Denton Record-Chronicle Football 2019 by Denton Media Company

Denton Record-Chronicle

Football2019 North Texas coach Seth Littrell and quarterback Mason Fine join Denton-area high school teams in the quest to leave a â&#x20AC;Ś

Lasting Legacy

North Texas coach Seth Littrell and quarterback Mason Fine are carving out a place among the programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greats. Page 6

Denton ISD teams credit a supportive environment for fueling a run of success they will look to continue this fall. Page 22

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Thursday, August 29, 2019

On the cover Denton Record-Chronicle

Football 2019

Brett Vito

Lasting Legacy The Denton Record-Chronicle’s 2019 football magazine focuses on North Texas coach Seth Littrell and quarterback Mason Fine pursuing a lasting legacy. The Denton area’s high school teams and players are chasing the same goal. Section credits Staff photographer Jeff Woo took the cover photo and the photos for the section introductory pages. North Texas UNT’s Littrell, Fine building legacy 6 Walerius, McIntyre boost recruiting 8 Hamilton key to UNT’s rising defense 10 Extra points 13 Conference USA preview 14 Conference USA capsules 15 UNT roster 16 D’Andre Plantin bolsters UNT’s line 18 Loren Easly overcoming knee issues 19 Denton ISD schools Denton schools feature rich history 22 Guyer 24-28 Denton 29-33 Ryan 34-38 Braswell 39-47 Area high schools Argyle regularly produces talent 49-51 Preseason all-area team 52-53 Lake Dallas 54-56 Argyle 57-59 Sanger 60-62 Aubrey 63-65 Krum 66-68 Pilot Point 69-71 Ponder 72-74 Liberty Christian 75-77 Calvary 78-80 Section staff Director of sports Larry McBride lmcbride@dentonrc.com Section editor Brett Vito bvito@dentonrc.com Staff writer Reece Waddell reece.waddell@dentonrc.com

Section overview

Contributing writers Matthew Brune matthew.brune@dentonrc.com Steve Gamel sgamel@dentonrc.com Bronte Hermesmeyer bronte.hermesmeyer@dentonrc.com Photographers Kara Dry, Jeff Woo Special contributors Randy Cummings, Al Key, Rich Luna

UNT’s Fine, area high school stars chasing history

Football2019 North Texas coach Seth Littrell and quarterback Mason Fine join Denton-area high school teams in the quest to leave a …

Lasting Legacy

ason Fine and Seth Littrell have made a habit of aiming high ever since they arrived at North Texas ahead of the 2016 season. Littrell caught the attention of Mean Green fans when he openly talked about his goal of winning a bowl game in his first season at the school. It seemed a little crazy at the time, considering UNT was coming off a one-win season when it hired the former Oklahoma fullback. Fine didn’t mention it until a few seasons into his career, but he set the goal of becoming the greatest quarterback in program history before he ever played a down. The success both have enjoyed while pursuing those goals has helped Fine and Littrell carve out a significant place in program history during an exciting time for UNT and high school programs in the area. The Denton Record-Chronicle examined the lasting legacies several programs and players are building in its annual season preview magazine. Fine and Littrell served as a terrific starting point. Fine is the most intriguing story in Denton-area football this year. He’s the active leading passer in college football heading into his senior season with 9,417 yards. Fine is also UNT’s career passing leader. Littrell is quickly establishing a himself as one of the great coaches in program history. He has led UNT to bowl games in each of his first three seasons, an impressive total considering the Mean Green have only played in 11 bowl games. UNT is expected to add to that total again this fall. Fine is one of the Mean Green’s 13 returning starters. That core makes UNT the favorite to win the Conference USA West Division title. The Denton Independent School District knows a thing or two about winning

North Texas coach Seth Littrell and quarterback Mason Fine are carving out a place among the program’s greats. Page 6

Denton ISD teams credit a supportive environment for fueling a run of success they will look to continue this fall. Page 22

Jeff Woo/DRC

North Texas quarterback Mason Fine, center, enters his senior season as the leading active passer among quarterbacks competing on the Football Bowl Subdivision level. Denton’s four high schools also have players who are building lasting legacies, including, from left, Denton defensive lineman Isaac Broades, Guyer quarterback Eli Stowers, Ryan linebacker Drew Sanders and Braswell wide receiver O.K. Cam Smith. Each will look to lead PROOF O.K. BY: __________________________________________________ WITH CORRECTIONS BY:_________________________________________ PLEASE READteams CAREFULLY to • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE their new heights in what promises to be an exciting season. ADVERTISER: DRC PROMO SALES PERSON: DEDSTAN PUBLICATION: DE-GLOSSY

PROOF CREATED AT: 8/19/2019 6:35 PM PROOF DUE: NEXT RUN DATE: 08/29/19 SIZE: 4 col X 10.75 in

championships and has a pair of teams with a chance to add to that legacy this fall in Ryan and Guyer. Guyer has 17 returning starters, including Eli Stowers. The Wildcats’ quarterback has committed to Texas A&M and should take a step forward this season after gaining experience last fall. Stowers is far from the only player in Denton who is considered a top college prospect. Ryan’s Drew Sanders has excelled while playing on both offense and defense. Sanders is considered one of the top 50 college prospects in the country and has committed to Alabama. He’s a big reason the Raiders are considered one of the top teams in Class 5A Division I. Braswell is hoping to join Ryan and Guyer in the playoffs this fall after missing the postseason by one game last season.

DE-18925.INDD

The Bengals have 14 starters returning. Those players will become a part of program lore if they can lead Braswell to the postseason for the first time. Denton will also try to break through for a playoff appearance in Billy Miller’s third season at the school. Several teams in the cities just outside of Denton could also be championship contenders, including Argyle. Quarterback Bo Hogeboom threw for 3,366 yards and 44 touchdowns last season and will lead the tradition-laden program into a season filled with high hopes for a host of Denton-area teams. Fine will finish his career and cement his legacy at UNT over the next few months when a host of high school teams are expected to make playoff pushes. The combination will make for another exciting season in Denton-area football.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

COVER STORY

Littrell, Fine form lasting bond Legendary pair built relationship while elevating program

ing forward to him having a great season. Most importantly, I’m proud of the way he has grown off the field and who he is as a teammate. We’ll have a relationship for a lot of years.”

By Brett Vito

The genesis of a partnership

Staff Writer

Seth Littrell thought back this summer on all the memories he has made in three seasons coaching one of the best players in North Texas history and tried to narrow them down to his favorites. It’s a tough task considering how much Littrell has accomplished with quarterback Mason Fine. The pair led UNT to a surprise bowl berth in 2016, a Conference USA West Division title in 2017 and a second straight nine-win season last year. Nothing stood out to Littrell more than the Mean Green’s season-opening game in 2016 against SMU at Apogee Stadium. UNT was down big when Littrell approached Fine in the fourth quarter and asked him if he was willing to burn his redshirt and play. Fine jumped at the opportunity. “He was so excited to go out there, take his first snap and achieve his life-long dream of being a college football player,” Littrell recalled. Fine guided UNT on an 80-yard touchdown drive in his first series. “That’s my No. 1 memory,” Fine said. “Coach told me he believed in me and that he knew I could do it.” That touchdown drive was a landmark in the memorable partnership between Littrell and Fine that has elevated both into the realm of the all-time greats in UNT history. Fine enters his senior season this fall as the school’s all-time leader with 9,417 passing yards, a total that also makes him the active leader in college football. Fine’s performance has helped Littrell turn a program that won just one game in the season before his arrival into a rising power that has played in a bowl game in each of his first three seasons at the school. What makes the pair’s story all the more compelling is how both have exceeded expectations. Fine was lightly recruited coming out of Locust Grove in Oklahoma because he was undersized. Littrell spent years crisscrossing the country while work-

Jeff Woo/DRC

North Texas coach Seth Littrell, left, and quarterback Mason Fine have formed a bond on and off the field over the course of the last three seasons while guiding the Mean Green to bowl games in each of those campaigns. Both believe their relationship will last well beyond Fine’s senior season this fall. ing as an assistant before UNT gave him his first job as a head coach. A host of factors have contributed to the success Littrell and Fine have enjoyed together at UNT. One of the most important is the chemistry they have developed that helps set the tone for the entire team. UNT wouldn’t be where it is today without one of the more dynamic coach-quarterback combinations in college football

heading into the 2019 season. Littrell can push Fine and knows how to get the best out of him. Fine is comfortable with Littrell and isn’t afraid to go to him with any concern or to challenge him when he believes his coach isn’t doing what is best for the team. “Mason and I have a special bond,” Littrell said. “I’m really proud of the things he has accomplished so far and am look-

Littrell might never have coached Fine if one of his friends from Oklahoma hadn’t given him a tip shortly after he arrived at UNT. Littrell took over a team that ran a prostyle offense and relied on a power running game. He needed a quarterback to run his spread system. Littrell landed Alabama graduate transfer Alec Morris but also wanted a high school quarterback to develop. Locust Grove coach Matt Hennesy recommended Fine, who threw for 13,081 yards in high school. The two-time Gatorade Player of the Year in Oklahoma didn’t attract much interest from colleges because he was 5-foot-11 and 170 pounds. Littrell cared more about Fine’s abilities than his size and brought him to UNT for a visit. Littrell fondly remembers the day UNT became the only school that competes on the Football Bowl Subdivision level to offer Fine a scholarship. Fine was sitting on Littrell’s couch. “His mom and dad were there,” Littrell said. “He was so excited.” Fine described the moment, as “a dream come true.” Capitalizing on that dream hasn’t always been easy. Fine enjoyed some great moments in his freshman season, including throwing for 206 yards and a touchdown in a win over Marshall. Other moments weren’t as memorable. Fine suffered a shoulder injury in a loss to Western Kentucky in November that forced him to miss the last three games of the year. Fine also had to get used to working with Littrell. “When I first got here, I was scared of the man,” Fine said. “He’s a pretty big dude and works out. He’s quiet but when he says something there is a fierceness in his voice. We have grown through adversity and the time we have spent together in the offseason. I look at him as a father figure now. I’m See PARTNERSHIP on 7

COVER STORY

Thursday, August 29, 2019

From Page 6

MEAN GREEN Coaching wins

Partnership not afraid to go to him with any situation. He will give me the best advice and will always have my back.” Fine has needed that advice during the low points in his career. He took a beating at times early in his days at UNT behind a shaky offensive line. Fine also had to learn to become a leader on a team that looks to him to set an example. He has grown as a person and a player throughout the process while garnering the respect of the coaches in C-USA. Those coaches voted him the league’s preseason offensive player of the year this summer. “Fine’s as tough as a pine knot,” UAB coach Bill Clark said. “I have seen him take shots that make you say, ‘Wow.’ He just keeps coming. “He’s a competitor, has arm talent and tremendous accuracy. I’m ready for him to graduate.” Fine is determined to win a C-USA title before he does. He passes that drive on to his teammates. “Mason wants to go out on a high note,” wide receiver Michael Lawrence said. “No matter what it is, on the field, in the weight room, watching film, he’s pushing us to be the best we can be.”

North Texas coach Seth Littrell is quickly moving up on the school’s all-time leaders list for coaching wins. Coach Seasons Record 1. Odus Mitchell 1946-66 122-85-9 2. Jack Sisco 1929-41 74-37-10 3.Corky Nelson 1982-90 48-52-1 4. Darrell Dickey 1998-06 42-64 5. Hayden Fry 1973-78 40-23-3 6. Rod Rust 1967-72 29-32-1 7(t). Seth Littrell 2016-pres. 23-17 7(t). Theron Fouts 1920-24 23-14-2

DRC file photo

North Texas quarterback Mason Fine, left, and Seth Littrell walk off the field after a win over Florida Atlantic last season at Apogee Stadium. UNT has won nine games in each of the last two seasons with the pair leading the way.

MEAN GREEN Fine records

Fine helped Littrell find his groove Littrell has also grown during his time at UNT, thanks in part to his partnership with Fine. The former Oklahoma fullback admitted this summer that he was a little uncomfortable with running his own program as a first-time head coach early in his tenure. Littrell has settled in since but is still looking for ways to improve. “I’m not going to be perfect this year and still have a lot to learn, just like Mason,” Littrell said. “The biggest thing is game management. The more games you coach, the better you get at managing them.” Littrell has also grown when it comes to making the tough decisions off the field. He dismissed a pair of key receivers in his first season at UNT for a violation of team rules. That decision is one of many that established Littrell as an authority figure among UNT’s players. “Coach Littrell is a man of his word,” Fine said. “He’s going to make sure we have the right people in our family.” The payoff has been considerable for UNT. Littrell is 23-17 in three seasons with the

Jeff Woo/DRC North Texas quarterback Mason Fine enters his senior season as the Mean Green’s all-time leader in passing yards and is also closing in on the career passing touchdowns record. CAREER PASSING YARDS Player Seasons Yards 1. Mason Fine 2016-pres. 9,417 2. Mitch Maher 1991-94 8,519 3. Derek Thompson 2009-13 7,447 CAREER PASSING TOUCHDOWNS Player Seasons TDs 1.Steve Ramsey 1967-69 69 2. Mitch Maher 1991-94 67 3. Mason Fine 2016-pres. 64

Mean Green and is already tied for seventh in program history for career wins with Theron Fouts. His .575 winning percentage is the highest at UNT since legendary coach Hayden Fry went 40-23-3 for a .629 winning percentage from 1973-78. Littrell has also led the Mean Green to three of the 11 bowl appearances in school history. He trails only Hall of Fame coach Darrell Dickey, who guided UNT to four

straight New Orleans Bowl appearances beginning in 2001. Enthusiasm has grown among fans during Littrell’s tenure, helping the school set records for home attendance in each of the last two years. UNT drew an average of 23,355 fans in six home game last season. Littrell has gained the respect of his peers along the way. “Coach Littrell has done a great job,” Louisiana Tech coach Skip Holtz said. “North Texas will remain up there [in C-USA] with the talent and coaching staff they have.” The success Littrell has enjoyed has attracted the attention of programs across the country that are looking for a new coach. Kansas State pursued Littrell after legendary coach Bill Snyder retired after last season. Littrell eventually pulled out of the running for the job, largely because of the comfort level he has found at UNT. UNT athletic director Wren Baker says the school will be aggressive in its efforts to hang on to Littrell, who will make in excess of $1.8 million per season after signing his third extension in as many years this spring. Littrell’s latest contract runs through the 2023 season. “North Texas has exceeded my expectations,” Littrell said. “It was challenging to hire a staff and build relationships with the players, but it has been rewarding.”

