten run in district play for the Eagles’ first outright district championship in Class 3A. Khan was moved up to varsity midway through the season and was promoted to a starting receiver job for the postseason.

“It was a big change last year, but I got some time to really get used to it [varsity football] in the playoffs, and I think mainly what helped me change and get better so quickly was our team was so good it helped me to practice with them,” Khan said.

Khan and Aune have known each other for some time, as both moved to Argyle in eighth grade from Coppell, and Aune said it was nice to see Khan’s path be similar to his in 2009.

“There’s a comfort level there [between Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton Aune and Khan], but his position is our main receiver,” Aune said of Khan. “I real- Argyle quarterback Austin Aune made his first career start last season against defending state champion Prosper. The ly think all of our receivers are very good, Eagles’ victory in that game kicked off a perfect run through District 9-3A. though. We’ve got one returning guy [Justin Hommel], but I think we might time and make sure he spent some time the starting quarterback before becoming be better than last year.” on football in the off-season,” Argyle head primarily a kicker, is now exclusively a Quick facts Aune, who also stars on Argyle’s baseball coach Todd Rodgers said. “And as a result, kicker and landed a scholarship to TCU. District: 9-3A team, completed 109 of 198 pass attempts he did some football in the spring and Now Aune said he has Drew Davis for 2009 recor d: 12-1, 3A Div. II regional finalist last season and threw for 1,308 yards with attended several camps to work on his motivation. Davis is also a junior quarterCoach: Todd Rodgers an efficient 15 touchdowns offset by just skills and worked alongside with baseball back and helps push Aune in practice.

(62-25, seven seasons) five interceptions. He let the Eagles’ stout and married the two together.

“I’ve gotta go to practice trying to get betR e t u r n i n g star ter s: Four on offense, three defense from last season shoulder the load “He was very committed to improving ter every day,” Aune said. “I can’t just be lazy on defense of a sophomore quarterback being broken himself between last season and this sea- because I’m the starting quarterback. I Offense: Spread in to being a full-time varsity starter. son. I think it’s paid dividends. He’s in very have to work hard every day. I do have a Defense: 3-4 This season, Aune might not have that good shape. His arm is strong and his mind backup, and if I start playing bad or not School enrollment: 611 luxury. Argyle graduated many of its star is right, and he’s an amazing athlete.” showing up for practice, they’re gonna put Stadium: Eagle Stadium defenders from a year ago and returns just Even though Aune is entering this sea- him [Davis] in. I still have to look at it as Assistant coaches: Jeff Harp, Greg three defensive starters. But at the same son entrenched as the starting quarter- though I do have competition.”

Mouser, Bryan Beene, Ricky Griffin, Steve time, he might not need that luxury either. back, he is approaching the season as if With just one returning starter on the Chancelor, Tommy Ledford, Marc Koke, Jay “I think Austin made a decision after he’s fighting for a job.

McCook, Jake Fischer and Aaron Dodson last season that he would reallocate his Chad Hedlund, who started last year as See ARGYLE on 69

EAGLES

48

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

Argyle High School – Go Eagles!

Argyle Eagles 2010 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Fri., Aug. 27 Fri., Sept. 3 Fri., Sept. 10 Fri., Sept. 17 Fri., Sept. 24 Fri., Oct. 8 Fri., Oct. 15 Fri., Oct. 22 Fri., Oct. 29 Fri., Nov. 5

Lovejoy at Mineral Wells at TCA-Addison Burkburnett at Prosper x-Aubrey x-at Whitesboro x-Gainesville x-Pilot Point x-at Sanger

Time

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

x – District 9-3A game

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

49

ARGYLE

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season PROTECT THE QUARTERBACK The Eagles have plenty of potential on the offensive line, but with just one returning starter, head coach Todd Rodgers is waiting for some of that potential to be realized up front in helping to protect quarterback Austin Aune. The junior quarterback can run when called upon but is more comfortable handing the ball off or staying in the pocket looking for receivers.

IDENTIFY NEW STANDOUTS

Argyle returns just three starters on the defensive side of the ball, but Rodgers still believes the Eagles’ identity will be its defense. While safety Storm Griffin and linebacker Trent Cantrell highlight the returning starters, there is plenty of experience on the unit even though most of the players have never started a varsity game.

TRUST A SENIOR FOOT

Chad Hedlund will have a huge impact on his team at kicker. The TCU commit surrendered the starting quarterback gig to Aune last year but never batted an eye as he went on to help Argyle go deep into the playoffs with his booming leg. He controlled

field position for the Eagles’ defense and was a security blanket for a young quarterback, which will still be the case this season.

GET OFF TO A STRONG START The Eagles will get a lot from a successful nondistrict performance. They start the season against top-ranked Lovejoy and a win there would send confidence surging through the youthful, inexperienced squad.

A poor performance could cripple the Eagles for a couple of weeks. The odds-on favorite to win District 9-3A, Argyle could use a hot start to propel it into district play.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29 Nov. 5

Opponent Lovejoy at Mineral Wells at TCA-Addison Burkburnett at Prosper Aubrey at Whitesboro Gainesville Pilot Point at Sanger

Time 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

EAGLES Roster No. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 17 19 20 21 22 23 25 27 28 30 32 33 35 36 40

Name Austin Aune Chadd Bossow Storm Griffin Patrick Vickery Adam Khan Drew Davis Christian Pucciarello Will Forrer Dillon Harp Will DeSpain Chad Hedlund Jackson Durham Justin Hommel Matt Ryon Ian Sadler Tyler Eveleth Antonio Griffin Layton Lowry Reese Thompson Hunter Malcuit Wood Speed Trevor Kuketz Omero Reyna Kyle Thompson Jimmy Manos Sam Davidson Jay Gonzales Nick Chrestopoulos

Pos. Class QB Jr. TE Jr. DB Sr. DB Sr. WR Jr. QB Jr. DB Jr. WR Jr. TE So. WR Jr. K Sr. DB Sr. WR Sr. DB Jr. QB Fr. RB Jr. LB Sr. RB Sr. WR Fr. DB Sr. LB So. RB Sr. DL Sr. DB Sr. K So. LB Sr. DL Jr. RB Sr.

No. 41 42 43 44 45 46 48 52 53 54 55 56 58 61 62 64 65 66 70 72 73 74 75 76 77 79 81 83

Name Sam Sizelove Clayton Cullen Carston Bossow Tucker Ray Seth Jones Cody Smith Mason Clark Hayden Muns Trent Cantrell James Forrest Jeremy Holcombe Harrison Hood Staton DeShazo Ryan Bowe Alex Hartmann Zach Rogers Tyler Luce Mitchell Bateman Tanner Fought Jordan Deagen Dylan Taylor Willis Stirman Clint Merka Travis Wright Trey Keenan Thomas Ledbetter Jaxson Taylor Matson Kane

Pos. Class LB Fr. LB Jr. LB Jr. LB Jr. TE So. TE Sr. LB Jr. OL Jr. LB Sr. DL Sr. OL Sr. OL Sr. DL Jr. OL Jr. OL Jr. OL Jr. DL Jr. OL Sr. OL So. OL So. DL Sr. DL Jr. OL Jr. OL Sr. OL Jr. OL Sr. WR Sr. WR Jr.

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50

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

AUBREY

Moore trying to build around Griffin

By Matthew Muench Staff Writer

Some may think life for G.A. Moore is a little easier these days compared with last year, when he came out of retirement to coach at Aubrey.

Don’t tell that to Moore.

Even though the all-time winningest high school coach in Texas has one year under his belt at the helm of the Chaparrals, the veteran coach said his job could be more difficult this season than it was last year.

“We are right back where we were a year ago,” he said. “We have a lot of holes to fill just like last year. Last year we were fortunate to have some guys step up. We hope that happens again.”

He doesn’t have to worry about filling holes at running back or strong safety.

Moore has Justin Griffin.

“There are not many players in this country who are like Griffin,” Moore said.

“He is a good one and one of the best strong safeties I’ve ever seen. He just plays smart. He really makes the defense go.”

Griffin, however, does not like the hype.