A special bond Littrell’s relationship with Fine stands out among those he has developed at UNT because of how it has grown and changed

over the years. Fine can’t help but smile when he can tell young players are intimidated by Littrell. “Mason’s a lot more comfortable around me now than he was when he got here,” Littrell said. “He sees me around my wife and kids. It’s not all just coach.” Fine and Littrell hope to add to the memories they share this fall while capitalizing on their final season together. UNT has 13 starters returning and was a near unanimous pick to win C-USA’s West Division in the league’s preseason poll. One of the few areas UNT has struggled during the Littrell era has been in championship games and bowl games. UNT fell to a nationally ranked Utah State team in the New Mexico Bowl last season after Fine was knocked out of the game in the first half with a pulled hamstring. The Mean Green lost to Florida Atlantic in the 2017 C-USA title game and then fell to a loaded Troy team in the New Orleans Bowl. UNT didn’t have Fine available for its game against Army in the Heart of Dallas Bowl in 2016 due to injury and lost that game in overtime. UNT’s coaches and players are confident they can break through for a big win this fall with Littrell and Fine leading the way. Both have goals they will pursue after Fine’s time at UNT is up. Fine hopes to play in the NFL. Littrell will continue building UNT’s program and could move on to a nationally prominent school at some point. No matter where life takes them, Littrell and Fine will share a bond. “I love that guy and I hope the feeling is mutual,” Fine said. “No matter what, five, 10 or 20 years from now, if something is going in my life, good or bad, I know I will be able to call and talk to him. I know I will get his honest feedback.”

Thursday, August 29, 2019

NORTH TEXAS

Walerius, McIntyre providing boost for UNT

Al Key/For the DRC

Luke Walerius, the North Texas football program’s director of recruiting, right, and Shelby McIntyre, the program’s coordinator of football recruiting operations, have made a dramatic impact on the program’s growth. Walerius added the title of chief of staff in the offseason.

Mean Green seeing surge in recruiting, thanks in part to staff additions By Brett Vito Staff Writer

Luke Walerius was sitting in class at the University of Kentucky with no clear path to fulfilling his dream of a career in football just a few years ago when a phone call changed the course of his life. Walerius’ playing career had just ended after two seasons at a pair of small colleges due to concussions. He hoped to coach but needed one of those elusive breaks that can launch a career in college athletics. That opportunity arrived when his cell phone rang that day in the spring of 2013. Former Kentucky coach Joker Phillips heard of Walerius’ plight through his wife. Leslie was an adviser at Georgetown College, where Walerius finished his career. Phillips offered Walerius the opportunity

to work a football camp with him. “Looking back, it was the best thing that ever happened to me,” Walerius said. The connections Walerius built at that camp helped him work his way into the recruiting industry and find a home at North Texas. UNT coach Seth Littrell has made a series of critical moves since arriving at the school before the 2016 season, including revamping the program’s recruiting staff. Hiring a pair of people who took the long route to working in college football ranks among the best. Littrell hired Walerius as his director of football in January of 2018 and added Shelby McIntyre, a former track athlete at Boise State, as his coordinator of football recruiting operations a few months later.

The pair has played a key role in UNT recruiting at an unprecedented level the last two years. The Mean Green signed the fourth ranked recruiting class among Conference USA schools in 247Sports’ rankings in 2019 and are in contention to land the league’s top class for 2020. The efforts of Walerius and McIntyre are a big reason UNT is expected to play in a bowl game for a fourth straight season this fall and continue its rise in the seasons to come. “Luke has been huge for our program,” Littrell said. “Recruiting is the lifeblood of our program. He has done a great job with our staff and me. He keeps us organized and makes sure we target the right kids.” That’s where McIntyre comes in. One of the newest members of UNT’s

staff handles the details of campus visits and events that help the program’s coaches convince recruits to continue their careers with the Mean Green. “There is a certain culture we want recruits to see when they step on campus,” Littrell said. “It’s not just about football. It’s also about development, culture and making sure recruits understand we are going to do everything necessary to give them the resources to be successful. “Shelby understands our culture and who we are. She has done a great job.”

Turning the tide in recruiting UNT’s program was coming off a tough 1-11 campaign when Littrell arrived at See RECRUITING on 9

NORTH TEXAS

From Page 8

MEAN GREEN Recruiting rankings

Recruiting UNT ahead of the 2016 season. The Mean Green’s program had several issues to address. Recruiting was among the most glaring and took the most time to sort through. UNT didn’t finish higher than sixth in 247Sports’ rankings of C-USA’s recruiting classes in the three seasons before Littrell’s arrival. The Mean Green didn’t fare any better in his first two seasons, landing at eighth and 11th. Littrell brought on Walerius and McIntyre to help change UNT’s fortunes. Littrell stresses the importance of culture in every aspect of his program and has seen a change in the way UNT approaches recruiting. “The hardest thing about recruiting is when spring practice and the season get going,” Littrell said. “It’s easy to be all about ball. You need someone to hold everyone accountable in recruiting as well. “Luke has done a great job of that.” McIntyre also plays a role. She guides players and their families on campus tours throughout the year and organizes barbecues and other functions. Littrell says both Walerius and McIntyre have a passion for what they do and are a great fit for UNT’s program. Littrell valued Walerius so highly that he gave him the title chief of staff in the offseason. That move and the comfort level both Walerius and McIntyre have found at UNT has helped keep them in place. Littrell said he had to fend off multiple programs that tried to hire Walerius in the offseason. “It’s a cool culture,” McIntyre said of the allure of working for UNT. “Everyone comes to work with the same goal – to win games and sign the best recruiting class we can. We have a great time together every day. It’s a fun place to be.”

The long journey to UNT Both Walerius and McIntyre bring a unique perspective to UNT’s football program because of their backgrounds. Walerius played at Thomas Moore and Georgetown before giving up football and enrolling at Kentucky. The former offensive lineman paid his dues over the course of years just to have a chance to work in college football. His experience working a camp with Phillips at the age of 19 was just one step in the process. Walerius met Kyle Krantz at the camp. Krantz, who is now an assistant at South Carolina, had a friend who worked in Kentucky’s recruiting office and helped Walerius secure an interview for a volunteer position. Walerius landed the job that was far from glamorous. “The first five or six months all I did was stuff envelopes, sort through transcripts and take care of the work no one else wanted to do,” Walerius said. “I kept getting more and more responsibilities after proving I could do things quickly and efficiently.” Walerius’ work ethic caught the eye of Tommy Mainord. UNT’s associate head coach was an assistant at Kentucky at the time and recruited four areas of the country – Texas,

North Texas has seen its recruiting rankings improve since Luke Walerius, left, and Shelby McIntyre joined the staff in 2018. The following is a look back at the program’s composite ranking among Conference USA teams by 247Sports: Year Recruits Rank 2019 23 4 2018 23 9 2017 19 11 2016 21 8 2015 24 6 2014 22 9

the Carolinas, South Florida and a large swath of the East Coast. “Tommy took me under his wing,” Walerius said. “I helped him recruit and was a student coach for him working with wide receivers.” Mainord joined Littrell’s staff when he took over at UNT and recommended his new boss hire Walerius a few months later. McIntyre also has an extensive background in athletics. She’s the daughter of a high school football coach. “I loved athletics growing up and played a lot of different sports,” McIntyre said. “I was best at track but loved being around football.” McIntyre ran the distance events in track and competed in cross country at Boise State. Like Walerius, her college career was cut short. A pair of stress fractures forced her to give up running by early in her junior season. McIntyre explored a few avenues to work in the athletic department at Boise State. She ended up in the football team’s recruiting office and fell in love with the work. McInyre applied for jobs at Boise and UNT when she graduated and was offered both. “I felt like this was a better fit,” McIntyre said of UNT. “I was at Boise for six years and thought I would grow seeing a different program. Boise was all I knew. It was a great decision.”

The task at hand Walerius and McIntyre have helped solidify UNT’s approach to recruiting during their short time at the school. All programs have parameters of what they are looking for in players when it comes to talent and academic prowess. Walerius spends his time making sure the athletes UNT pursues also fit the cultural values Littrell has established. UNT’s coach wants his players to be selfless, tough and disciplined. Walerius wants players who are good teammates and love the game as well. He sees plenty of players who enjoy being recruited more than the work that goes into being a great player. UNT’s coaches are upfront about their expectations. “What our staff does a great job of is being honest with kids,” Walerius said. “That helps you to avoid taking kids who don’t pan out. If you are honest with a kid and they still respect you, then you are going to be able to coach them hard.” Walerius often sits in his office deep into the night watching film and researching players to find ones who fit

Thursday, August 29, 2019

UNT’s tight parameters. That work paid off in the days leading up to signing day in 2018. Atascocita safety Alex Morris was offered a scholarship by several prominent programs early in his recruiting process, including Louisville and Indiana. Walerius discovered the Morris hadn’t committed to anyone just days before national signing day and worked quickly to put UNT in the race to sign him. Morris committed to UNT and was the top-rated player in the Mean Green’s 2018 signing class. “It’s crazy how many good players there are in Texas and how many of them get overlooked,” Walerius said. “When it gets to the end, you can find kids who had offers and didn’t commit anywhere. A lot of times the schools that offered them filled their scholarships. You never close the door on a kid.” McIntyre excels at closing the deal when UNT does find a player the staff wants. She studied what the university has to offer after joining the staff and spends her days extolling those virtues to recruits and their parents. UNT’s size as an institution is a big part of McIntyre’s pitch. She hasn’t spent time with a single recruit who was interested in an academic program UNT doesn’t offer. Being a female also helps her connect with recruits’ mothers. “I like being around people and talking to families,” McIntyre said. “We have a great thing going with coach Littrell here. It’s easy to sit in front of a family and tell them that we are going to take care of their kids and that we have a great culture. I enjoy making people excited about football and UNT.”

Responding to UNT message Several of the recruits who have committed to UNT over the last two years have said Walerius and McIntyre played a role in their decision. Offensive lineman Dane Jackson has known Walerius since his days as an assistant at Kentucky, where his older brother, Drake Jackson, was a star player. That relationship helped UNT land Jackson. “He’s young and energetic,” Jackson said of Walerius. “He has worked his way up in college football and is a great person. He’s a people person who is easy to talk to.” Walerius is also connecting to players he recently met, including Jamal Ligon, a defensive lineman from Tyler who committed to UNT in March. “Coach Walerius is so upbeat,” Ligon said. “He’s the type of person who can get you going. He’s also the type of guy you can have an instant connection with.” UNT’s recruits have also enjoyed their interactions with McIntyre. “She took us around campus, which was awesome,” said Jett Duncan, an offensive lineman from The Woodlands who committed to UNT in April. Landing a player like Duncan is the most rewarding aspect of working in recruiting for Walerius and McIntyre. Both traveled a long road to become important contributors to UNT’s success in recruiting that bodes well for the future. “You don’t really judge a class until two or three years down the road, but we are competing for kids,” Walerius said. “We’re not backing down. Most of the time when other schools want your kids they are probably pretty good.”

Thursday, August 29, 2019

NORTH TEXAS

Hamilton steps into lead role for UNT Senior aims to help defense continue rapid improvement By Brett Vito Staff Writer

There were times last season when North Texas defensive end LaDarius Hamilton was a bit off the radar, despite being highly productive. Senior linebacker E.J. Ejiya was a star in Conference USA and the leading player in a core of vocal veterans that also included fellow linebacker Brandon Garner. Kemon Hall and Nate Brooks were flashy playmakers at cornerback. Hamilton made plenty of plays. He just wasn’t the Mean Green’s headliner. Times have changed entering into his senior season. Hamilton is one of UNT’s stars and is moving into a leadership role as the Mean Green look to build on a breakthrough season defensively in 2018. “This is most definitely my time,” Hamilton said. “I’m one of the older guys and have to set an example for the younger guys. I need to be on top of myself before I get on anyone else.” Ejiya, Garner and the rest of the Mean Green’s seniors followed that philosophy last season. The results were impressive. UNT ranked fifth in C-USA allowing just 24.2 points per game. That total represented a dramatic improvement from 2017 when UNT gave up 35.0 points an outing. The Mean Green will look to continue their rise defensively this fall with a largely revamped lineup. UNT has just five returning defensive starters, and that’s counting Tyreke Davis. The former Ryan standout is moving from the nickel spot to linebacker. The Mean Green will have very few players returning to familiar roles this fall. Hamilton is one of the most productive of the bunch. His 7.5 sacks ranked second among UNT players, while the 11 tackles

Jeff Woo/DRC

NORTH TEXAS LASTING LEGACY

North Texas defensive end LaDarius Hamilton enjoyed a breakout season last fall when he finished with 7.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss on his way to earning first-team All-Conference USA honors. The senior will look to build on that performance this fall while providing leadership for the Mean Green’s rapidly improving defense.

for loss he recorded were good for third. Hamilton posted 33 stops overall and was a first-team All-C-USA selection. “LaDarius has progressed,” UNT coach Seth Littrell said. “We had high expectations for him when he came in. He was one of our more vocal guys. As time has gone on, he’s gotten better. He knows he’s a guy we rely on. He has to step up and hold guys accountable.” Hamilton is in position to do just that this fall because he has held himself to a high standard. The converted linebacker’s biggest challenge has always been putting on weight and keeping it on to handle the physical battles that come with playing in the trenches. Hamilton has always been

quick for a 6-foot-3 defensive lineman. That agility is what has helped him rack up 18 tackles for loss in his career. Hamilton is at his best when he combines that quickness with raw power. UNT’s coaches believe he will have that elusive combination after pushing his weight to 255 pounds in the offseason. “He’s more mature and approaches the game more professionally,” defensive coordinator Troy Reffett said. “He had his best summer in terms of strength and conditioning. He might be as heavy as he has ever been since he has been here. That’s a result of how he approached this summer See HAMILTON on 11

MEAN GREEN Quick facts Conference: C-USA 2018 Record: 9-4 (5-3 C-USA) Coach: Seth Littrell (23-17 in three years at UNT) Returning starters: Eight on offense, five on defense Key players: QB Mason Fine, WR Rico Bussey Jr., DE LaDarius Hamilton, RB DeAndre Torrey, OL Sosaia Mose Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3-5 Enrollment: 38,000 Stadium: Apogee Stadium

NORTH TEXAS

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Mike Caudell/Virginian-Pilot

North Texas defensive end LaDarius Hamilton closes in on Old Dominion quarterback Blake LaRussa during the Monarchs’ win over the Mean Green last season. Hamilton was a first-team All-Conference USA as a junior last fall when UNT allowed 24.2 points per game and showed dramatic improvement defensively.

From Page 10

Hamilton getting ready to play. We tell our players to train like professionals. He did a better job of that.” Hamilton is coming off a breakout season when it comes to rushing the passer. He had just one sack in his career before last season. Reffett’s 3-3-5 scheme is at its best when players can generate pressure from multiple positions. Last season, most of that pressure came from Ejiya and Garner, who combined for 43 tackles for loss and 15.5 sacks. Hamilton is among the players UNT will depend on to fill that void. The challenge is one Hamilton relishes. “I have gotten bigger, faster and stronger,” Hamilton said. “I’m on another level now as far as my game because of the work I have put in. I’m confident in myself and my abilities.”

He’s also confident in the players UNT will have around him following his lead when it comes to generating pressure and building on a solid season overall defensively. “We have to continue to have that dog mentality,” Hamilton said. “That is the reason we got to the quarterback so much last year.” There’s no question about it. Ejiya was a first-team All-C-USA selection in 2018 and displayed that tenacious attitude. Garner was nearly as productive and was one of the more experienced players on the roster. Hall and Brooks were both savvy veterans and multi-year starters. Defensive lineman Roderick Young was a three-year starter. There won’t be nearly as many veteran players in UNT’s starting lineup this season. Five of the Mean Green’s top eight tacklers were seniors in 2018. When Hamilton looks around, he sees the talent necessary to make up for those

losses. Safeties Khairi Muhammad and Taylor Robinson finished tied for third and fifth, respectively, in tackles with 67 and 58. Junior defensive lineman Dion Novil posted 7.0 tackles for loss as a defensive end and bulked up to 315 pounds to prepare for the move to nose tackle. UNT also brought in a host of talented newcomers. Graduate transfer defensive backs Dominique Harrison and Nick Harvey arrived from Arizona State and South Carolina, respectively, and are expected to make an immediate impact. What UNT needs more than anything after losing so many veteran players last season is leadership. The Mean Green will look to Hamilton to help fill that void. The task is one his teammates believe he is ready to face. “LaDarius motivates us every day, always bring high energy and holds us accountable,” Novil said. “He’s one of those natural leaders. We know that he will lead us to the best of his abilities.”

MEAN GREEN A rise defensively

Jeff Woo/DRC North Texas improved dramatically on defense in 2018 when compared to the 2017 season under coordinator Troy Reffett. The following is a look: Category 2017 2018 Points allowed 35.0 24.2 Total yards allowed 426.7 374.6 Sacks 23 34 Interceptions 8 18 Turnovers forced 16 22

Thursday, August 29, 2019

UNT Mean Green Eagles 2019 Football Schedule

Date

From left, seniors LaDarius Hamilton, Mason Fine and Khairi Muhammad

Opponent

Time

Aug. 31 ..................Abilene Christian ..............................6:30 p.m. Sept. 7 ...................at SMU .............................................6:00 p.m. Sept. 14 .................at California ......................................3:15 p.m. Sept. 21 .................UTSA*...............................................6:30 p.m. Sept. 28 .................Houston ............................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 12...................at Southern Mississippi*...................6:00 p.m. Oct. 19...................Middle Tennessee*...........................3:00 p.m. Oct. 26...................at Charlotte* .....................................2:30 p.m. Nov. 2 ....................UTEP*...............................................2:30 p.m. Nov. 9 ....................at Louisiana Tech*............................3:00 p.m. Nov. 23 ..................at Rice*.............................................2:30 p.m. Nov. 30 ..................UAB*.................................................3:00 p.m. *Denotes C-USA games

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NORTH TEXAS

Thursday, August 29, 2019

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POINT OF CONCERN UNT lost several key players from its defense that took a dramatic step forward in 2018 while allowing 24.2 points per game. The Mean Green allowed 35.0 points per game in 2017 before rebounding behind a host of seniors. Linebacker E.J. Ejiya and cornerback Kemon Hall were both first-team All-Conference USA selections. Fellow cornerback Nate Brooks was a second-team pick. UNT also lost linebacker Brandon Garner and Hamilton defensive end Roderick Young, a pair of experienced starters, to graduation. “Being a competitor, I always think it could be better, but we saw some growth out of the young guys at positions where we need them,” defensive end LaDarius Hamilton said. The Mean Green will need those players to come through to fill the considerable voids left by the players UNT lost. Ejiya posted 121 tackles, 25.0 tackles for loss and 9.0 sacks as a senior. Brooks and Hall intercepted six and five passes, respectively, while Garner finished second among UNT players with 18.0 tackles for loss.

KEY NEWCOMERS North Texas will look to fill a number of holes on a defense that lost six starters with a host of transfers and highly regarded high school signees. The Mean Green signed four high school linebackers and three highly regarded cornerbacks. Those additions weren’t enough to satisfy the team’s coaches. UNT went out and added graduate transfer defensive backs Nick Harvey from Harrison South Carolina and Dominique Harrison from Arizona State after the conclusion of spring practice. “We have some great young players at that position, but any time you can get guys who have played at a high level and make yourself better, great,” UNT coach Seth Littrell said. Harrison and Harvey are just two newcomers who could make an impact. Junior college cornerback Quinn Whitlock and freshman cornerback DeShawn Gaddie could also contribute immediately.

DRC file photos

North Texas has a group of wide receivers that could be the strongest in Conference USA this fall. Rico Bussey Jr., left, led the league with 12 touchdown catches last season and is a preseason all-league pick. Jaelon Darden, center, caught 48 passes for 575 yards in 2018, while Michael Lawrence enters this senior season with 95 career receptions.

POSITION OF STRENGTH North Texas will feature one of the most productive quarterbacks in college football this season in Mason Fine. The senior will be all the more dangerous because of the wide receivers he’ll have at his disposal as he looks to add to the 9,417 passing yards he’s rolled up in his career. The Mean Green have a preseason All-Conference USA selection in Rico Bussey Jr., and that’s just for starters when it comes to the deepest position on UNT’s roster. “I have confidence in my receivers,” Fine said. “We have superstars, talent and depth. If one of our top guys go down, we have other guys who can step up.”

GAME OF THE YEAR North Texas has posted wins that marked milestones in one way or another throughout Littrell’s three seasons with the Mean Green. UNT will have a chance at another landmark victory when it faces longtime rival SMU on Sept. 7 at Ford Stadium. The Mean Green are just 6-31-1 against SMU all-time and are 1-24-1 in games against the Mustangs in Dallas

That depth could make UNT’s wide receivers corps the best in C-USA. Bussey led UNT in catches (68) and receiving yards (1,017) last season, while his 12 receiving touchdowns paced players in all of C-USA, not just the Mean Green. Michael Lawrence, who led the Mean Green in catches (62) and receiving yards (819) in 2017, will also be a senior this fall. UNT has several weapons at receiver beyond that duo, including slot receiver Jaelon Darden, a junior who caught 48 passes last year. Sophomore Greg White as well as redshirt freshmen Jyaire Shorter and Austin Ogunmakin are also expected to contribute. “Our receiving corps can be a strength,” UNT coach Seth Littrell said. “We have a

lot of depth and guys who have made plays for us. It’s an explosive group. “Our team speed is as good as it has been in my time here. Everyone has a role. We have big body receivers and slot receivers who are great in space.” Lawrence enters his senior season with 95 catches and is one of the most experienced of UNT’s offensive skill position players. He knows what it takes to succeed at the college level and is impressed by what he has seen from the young players on the Mean Green’s roster. “We have freshmen who can play,” Lawrence said. “They have learned from the older guys over the summer and are competing. Our receivers will be a strength. “I am excited to see where we can go.”

UNT’s only win over SMU in Dallas came in 1933. “SMU’s going to be a big game,” UNT safety Khairi Muhammad said. “It’s a bragging rights game. I Muhammad have a lot of friends who play for that team.” The Mean Green lost three straight games to SMU before breaking through

for a 46-23 win at Apogee Stadium last season. UNT led 36-0 late in the third quarter. The question now for the Mean Green is if they can beat SMU in Dallas. The Mustangs finished 5-7 last season and added Texas graduate transfer quarterback Shane Buechele in the offseason. Buechele threw for 2,958 yards and 21 touchdowns as a freshman with the Longhorns in 2016 and could pose a challenge.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

CONFERENCE USA PREVIEW

C-USA West race could be tight UNT’s showdown with Louisiana Tech looms large after two thrillers By Brett Vito Staff Writer

The margin for error in Conference USA has been razor thin over the last few seasons, especially in the league’s West Division. No team has gone unbeaten on that side of the league since Houston in 2011, when C-USA’s lineup was nothing like it is today. The competitive nature of the division is best illustrated by the budding rivalry between North Texas and Louisiana Tech. The Bulldogs beat the Mean Green last season when cornerback Amik Robertson blocked UNT kicker Cole Hedlund’s 46yard field goal attempt in the closing seconds to preserve a 29-27 win. The play was vengeance of sorts for Louisiana Tech, which missed a field goal late in the fourth quarter of a 2017 game in Ruston, Louisiana, that UNT hung on to win 24-23. C-USA’s coaches expect another thrilling race in the West this fall, when UNT and Louisiana Tech are expected to contend once again. “Players from both teams look to see when they play North Texas or Louisiana Tech,” Louisiana Tech coach Skip Holtz said. “It’s a tremendous rivalry between two schools with football tradition. We have had some phenomenally competitive games. You know when you play North Texas it’s going to be a battle.” The teams have combined to win two of the last three C-USA West Division titles. Louisiana Tech won in 2016 before the Mean Green captured the title in 2017. UAB broke through to win the division last year. All three teams are expected to be contenders again this season. UNT was picked to win the division in C-USA’s preseason media poll. Southern Miss was picked second, Louisiana Tech third and UAB fourth. UNT, Southern Miss and UAB all received first-place votes. “There is no doubt it’s wide open,” UNT coach Seth Littrell said. “We had a target on our backs this last year and won’t sneak up on anyone. “We won’t overlook anyone either. There is no doubt in my mind that we could line up against any opponent in our

DRC file photo

North Texas wide receiver Michael Lawrence heads to the end zone after catching a pass from Mason Fine last season during a 29-27 loss to Louisiana Tech. The teams have played thrilling and consequential games the last two years. league and win, but we could also be embarrassed very easily.” There are plenty of reasons for UNT to feel confident heading into the season, starting with the return of quarterback Mason Fine. The senior is C-USA’s preseason offensive player of the year. Fine is among a host of veterans who hope to set the tone for the Mean Green. UNT was picked to win C-USA’s West Division last year as well only to come up short “We’re indifferent about it,” Fine said of being the West Division favorite. “We will focus on what we can control and the core values coach Littrell has implemented in our program.” Littrell and UNT’s players believe that is their best hope to contend in a division that includes several other teams that are expected to challenge for bowl berths. Southern Miss has 15 returning starters and plenty of motivation after being passed over for a bowl berth in 2018 despite being bowl-eligible at 6-5. The Golden Eagles allowed just 278.4 yards per game last season, a total that ranked third at the Football Bowl Subdivision level. UAB lost 32 lettermen from a team that beat Middle Tennessee in the C-USA title game but remains a threat. “I really feel good about this group based on how hard they work,” UAB coach Bill Clark said. “Belief is a big motivator. It helps anytime you have seen something

work. Attitudes and everything you would expect to be good has been good.” Louisiana Tech also returns several of its top players, including quarterback J’Mar Smith. C-USA’s East Division is expected to be competitive as well. Marshall was picked to win the division in the preseason poll, but Florida International and Florida Atlantic also received first-place votes. FIU linebacker Sage Lewis was named the C-USA preseason defensive player of the year and helped lead the Panthers to a win over Toledo in the Bahamas Bowl last season. FAU was the preseason pick to win C-USA’s East Division last year before struggling in a 5-7 campaign. “I hope we learned from it,” FAU coach Lane Kiffin said. “We talked about not buying into preseason hype. People talked about us going to a BCS bowl. It was ridiculous. We ended up buying into it.” UNT and Louisiana Tech are among the teams in C-USA dealing with the pressure of being a favorite this year. Both know from experience that living up to those expectations is tough in a league where the difference between winning and losing is typically razor thin. “I think North Texas will remain up there with the talent they have returning, the program they have and their coaching staff,” Holtz said. “Seth has done a nice job there. I hope we can hold up our end.”

C-USA Preseason poll The following is the Conference USA preseason poll as voted on by media members who regularly cover the league. First-place votes are listed at right: West Division 1. North Texas.......................................... 20 2. Southern Miss........................................ 4 3. Louisiana Tech....................................... 0 4. UAB....................................................... 2 5. Texas-San Antonio.................................. 0 6. Rice....................................................... 0 7. UTEP...................................................... 0 East Division 1. Marshall.............................................. 14 2. Florida International............................... 9 3. Florida Atlantic....................................... 3 4. Middle Tennessee................................... 0 5. Western Kentucky................................... 0 6. Old Dominion......................................... 0 7. Charlotte................................................ 0

C-USA All-league team The following is the Preseason All-Conference USA team as voted on by the league’s 14 head coaches: Offensive Player of the Year Mason Fine, Sr., QB, North Texas Defensive Player of the Year Sage Lewis, Sr., LB, Florida International Special Teams Player of the Year Jonathan Cruz, So., K, Charlotte Offense QB — Mason Fine, Sr., North Texas RB — Spencer Brown, Jr., UAB; Benny LeMay, Sr., Charlotte OL — Levi Brown, Sr., Marshall; Josh Dunlop, Sr., UTSA; Derron Gatewood, Sr., UTEP; Sosaia Mose, Sr., North Texas; Miles Pate, Sr., WKU TE — Harrison Bryant, Sr., Florida Atlantic WR — Rico Bussey, Jr., Sr., North Texas; Adrian Hardy, Jr., Louisiana Tech; Quez Watkins, Jr., Southern Miss Defense DL — Channing Hames, Sr., Marshall; LaDarius Hamilton, Sr., North Texas; Alex Highsmith, Sr., Charlotte; Garrett Marino, Sr., UAB; DeMarrio Smith, Sr., Southern Miss; Jacques Turner, Jr., Southern Miss LB — Khalil Brooks, Sr., Middle Tennessee; Sage Lewis, Sr., Florida International; Racheem Boothe, Jr., Southern Miss DB — Reed Blankenship, Jr., Middle Tennessee; Ky’el Hemby, Jr., Southern Miss; Amik Robertson, Jr., Louisiana Tech; Chris Jackson, Sr., Marshall Special Teams K — Jonathan Cruz, So., Charlotte P — Alvin Kenworthy, Sr., North Texas KR — Brett Winnegan, Sr., UTSA PR — Maurice Alexander, Sr., FIU LS — Matt Beardall, Sr., Marshall

WEST DIVISION LOUISIANA TECH BULLDOGS Head coach: Skip Holtz (46-33 in six seasons at Louisiana Tech, 134-104 in 19 seasons overall) Team: 36 lettermen, eight offensive, five defensive starters return from an 8-5 team (5-3 in C-USA), 23 lettermen lost. Key player: J’Mar Smith is one of the most experienced quarterbacks in C-USA and enters his senior season having thrown for 6,546 yards and rushed for an additional 592. Smith threw for 3,160 yards and 15 touchdowns last fall. Smith Outlook: Louisiana Tech beat Hawaii in the Hawaii Bowl last fall to extend its run of consecutive years with a bowl win to five. Wisconsin is the only other team in college football with bowl wins in each of the last five years. The Bulldogs appear to have a team capable of extending that streak behind two elite offensive players in C-USA in wide receiver Adrian Hardy (75 catches for 1,145 yards) and running back Jaqwis Dancy (667 rushing yards, nine touchdowns). SOUTHERN MISS GOLDEN EAGLES Head coach: Jay Hopson (21-16 in three seasons at Southern Miss, 53-33 in seven seasons overall) Team: 48 lettermen, nine offensive, six defensive starters return from a 6-5 team (5-3 in C-USA), 17 lettermen lost. Key player: Quarterback Jack Abraham led the nation with a 73.1 completion percentage on his way to throwing for 2,347 yards and 15 touchdowns as a sophomore. Outlook: Southern Miss was the lone bowl-eligible team in C-USA that was not selected to play in a postseason game Abraham in 2018. The Golden Eagles had played in a bowl game in three straight seasons before finishing 6-5 last year. Southern Miss is in position to bounce back this fall behind a defense that allowed just 278.4 yards per game last season. RICE OWLS Head coach: Mike Bloomgren (2-11 in one season at Rice) Team: 43 lettermen, seven offensive, six defensive starters return from an 2-11 team (1-7 in C-USA), 30 lettermen lost. Key player: Wide receiver Aaron Cephus emerged as a big-play threat for a Rice offense that struggled to produce in 2018. The junior scored on five of his 40 receptions on his way to finishing with 565 receiving yards. Outlook: Rice has struggled Cephus since playing in bowl games in three straight seasons from 2012-14 and didn’t show many signs of progress in its first season under Bloomgren. The Owls won two games, one of them a 31-28 victory over Prairie View A&M. Rice averaged just 18.9 points per game.