He would rather show off his skills on the field rather than in print this season while he starts at running back and strong safety for the Chaps.

“It is nice to hear people say nice things about me,” he said. “But I am not trying to listen to that. I want to just prove that on the field and let my play speak for itself.”

He will be counted on with a roster that Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton lost numerous seniors from last year’s playoff team, which went to the regional Aubrey running back Justin Griffin also is a standout at strong safety. The senior says he is more concerned about playsemifinals. ing well than earning accolades.

“We know Justin can play, and we don’t have to worry about that,” Moore said.

Aubrey is moving up to Class 3A for the opening week before starting the season “Right now we need to see about the new first time in school history and playing in on Sept. 3 with a home game against Quick facts players. We need to see who else is going arguably the toughest district in the region Plainview (Okla.). District 9-3A play District: 9-3A to play for us.”

— maybe even the hardest in the state. starts on Oct. 8 at Argyle.

2009 record: 11-2, 2A Div. II regional semifinalist Moore doesn’t have to worry about his “We have a schedule that is very, very Griffin believes Aubrey can and will Coach: G.A. Moore (11quarterback, as James Wurster is back tough,” Moore said. “We have a long way make the playoffs.

2 in one season) under center. He also has role players to go. But we will work hard and hopeful“I expect us to get as far as we did last R e turning star ter s: Five on offense, three Justin Dossey, Skyler Craig and Skylar ly we will get some luck on our side.” year,” he said. “This team is pretty close. on defense Starling back in red and blue.

In all, the Chaparrals return seven We are all best friends.”

Offense: Pro-style His biggest concern is in the trenches. starters and 15 lettermen from a team that Griffin also has a few personal goals.

Defense: Multiple Aubrey lost four starters on the offen- set a school record with 11 wins in 2009.

He would like to steal some of the School enrollment: 974 sive line and three on the defensive line.

Aubrey won nine games to start the school rushing records held by his brothStadium: Chaparral Stadium “We didn’t know who was going to play regular season, including a string of five er, Austin.

Assistant coaches: Gary Moore, Mike on the line a year ago, but we had some straight shutouts, and later advanced to “He has 17 records,” Griffin said. “I Segleski, Monte Endres, Kyle Peacock, kids step up and do their job,” Moore said. the Class 2A Region II semifinals would like them all but I know its going to Keith Peacock, Jackie Crisp, Ed Shellstead, “Hopefully we will have some kids step up.”

That increases expectations on the be tough. Hopefully I can get six or seven Brent Morris, Jim Siano and Carl Duncan Moore is going to need them to.

2010 team, which will have a bye on the of them.”

CHAPARRALS

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

51

Aubrey High School – Go Chaparrals!

Aubrey Chaparrals 2010 Football Schedule

Date

Opponent

Fri., Sept. 3 Fri., Sept. 10 Fri., Sept. 17 Fri., Sept. 24 Fri., Oct. 8

Time

Plainview (Okla.)

Carrollton Ranchview at Liberty Christian Grandview x-at Argyle

Date

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Fri., Oct. 15 Fri., Oct. 22 Fri., Oct. 29 Fri., Nov. 5

Opponent

Time

x-Sanger x-at Pilot Point x-at Whitesboro x-Gainesville

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

x – District 9-3A game

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52

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

AUBREY

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season FORGET ABOUT LAST YEAR Aubrey had a huge turnaround season in 2009 under G.A. Moore and surprised many with a deep run in the Class 2A playoffs. But the secret is out on Aubrey and the Chaps can’t afford to walk around with a swagger. Aubrey does have the talent to make the playoffs again, but the quicker the team forgets about last season’s success the better off it will be.

LISTEN TO THE BOSS When Moore talks, the Aubrey football players need to listen. Moore has a coaching resume that is legendary. He has won more games than any coach in Texas history and he has a knack of turning struggling programs into winners. If the Chaps, especially the underclassmen, listen to Moore, Aubrey has a shot to make the playoffs.

BELIEVE IN JUSTIN GRIFFIN Aubrey’s best player is senior Justin Griffin — no doubt about that. He will make the team go on offense and defense. He will start at two positions — tailback and strong safety. But Griffin must stay healthy. Last year he had a high-ankle sprain the week

before Aubrey played Pilot Point. The Chaps lost the game and Griffin never saw the field during the playoffs.

WIN THE WINNABLE GAMES Aubrey will be playing in arguably the toughest district in Class 3A in the region, if not the state. Argyle, Pilot Point, Sanger, Gainesville and Whitesboro are on the schedule, and each is a hurdle Aubrey must clear to earn a playoff berth. The Chaps need to win those games in which they are favored in order to make the schedule less daunting.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 3 Plainview (Okla.)

Sept. 10 Carrollton Ranchview Sept. 17 at Liberty Christian Sept. 24 Grandview Oct. 1 Arlington Grace Prep* Oct. 8 at Argyle Oct. 15 Sanger Oct. 22 at Pilot Point Oct. 29 at Whitesboro Nov. 5 Gainesville * — at Burleson

Time 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

CHAPARRALS Roster No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 20 21 22 23 24 30

Name James Baker James Wurster Charlie Radford Anthony DeLaTorre Justin Dossey Brodie Dittmar James Reeves Matt Anson Dexter Loza Skyler Craig Nick Shovlin Kristian Wiseman Karson Hall Irving Saucedo Paul Freeman Skyler Starling Sam Rodriguez Jose Lopez David Holliger Mike Trimble Colton Kelly Anthony Alford

Pos. Class WR/DB Sr. QB/DB Sr. RB/LB Jr. RB/LB So. TE/DE Sr. WR/DB Sr. WR/DE Sr. RB/LB Jr. RB/LB Jr. RB/LB Sr. QB/DB So. RB/LB Sr. WR/DB Jr. K Sr. WR/DB Sr. QB/DB Jr. RB/LB So. RB/LB Jr. RB/LB So. RB/LB Sr. RB/DB Jr. RB/LB So.

No. 33 41 51 52 53 54 55 57 58 61 62 65 66 68 70 72 75 76 77 78 82 88

Name Justin Griffin Albert Silva Cole Scribner Zack Friday Tony Rameriz Donovan Inman Caleb Moody Matt Robbins Erik Rodriguez Andrew Todd Ryan Anderton Jordan Gullette Jarred Peach John Miller Jacob Johnson Ethan Saye Devron Inman Weston Osterman Thomas McAdoo Tyler Townsend Matt Davis Collin Scribner

Pos. Class RB/DB Sr. RB/DB Jr. OL/DE So. OL/DT Sr. OL/DE Jr. OL/DE Jr. OL/DT Jr. OL/DT Sr. OL/LB Jr. OL/DT Sr. OL/DE Jr. OL/DT So. OL/DT Jr. OL/DT Jr. OL/DT So. OL/DT Jr. OL/DT Jr. OL/DT Fr. OL/DT So. OL/DL Sr. TE/DE So. TE/DE So.

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

53

PILOT POINT

Bearcats look to follow up state title

By Matthew Muench Staff Writer

Playing in Pilot Point has always been a pressure-filled job in a town that expects to win every week.

But for senior Mason Guthrie, the pressure is shrugged off.

“I don’t get nervous,” said Guthrie, who will be Pilot Point’s starting running back this season. “I try not to think about pressure.”

Last season’s star on offense was allstate running back Jarman Johnson, who tallied 2,048 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns to lead Pilot Point to a Class 2A Division I state title during his senior season.

Guthrie is the man tabbed to fill his shoes in 2010. Any pressure?

“No,” he said. “No one can think about filling his shoes. If I can do half of what he did, I will be fine.”

Guthrie also is playing in the shadow of his older brother, Cooper, who graduated two years ago and was a standout running back for the Bearcats for three seasons.

Any pressure now?

“I really don’t think about that stuff,” he said. “I think about being a good football player.”

Guthrie will be Pilot Point’s leader on offense at tailback and captain on defense at the middle linebacker spot this season.

“Mason is a great football player and no doubt will be very important this season,” said Pilot Point head coach Blake Feldt.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton “He has started for us for four years and right now he is playing the best he has Pilot Point senior running back Mason Guthrie steps in to fill the shoes of departed standout Jarman Johnson. Guthrie also will lead the defense from his spot at middle linebacker. ever played.”