CONFERENCE USA CAPSULES TEXAS-SAN ANTONIO ROADRUNNERS Head coach: Frank Wilson (15-21 in three seasons at UTSA) Team: 47 lettermen, six offensive, four defensive starters return from an 3-9 team (2-6 in C-USA), 21 lettermen lost. Key player: Defensive end Lorenzo Dantzler was among the key players for a defense that was UTSA’s strength. The junior finished with 8.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks after starting nine games in his first season with the Roadrunners. Dantzler Outlook: UTSA reached the six-win mark to become bowl-eligible in each of its first two seasons under Wilson before taking a step back in 2018. UTSA finished last in C-USA with an average of just 14.2 points per game and will look to improve behind new offensive coordinator Jeff Kastl. UAB BLAZERS Head coach: Bill Clark (25-14 in three seasons at UAB, 36-18 in four seasons overall) Team: 31 lettermen, eight offensive, five defensive starters return from an 11-3 team (7-1 in C-USA), 32 lettermen lost. Key player: Spencer Brown was named to the All-C-USA first team as a sophomore in 2018 after rushing for 1,227 yards. He earned MVP honors in the C-USA title game after rolling up 156 yards and a touchdown in a 27-25 win Brown over Middle Tennessee. Outlook: UAB was the feel-good story of the C-USA season last fall. The Blazers won the conference title in just their second year back after their program was shut down in 2014 and revived a few months later. The question heading into the 2019 season is if the Blazers can contend for the C-USA title again after losing a loaded senior class. UTEP MINERS Head coach: Dana Dimel (1-11 in one season at UTEP, 19-42 in seven seasons overall) Team: 49 lettermen, seven offensive, four defensive starters return from an 1-11 team (1-7 in C-USA), 21 lettermen lost. Key player: Senior defensive lineman Chris Richardson started all 12 games for UTEP last season and finished with 31 tackles, two tackles for loss and two quarterback hurries. Outlook: UTEP had nowhere to go but up after finishing Richardson 0-12 in 2017 and took a small step in the right direction by knocking off Rice 34-26 for its lone win last season. The Miners have seven starters returning on offense and will have to get better on that side of the ball after averaging just 17.7 points per game last season.

EAST DIVISION

CHARLOTTE 49ERS Head coach: Will Healy (first season at Charlotte, 13-21 in three seasons overall) Team: 40 lettermen, five offensive, seven defensive starters return from a 5-7 team (4-4 in

Thursday, August 29, 2019

C-USA), 20 lettermen lost. Key player: Senior running back Benny LeMay rushed for 1,243 yards in 2018 and is one of the top returning running backs in C-USA. LeMay was a second-team All-C-USA selection last season and is a preseason all-league pick. Outlook: Charlotte hired Will Healy in the offseason in the hope that he can inject LeMay life into a program that has finished below .500 in all four of its seasons as a member of C-USA. Healy spent the last three seasons as the head coach at Austin Peay and guided the Governors to an 8-4 finish in 2017. FLORIDA ATLANTIC OWLS Head coach: Lane Kiffin (16-10 in two seasons at FAU, 51-31 in six seasons overall) Team: 42 lettermen, seven offensive, six defensive starters return from an 5-7 team (3-5 in C-USA), 26 lettermen lost. Key player: Tight end Harrison Bryant caught 45 passes for 662 yards and four touchdowns in 2018 and is a preseason All-C-USA selection. FAU lost several key skill position players. The Owls will need Bryant to help fill the void. Outlook: FAU suffered a stunning collapse in 2018 Bryant after rolling to an 8-0 finish in C-USA, hammering North Texas in the conference title game and beating Akron in the Boca Raton Bowl in 2017. The Owls followed up with a 5-7 campaign and will look to bounce back behind 13 returning starters and C-USA’s top recruiting class. FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL PANTHERS Head coach: Butch Davis (17-9 in two seasons at FIU, 96-52 in 12 seasons overall) Team: 52 lettermen, eight offensive, eight defensive starters return from a 9-4 team (6-2 in C-USA), 17 lettermen lost. Key player: Senior quarterback James Morgan was named the C-USA Newcomer of the Year after throwing for 2,727 yards and 26 touchdowns in his debut season with the Panthers. Outlook: Davis has elevated a program that missed the Morgan postseason in five straight years while guiding FIU to bowl games in consecutive seasons. FIU has the talent necessary to extend that run. MARSHALL THUNDERING HERD Head coach: Doc Holliday (70-46 in nine seasons at Marshall) Team: 55 lettermen, eight offensive, six defensive starters return from an 9-4 team (6-2 in C-USA), 19 lettermen lost. Key player: Quarterback Isaiah Green was named C-USA’s Co-Freshman of the Year after throwing for 2,459 yards and 15 touchdowns in 2018. Green’s yardage total ranks Green

second in program history for a freshman. He is among the top returning quarterbacks in C-USA. Outlook: Marshall has won a bowl game in each of the past two seasons and appears poised to make a run at the C-USA title this fall. The Thundering Herd was picked to win the C-USA East Division title in the league’s preseason media poll and has 14 starters returning. MIDDLE TENNESSEE BLUE RAIDERS Head coach: Rick Stockstill (87-78 in 13 seasons at MTSU) Team: 49 lettermen, four offensive, six defensive starters return from an 8-6 team (7-1 in C-USA), 21 lettermen lost. Key player: Wide receiver Ty Lee has been a consistent performer throughout his time with the Blue Raiders and enters his senior season ranked third in program history with 213 receptions. Lee caught 71 passes for 883 yards and seven touchdowns in 2018. Lee Outlook: MTSU has been one of the more consistent programs in C-USA and capitalized on a golden opportunity in 2018, when it won the league’s East Division title behind Brent Stockstill. The son of MTSU head coach Rick Stockstill put up huge numbers throughout his career and rolled up 3,544 passing yards as a senior. OLD DOMINION MONARCHS Head coach: Bobby Wilder (76-45 in 10 seasons at Old Dominion) Team: 32 lettermen, four offensive, five defensive starters return from an 4-8 team (2-6 in C-USA), 33 lettermen lost. Key player: Linebacker Lawrence Garner led Old Dominion with 100 tackles in 2018, when his average of 11.1 tackles per game paced C-USA. Garner also intercepted a pass and forced a fumble. Garner Outlook: Old Dominion pulled off one of the biggest upsets in college football last season, beating Virginia Tech to highlight a year of ups and downs. The Monarchs won just three more games and will look to bounce back this fall. WESTERN KENTUCKY HILLTOPPERS Head coach: Tyson Helton (first season at WKU) Team: 50 lettermen, 10 offensive, six defensive starters return from a 3-9 team (2-6 in C-USA), 18 lettermen lost. Key player: Lucky Jackson caught 50 passes for 552 yards and four touchdowns in 2018, a season in which WKU struggled to find any consistency offensively while using three quarterbacks. Outlook: Helton returned to Jackson WKU in the offseason and will tackle the task of reviving the Hilltoppers’ program that was once among the best in C-USA. Helton was WKU’s offensive coordinator in 2014 and 2015. The Hilltoppers played in bowl games in both seasons. — Brett Vito

NORTH TEXAS

Thursday, August 29, 2019

MEAN GREEN Roster No. Name Pos. 1 Jaelon Darden WR 2 Austin Aune QB 2 LaDarius Hamilton DE 3 Tim Faison LB 3 Will Kuehne QB 4 Khairi Muhammad S 5 Jason Bean QB 5 Tyreke Davis LB 6 Mason Fine QB 6 Dominique Harrison DB 7 Evan Johnson RB 8 Rico Bussey, Jr. WR 9 Nick Harvey DB 9 Kelvin Smith TE 10 Cole Johnson QB 10 Makyle Sanders S 11 Cam Johnson DB 13 Chris Thornton LB 13 DeAndre Torrey RB 14 Greg White WR 15 Dorian Morris DB 15 Tre Siggers RB 16 Jahvon Millard DB 16 Jyaire Shorter WR 17 DeShawn Gaddie DB 17 Kason Martin QB 18 Leandre Davis DB 18 Austin Ogunmakin WR 20 David Chapple WR 20 William LeMasters LB 21 Nic Smith RB 21 Quinn Whitlock DB 22 Keelan Crosby DB 22 Calen Mayfield WR 23 KD Davis LB 23 Loren Easly RB 24 Roderic Burns WR 24 Taylor Robinson DB 25 Preston Buchanan DB 25 Trey Henderson WR 26 Thomas Clancy WR 26 Alex Morris S 27 Oscar Adaway III RB 27 Jevin Murray DB 29 Nate Durham DS 29 Jaxon Gibbs S 30 Mason Reid K 30 Dennis Smith WR 32 Michael Lawrence WR 32 Joe Ozougwu LB 34 Bryce English DT 34 Kyleb Howell TE 35 Gabriel Murphy LB 36 Alvin Kenworthy P 36 BJ Lewis DB 37 Taylor Jacobs LB 38 Kevin Wood LB 39 Jameel Moore DB 39 KJ Williams RB 40 Edward Bautista TE 40 Mike Linehan LB 41 Jordan Hunt LB 41 Bernardo Rodriguez P

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

Wt. 172 202 255 215 195 188 189 209 190 190 185 193 190 252 180 205 178 216 191 198 162 200 173 212 170 205 190 200 165 219 192 181 181 165 214 201 177 187 190 180 190 200 212 175 219 192 190 170 183 238 313 222 215 200 165 215 200 179 205 225 236 210 202

Yr. Jr. Rfr. Sr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Rfr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Fr. Jr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Fr. So. Rfr. Rfr. Fr. Rfr. Fr. Rfr. Rfr. Sr. Jr. So. So. Rfr. So. Sr. Rfr. Sr. Rfr. Fr. Jr. So. Fr. Fr. Jr. Rfr. Fr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Fr. Sr. Rfr. So.

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NORTH TEXAS Schedule Date Opponent Time Aug. 31 Abilene Christian 6:30 p.m. Sept. 7 at SMU 6 p.m. Sept. 14 at California 3:15 p.m. Sept. 21 UTSA* 6:30 p.m. Sept. 28 Houston 7 p.m. Oct. 12 at Southern Miss* 6 p.m. Oct. 19 Middle Tennessee* 3 p.m. Oct. 26 at Charlotte* 2:30 p.m. Nov. 2 UTEP* 2:30 p.m. Nov. 9 at Louisiana Tech* 3 p.m. Nov. 23 at Rice* 2:30 p.m. Nov. 30 UAB* 3 p.m. *Conference USA 42 Grayson Murphy 43 Larry Nixon III 44 Jimmy Walker 46 Nicholas Pichon 47 Ethan Mooney 47 Javier Neal 47 Jahvon Millard 48 Jamie King 49 Zach Williams 52 Darrian McMillan 53 Jordan Redfearn 54 Asher Frow 56 Jacob Brammer 57 Brandon Oldham 58 Nathaniel Herrera 59 Hayden Harrison 60 Sosaia Mose 61 Logan Davis 62 D’Andre Plantin 65 Chad Hickson 66 Chris Cassidy 68 Daxton Byers 70 Thomas Preston III 71 Brian Parish 72 Manase Mose 73 Cole Brown 74 Chandler Anthony 77 Elex Woodworth 78 Daizion Carroll 79 John Brunner 80 Khatib Lyles 81 Kealon Jackson 82 Deion Hair-Griffin 83 Damon Ward Jr. 84 Deonte Simpson 85 Adam Duncan 86 Cole McCrary 87 Deven Langston 88 Jason Pirtle 89 Asher Alberding 91 Dayton LeBlanc 92 Jake Jones 93 Caleb Colvin 94 Tuulau Sa’afi 96 Bryse Burris 97 Dion Novil 99 Kenneth Dotson

LB LB DL DL K DB DB LB K DL OL DL OL DS OL LB OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL WR WR WR WR WR TE TE WR TE TE DL DL DL DL DL DL DL

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

215 232 255 290 202 160 173 224 181 254 305 245 279 220 285 212 292 265 301 283 275 305 295 270 299 276 297 294 306 300 190 163 170 192 192 190 226 185 220 230 278 228 286 300 235 315 255

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

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Thursday, August 29, 2019

NORTH TEXAS

Plantin aims to be UNT one-hit wonder

Jeff Woo/DRC

Offensive lineman D’Andre Plantin came to North Texas from Virginia Tech as a graduate transfer in the offseason. He has one season left to play and will look to capitalize on his considerable potential with the Mean Green this fall.

Virginia Tech transfer could be ideal fit at tackle on Mean Green’s front By Brett Vito Staff Writer

D’Andre Plantin always dreamed of carrying on his family’s football tradition, one that dates back generations. The North Texas tackle’s father, Tony Plantin, played for Clemson. Both of his grandfathers also played college football. Plantin always wanted to follow in those footsteps, carve out a significant legacy on the college level and achieve his dream of playing in the NFL. The journey has been a long and winding one for Plantin, a native of Georgia who spent three seasons at Virginia Tech and is down to his last chance at UNT. Plantin arrived at UNT as a graduate transfer in the offseason and is expected to play a significant role in his first and only season with the Mean Green. “I have definitely been treating it as my last chance,” Plantin said. “With my talent and skill level, if I go out and produce, hopefully I can get to the next level. That’s been my dream for a long time.”

Plantin feels like he’s closer than ever to reaching that goal ever since he found what seems like the perfect situation at UNT. The Mean Green had very few holes in their lineup after a 9-4 season that included an appearance in the New Mexico Bowl in 2018. One of those holes was at tackle. UNT lost two of the three players who rotated at the position to graduation. The Mean Green had a few good young tackles on the roster but felt like they needed additional help. Plantin seemed like a perfect fit. The 6-foot-5, 301-pound lineman is exactly what programs are looking for in a tackle from a physical standpoint. Plantin’s size and athleticism were what made him a highly regarded recruit during his senior season in Georgia. He was offered a scholarship by more than a dozen schools, including Virginia and Illinois. Plantin committed to Virginia Tech, but played sparingly during his time at the school. He quickly found a home at UNT after starting over with the Mean Green.