And while many will say Guthrie has a lot of pressure on him, Feldt, like Guthrie, is a tough guy. He certainly is up to the Johnson isn’t the only player who gradhas no worries that the pressure will get to task.” uated last season. The Bearcats also lost Quick facts The Bearcats’ biggest task is trying to standout quarterback Seth Tilley, current him.

District: 9-3A “Mason doesn’t feel any pressure,” Feldt maintain momentum from last year’s Arkansas offensive lineman Cam Feldt 2009 recor d: 15-0, 2A Div. I state champion said. “He wants the ball on offense. He undefeated season that ended with a 2A and current Louisiana Tech defensive end Coach: Blake Feldt (47wants to make all the tackles on defense. state title. This season, the Bearcats are in Carter Street.

15 in five seasons) Pressure isn’t in the mix.”

Class 3A. Guthrie said the outgoing seniors are Returning star ter s: Three on offense, five Guthrie expects to play most of every But don’t expect Feldt and Guthrie to going to be hard to replace, but he also on defense game on offense and defense. That is a lot be intimidated about the move up in clas- said he is confident the Bearcats won’t Offense: Spread of running, a lot of contact and few rest sification. miss a beat this season.

Defense: Multiple breaks.

“One thing about moving to 3A is all “It is going to be a great opportunity for School enrollment: 714 “I’ll be ready,” he said. “I’ll be in shape.” the teams we are playing, we have been us to make a big statement,” he said. “I Stadium: Massey Stadium Feldt is not concerned about his star playing for 20-plus years,” Feldt said. “We think some people think we are not going Assistant coaches: Jody Allen, Richard player taking the field on both sides of the have been 3A before, so this is not new to to be very good after losing all these senBalderas, Rob Best, Rodrigo Castorena, Jamie ball at crucial positions. us. The teams aren’t new. 3A is not new. iors. Hopefully we can push through that Jones, James Karcher, Mike Phillips, Jeff Price, “He wants to play both, and we are So really the change hasn’t entered in our Juan Silva Jr., Jeff Smiley and Joe Welock going to let him play both,” Feldt said. “He mind that much.”

See PILOT POINT on 55

BEARCATS

54

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

Pilot Point High School – Go Bearcats!

Pilot Point Bearcats 2010 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Fri., Aug. 27 Fri., Sept. 3 Fri., Sept. 10 Fri., Sept. 17 Fri., Sept. 24 Fri, Oct. 8 Fri., Oct. 15 Fri., Oct. 22 Fri., Oct. 29 Fri., Nov. 5

Liberty Christian at Iowa Park at Celina Fort Worth Nolan Boyd x-Sanger x-at Gainesville x-Aubrey x-at Argyle x-Whitesboro

Time

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

x – District 9-3A game

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August 24, 2010

Football

55

PILOT POINT

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season REPLACE JARMAN JOHNSON

It is a lot easier said than done to fill the void left by all-state running back Jarman Johnson. Johnson was the offense last season for Pilot Point and one person will not be able to fill his shoes. The Bearcats will need RB Mason Guthrie, QB Jeshua Price and slot receivers Conner Comacho and Jacob Lock to take on the offensive load and try to match what Johnson did.

DON’T BE SCARED OF 3A Pilot Point can’t get too worked up with moving up to Class 3A. The Bearcats have already been at this level and they shouldn’t be intimidated by moving up in class again.

Plus, with the exception of Argyle, the Bearcats’ opponents are not new to them.

The Bearcats are still an elite team.

MIRROR TILLEY Last season’s quarterback, Seth Tilley, was not the biggest or strongest, but he was one of the most efficient triggermen in the state last season. He rarely made mistakes and did all the smart things. Incoming quarterback Price must follow Tilley’s lead if Pilot Point wants to make a deep run in

B

CI

the playoffs under head coach Blake Feldt.

GROW FAST Pilot Point has numerous new players in the mix this season after losing many key players to graduation. The Bearcats are going to need some juniors and sophoFeldt mores to step into the spotlight before district play starts. Pilot Point has 33 consecutive winning seasons and the streak will continue if some new names make highlights this season.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29 Nov. 5

Opponent Liberty Christian at Iowa Park at Celina Fort Worth Nolan at Boyd Sanger at Gainesville Aubrey at Argyle Whitesboro

Time 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

BEARCATS Roster No. 1 2 3 5 8 10 11 13 14 18 19 20 21 22 24 30 34

Name Pos. Class Willie Davis Slot/DB Sr. Bruce Randle HB/DL Sr. Clay Laughrey WR/DB Jr. Alfred Harris WR/DE Jr. Daniel Berry WR/DB Sr. Austin Trinklein WR/DB So. Ruben Martinez K Jr. Rudy Williams WR/DB Sr. Austin Balderas WR/LB Sr. Jeshua Price QB/DB Sr. Chase Chenault RB/LB Jr. Tristen Jureka RB/LB Fr. Conner Comacho Slot/LB Jr. Jacob Lock Slot/DB So. Ricky Campbell WR/DB Jr. Beau Ewton RB/LB So. Corbin Sitzes HB/LB Sr.

From Page 53

Pilot Point and show some people what’s up.”

Replacing Tilley under center is senior Jeshua Price, who played receiver last season. Price is expected to do just fine running the offense, Feldt said.

No. 40 47 50 51 52 53 54 56 57 60 66 70 78 79 80 88

Name Mason Guthrie Ryan Hagenbucher Mathew Poursoltani Will Allen Austin Accettura Clay Nowlin Kody Peacock Joseph Mascari Brett Larson Jason Mendoza Coyt Kimbrell Ethan Berkley Riley Howard Boone Feldt Blaine Eberts James Hamilton

Pos. Class HB/LB Sr. Slot/LB Jr. OL/DL So. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL Sr. OL/LB Jr. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Sr. OL/DL So. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Jr. OL/DL Jr. WR/DB Sr. WR/DB Jr.

“I am confident in Price, 100 percent,” Feldt said. “He is comfortable in the offense and has a strong arm. He will be just fine for us.”

But in the end, it is going to be Guthrie who will be looked upon to carry the Bearcats in 2010.

“I’m ready,” he said. “I’m excited.”

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56

Football

August 24, 2010

SANGER

Denton Record-Chronicle

Evans to build on year of experience

By Adam Boedeker Staff Writer

At this point last year, Sanger quarterback Dane Evans was an unproven commodity.

The then-sophomore had plenty of potential — the son of Sanger’s offensive coordinator possessed all the physical tools a pocket passer needs.

But none of that matters until talent is proven on the field.

A quick look at his 2009 statistics will prove Evans is capable of living up to his potential.

As a sophomore, Evans threw for 2,389 yards and 21 touchdowns while completing 63 percent of his pass attempts and throwing just seven interceptions, all while being thrown into the fire at the varsity level in arguably what was the toughest Class 3A district in the state.

“Everything last year was like I was learning on the run,” Evans said. “This year is more of I know things and I’ve seen it before, and it’s all easier to see. I also know all the guys and where they’re gonna be. We all know where everyone’s gonna be.”

So just imagine what Evans might do with a year of experience under his belt and seven other offensive starters returning from a team that went 5-5, but was close in just about every game last year.

Sanger head coach Chuck Galbreath is imagining some pretty good things for the 2010 edition of his squad.

“He’s made a lot of improvement from Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton his sophomore year to now,” Galbreath Quarterback Dane Evans threw for 2,389 yards and 21 touchdowns last year as a sophomore. He is one of eight offensaid. “We all expect some great things sive starters returning for Sanger. from him. He has to show it on the field, but we all think he will.” year one in four or five throws would be as simply “a football player.”