“The energy here is really special,” Plantin said. “The staff treated me like I was their son when I came on a visit. They have always had my best interests at heart. We have a stacked team that is attracting a lot of scouts and we lost two tackles. It was the best fit for me to make an immediate impact.” Plantin arrived at UNT in time for spring practice and quickly developed a rapport with the Mean Green’s other offensive linemen while carving out a significant role. He quickly rose to the top of UNT’s depth chart at left tackle. “Plantin brings a lot of experience that is going to be big,” UNT center Sosaia Mose said. “He brings a lot of good vibes and positive energy, not just for the starters, but for the young guys who are still trying to get the game down. He’s very passionate about the game and what he does.” That passion helped Plantin stick with his dreams during the down times. He never carved out a significant role at Virginia Tech and ran into what he is hopes is a minor road block earlier this year.

Plantin appeared to be a near lock to start at left tackle for the Mean Green in the late stages of spring practice before breaking his toe. A teammate stepped on Plantin’s right foot in practice. The injury forced him to miss a significant portion of fall practice. UNT coach Seth Littrell said he wanted to make sure Plantin was completely healthy before putting him back on the field. The No. 1 job for Plantin in his lone season with the Mean Green will be to protect quarterback Mason Fine. Fine played behind Plantin throughout the spring and is confident he can handle the job. “It’s tough as a transfer to learn a whole playbook that fast,” Fine said. “Plantin did a great job of getting into the film room, getting with [offensive line coach Chuck] Langston and trying to get our offense down. He had his ups and downs in the spring and is more comfortable now. That will help him play fast and play better. He will be solid.”

NORTH TEXAS

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Third knee injury won’t deter Easly Running back tore ACL last fall in midst of breakout season By Brett Vito Staff Writer

Loren Easly chose to look at the bright side last fall at a time when it would have been easy to ponder how many obstacles he had run into during his football career. Easly had already come back from tearing the anterior cruciate ligaments in both his knees and appeared to be hitting his stride at North Texas after rolling up 110 rushing yards in a key Conference USA game against Louisiana Tech in September. That was when Easly took another awkward fall and felt a familiar pain in his left knee. Easly’s ACL was shredded again, ending his season. “When I went down, I knew I was going to rehab and come back even better,” Easly said. “If I can fix it, I’ll come back.” That is exactly what Easly is doing this fall in the hope he can cap his long and winding journey in college football on a high note. Easly suffered his first ACL tear in his left knee at Houston Westside, an injury that limited his college options. He signed with Stephen F. Austin and rushed for 1,256 yards in two seasons at the school before tearing the ACL in his right knee during spring practice in 2017. Easly always wanted to play at the Football Bowl Subdivision level and took a risk when he transferred to UNT and sat out the 2017 season. He was damaged goods at that point after suffering two major knee injuries. The Mean Green took Easly on anyway and saw an immediate payoff when coach Seth Littrell gave him his first major opportunity in a game at Arkansas last fall. That Mean Green rolled to a 44-17 upset win that is largely remembered for Keegan Brewer’s 90-yard punt return on a perfectly executed fake fair catch. That play overshadowed a breakthrough performance from Easly, who racked up 68 rushing yards and a touchdown. Easly followed up that performance with a 177-yard game in a win over Liberty. Easly’s career was back on hold follow-

Jeff Woo/DRC

North Texas running back Loren Easly has torn the anterior cruciate ligaments in his knees three times since high school. He was in the midst of a breakout campaign last fall when he suffered his latest knee injury. Easly is hoping to come back at full strength for the 2019 season and give the Mean Green’s offense a boost in his senior year. ing the Mean Green’s loss to Louisiana Tech in his next game. “As soon as I found out I tore it again, coach Littrell came over and told me to remember the God we serve,” Easly said. Faith has helped fuel Easly’s comeback. He believes God has a plan for his life that includes another comeback. “I absolutely admire Loren’s perseverance,” first-year UNT running backs coach Patrick Cobbs said. “To be able to come back from three ACLs is huge. He has done it the right way and has been good after the first two. I don’t see why this one being any different.” Easly gradually worked his way back into form in preseason practice and is hoping to find a role with the Mean Green just like he did last season. UNT was looking for a replacement Jeffery Wilson, one of the standout running backs in recent program history, heading

into Easly’s debut campaign in 2018. For a while, it appeared as if Easly would be that back. The dynamic is different this time because of the emergence of DeAndre Torrey. UNT turned to Torrey after losing Easly last season and saw him rush for at least 130 yards in each of its last four regular

season games. Torrey led UNT with 977 rushing yards in 2018 and is expected to be the Mean Green’s top back this fall. That doesn’t mean that there won’t be a role available for Easly. See EASLY on 20

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NORTH TEXAS From Page 19

Easly

DRC file photo

North Texas running back Loren Easly carries the ball in a loss to Louisiana Tech last season at Apogee Stadium. Easly rushed for 110 yards and a touchdown before tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. He has suffered three ACL tears in his football career.

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“If Loren can get back to full health, we will be a great duo,” Torrey said. “It could be good for the offense to have a one-two punch. “He pushes me to be a better back and is great to have on the team.” Easly is one of the bigger backs on UNT’s roster at 201 pounds and displayed his power when he ran over an Arkansas safety last season. “He’s a big, strong kid,” UNT offensive coordinator Bodie Reeder said. “The big back is a great role for him. He looks different than any of the other backs that we have.” Easly’s biggest concern isn’t his role. “I don’t care about anything but winning,” Easly said. “We have won a lot of games since I have been here, but I want to win a championship.” UNT has come up short in that regard. The Mean Green have lost in a bowl game in each of the last three seasons and fell to Florida Atlantic in the 2017 Conference USA title game. Easly worked his way through a third recovery from an ACL tear to earn the opportunity to help UNT break through. There is no telling how good he will be this time around, but his teammates wouldn’t be surprised if he can make an impact again. Easly has come back before. They believe he can do it again. “Loren’s a tough guy,” UNT safety Khairi Muhammad said. “How could you not root for a guy like that? He comes to work every day and spends hours in the training room trying to get better and help this team.”

Denton ISD schools

Culture and history of success make Denton a â&#x20AC;Ś

Football Factory

Thursday, August 29, 2019

COVER STORY

Denton ISD claims rich football history District’s teams poised to extend run of success By Reece Waddell Staff Writer

Down a long, vacant hallway at AT&T Stadium, Ken Purcell stood stoically, peering out a window. The area was vacant, save from the occasional passerby. It was there that Purcell was afforded seclusion, something difficult to come by in a billion-dollar stadium that seats upwards of 100,000 fans. But on this day — Dec. 18, 2010 — Purcell had every right to escape the mayhem unfolding below. Purcell, then Denton ISD’s athletic director, had not one, but two teams vying for state championships a few hundred feet below him. Purcell The angst, Purcell recalls, was at an all-time high. “People didn’t know this about me, but during ball games when my teams were playing, I would go find a place away from the press box by myself if the games got really tight,” Purcell said. ”I was just too nervous to sit around a bunch of people. In that hallway there was a window with nothing there, and I ended up standing in that little area. I ended up watching both games from there.”

History in the making Purcell’s routine once he got to the stadium remained virtually unchanged, despite the magnitude of the upcoming title games. The longtime athletic director arrived at AT&T Stadium roughly two-and-a-half hours prior to the 11 a.m. kickoff between Ryan and Lake Travis. Purcell made his way onto the field and chatted with Ryan’s then-head coach and current Denton ISD athletic director Joey Florence. Normally, that would have been the end of it. Purcell would watch Ryan in the Class 4A Division I championship and call it a day. But with Guyer playing in the Class 5A Division II title game immediately after Ryan, Purcell was in for an unprecedented marathon. It was the first time since 1962 that two

Jeff Woo/DRC

The Denton Independent School District will turn to a new generation of players to maintain its history of success this fall, including, from left, Ryan’s Billy Bowman Jr., Guyer’s Seth Meador, Braswell’s Greyson Thompson and Denton’s Sam Strange. Guyer won state titles in 2012 and 2013, while Ryan has played in the state semifinals the last three seasons. schools from the same district played for a state championship. Since 2010, the feat has yet to be replicated. “You didn’t think much about it at the time,” Florence said. “Looking back on it now, it’s impressive for a school district to do that. You knew you had two great football teams in Guyer and Ryan. We were really proud for Denton at the time. It was a great day.” High above the field in the lofts of AT&T Stadium, Purcell spent the next six hours nervously watching Ryan and Guyer battle, but come up short. The Raiders fell to Lake Travis 27-7, and shortly after, the Wildcats lost a nail biter to Cibolo Steele 24-21. The experience, Purcell described, was

a fantasy for any athletic director. “It was a dream,” Purcell said. “I had butterflies. It was really something to watch your teams go back-to-back at AT&T. There was a lot of pride in what our kids and the coaching staff had done. The only negative was that we ended up losing both games.”

Deja vu all over again It has been nine years since Ryan and Guyer shared the field at AT&T Stadium. In that span, the Wildcats claimed consecutive state titles in 2012 and 2013, while the Raiders have advanced to the 5A Division I semifinal each of the past three years. While no two teams from the same district

have played for a championship since Ryan and Guyer did in 2010, it’s widely believed the Raiders and Wildcats have a chance to catch lightning in a bottle again. With 17 returning starters and a bevy of talent on both sides of the ball, Guyer coach John Walsh drew an immediate connection to his 2010 squad. “It reminds me of 2010 so much,” Walsh said. “We had a bunch of juniors and seniors. That group in 2010 had 13 Division I starters. That’s hard to match, but we’re on our way.” Guyer already has several Division I starters, with quarterback Eli Stowers See HISTORY on 23

COVER STORY

Thursday, August 29, 2019

From Page 22

DENTON ISD State title games

History committed to Texas A&M and defensive lineman Grant Mahon pledged to Oklahoma State. Wide receiver Seth Meador will be off to Air Force after his senior year. Running back Kaedric Cobbs and cornerback/wide receiver Deuce Harmon are among a host of other Wildcats with Division I offers who have yet to commit to a school. “This has a chance to be [one of Guyer’s most talented teams],” Walsh said. “I think growing up in this program, these guys were all in elementary and middle school going to AT&T to watch those [past] teams play. I think the expectations have always been there for them. Now, they’re going, ‘Hey, we’re one of those teams. That can be us.’” For Ryan, the feeling is mutual, although coach Dave Henigan said the Raiders don’t fixate on what could happen in December. “Our whole deal, and one of the reasons we have a good program, is we take care of the day-to-day,” Henigan said. “Everyone knows that the end goal is to win it all, but we don’t really talk about it. It’s about being a champion every day and going to work.” With five-star athlete and Alabama commit Drew Sanders back, as well as key contributors like Texas commit Billy Bowman Jr., Seth Henigan and Emani Bailey, coach Henigan knows the Raiders are loaded once again. Ryan is a combined 42-3 over the past three years. The Raiders’ only losses in that span have come at the hands of Highland Park, each time in the state semifinal. “It’s going to be a good team. I don’t have any doubt about that,” coach Henigan said. “I don’t know if I’d call it pressure, but there’s an expectation to win and to win every game. That’s the standard at Ryan and it always has been. I knew that when I signed up for the job. I wouldn’t want to coach anywhere else where that wasn’t the expectation. I don’t know if it’s realistic, but we’ve come pretty close.” Only time will tell if Guyer and Ryan can both make it back to their classification’s championship games. The topic isn’t the focal point for either team entering the season, but the prospect of etching their names into the history books is undeniable. “What I like about it is you get the sense they want to be one of the legendary Guyer football teams,” Walsh said. “There’s not a whole bunch of talk about it. They’re

Denton Independent School District teams have played in eight state title games since 2000. The following is a look back: 2000 4A Div. I: Bay City 24, Ryan 2 2001 4A Div. I: Ryan 42, Smithson Valley 35 (OT) 2002 4A Div. II: Ryan 38, Brenham 8 2003 4A Div. II: La Marque 43, Ryan 35 (3OT) 2010 5A Div. II: Cibolo Steele 24, Guyer 21 4A Div. I: Lake Travis 27, Ryan 7 2012 4A Div. I: Guyer 48, Georgetown 37 2013 4A Div. I: Guyer 31, San Antonio Brennan 14

DRC file photo

Guyer coach John Walsh accepts the state championship trophy following the Wildcats’ 31-14 win over San Antonio Brennan in the 2013 Class 4A Division I state title game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. just working their tails off day in and day out. It’s all about what we have to do on a Monday out here. That’s what I love about them. They’ve got a lunch pail mentality.”

From the ground up When Cody Moore took the job to become Braswell’s first football coach in 2015, the school was still under construction. Along with spending his first year getting the Bengals’ new facilities up and running, Moore was also presented with a rare chance to coach his future players in middle school. “There are very few opportunities in coaching when you get to be with a group of kids for five years and actively coach them,” Moore said. “I spent my fall coaching eighth grade football at Navo Middle School.” Five years have passed since Moore roamed the sidelines at middle school games. Those players are now seniors in Moore’s program at Braswell and are among the reasons the Bengals are on the cusp of securing their first playoff berth. “When I think about that senior class and the guys I had as eighth graders, watching their progression and maturation and how far this program has come, to see that manifest itself in wins on the field is exciting,” Moore said. “They have a special place in my heart.”

Braswell went 3-5 in District 7-5A Division II last year, narrowly missing out on the postseason. With 20 seniors returning this fall who have been with Moore since the beginning, the Bengals appear ready to clear yet another hurdle. “I think they’re poised for success,” Florence said. “I think [Moore] has done a tremendous job getting them there. They’ve had a lot to overcome. It takes a lot of energy. I’m really proud of the coaches and administrators out there.” Braswell is not the only Denton ISD program trying to establish a culture of winning consistently. At Denton, Billy Miller has been tasked with getting the Broncos’ program back on track. Denton has gone 5-15 over the past two years and has not posted a winning season since 2016. From 2014-2016, Denton went 26-9. Now entering his third year at the helm, Miller believes the tide is starting to turn back in the Broncos’ favor. “It’s been a different feel around here as of late,” Miller said. “I feel really good about the way the staff and kids are coming together. The biggest deal is when you’re trying to change culture and build things from the ground up, it’s getting people to understand there are bright spots in the future.” Although Denton has suffered several

lopsided losses the past two years, Miller said in most of those games, the final score was not indicative of the team’s performance. He added the key for the Broncos in 2019 will be avoiding mistakes. “You can look at the final scores from our games the last two years and it may not tell the true story of who we are,” Miller said. “In two years, we’re 5-15. If you go back and examine what happened to us in those two years, there are only two games we lost complete control of. Eighteen out of 20 games over the past two years we had a chance to win. Getting over the hump is figuring out how to win those games.”

Unprecedented success From Guyer to Ryan, Denton and Braswell, each school in Denton ISD has experienced success in their own right. Since 2000, Denton ISD is the only multi-school district in Texas that has had more than one high school win a state championship. Over the past 10 years, Guyer, Ryan and Denton have combined to go 238-112, winning 68 percent of their games. Add in state championships, state final appearances and Braswell’s steady improvement, and it’s hard to deny the obvious. Denton ISD is a football factory. “Obviously, there are a lot of talented kids,” Florence said. “There are a lot of talented players in a lot of sports in this community. What’s unique about Denton ISD is we have a tremendous amount of success and have multiple schools. I think that’s a credit to everybody: the kids, administrators and coaches.”

Thursday, August 29, 2019

GUYER

Guyer’s Stowers, Cobbs share bond By Reece Waddell Staff Writer

Eli Stowers still remembers the day he met his best friend, even though he was only 2 years old at the time. Stowers and his family were living in Beaumont, where his father was the head football coach at Beaumont Central High School. Stowers didn’t have any friends his age, but that was about to change. One of his father’s assistant coaches lived two houses down the street and had a son who was 4. “I think we were just going to meet the neighbors,” Stowers recalled. “We knocked on the door and realized they had a kid who was about my age. We met each other and have been friends ever since.” The kid Stowers met was Kaedric Cobbs, who also remembers the meeting that fostered a lifelong friendship. “My first night there while we were moving stuff in, I actually slept at [Stowers’] house,” Cobbs said. “He was the first person I met down there. We’d always go outside and hoop with some friends or play kickball. Him and I got along.” They still do. Nearly 14 years and several schools later, Stowers and Cobbs remain best friends. But if you ask the pair how close they really are, they consider themselves more like family than friends. “To this day, we tell people we’re cousins because we’ve known each other forever,” Stowers said. “We tell people we’re cousins because we’ve literally grown up together our whole lives. Our families have been friends forever. “I definitely feel like when we grow up this will be something that we never forget, being able to play with each other in high school together.” After dreaming of being on the same high school team growing up, Stowers and Cobbs’ wish finally came true when Cobbs moved to Denton in 2017. But it wasn’t until last season that Stowers joined Cobbs in the backfield. When Stowers took over the starting quarterback job in 2018, the two immediately jelled, creating a formidable 1-2 punch.

Jeff Woo/DRC

GUYER LASTING LEGACY

Guyer running back Kaedric Cobbs, left, and quarterback Eli Stowers have been friends since they were young. The bond they share contributes to the Wildcats’ team chemistry. Both are also highly productive on the field and are coming off a season in which they combined to account for 4,169 of Guyer’s 4,902 total yards.

“Those guys have known each other since elementary school,” Guyer coach John Walsh said. “You can’t pretend the continuity isn’t there. They’ve been around each other for so long.” For the Wildcats, their chemistry has paid off. In their first season together last fall, Stowers and Cobbs combined to account for 4,169 of Guyer’s 4,902 yards and 40 of the team’s 46 touchdowns. And the duo is equally impressive in the classroom. Both are at the top of their classes, with Cobbs sporting a perfect 5.0 GPA. Walsh said there is no doubt that has transferred to success on the field. “The best thing about it is, and I al-

ways joke because we’re on a 5.0 scale here in Denton ISD, between the two of them it’s a 10.0,” Walsh said. “They’re brilliant. They really are. Having that intelligence out there along with the physical attributes they bring to the game has been special.” Now entering his second year as the starter, Walsh said Stowers has grown exponentially over the summer and in the offseason. The Texas A&M commit is widely regarded as one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the state, but according to Cobbs, there is no debate about who reigns supreme. “I believe that he is the best quarterback

GUYER Quick facts District: 5-6A 2018 record: 6-6 (4-3 in district) Coach: John Walsh (118-53 in 14 years at Guyer) Returning starters: Nine on offense, eight on defense Key players: QB Eli Stowers, RB Kaedric Cobbs, WR Seth Meador, DL Grant Mahon, CB/WR Deuce Harmon, S Trace Jewell Offense: Pro/Multiple Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 2,514 Stadium: C.H. Collins Athletic Complex

See GUYER on 26

Have a Great Season, Guyer Wildcats! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Guyer Wildcats 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ at Aledo..........................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 7 ......... Cedar Hill (Cotton Bowl) ..................10:00 a.m. Sept. 12 ....... North Crowley ................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 ....... Keller Central*................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 4........... Southlake Carroll*..........................7:00 p.m. Oct. 10......... at Keller Timber Creek* .................7:00 p.m. Oct. 18......... Keller* ............................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 25......... Haslet Eaton (NW ISD)* ...................7:00 p.m. Nov. 1 .......... at Trophy Club Nelson (NW ISD)*....7:00 p.m. Nov. 7 .......... Keller Fossil Ridge* .......................7:00 p.m. *Denotes District 5-6A (D1) games

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GUYER

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Guyer running back Kaedric Cobbs carries the ball during a game against Southlake Carroll last season at Dragon Stadium in Southlake.

From Page 24

Guyer in the state,” Cobbs said of Stowers. “He brings such a balance. Him and I can do damage in the run game, but you can’t pay too much attention to that or he’s going to read your coverage and pick you apart.” The experience and connection between Cobbs and Stowers should elevate Guyer’s offense to one of the best in the state. Guyer already averaged 407.9 yards and 29.3 points per game last year. With Air Force commit Seth Meador and the highly talented Deuce Harmon catching passes on the outside, Walsh knows the Wildcats’ offense will be even tougher for defenses to handle this season. “Last year, we were using Kaedric as a hammer to open everything else up. This year it’s going to be the opposite,” Walsh said. “We’re going to use the rest of the offense to open him up. At first, they’re going

to load the box. And I see us throwing the ball quite a bit. But when they empty that box, it’s not going to be good for them. “Kaedric is a finisher and a closer. It’s nasty. He makes safeties quit playing. Once he gets to the second level in the second half, they’re done playing.” Entering the season as the No. 8-ranked team in Dave Campbell’s Texas Football’s Class 6A poll, expectations surrounding Guyer are high. The offense is a major reason why, and Stowers and Cobbs are the motor behind it. With Cobbs slated to graduate, this season will be the last he gets to play with his best friend. Cobbs intends to make the most of it. “I think Eli and I’s friendship will last a lifetime,” Cobbs said. “There’s a lot of trust. You trust his decision making. You trust when he hands you the ball it’s a good read, or if he pulls the ball then you shouldn’t have gotten it. It’s just a really cool relationship.”

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GUYER

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Harmon emerging as lockdown corner

Jeff Woo/DRC

Guyer cornerback Deuce Harmon was named the Defensive Newcomer of the Year in District 5-6A last season when he intercepted three passes and finished with 45 tackles. Harmon believes he is the best cornerback in the country and will have a chance to show that is the case this fall.

Wildcats star aims to prove no one else is better at position nationally By Reece Waddell Staff Writer

There was a time when Deuce Harmon felt the stress of lining up opposite of an offense’s best receiver. It didn’t last long. As a sophomore in 2018, Harmon earned Defensive Newcomer of the Year honors in District 5-6A. Guyer’s lockdown cornerback picked off three passes and made 45 tackles, quickly developing a confidence that, he believes, has turned him into the top player at his position. “I know I’m the best cornerback in the nation. I know that for a fact,” Harmon said. “You have to have confidence. You can’t be scared. If you go out there scared

you’re going to have a bad game, because you’ll be worried about letting up a catch.” That mentality has allowed Harmon to shut down opposing offenses and wreck games. It is a trait the Wildcats have seen firsthand. In spring practice, despite the likes of Air Force commit Seth Meador and other talented wide receivers on the outside, Guyer could not get into a rhythm passing. “I would throw a little bit to Deuce’s side just to get him recruited,” Guyer coach John Walsh said. “We couldn’t get open.” The Wildcats’ opponents haven’t had See HARMON on 28

Jeff Woo/DRC

Guyer’s Deuce Harmon heads to the end zone while playing wide receiver last season in a game against Byron Nelson.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

GUYER

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH With 17 returning starters, it would be easy to make a case for nearly every position as a strength, but Guyer coach John Walsh pointed to his offensive line as the team’s biggest asset. The Wildcats’ offense starts up front with an experienced core of Gabe Blair, Chett Beach, Devon Mack and Jordan Thorne, who all started last year. Add in 6-5, 270-pound Blair junior Knox Boyd, and Guyer should have one of the top offensive lines in the state. Quarterback and Texas A&M commit Eli Stowers and running back Kaedric Cobbs form a 1-2 punch in the backfield. They will run and throw behind one of the Wildcats’ most talented fronts in recent history.

POINT OF CONCERN Special teams has been one of Guyer’s strengths the past few years with Cole Schroeder handling punting and kicking duties. Schroeder converted on 40 of his 44 PATs and went 7-for-9 on field goals in 2018. He was also able to flip the field punting, pinning the opposition inside the 20-yard line 13 times. But with Schroeder gone to gradua-

From Page 27

Harmon much better luck against Harmon, either. Guyer gave up 27.1 points per game last year, with Harmon taking away entire sides of the field, or in some cases, a team’s best weapon. “[Harmon] is hard,” Walsh said. “He’ll jam you. He’s one of those guys you could say, ‘You’ve got number 14 all day long. Everybody else, we’ll call coverages.’ And we won’t have to worry about 14 all game. He’s done. “You can take away their best player. If you’ve got a guy with 800 receiving yards and everyone else has 150, Deuce has got him. You have to play zone and do some different things, but Deuce can definitely take a guy away.” Harmon’s job should get easier this season with the return of defensive lineman Grant Mahon, who missed all of last season with an injury. The Oklahoma State commit made 45 tackles, 5.5 tackles

WILDCATS Roster

We’ll find out early in the season what the Wildcats are made of, as Guyer travels to defending Class 5A Division II champ Aledo in Week 1. The Wildcats follow that up with a date against Cedar Hill at the Cotton Bowl a week later. While those games will be a good measuring stick, they are still non-district clashes, and ultimately, inconsequential. For Guyer to claim the District 5-6A crown, the Wildcats will have to knock off Southlake Carroll on Oct. 4. They will get the opportunity to do so in front of their home crowd at C.H. Collins Athletics Complex. A win would likely put Guyer in position to claim its first district title since 2014.

No. Player Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr. 1 Kaedric Cobbs RB/LB 5-9 205 Sr. 2 Cam Thrailkill WR/DB 5-8 160 Sr. 3 Trace Jewell QB/DB 6-0 190 Sr. 4 Harrison Bohannon RB/LB 5-9 180 Sr. 5 Eli Stowers QB/DB 6-4 210 Jr. 6 Jordan Eubanks WR/LB 6-2 190 Jr. 7 Cooper Lanz TE/DL 6-3 230 Jr. 8 KJ Liggins WR/DB 5-10 180 Jr. 9 Connor Briggs TE/LB 6-2 240 Sr. 10 Zion Settles WR/DB 5-9 160 Sr. 11 Cole Ramsey TE/LB 6-3 240 Sr. 12 Deuce Harmon WR/DB 5-10 180 Jr. 13 Brandon Deleon WR/DB 5-9 170 Sr. 14 Travis Romar WR/DB 5-9 170 Sr. 15 Devin Goree TE/DE 6-3 240 Sr. 16 Braeden Vallejo RB/LB 5-9 190 So. 17 Jaden Fugett WR/DB 6-3 180 Jr. 18 Jonathan Jones RB/LB 5-10 185 Sr. 19 Seth Meador WR/DB 5-10 175 Sr. 20 Tiyon Aldridge RB/LB 5-9 185 Jr. 21 Darious Goodloe DB/WR 6-0 175 Jr. 22 Santigie Kanu RB/LB 5-9 170 Jr. 23 Mathias Lippe RB/DB 5-9 160 Sr. 24 Vincent Paige RB/DL 6-2 205 So. 25 JC Smith P/K 6-0 180 Sr. 26 Grant O’Bara RB/DB 5-9 170 Sr. 27 Byron Phillips RB/LB 5-11 200 So. 28 Mikal Berry WR/DB 5-9 160 Sr. 30 Tiger Berry WR/DB 5-9 160 Sr. 31 Emilio Martinez TE/DL 5-10 240 Sr.

for loss and 2.5 sacks as a sophomore in 2017. Senior Jonathan Jones will also be back to patrol the middle of the field. The 5-9, 180-pound linebacker racked up 84 tackles and intercepted a pass a season ago. Harmon’s counterpart on the outside, junior Jaden Fugett, also returns, as well as Navy commit Trace Jewell at safety. “We have a lot of top guys back and [Mahon] being back will definitely help,” Harmon said. “I think we can be the best defense in the state in 6A ball.” Guyer’s defense already features two Division I commits in Mahon and Jewell and will undoubtedly add Harmon when he chooses a school. Harmon already holds offers from TCU and SMU. But as for the upcoming season, Harmon is only focused on one thing — helping the Wildcats win another state championship. “We’re working hard,” Harmon said. “We all want to get there.”

Guyer cornerback Deuce Harmon tackles Flower Mound running back Pierce Hudgens during a game last season at Neal Wilson Athletic Stadium.

tion, the Wildcats will be turning to senior J.C. Smith to take over the kicking duties. While Smith has yet to kick on Friday nights, Walsh said he has a powerful leg and is confident Smith can handle the job.

KEY NEWCOMERS Guyer has plenty of star power on both sides of the ball, but Walsh believes Jordan Eubanks, a junior linebacker, could be an X-factor on defense. Eubanks posted 14 tackles last year but has bulked up in the offseason and now checks in at 6-2, 200 pounds.

GAME OF THE YEAR

GUYER Schedule Date Opponent Time Aug. 30 at Aledo 7 p.m. Sept. 7 vs. Cedar Hill^ 10 a.m. Sept. 12 North Crowley 7 p.m. Sept. 26 Keller Central* 7 p.m. Oct. 4 Southlake Carroll* 7 p.m. Oct. 10 at Keller Timber Creek* 7 p.m. Oct. 18 Keller* 7 p.m. Oct. 25 Haslet Eaton* 7 p.m. Nov. 1 at Trophy Club Nelson* 7 p.m. Nov. 7 Keller Fossil Ridge* 7 p.m. *District 5-6A ^Game at the Cotton Bowl 32 33 37 42 44 49 50 53 54 59 62 64 72 75 76 84

Brett Gilbert Colton Smith Caleb Hulbin Dotun Olanipekun Blaine Smith Jacob Penny Colby Strange Grant Mahon Chett Beach Jess Holbert Gabe Blair Jordan Thorne Devon Mack Jaxon Norton Knox Boyd Bryce Beago

DS 5-9 TE/DL 6-3 WR/DB 5-10 TE/DL 5-10 FB/DL 5-11 FB/LB 5-9 OL/DL 5-9 OL/DL 6-3 OL/DL 6-0 OL/DL 6-2 OL/DL 6-2 OL/DL 6-4 OL/DL 6-2 OL/DL 6-1 OL/DL 6-5 WR/DB 5-10

140 Jr. 180 Sr. 160 Sr. 250 Jr. 250 Jr. 180 Sr. 245 Sr. 270 Sr. 240 Sr. 280 Sr. 275 Jr. 270 Sr. 320 Sr. 220 Sr. 275 Jr. 160 Sr.