In all, Sanger returns 14 starters from good. This year it was boom, boom, boom, “He’s gonna do good,” Scott said. “He Quick facts last year’s team, and with eight being on and everything was down. We’re definite- brings his own kind of swagger to the District: 9-3A the offensive side of the ball, it’s natural to ly ahead of the curve this year because of game. He gets out there and talks a little 2009 recor d: 5-5 expect better chemistry and awareness. our 7-on-7 run.” trash but he also backs it up. He runs his Coach: Chuck Galbreath But something else helped the unit jell Scott and Rotter combined for 1,212 mouth. It’s a good thing to have. Officials (15-15 in three seasons) this summer. yards and 12 touchdowns last season, and don’t like fights, but if you want someone to Returning star ter s: Eight on offense, six on defense Sanger competed for the first time in with the addition of move-in Jon Garza in fight with you, you want him on your side.

Offense: Spread the state 7-on-7 tournament in College the slot, the Indians are solidified in the You don’t want him on the other team.”

D efense: 4-3 Station, and Evans said it helped fine- starting spots.

That kind of camaraderie is evident in S c hool enrollment: 735 tune his timing and chemistry with his But with all three of those players start- all aspects for the Indians, and Scott said Stadium: Indian Stadium receivers, namely his two returning all- ing on defense as well, Sanger will need the offense will pick up where it left off at Assistant coaches: Damon Evans, Scott district outside receivers — Ryan Scott depth to help spell the two-way starters the end of the last season instead of startHermes, Scott Langley, Keith Barger, Jim and Nathan Rotter. and the Indians have just that with ing in a crawl and ending in a sprint like Cain, Ronnie Shelby, Adam Shaw, Travis “I think it’s really helped a lot,” Evans Hayden Smith and Blake Manning. in 2009.

Marsh, Gilbert Ramirez, Floyd Holt, Mike said of the 7-on-7 experience. “We went Scott said he is excited about the addiJones, Steve Ford and Robert Sikora out the first day of two-a-days, and last tion of Garza, whom Galbreath described See SANGER on 72

INDIANS

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

57

Sanger High School – Go Indians!

Date

Sanger Indians 2010 Football Schedule

Fri., Aug. 27 Fri., Sept. 3 Fri., Sept. 10 Fri., Sept. 17 Fri., Sept. 24 Fri., Oct. 8

Opponent

Time

Date

at Wichita Falls Hirschi Lake Worth at Plainview (Okla.)

Vernon Princeton x-at Pilot Point

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Fri., Oct. 15 Fri., Oct. 22 Fri., Oct. 29 Fri., Nov. 5

Opponent

Time

x-at Aubrey x-Whitesboro x-at Gainesville x-Argyle

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

x – District 9-3A game

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58

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

SANGER

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season DO MORE WITH THE ARM

Junior quarterback Dane Evans has to take the next step in order for Sanger to break through into the postseason. After throwing for more than 2,000 yards and 21 touchdowns last year, Evans will be asked to do more this season with a year of experience under his belt. He has plenty of weapons at his disposal in returning all-district wide receivers Nathan Rotter and Ryan Scott.

DRC file photo/Al Key

Sanger’s Ryan Scott catches a touchdown pass against Gainesville in 2009.

LEAN ON THE LINE One of the most experienced returning units for the Indians is up front on the offensive line. The Indians return four of five starters from 2009, led by three-year starting center D.J. Marick. Left guard Jake Garrett is back along with tackles David Grace and Jarrett Stastny, who split time last year at right tackle and will be starting at right and left tackle, respectively, this year.

TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL Sanger has plenty of intangibles working in its favor this season. The team is a heavily junior- and senior-laden group that has had plenty of success throughout high school. The school has experienced success

at the sub-varsity levels, and now they will look to put everything together to bring the Indians a winning season at the varsity level and break a three-year playoff drought.

AVOID INJURIES While depth isn’t a problem for Sanger at wide receiver, it is a bit of a concern up front on both sides of the ball. The interior of Sanger’s defense should be one of its strengths with returning defensive tackles Kyle Carrow and Mark Roberson back along with linebackers Kade Erwin and Hayden Thomas, who had 80 tackles and 10 sacks from his strong-side position.

INDIANS Roster No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 12 14 15 17 18 22 24 25 30 34 36 41 44 50 51 52 53 54 55

Name Hayden Smith Collin Bradfield Zane Paddack Nathan Rotter Gage Hundley Jon Garza Blake Manning Mitch Hassell Dakota Cotten Jordan Padron Ryan Scott Adrian Guay Dane Evans Jay Cain Josh Richardson Hayden Thomas Dylan Lopez John Eskue Brock Squier Tyler Heimdal Andrew Lemus Grant Briney Adoniz Delgado Eric Trevino Kade Erwin Jared Morrison Jared Stastny Garrett McFerren

Pos. WR/DB WR/DB WR/LB WR/DB PK WR/DB WR/DB QB/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB RB/LB QB WR/LB RB/DB RB/LB RB/DE RB/LB RB/DB RB/DB RB/LB RB/LB OL/DL OL/DE RB/LB OL/DE OL/DE OL/DE

Ht. 6-3 5-8 6-1 5-9 5-7 5-10 5-9 5-9 6-2 6-1 6-2 5-9 6-2 6-1 5-9 6-0 6-0 6-0 5-10 5-9 5-7 5-11 6-0 6-0 5-10 5-11 6-4 5-11

Wt. Class 185 Sr. 165 Sr. 210 Sr. 170 Sr. 140 Jr. 180 Jr. 140 Jr. 165 Jr. 170 Jr. 165 Jr. 180 Sr. 160 Jr. 180 Jr. 170 Jr. 160 Sr. 190 Jr. 170 Sr. 170 Jr. 185 Jr. 160 Sr. 155 Jr. 190 Sr. 230 Jr. 170 Jr. 180 Sr. 190 Jr. 260 Jr. 230 Jr.

No. 56 60 62 63 64 65 66 70 71 72 73 75 76

Name Pos. Ht. Wt Class Nick Conklin OL/LB 5-10 185 Jr. Austin Davidson OL/DE 5-8 170 Sr. Kyle Carrow OL/DL 6-1 230 Sr. James Ward OL/DL 5-9 270 Jr. Derrick Penno OL/DL 6-3 220 Sr. Colt Nelson OL/DL 5-9 240 Jr. D.J. Marick OL/DL 6-1 220 Sr. Oscar Alvarez OL/DL 5-9 250 Sr. Ben Gray OL/DL 6-2 230 Sr. Jake Garrett OL/DL 6-0 240 Sr. Mark Roberson OL/DL 6-2 270 Sr. James Metker OL/DL 5-10 280 Sr. David Grace OL/DE 6-4 255 Sr.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29 Nov. 5

Opponent at Wichita Falls Hirschi Lake Worth at Plainview (Okla.)

Vernon Princeton at Pilot Point at Aubrey Whitesboro at Gainesville Argyle

Time 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

HX

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

59

PONDER

Lions set for first year of varsity play

By Matthew Muench Staff Writer

Dalton Brown has been waiting for this moment for five years, since he was in sixth grade.

His teammate Reid Sanders has had the calendar marked in his head since fifth grade.

Ponder has been waiting for this moment forever.

Finally, varsity football has arrived in the small town just 10 miles from Denton as the Lions officially join Class 2A this season.

“The countdown is over,” said Brown, a junior. “When they first announced that football would be here I began looking forward to my junior year when I knew varsity would be starting. So for it to be here it is exciting.”

The excitement is at an all-time high for Brown, who also happens to be one of two quarterbacks for the Lions this season.

Sanders, a sophomore, will share the duties with Brown, and the two will forever be linked together as the first triggermen for Ponder in its school history.

“It is kind of crazy and it has gone through my head,” Brown said. “I thought about it when I was younger. But it is totally different now that it is happening.

We will always be the two guys that go down in history as the first two QBs. Hopefully, we will represent the city and make everyone proud.”

Sanders, however, has not thought about Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton what he and Brown are about to achieve.

“I can’t think about that stuff,” he said. Dalton Brown, left, and Reid Sanders will share the quarterback duties as Ponder plays its first full season of varsity “It will make me mess up.” football this fall.

Ponder head coach Rubin Covington is confident in his two quarterbacks. He said to throw tags on his two young athletes.

Ponder’s strong point is its offensive line. the pair will share the snaps all season.