Jeff Woo/DRC

DENTON

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Strange, Guajardo to guide Broncos By Matthew Brune Contributing Writer

After losing its top two quarterbacks, two leading rushers, leading receiver and a handful of offensive linemen from last year, Denton needed direction offensively. Senior receiver Sam Strange was at the top of the list as the best returning player from last year’s team, but Denton coach Billy Miller needed a lesser-known player to step up. To the teams in District 4-5A Division I and everyone else on the Broncos’ schedule, senior quarterback Davian Guajardo is an unknown player. But to Strange, Guajardo, who started on JV last season, is anything but unknown. Instead, Guajardo is a close friend who he has a history of catching passes from. The two go back to McMath Middle School, where they played on the same team. Even though they haven’t played together for most of their time at Denton, the relationship is still tangible. “[Our chemistry] is going to lead to a lot of big plays on the field,” Guajardo said. “I know how he moves, his speed, and everything, just from growing up with him, especially from middle school. I’m expecting a lot from him being the only senior receiver, because he’s explosive and gets off the line quick.” It was an unfortunate offseason for the Broncos, as senior wide receiver Marcellus Lockley and senior running back Xylohn Posey moved and will play football at other schools. That duo served as Denton’s top weapons a season ago. While their leading rusher and receiver are gone, Miller believes the newcomers who fill those roles are capable. With the quarterback and No. 1 receiver combination in place, Strange and the offense enter 2019 expecting more of a presence in the passing game. “I think we’re going to be a little more pass-focused with Xylohn leaving,” Strange said. “That’s going to open up the way we do things. There are a lot of younger guys stepping up. There’s a big difference from your first year to the varsity level. That’s

Kara Dry/DRC

DENTON LASTING LEGACY

Denton is aiming to exceed expectations behind a combination of veterans and unproven young players. Wide receiver Sam Strange, left, is the Broncos’ top returning player. His longtime friend Davian Guajardo, center, is taking over at quarterback. Senior offensive lineman Devin Freeman will anchor Denton’s offensive line.

when you start seeing these guys really develop as players.” A few of those fresh faces taking on prominent roles in this offense include junior running back Connor Shelley and sophomore receivers Jason Carter and Javaan Evans. Shelley was on JV with Guajardo in 2018, while Evans and Carter were on the freshman team. Several players on the Broncos’ offense played on JV or on the freshman team last year, allowing them to get playing time instead of riding the pine on varsity. “I believe it’s always going to be productive for kids to play on the JV if there’s not an opportunity to get a lot of reps with

the varsity,” Miller said. “You learn how the game operates. It gets faster as you get older. It’ll be beneficial for [Guajardo] because he’ll have a couple of guys he’s had time with last season, so they have some chemistry. He knows what he’s getting from them.” On the offensive line, Denton will be led by senior Devin Freeman and junior center Matt Garcia. They will help protect Guajardo in the Broncos’ spread offense. Back on May 7, offensive line coach Martin Simmons suddenly and tragically passed away at the age of 42, bringing the unit closer together as they embark on

BRONCOS Quick facts District: 4-5A Division I 2018 record: 2-8 (2-5 in district) Coach: Billy Miller (5-15 in two years at Denton) Returning starters: Three on offense, four on defense Key players: WR Sam Strange, DE Isaac Broades, QB Davian Guajardo, DB Devin Barnett, DB Xavier Darden Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 School enrollment: 2,022.5 Stadium: Bronco Field

See DENTON on 31

Have a Great Season, Denton Broncos! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Denton Broncos 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ..... at Lake Dallas...................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 6 ...... Frisco Lone Star (C.H. Colins) ...............7:00 p.m. Sept. 13 .... at Frisco Independence ....................7:00 p.m. Sept. 27 .... Ryan (C.H. Collins)* ...............................7:00 p.m. Oct. 4........ R. L. Turner (Bronco Field)* ..................7:00 p.m. Oct. 11...... at Grapevine*....................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 18...... Birdville (Bronco Field)* ..........................7:00 p.m. Oct. 25...... Carrollton Creekview* ........................7:00 p.m. Oct. 31...... at Newman Smith*............................7:00 p.m. Nov. 8 ....... Colleyville Heritage (Bronco Field)*........7:00 p.m. *Denotes District 4-5A (D1) games

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DENTON

Thursday, August 29, 2019

From Page 29

Denton their first season without him. “We had a trying offseason with the tragic events with coach Simmons, so it was traumatic for our offensive line group, but they’ve really come together and I’m excited about them,” Miller said. “They’ve built a team concept. You rely on the offensive line to jell and become one solid group. They’ve spent the offseason coming together.” Strange, Garcia, and Freeman are the only three returning starters from last year’s offense, but the youth on the depth chart provides Denton with an opportunity. Guajardo and Strange plan on leading the attack from the air, but they’ll need help from first-timers as well. “We’re going to attack teams in the air with our strong receiving corps and good O-line in front of us,” Guajardo said. “It’s been a lot of hours watching film, working out, staying after. We’ve built a lot of chemistry and confidence, and that makes it a lot easier for us to get comfortable.” Miller said he wants to try and keep players on one side of the ball. That approach will be a change from last year, when many of Denton’s top athletes played both offense and defense. After two straight tough campaigns, Denton is ready for anything to shake it up and inject life into the program. While most won’t know Guajardo or any of the other players who frequented freshman and JV games last year, everyone in the area knows the players who left. With other teams and spectators doubting them for that reason, the opportunity is there to sneak up on teams. “The [doubt] motivates us for sure,” Guajardo said. “It gives us a big chip on our shoulder just to come out and be explosive and beat teams no one thought we could beat. Just make some noise.”

Jeff Woo/DRC

Denton wide receiver Sam Strange catches a pass as Ryan defensive back TJ Walker (11) closes in last season at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex. Strange is among the Broncos’ top returning players.

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Thursday, August 29, 2019

DENTON

Denton to rely on rebuilt secondary

Kara Dry/DRC

Devin Barnett is among a host of newcomers Denton will rely on in its defensive secondary this fall as the Broncos look to improve on a 2-8 finish last year. Denton spent extra time working on tackling and other fundamentals in the offseason and will soon find out if those efforts will pay off in a breakout year.

Newcomers could become backbone of Broncos’ defense By Matthew Brune Contributing Writer

A clean slate is what the Denton defense has been given entering 2019, especially in the secondary. Both cornerbacks and safeties are gone from last year’s team, but coach Billy Miller hardly hesitated when declaring the secondary will be the strength of his team’s defense this season. “The sky’s the limit for those guys and what they can accomplish,” Miller said. “Regardless of who you have coming back, every team is a new team. I don’t care if you

went 16-0 or 2-8. Every team is new and you may have 20 guys coming back, but it’s not going to fall the same way.” Miller is hoping things fall much differently for his Broncos this year after Denton finished 2018 with a 2-8 record. When the personnel changed, the emphasis from the coaching staff changed as well. Five junior defensive backs in Devin Barnett, Allen Watkins, Xavier Darden, Amir Fera and Terell Coleman will lead the way for Denton’s defense. Having those players back allowed the coaching staff to focus on the fundamentals over the offsea-

son. “The thing we did very poorly last year that we’ve committed ourselves to this offseason is just straight up tackling,” Miller said. “We played some good defense last year and had guys in good places, but couldn’t bring guys down. We concentrated this offseason on being better tacklers, and it’s paying off.” All five defensive backs played on the JV team last season and gained valuable experience. In the 4-2-5 defense, all of them can have significant roles throughout the season in various spots and games.

Miller also mentioned senior Cortez Morris and junior Derrick Stringer will be in the rotation for those five defensive back spots as well, helping shore up depth. “Our strength is our chemistry,” Barnett said. “We hang out outside of football and school and it allows us to know how each other play. We’ve been practicing all summer and working hard since last November.” Each of them could be starting a varsity game for the first time in their careers, but See SECONDARY on 33

DENTON

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH The skill positions on both sides of the ball are the strong points of Denton’s team, according to coach Billy Miller. Wide receiver Sam Strange and quarterback Davian Guajardo will provide the Broncos a solid base. Their relationship will be the focal point of Darden the offense as Denton could become more of a passing team this season. The secondary, a group led by Devin Barnett, Xavier Darden, and Terrell Cohen will be the backbone of Denton’s defense. Barnett Their coverage skills in a 4-2-5 scheme will be pivotal for the Broncos’ defense to be successful.

POINT OF CONCERN Experience is the primary concern for Denton as the Broncos only return seven starters and must plug in several players who were on JV last season. While there may be some inexperience on the field, the youth of the team could provide an influx of energy the program can use to help make a playoff push. Those young players will have to learn quickly

and be prepared for another year with a tough schedule.

KEY NEWCOMERS Sophomore wide receiver Javaan Evans has the potential to give Denton added potency on the outside. On defense, juniors Xavier Darden and Terrell Cohen will play pivotal roles for the Broncos after not getting varsity snaps Evans in 2018. Denton will need both to adjust to filling key roles early on.

GAME OF THE YEAR The playoffs are always a challenge to reach in an eight-team district, but Denton had its chances to break through down the stretch last year. With comfortable wins over Newman Smith and Turner, the Broncos had a crack at the postseason. Losses to Creekview and Colleyville Heritage sank those hopes. Miller says every game is important for this team, and that is certainly true. But for the Broncos to make the playoffs, games against Creekview and Colleyville Heritage will be crucial for a playoff push. A home game against the Panthers in the regular season finale could have major playoff implications.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

BRONCOS Roster No. Player Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr. 2 Javaan Evans WR 5-8 165 So. 3 Cameron Stevenson WR 5-10 160 Jr. 4 Deonte Cates DB 6-0 190 Jr. 5 Davian Guajardo QB 6-0 205 Sr. 6 Andrew Coker RB 5-7 170 Sr. 7 La’Travious Brice Manuel DL 5-11 195 Jr. 8 Kevin Bell WR 6-1 190 Jr. 9 Samuel Strange WR 6-1 185 Sr. 10 Allen Watkins DB 5-11 175 Jr. 11 Isaac Broades DL 6-2 195 Sr. 12 Terell Coleman DB 5-11 180 Jr. 14 Jason Carter WR 6-3 185 So. 15 Brendan Lane DB 5-9 160 Sr. 16 Tony Hager QB 5-10 165 Jr. 19 Jonah Lawrence K 5-11 175 Jr. 20 Derrek Stringer DB 5-8 160 Jr. 21 Connor Shelley RB 5-7 160 Jr. 22 Xavier Darden DB 5-7 175 Jr. 24 Jarrell Choice RB 5-5 130 Jr. 26 Devin Barnett DB 5-8 160 Jr. 27 Richard Arizpe LB 5-9 170 Sr. 30 Christian Blakeney LB 6-1 190 Jr. 34 Cortez Morris DB 5-7 175 Sr. 36 Alfonso Gomez LB 5-9 175 Sr. 40 Caleb French LB 6-1 205 Jr. 42 Amir Fera DB 5-11 175 Jr. 44 Geovanni Serna DL 5-9 190 Jr. 45 Jayden Toombs DL 5-10 195 Jr. 46 Daniel Re Calderon K 6-2 205 Sr. 47 Coree Hargrove HB 5-9 185 Sr. 49 Jorge Mangel DL 6-0 195 Jr. 52 Quincy McBath DL 5-10 210 Sr.

DENTON Schedule Date Opponent Aug. 30 at Lake Dallas Sept. 6 Frisco Lone Star^ Sept. 13 at Frisco Independence Sept. 27 Ryan*^ Oct. 4 R.L. Turner*# Oct. 11 at Grapevine* Oct. 18 Birdville*# Oct. 25 at Carrollton Creekview* Oct. 31 at Newman Smith* Nov. 8 Colleyville Heritage*# *District 4-5A (D1) ^Game at C.H. Collins #Game at Bronco Field 54 55 58 62 64 65 72 74 75 76 77 78 80 81 83 87 88

Juan Cervantes Jordan Patterson Arturo Reyes James Bridges Matthew Garcia Keston Mullen Gabriel Vasquez Evan Vincent Ashton Davis John-David Smith Devin Freeman Aaron Bershell Noah Miyatake Benjamin Schmuhl Amarreon Cooper Levi Krahl Nathan Bershell

OL OL OL OL LB OL OL OL OL OL OL OL DL HB WR DL DL

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

Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

250 Sr. 245 Jr. 245 Sr. 250 Sr. 220 Jr. 245 So. 250 Jr. 215 So. 240 Jr. 240 Sr. 295 Sr. 240 Jr. 180 Jr. 185 Sr. 160 Jr. 210 Sr. 235 Jr.

From Page 32

Secondary the nerves have yet to faze them. The work they put in over the summer helped instill confidence. “We’ve grown a lot,” Watkins said. “We’re faster, reacting better, improving in what we’re doing, but we still have some work to do. We’re really excited for what we’re bringing to the field on Fridays.” The front six of the defense returns a few players, including defensive end Isaac Broades, who is poised to have a strong season for the Broncos off the edge. With several talented quarterbacks on the schedule, Broades’ presence, along with the others up front, will be crucial if Denton wants to generate pressure. Miller doesn’t waiver in praising his defensive back group, but those players still have work to do in their first seasons at the varsity level. It will be a team effort to get stops, but having a ball-hawking secondary to start the season helps set the tone. “It’s cliche, but the best pass defense is the pass rush, so if we can make guys uncomfortable in the pocket that’ll help us out tremendously,” Miller said. “Those guys in the secondary are good enough to give people some concern. If we can get to the quarterback, then we’re going to have success with our pass defense.”