“They both can run, they both can Anchored by senior Tyler Ashman, the Quick facts “They are both very dynamic players,” pass,” he said. “Dalton may say he is a Lions’ front five has been playing together District: 5-2A he said. “We have no problem using both passer but he is a very capable runner. as a unit for more than five years.

2009 recor d: N/A of them at quarterback. They both know And Reid can throw it also. Reid may run “We have full confidence that they will Coach: Rubin Covington (first season) how to play the position and we know more and Dalton may pass more, but that protect us,” Brown said.” They definitely are Returning star ter s: N/A they can play the position.” has nothing to do with ability. I think it is our strong point and they are our leaders.”

O ffense: Shotgun They are also both top-tier athletes. more of a mindset.”

When it was first announced Ponder D efense: Multiple Brown and Sanders also happen to be the Sanders said he has no problem sharing was getting football, some members of the S c hool enrollment: 327 only two students in the school who are the quarterback duties with Brown. community were against the change S t a dium: Ponder ISD Stadium on the varsity football, baseball and bas“It is good for competition and I think because the town has been built around A s s istant coaches: Kirk Rodgers, Kevin ketball teams. it makes us both better,” he said. “I think basketball.

Pitman, Kenny King, Russell Phillips, “That’s pretty cool,” Sanders said. “I we are both a little nervous so we are But Covington believes more people are Matthew Guerrant and Steve Espolt never really thought about that.” helping each other out. But what we are in favor of football than what is perceived.

The pair of quarterbacks agreed Brown really focusing on his winning some “I really think the majority of Ponder is more of a passer and Sanders is more of games and making the town proud.” a runner. However, Covington is not ready Both quarterbacks and Covington said See PONDER on 61

LIONS

60

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

Ponder High School – Go Lions!

Date

Ponder Lions 2010 Football Schedule

Time

Muenster at Wichita Falls Hirschi at McKinney Christian Whitewright Perrin-Whitt x-at Callisburg

I-35E South, DENTON • 940-591-9663 317 N. Locust, DENTON • 940-243-5449

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7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Date

Opponent

Fri., Oct. 15 Fri., Oct. 22 Fri., Oct. 29 Fri., Nov. 5

x-at Pottsboro x-Howe x-at Paradise x-Boyd

Time

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

x – District 5-2A game

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

61

PONDER

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season CALM THE NERVES Ponder is heading into its first full season of varsity football and the Lions’ nerves understandably might be shaky. But if the Lions are going to make any moves toward the playoffs they quickly must forget about the first-season jitters. By the time the District 5-2A season rolls around, Ponder needs to be calm or its first season could turn sour.

STAY HEALTHY The Lions will carry one of the smallest rosters in Class 2A this season with just more than 20 players. That means there won’t be much depth. Seven to eight Lions are expected to play both offense and defense, and head coach Rubin Covington cannot afford to lose any of his players to injury. The last thing he wants to do is bring up a freshman to play under the Friday night lights.

STICK TO THE PLAN Covington has preached that his offensive and defensive lines will be the keys to the team’s success. If that is the case, Ponder needs to stick with letting the lines carry the Lions in 2010. Running the ball and stop-

ping the run need to be the priority. If Ponder tries to get too fancy with trick plays and blitz schemes, the young offense and defense might get into trouble.

GET LUCKY Covington is not afraid to admit luck is part of the game. But he also realizes luck doesn’t just fall into laps. He believes if a team works hard, luck will find its way to the sideline. No Lion on the roster has ever felt the pressure of playing district competition, and if Ponder is going to win games, it will need a little help from the football gods.

LIONS Roster No. 3 5 11 12 15 16 17 21 22 23 28 32 34

Name Austin Leveridge Dylan Nichelson Tanner Yeager Ryan Hughes T.J. Ferryman Dalton Brown Reid Sanders Cameron Chapman Taylor Littleton Logan Marchmen Jayson Alexander Jake Wendt Louis Goodman

Pos. WR/LB WR/LB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB QB/DB QB/DB K WR/LB RB/LB RB/LB RB/DB WR/DB

Wt. Class 140 So. 140 So. 145 So. 138 Jr. 150 Jr. 229 Jr. 185 So. 186 Sr. 155 So. 160 Sr. 140 Fr. 150 Jr. 140 Jr.

From Page 59

2010 SCHEDULE Date Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29 Nov. 5

Opponent Muenster at Wichita Falls Hirschi at McKinney Christian Whitewright Perrin-Whitt at Callisburg at Pottsboro Howe at Paradise Boyd

Time 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Ponder wants football and the people who didn’t just spoke a little louder. The squeaky wheel got the grease. This town wants football and they are behind the program. This town is unlike any other I have been in. They support the community and they will support football.”

Covington is not going to call this season a rebuilding season because of

No. 44 50 52 54 62 65 66 67 71 79 84 89

Name Cole Carter Spencer Deal Tyler Ashman Jack Beer Ranger Perry Colton Baird Tory Ferryman Clay Futch Cole Nunn Zach Smith John Burke Brandon Gee

Pos. RB/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL WR/DB WR/DB

Wt. Class 175 Sr. 240 Jr. 240 Sr. 200 So. 215 Jr. 270 Sr. 217 Sr. 220 Jr. 192 Jr. 195 Jr. 151 Jr. 123 Jr.

the program’s lack of varsity experience, which included a handful of games as an independent last season. He fully expects the Lions to compete for a playoff spot.

“We are expecting to make the playoffs,” he said. “If you don’t play to make the playoffs then you don’t belong out on the field.”

Sanders said the goal is simple.

“We hope to win some games this year,” he said. “And we want to have fun doing it.”

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Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

LIBERTY CHRISTIAN

Warriors rush into tough competition

By Marshall Moore Staff Writer

Make no mistake, Jared Lawson and Brett Metzler are competitors.

Sure, the two Liberty Christian senior running backs have been best friends on and off the field since ninth grade. They play for the same team, work toward the same goals and, judging by their on-field performances, should be the top returners from the Warriors’ run to the TAPPS Division II state championship game last season.

Cooperative? Yes. Friendly? Definitely.

Complacent?

Not a chance.

“We push each other like crazy,” Metzler said with a smile as Lawson laughed from his seat just a few feet away. “Especially in the weight room. If he ends up doing more weight than me, I end up getting mad and throwing some more on there.”

It’s the kind of friendly, competitive nature one would expect from two running backs fighting for carries in the same backfield. It also may be exactly what Liberty needs to compete in a district filled with some of the stiffest competition TAPPS has to offer following its move to Division I starting this season.

The Warriors will make the move to the largest classification in TAPPS this year and will be realigned into a district that includes Plano Prestonwood, the team that knocked off Liberty for the Division II title last year, Division I state champion Fort Worth Nolan, Division I runner-up TCA-Addison, and Division I semifinalist Bishop Lynch.

Needless to say, after finishing district play unbeaten last season on their way to a 10-4 overall record, the Warriors may find that their path to another district championship a bit more challenging following the realignment.

“We have to remind ourselves every day during practice that we’re going to need to step it up every single week,” Lawson said.

“We have a tough, tough schedule ahead of us. It’s going to be a really big challenge.”

In order to keep up, the Warriors will have to rely on Lawson and Metzler.

The two split carries last season, with Lawson finishing with 1,252 yards on 159 carries with 14 touchdowns. Metzler, meanwhile, had 662 yards on 70 carries

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Liberty Christian running backs Brett Metzler, left, and Jared Lawson will motivate each other to perform as the Warriors move into a district with several Dallas-Fort Worth area TAPPS powerhouses. and six touchdowns while averaging 9.4 yards per touch.

Both backs bring different skills to the table. Metzler is the shiftier back that relies on making defenders miss, while Lawson is a more straight-line, power runner. Both, however, have the breakaway speed to pull away from defenders in the open field.

So which one is better?

“I don’t know,” Liberty head coach Greg Price said. “I think both of them are a little bit different and I wish one was more like the other in both cases. I wish that Jared had the same hips that Brett has, and I wish Brett would run straight ahead like Jared does. They complement each

other, and they both have the ability to score from anywhere on the field.”

The Warriors will have plenty of opportunities to showcase their abilities against quality opponents, starting with two early-season nondistrict match ups against public-school opponents Pilot Point and Aubrey.

The real focus, however, is on Liberty’s rematch with Prestonwood, set for Oct. 7 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington.

Price is quick to point out that there are five games leading up to the showdown, which pits the Warriors against the team that ended their state title hopes last year.

See LIBERTY on 72

WARRIORS Quick facts District: TAPPS Division I, District 1 2009 recor d: 10-4, TAPPS Division II state runner-up Coach: Greg Price (10-4 in one season) Returning star ter s: Five on offense, one on defense Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 405 Stadium: Bowles Stadium Assistant coaches: Rick Gailey, Johnny Isom, Matt Bowles, Brad Tyndall, Zack Vest, Eric Howell, Greg Johnson and John Edwards

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

63

Liberty Christian High School–Go Warriors!

Liberty Christian Warriors

2010 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Fri., Aug. 27 Fri., Sept. 10 Fri., Sept. 17 Fri., Sept. 24 Fri., Oct. 1 Thurs., Oct. 7 Fri., Oct. 15 Fri., Oct. 22 Fri., Oct. 29 Fri., Nov. 5

Time

at Pilot Point at Arlington Grace Prep Aubrey x-Fort Worth Nolan x-at Dallas Bishop Lynch x-Plano Prestonwood* x-at Dallas Bishop Dunne x-Plano John Paul II x-at TCA-Addison El Paso Cathedral

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

x – TAPPS Division I, District 1 game * -- at Cowboys Stadium

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Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

LIBERTY CHRISTIAN

WARRIORS Roster

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season LEARN FROM EXPERIENCE With the largest senior class in the school’s history, the Warriors will have to depend on their upperclassmen to make an impact on the field. Liberty will field 24 senior players this seaSimms son in addition to 13 juniors. That includes Brett Metzler, Jared Lawson, Tanner McDonald, Caden Compton and Trevor Simms.

KEEP UP THE INTENSITY

Liberty has no shortage of quality opposition on its schedule in 2010. The schedule includes five TAPPS playoff teams from last year and Class 3A competitors Pilot Point and Aubrey. The Warriors will need to find a way to compete at a high level from week to week in order to contend in Division I.

IDENTIFY A GUNSLINGER With sure-handed Compton and speedy Simms returning this year, the Warriors should have plenty of playmaking ability at receiver. The only problem is finding someone to actually throw them the ball. Midway

through fall practice, the race to replace departed quarterback Michael Smith was still wide open.

BE QUICK AND NIMBLE Although the Warriors return only one full-time starter on defense in McDonald, Price expects his defense to be stout due to its quickness. Liberty will need to rely on that quickness against the largest schools in Division I in order to give its run-oriented offense a chance to keep pace on the scoreboard.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Aug. 27 at Pilot Point Sept.10 at Arlington Grace Prep Sept. 17 Aubrey Sept. 24 Fort Worth Nolan Oct. 1 at Bishop Lynch Oct. 7 Plano Prestonwood* Oct. 15 at Bishop Dunne Oct. 22 Plano John Paul II Oct. 29 at TCA-Addison Nov. 5 El Paso Cathedral * — at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington

Time 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Name Joe Angel Cameron Balkey Rylee Brown Caden Compton Jared Cook Kelly Cossey Corey Dodd Scott Gee Jamie Gray Dakotah Jesel Howard Jung Lance Kay Evan Key Jared Lawson Tyler Malia Chance McClure Tanner McDonald Brent McQuirk Brett Metzler Hayden O’Bryan Chris Ocasio Trevor Simms Steven Strawn Eric Watts Ryan Clifford Josh Cousins

Pos. Class FB/LB Sr. FB/LB Sr. WR/DB Sr. WR/DB Sr. OL/DE Sr. OL/DT Sr. RB/LB Sr. OL/DE Sr. WR/DB Sr. ATK Sr. OL/DT Sr. OL/DE Sr. OL/DE Sr. RB/DB Sr. OL/DE Sr. WR/DB Sr. WR/DB Sr. FB/DE Sr. RB/LB Sr. OL/DT Sr. OL/DE Sr. WR/DB Sr. OL/DT Sr. QB/DE Sr. WR/DB Jr. QB/DB Jr.

Name Tim Douglas John Hamel Adam Hawkins Brad Horton Daneil Loch Kyle Metzger Jett Milner Nate Nicholson Alexander Reece Miles Smith Nick Waldman Zach Wilson Christian Burks Garrett Carter Camron Cornett Aaron Deaver Morgan Engle Foster Ford Conner Hutcherson Michael Kephart Jake Newman Graham Richardson Jordan Sharp Dylan Sprock Mikael Sroka Micah Stateson

Pos. Class FB/LB Jr. OL/DT Jr. WR/DB Jr. WR/DE Jr. WR/DB Jr. WR/DB Jr. RB/LB Jr. WR/DB Jr. OL/DT Jr. RB/DB Jr. RB/DB Jr. FB/LB Jr. WR/DB So. OL/DE So. RB/DB So. QB/LB So. WR/DE So. QB/DB So. WR/DE So. OL/DT So. OL/DE So. WR/DB So. OL/DT So. FB/LB So. ATK So. OL/DE So.

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

65

CALVARY

Calvary returns to TAPPS after hiatus

By Todd Jorgenson Sports Editor

They received the news during the summer before their sophomore year, several months after their team made a thrilling run to the state championship game.

Kenneth Grunden and Tim Quiring found out that Calvary would be forced to discontinue its football program for the 2008 season because of a lack of male athletes at the school. The boys basketball and baseball programs also were put on hiatus.

Such an occurrence might be unique, but in the world of TAPPS six-man football, it’s not unprecedented. And it left both players with a tough decision.

“Everyone was deciding what they wanted to do, whether they wanted to go to another school to play,” Quiring said. “I just really like Calvary and the environment, so I decided to stay.”

Both Grunden and Quiring were freshmen who were moved up from junior varsity in time for the 2007 playoff run that culminated in Calvary falling to Greenville Christian in the TAPPS Division I six-man state title game.

Now they are seniors at Calvary and hope to be the players who can lead the Lions on another playoff run in their return to the TAPPS ranks in 2010 after a season playing as an independent last fall.

“It’s really exciting to play again,” Grunden said. “It was a lot of fun last year, and we’re excited to be back in a district.”

When the program was shut down, the Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton school didn’t plan to make the move permanent, so the existing players were Calvary football players Tim Quiring, left, and Kenneth Grunden stayed at the school when it dropped football for the patient while the enrollment anomaly 2008 season. Now seniors, they lead the Lions back into TAPPS varsity play. corrected itself.

They could see a promising crop of to be competitive immediately in their full- ly, including starting quarterback Justin youngsters rising through Calvary’s middle time return to a TAPPS schedule.

Rush.

Quick facts school program. In Grunden’s case, he lives For starters, the Lions went 7-3 last The nondistrict schedule also is dauntDistrict: TAPPS Six-Man Division II, District 1 in Krum, which doesn’t yet have a varsity year while playing an independent sched- ing, with games against more established 2009 recor d: 7-3 football program. So transferring there ule with an inexperienced roster. He programs such as Watauga Harvest and Coach: Jay Houser (7-3 wouldn’t have allowed him to play, either. thinks those games will benefit Calvary as Rockwall Heritage, as well as publicin one season) Now the idea of making another playoff it increases the level of competition. school foe Saint Jo. Those will be the Returning star ter s: Three on offense, four run offers added motivation for the two In addition, Calvary is now in the times when Houser will experiment with on defense seniors on Calvary’s 12-man varsity roster. Division II classification of TAPPS six- different formations and lineups to try Offense: Spread “I definitely think we will make it deep man football, placing it with schools more and find the right combinations.

Defense: Multiple into the playoffs,” Grunden said. “We want comparable in terms of enrollment.

But Houser hopes the early tests will School enrollment: 78 to be good leaders and keep a good atti“That’s why I think we’ve got a chance,” make Calvary better when it opens disStadium: Bronco Field tude ourselves on the field. We want to set Houser said. “I think our team is poten- trict play Oct. 1, at Granbury Happy Hill.

Assistant coaches: Richard Moore, Jason a good example.” tially just as talented as that 2007 team.”

“This freshman class is as talented as McBride and Kenny Rush Calvary head coach Jay Houser, an assisHouser acknowledges the Lions might any we’ve ever had,” Houser said. “We’re tant on the 2007 team who took over the need a while to find their footing. They program last fall, said he expects the Lions have four freshmen who will play regular- See CALVARY on 69

LIONS

66

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

Denton Calvary Academy – Go Lions!

Denton Calvary Lions 2010 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Sat., Aug. 28 Fri., Sept. 3 Thurs., Sept. 9 Fri., Sept. 17 Thurs., Sept. 23 Fri., Oct. 1 Fri., Oct. 8 Fri., Oct. 15 Fri., Oct. 22 Sat., Oct. 30

Time

Lucas Christian 11 a.m.

Decatur Hope 7:30 p.m.

Saint Jo 7:30 p.m. at Watauga Harvest 7:30 p.m.

Rockwall Heritage 7:30 p.m. x-at Granbury Happy Hill 7:30 p.m. x-Brownwood Victory Life 7:30 p.m. x-Wichita Falls Notre Dame 7:30 p.m. x-at Wichita Christian 7:30 p.m. x-at Lubbock Christ the King 1 p.m.

x – TAPPS Six-Man Division II, District 1 game

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Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

67

CALVARY

FOUR DOWNS Keys to a landmark season STAY HEALTHY ALL SEASON The Lions have only 12 players on their varsity roster, a number that is small even for the six-man ranks. It will have a handful of players who will rarely leave the field.

Combine that with inexperience — four of the team’s 12 players are freshmen — and the Lions will certainly need to avoid injuries.

DISCIPLINE ON DEFENSE Head coach Jay Houser said his team excels in terms of team speed and athleticism, but the Lions need to use those qualities to their advantage.

Defensive coordinator Jason McBride’s unit will try to put pressure on the Houser quarterback without allowing themselves to be beaten by screen passes, cutbacks and other quick-hit plays.

GIVE IT TO GRUNDEN Senior Kenneth Grunden is Calvary’s most experienced player, and the Lions will need to put the ball in his hands frequently in order for their offense to run most effec-

tively. Houser compares Grunden’s potential to that of David Hudspeth, who is perhaps the best player in the program’s history.

FOCUS ON LONG-TERM GOALS The Lions have a difficult nondistrict schedule that includes such established TAPPS six-man programs as Watauga Harvest and Rockwall Heritage, as well as Saint Jo from the public-school ranks. The idea is to steadily improve and prepare for district play without losing confidence.

LIONS Roster No. 4 5 6 8 9 11

Name Pos. Class Sammy Quiring LB So. Jesse Wells RB/CB So. Joseph Peters WR/CB Fr. Kenneth Grunden RB/LB Sr. Chandler Cramer WR/S Jr. Justin Rush QB Fr.

No. 20 24 27 31 44 72

Name Byron Crouch Zach Elder Matt Hood Ty Grant Tim Quiring Collin Phillips

Pos. Class QB So. WR Fr. WR/DE So. C Fr. FB/DE Sr. DE So.

2010 SCHEDULE Date Aug. 28 Sept. 3 Sept. 9 Sept. 17 Sept. 23 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 30

Opponent Time Lucas Christian 11 a.m.

Wise County Christian 7:30 p.m.

Saint Jo 7:30 p.m. at Watauga Harvest 7:30 p.m.

Rockwall Heritage 7:30 p.m. at Granbury Happy Hill 7:30 p.m.

Brownwood Victory Life 7:30 p.m.

Wichita Falls Notre Dame 7:30 p.m. at Wichita Christian 7:30 p.m. at Lubbock Christ the King 1 p.m.

Courtesy photo/Jim Wells

Calvary freshman quarterback Justin Rush gets ready to pitch the ball to a running back during practice.

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68

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

HIGH SCHOOLS

From Page 30

Knight

Players leave. New players come in. It’s the Ryan way.

“That is how it is every year at Ryan,” Knight said. “I grew up watching great players and I always wanted to be starting at quarterback. Here at Ryan, you know that good players are going to leave, and that means it is your time to step up.”

Out is Bud Sasser, a record-setting wide receiver who is at Missouri now. In are Michael Cudd, Trey Mohair and Sam Johnson, at 6-4 a big target for Knight.

“We still have a lot of guys that will make this team go,” Florence said. “Our offense isn’t going to slow down.”

Raider fans can’t forget about running back Kaylon Alexander, who will most likely be the cornerstone of the offense this season. Last year he rushed for more than 1,200 yards.

Knight said he looks forward to getting as many people as possible involved in the offense.

“I learned that from Scotty,” he said. “I watched him a lot last year, and when we watched film I listened to him. Scotty did

everything right.”

Knight wasn’t even sure he was going to be the full-time starter at quarterback until a few weeks ago, when junior Mack Leftwich moved to Tulsa, Okla., after his father left North Texas for an assistant coaching job with the Tulsa Golden Hurricane.

Leftwich and Knight were going to battle it out for the starting job during two-adays. Now, it’s only Knight’s job.

“It surprised me when he left,” Knight said. “He is a great quarterback and a great guy. I didn’t want him to leave. But he did. And I guess you can say it worked out well for me.”

Knight said his main goal is to take care of the football. He isn’t going to try and put up 50 points a game because he knows Ryan does not need that many points to win.

“We have a great defense and I know I just need to take care of the football and score a couple of times,” he said. “The defense will do their job. We don’t need a lot of points to win.”

From Page 26

Stewart

the end zone while also blocking a field goal attempt and an extra point.

“When it’s a money game, he’s making money plays,” said Guyer head coach John Walsh. “He’s gonna be on the field for us as long as he can keep breathing.”

And Walsh isn’t exaggerating.

Now a senior who’s up to 5-10 and 170 pounds, Stewart is not only going to be Guyer’s shutdown corner but will also see plenty of time at wide receiver, plus return punts and kicks and even handle back-up quarterback duty.

“When Josh Stewart first got here, he had incredible instincts and play-making ability,” Walsh said. “He just had to work on being more explosive and stronger.

He’s done everything we’ve asked.”

If Stewart needed any more confidence heading into his senior season, the Texas A&M commit got it this summer when the Guyer 7-on-7 team traveled to the Nike 7On tournament in Beaverton, Ore. The tournament featured eight of the top programs in the country, and Guyer didn’t lose until the championship game.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Ryan’s Alex De La Torre (33), Colby Boliver, bottom, and Jonny Paramore, right, tackle Guyer quarterback J.W. Walsh, center, during a playoff game Dec. 5 at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex.

From Page 27

Ryan since I have been here,” he said. “But really, it’s not that big of a deal. We are all a team at the end of the day.”

Now, it’s up to Ryan to see if its defense

can live up to the hype. Hook said a state title is definitely within reach.

“We have the players to get there,” he said. “That is what we are shooting for.”

From Page 23 In the tournament, Stewart covered some of the country’s top high school receivers, including Gardena Serra (Calif.) receiver George Farmer, whom ESPN lists as the No. 2 receiver in the country and the No. 13 player overall.

Stewart held him to three catches.

“It’s a real big boost,” Stewart said.

“Especially going to Oregon and playing against those guys. Every team had at least three guys in the ESPN Top 150. I felt pretty good about myself and that gave me some confidence. If I can guard him [Farmer] then all these other receivers are nothing.”

But make no mistake, Stewart said he approaches every game like he’s covering Farmer.

“Every receiver I play I’m gonna play them like they’re the best receiver in the nation,” he said. “I’m never going to underestimate a receiver, but I want them to know I’m gonna give it my all.”

ADAM BOEDEKER can be reached at 940-566-6872. His e-mail address is aboedeker@dentonrc.com.

Guyer skill positions this year will help them adjust quickly to the 5A competition and perennial powerhouses such as Southlake Carroll, which Guyer plays in the regular season finale.

“We’ve built that [depth] in our program this year,” he said. “Especially at the skill positions. Last year, [inside receiver] Luke [Russell] was unbelievable for us.

He could do anything we wanted him to, and we had Jaimaine [Wilhite] at running back. It’s never been this deep though. We always had that [one] guy or two guys. This year it’s probably eight or nine guys [at receiver] that can be great for us.”

And that longer list of capable receivers has Walsh entering his senior season with an amount of confidence he hasn’t had in the past.

“I have a ton of confidence in the whole team,” he said. “The biggest reason for that confidence is that I can trust anybody to come in and do the right thing and be a

playmaker. They understand that if [Gardener] goes down we’ll have a young guy in and they’ll understand they have to step up. That’s what that Oregon tournament did, it opened those young guys’ eyes and just told them, ‘Hey, we can play with anyone, we’ve just got to play.’”

And even though they’re moving up in classification, don’t try to tell Walsh his team’s results will be any different than the past two seasons, in which Guyer has 25-5 and been one win from the state championship game both times.

“We’ve prepared the exact same way we have every other year,” he said. “We don’t see it as a big change. The way we look at it is we don’t care how many A’s you put in our last name, we’re still gonna play football. We’re still gonna play the same football we’ve been playing.”

ADAM BOEDEKER can be reached at 940-566-6872. His e-mail address is aboedeker@dentonrc.com.

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

69

HIGH SCHOOLS From Page 65

Calvary gonna be young, but Justin has amazing potential. He’s got a tremendous head for the game.”

Houser expects Grunden to shoulder the load on offense for Calvary as the team’s spreadback, a position unique to the six-man game.

Houser compares Grunden’s potential to that of David Hudspeth, a former Calvary standout who scored 62 touchdowns during his senior season.

“He’s an extremely smart football player,” Houser said. “He’s got the speed to make it to the next level if he keeps working. What sets him apart is his vision on the football field. He can see the hole and he can get through it. We can build around him.”

Calvary will run its offense primarily out of a spread formation to take advantage of its team speed, including players

such as Rush, Grunden and Jesse Wells, a small but shifty ball carrier.

The team’s top defenders could include Chandler Cramer, a safety who has shown an aggressive mentality in practice, and Quiring, a lineman who was the team’s defensive MVP a year ago.

The Lions hope that athleticism can help overcome a lack of size and depth and give themselves another shot at a state title. A roster of 12 is small even for the six-man ranks, although Duncanville Christway won the state title in the same classification last season with 13 players.

“What separates us is the athletic ability and the team speed,” Houser said.

“We’re giving them the expectation that we’re gonna make it back.”

TODD JORGENSON can be reached at 940-566-6871. His e-mail address is tjorgenson@dentonrc.com.

From Page 41

back to what he does best, which is play quarterback — the position he’s played since middle school.

“I’ve just been working hard,” he said. “I played quarterback freshman year, too, and it’s nothing new to me. I’m a quarterback. I knew the offense the year before, so I’m just trying to fill in and do what I can and help the other people around me that don’t have any experience.”

ADAM BOEDEKER can be reached at 940-566-6872. His e-mail address is aboedeker@dentonrc.com.

From Page 47

Argyle

offensive line and four returning starters on offense in all, Rodgers said he still believes the identity of his team lies on the defensive side of the ball.

“I think we have a lot of inexperience in our offensive line,” Rodgers said. “I still think the base of our football team is gonna be our defensive unit, I really do.

Those kids that are maybe not returning starters gained valuable experience last year. Just being around those guys, practicing with them, they gained valuable

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carries and scored nine total touchdowns.

Now, he’s back healthy and will serve as a nice security blanket for his brand new quarterback.

“It’s real nice because right now I don’t think defenses really know I’m a quarterback,” Williams said. “They aren’t gonna know Dalyn Williams at quarterback. I feel like they’ll know him [Waller] more. I figure the defense is gonna hit him first and that’s gonna open up the passing game.”

And as Lake Dallas begins the 2010 campaign, Williams said he’s ready to get

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I like the pressure.”

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70

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

HIGH SCHOOLS

Moments on the gridiron Denton Record-Chronicle photographers captured the excitement of area high school football during the 2009 season.

RIGHT: Liberty Christian running back Jared Lawson (3) slips into the end zone for a touchdown in a game against Tyler Grace on Nov. 14 at Bowles Stadium in Argyle.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Denton Record-Chronicle/Al Key

Sanger’s Nathan Rotter, left, and Bo Bob Howard celebrate after Rotter scored against Gainesville on Oct. 16 in Sanger.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Will Clark of Ryan runs through the Arlington Heights defense and the rain on Nov. 20 in Keller.

Denton Record-Chronicle

August 24, 2010

Football

71

HIGH SCHOOLS

Denton Record-Chronicle/Al Key

Lake Dallas wide receiver Tyler McGee, right, dodges Sherman defender Geoff Hooker on Aug. 28 at Falcon Stadium.

LEFT: Pilot Point’s Justin Chambers, left, and Wes Haughton celebrate after a play against Aubrey on Nov. 6 at Massey Stadium in Pilot Point.

ABOVE: Guyer linebacker Jake Smith loses his helmet while attempting to tackle a Stephenville ball carrier on Sept. 4.

Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton

Denton Record-Chronicle/Al Key

72

Football

August 24, 2010

Denton Record-Chronicle

HIGH SCHOOLS

From Page 56

Sanger “Everyone trusts each other,� Scott said. “I was new last year [on varsity] and the first half of the season we started off slow, but once district hit, it clicked. We started kind of clicking in district and getting it going, but we were facing some of the best defenses there were. Everyone knows where everyone’s gonna be and we all trust each other. Me and Dane have a connection we didn’t have last year at the start of the season.�

Scott, a senior, said he knows how Evans felt last season as a first-year varsity player himself. But he said his junior quarterback is ready to roll when the season begins this week. “There’s a big difference,� Scott said of

his quarterback from last season to this year. “Everyone’s first year on varsity is like a deer in headlights. Last year was my first year on varsity and it’s completely different — the atmosphere, the speed, the critical plays, everything. He was good last year, but I really see him taking it to a whole other level this year.�

And Evans is looking for one main difference in 2010 — a playoff appearance for the Indians, which would be their first since 2006, the year before Galbreath arrived. “I definitely feel like this is our year,�

Evans said. “We have all the right people at the right time. That’s what I feel like right now.�

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From Page 62

Liberty Both Metzler and Lawson admitted that they circled the game a while ago.

And not just because of the Jumbotron, either. “Even in track last year we were talking about it,� Metzler said. “Every break we’d say, ‘Beat Prestonwood.’ Even when we weren’t running against them.�

Still, as Price said, the game is just one of many that will prove challenging for the Warriors. Even after finishing as the Division II runner-up last season, Liberty was recently picked to finish fifth in its

district in a coaches’ poll.

Price insists that he doesn’t see the prediction as disrespectful or even inaccurate. Instead, he said that he sees an opportunity. “I don’t necessarily look at it as, ‘Do I think we can do it?’ so much as what an awesome opportunity this is,� Price said. “This is the only time we’ll have the opportunity to step up and do something of this magnitude. This is our one chance to make a jump to tough odds like this and make an impact.�

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From Page 33

Denton “In retrospect, that really helped him learn the speed and intensity of the game,�

Patzkowski said. “I think that’s really helped him from an offensive perspective.�

Another key for Hudspeth and the Broncos will be the maturity of the offensive line, which returns four starters from a year ago, including center Nick Behning and guard Henry Davis, who are both juniors this season.

The secondary, led by junior safety Nick Carrell, should be the strength of the defense for Denton.

Patzkoswki said the depth problems that have plagued Denton in recent seasons are getting “marginally better.� He

cites increased numbers of underclassmen in the program, especially among the freshman ranks, and said the talent level is on the rise.

Denton still has a handful of players who will play on both sides of the ball this season, however, making it critical that the Broncos stay healthy if they expect to be competitive in District 4-4A. “We still have some depth issues, but this team is close. There’s some really good chemistry. We had a really good summer in terms of strength and development,�

Patzkowski said. “We’re not where we need to be, but we’re moving in the right direction.�

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