Jeff Woo/DRC

Denton coach Billy Miller celebrates after the Broncos intercept a pass last season in a game against Frisco Independence at Bronco Field. Miller will have a young but talented secondary this season.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

RYAN

Arkansas adds to stingy Ryan defense By Steve Gamel Contributing Writer

DJ Arkansas remembers quite a bit about the night two years ago when his high school career nearly ended. It was the first game of his freshman year at Ryan. Teammate Ke’ori Hicks had just gone down with an injury, forcing Arkansas to come in at running back. Not long after, Arkansas was drilled by a Lancaster defender after catching a pass out of the backfield, and as soon as he hit the ground, he began vomiting. “I got the wind knocked out of me, and I was throwing up blood on the sideline,” Arkansas said. “They took me to the hospital. I had a lacerated kidney and missed the entire year.” The memories of the next few months were even more vivid. Arkansas, whose grandfather Larry Anderson played on the Pittsburgh Steelers 1978 and 1979 Super Bowl winning teams, was told he might never play contact sports again. For the longest time, he wasn’t allowed to lift more than 10 pounds and couldn’t sleep in his own bed because it was too high off the ground. Doctors feared he could fall off. “There wasn’t anything that was going to stop me, though,” Arkansas said. Not only was Arkansas back to playing football as a sophomore, but he made a significant leap from the freshman team to varsity. Arkansas played special teams and backup linebacker that year for the Raiders, who went 14-1 and reached the Class 5A Division I state semifinal. The Ryan coaching staff believes this will be a breakout season for the 6-2, 190-pound junior, who they say has all the tools to be a star for a defense already loaded with elite-level talent. With Alabama pledge Drew Sanders moving from middle linebacker to defensive end/outside linebacker and having a more balanced role between offense and defense, the rejuvenated Arkansas will start at linebacker in 2019. “The sky is the limit for DJ,” Ryan defensive coordinator Shane Tolleson said. “He’s had a full offseason, he feels good, and he’s

Kara Dry/DRC

RYAN LASTING LEGACY

Ryan linebacker DJ Arkansas, center, is expected to fill a larger role on the Raiders’ defense while carrying on the program’s tradition of producing standout defenders. Arkansas will have plenty of top players around him, including, left side from left, Ja’Tavion Sanders and Tra Smith as well as, right side from left, Billy Bowman Jr. and Drew Sanders.

got that look in his eye. I couldn’t be more happy for him.” Head coach Dave Henigan agreed. “He can run, and he’s got great length,” Henigan said. “He has a chance to be a really good player.” Historically, Ryan has excelled at mixing in new faces with established stars to maintain the standard it has set for the defense over the last two decades. And in nearly every case, those players became household names. Legends like Jarvis Moss, Derek Lokey and Mario Edwards Jr. helped turn Ryan from a downtrodden program to one of the best in the state in the early 2000s. Ryan played in five title games between 2000

and 2010, winning it all in 2001 and 2002. Moss, Lokey and Edwards all went on to play in the NFL. The elite-level players Ryan continued to produce after that trio left are too numerous to count, though names like Earnest Brown IV (Northwestern), Tyreke Davis (North Texas), and Delano Robinson (SMU) certainly stand out. This year is no different. The Raiders have six starters back from a defense that scored 16 times a season ago while allowing just shy of 15 points per game. Three of those players (Sanders, junior

RAIDERS Quick facts District: 4-5A Division I 2018 record: 14-1 (7-0 in district) Coach: Dave Henigan (60-9 in five years at Ryan) Returning starters: seven on offense, six on defense Key players: ATH Drew Sanders, DB/WR Billy Bowman Jr., RB Emani Bailey, QB Seth Henigan Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 School enrollment: 2,044 Stadium: C.H. Collins Athletic Complex

See RYAN on 36

Have a Great Season, Ryan Raiders! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Ryan Raiders 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ Mesquite Poteet.............................7:00 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... at Keller Fossil Ridge.....................7:00 p.m. Sept. 20 ....... West Mesquite ...............................7:00 p.m. Sept. 27 ....... at Denton*......................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 3........... at Newman Smith* .........................7:00 p.m. Oct. 11......... Colleyville Heritage*.......................7:00 p.m. Oct. 17......... Carrollton Creekview* ....................7:00 p.m. Oct. 24......... R.L. Turner* ...................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 31......... Grapevine* .....................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 7 .......... at Birdville*.....................................7:00 p.m.

*Denotes District 4-5A (D1) games

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Thursday, August 29, 2019

RYAN

From Page 34

Ryan safety Billy Bowman Jr. and junior defensive end Ja’Tavion Sanders) are blowing up the recruiting scene and are dominant cogs in this year’s unit. Bowman has committed to Texas. Sanders, who played at Lake Dallas and Colleyville Heritage before transferring to Ryan last year, finished 2018 with 103 tackles, eight for loss, and six sacks to go with a blocked punt, a blocked field goal, and three interceptions. Sanders also scored 20 touchdowns on offense, including three in the state semifinals. Bowman had five interceptions and 14 scores as another two-way player and will anchor the Raider secondary with free safety Tra Smith, last year’s Defensive MVP in 4-5A Div. I. Ja’Tavion Sanders is freakishly athletic on both sides of the ball, and with Drew Sanders, gives Ryan two unstoppable edge rushers. Bowman said having guys like Arkansas step in amid a few position changes is critical to giving this unit even more bite and possibly getting to a title game.

“DJ has a chance to be a great piece to our defense,” Bowman said. “He’s willing to do whatever is necessary. Ryan is known for producing great athletes. I remember moving here in the eighth grade and standing on the sidelines watching those guys. The coaches hold us to a high standard, and coach Tolly is one of the best at it.” Other players taking on a larger role defensively include Austin Jordan, DJ Allen, Garyreon Robinson and Ty Marsh. Robinson is the younger brother of Delano Robinson. Marsh led the JV team in interceptions last year. “That’s the thing about this team,” Drew Sanders said. “There are good players everywhere. No one plays to the standard that we do here. I didn’t realize [the difference] until I came here.” As for Arkansas, he’s excited to do his part for another elite-level defense. “This is my chance to join that family,” Arkansas said. “If coach Tolly thinks playing to the standard will help us win, then I’m going above and beyond.”

Jeff Woo/DRC

Ryan linebacker DJ Arkansas returns a fumble for a touchdown last season in a game against Fort Worth Brewer at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex. Arkansas is expected to be an impact player for the Raiders this season.

Have you ever wondered how you could support the Ryan Raider football program? Well I have the answer!! Volunteer in the concession stand Advertise in the Ryan Raider Football Program Advertise on the Ryan Raider website Sponsor meals for players and coaches

Help with fundraising events If you are interested in joining the quarterback club or just helping out

please contact us at ryanraiderqbc@gmail.com It’s going to be another great year! Make sure you are following the Ryan Raider football team!

You can find us at: www.ryanraiderfootball.com On Facebook at: @RyanRaiderFootball

On Twitter at: @RyanRaiderFB

RYAN

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Ryan QB Henigan exudes confidence

Kara Dry/DRC

Seth Henigan began the 2018 season as Ryan’s backup quarterback before taking over for his older brother, Ian, and guiding the Raiders to the state semifinals. The younger of the Henigan brothers threw for 1,979 yards and 26 touchdowns. He put on 25 pounds in the offseason and is poised for a memorable junior season.

Junior aims to build on breakout campaign after stellar offseason By Steve Gamel Contributing Writer

Seth Henigan proved last year that he could play quarterback at Ryan and do so at a very high level. But for a guy whose every word drips with quiet confidence, he didn’t have many kind things to say about one area of his game. “I was a little stick,” Henigan said of his lanky physique. “I thought I was the best ever and so fast. Yeah, definitely not.” Henigan started the 2018 season as a backup to his brother, Ian Henigan, but ultimately guided the Raiders to a 14-1 record and a spot in the state semifinals while

throwing for 1,979 yards and 26 touchdowns. He only threw two interceptions and had a 67.9 completion percentage. With not many holes to punch in his game, coaches suggested he spend the offseason putting on pounds and getting stronger in the gym. Henigan, now a junior, has since put on a staggering 25 pounds. At 6-3, 197 pounds, he now has the look to go with being the Raiders’ unquestioned starting quarterback. “[The extra weight] adds a different aspect to my game and makes us more dynamic,” Henigan said. “They can move me

around and even run the ball with me, and I feel like I can be successful when they do. “We were conservative last year. We’re not going to be conservative this year.” The way Ryan uses Henigan in his junior year could mirror how his father, Dave Henigan, used Spencer Sanders during his sophomore year in 2015. As a freshman, Sanders was already considered the next entry on a long list of big-time Ryan quarterbacks that includes the likes of James Battle and Scotty Young. But the coaching staff brought him along slowly before taking the proverbial leash off for his sophomore year. Sanders went on to

become one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the state and was named the 2017 Texas Associated Press Sports Editors Player of the Year. Seth Henigan isn’t trying to be Spencer Sanders, but with one season under his belt, he does have a similar “it factor” and will be given more latitude with the passing game in this year’s offense. “Having someone who already has experience in the biggest environments is huge,” coach Henigan said. “Seth will have the chance to control things more, and the See QUARTERBACK on 38

Thursday, August 29, 2019

RYAN

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH Defense still rules the roost, and with six starters returning and several players looking to step into prominent roles, it will be interesting to see how the freakishly athletic Raiders one-up themselves a year after racking up 16 defensive scores. Alabama pledge Drew Sanders finished 2018 with 103 tackles, eight for loss, and six sacks to go with a blocked punt, Terry a blocked field goal, and three interceptions. He also scored 20 touchdowns on offense, including three in the state semifinals. He will move to defensive end/outside linebacker this year. In his place, DJ Arkansas will help lead a linebacker corps with three-year starter Ahmad Terry. Junior defensive back Billy Bowman Jr. recently committed to Texas. He had five interceptions and 14 scores last year as another two-way player and will anchor the Raider secondary with Tra Smith (Defensive MVP in 4-5A Div. I). Ja’Tavion Sanders returns at defensive end, giving Ryan two dominant edge rushers.

POINT OF CONCERN Not having experienced interior linemen on both sides of the ball is the biggest area of concern for this year’s squad. At defensive tackle, Jacquez and Anthony Flemings have both graduated. On the offensive line, only tackles Tomas Hernandez and Preston Couch return. Coach Dave Henigan said there are a slew of players battling for those open spots. Drew Sanders and Ja’Tavion Sanders will be hard to stop out on the edge, but

From Page 37

Quarterback good thing is he doesn’t make mistakes. His first start was against Denton High, and he played lights out. He didn’t get rattled, and that’s the mark of a great QB, in my opinion.” It also helps that there’s a ton of firepower back from a unit that averaged 43.9 points per game. Alabama pledge Drew Sanders will continue playing on both sides of the ball at defensive end/outside linebacker, wide receiver, Wildcat quarterback, and anywhere else they can put him, but the fact that he scored 20 touchdowns

RAIDERS Roster

Henigan again eyes the first district game as his game of the year. For the fourth year in a row, that game will be against Denton. The long-time rivals will play on Sept. 27 at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex. Ryan has won 15 straight against the Broncos since 2000. The Raiders Henigan will be coming off a nondistrict schedule that includes Mesquite Poteet, Keller Fossil Ridge and West Mesquite. Ryan has not lost a regular season game since 2014. Only three of its games will not be played at Collins.

No. Name 1 Ja’Tavion Sanders 2 Billy Bowman Jr. 3 Austin Jordan 4 Ty Marsh 5 Mason Davis 6 DJ Allen 7 Tra Smith 8 Jay Sheppard 9 Emani Bailey 10 Ahmad Terry 11 Josh Watts 12 Jack Hines 13 Garyreon Robinson 14 Martin Rodriguez 15 Aaron Dixon 16 Drew Sanders 17 Seth Henigan 18 Trevor Morgan 19 Max Marshall 20 Brock Kennedy 21 DJ Arkansas 22 Michael Ayeni 23 Devin Ramirez 24 Riley Nuzzo 25 Zach Oyer 26 J.C. Coleman 27 Lucas Montgomery 28 Wesley Schenck 29 Eric Boone 30 Dorian Anderson 31 Tamir Turner 32 Keori Hicks 33 Davion Heights 34 Jaden Shands 35 Alex Colvin 36 Brayden Marion 37 Julian Herrera 38 Sterling Tulk 39 Logan Hoke 40 Matthew Sanders 42 Thomas Salinas

on offense last year, including three in the semifinals, has prompted Ryan coaches to give him a more prominent role on offense. “I’m not the smartest man, but Drew touched the ball four times in the state semifinals and scored three times,” coach Henigan said. “That tells us he might need to touch the ball more. How we manage that and keep him fresh is key.” Seth Henigan agreed. “If it’s third and short, he should be pounding the ball. We can move him inside and out.” Sanders isn’t the only two-way star who will see more snaps offensively this year. Billy Bowman Jr., a Texas pledge who also starts in the secondary, returns a year af-

ter leading the team with eight receiving touchdowns. He will be a huge target along with Ja’Tavion Sanders. Then there’s running backs Emani Bailey and Ke’ori Hicks, who combined to rush for nearly 2,000 yards and 20 scores. Bailey, a Louisiana-Lafayette pledge, accounted for 1,284 of those yards and hasn’t missed a start in two seasons on varsity. Both he and Hicks also have good hands out of the backfield. “It feels good to know I can put the ball anywhere and they’ll make a play,” Seth Henigan said. “I texted the guys during the summer, and we’d meet up to run routes all the time. My chemistry is better with everyone. This will open our offense up more.”

how the tackles perform will obviously dictate the type of pressure Ryan can get on opposing quarterbacks and the success of their run game offensively.

KEY NEWCOMER With Drew Sanders expected to have a more balanced role between offense and defense, Arkansas will step into a starting role at linebacker. The Ryan coaching staff is high on Arkansas, who has all the tools to be a highly recruited player but has only been able to show flashes of brilliance after missing his entire freshman year to Jordan injury and being a backup linebacker last year. Meanwhile, speedy sophomore Austin Jordan made an immediate impact for the track team last year and could be a household name at wide receiver and cornerback before his career is done.

GAME OF THE YEAR

Pos. WR/DE WR/DB WR/DB DB DT DB DB/RB DT RB LB WR WR CB DB/QB WR LB/WR QB QB LB DB LB LB WR/RB K/P RB DT LB WR DB DE DE RB/LB DB DE DB LB LB DB LB RB DB

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

RYAN Schedule

Date Opponent Aug. 30 Mesquite Poteet Sept. 6 at Keller Fossil Ridge Sept. 20 West Mesquite Sept. 27 at Denton* Oct. 3 at Newman Smith* Oct. 11 Colleyville Heritage* Oct. 17 Carrollton Creekview* Oct. 24 R.L. Turner* Oct. 31 Grapevine* Nov. 7 at Birdville* *District 4-5A (D1)

43 44 48 50 52 53 55 56 57 58 60 62 63 65 66 70 72 73 75 76 77 80 81 83 88 94 96 99

Luke Hilton Kayode Bell Akeel Malik Daniel Daub Preston Couch Noriece Laurence Carson Mills Cortt Gentry Caleb Polster Daniel Nielsen Angel Arevalo Neven Campos Wyatt Post Therron Burns Blake Williams Michael Arcay Henry Appleton Tomas Hernandez Colin Stewart Isai Bernardino Riley Hampton Ashton McGary Keegan Cunningham Jaylen Harris William Samford Bryan Aguilar Jarod Dutton Troy Davis

HB DT LB OL OL OL DL Snap DL OL OL OL OL OL OL DL OL OL DL OL OL WR WR DL DL DL DL DL

Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

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

Jeff Woo/DRC

Ryan quarterback Seth Henigan looks for an open receiver last season during a game against Birdville.

BRASWELL

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Smith poised for breakout season By Bronte Hermesmeyer Contributing Writer

At first, Cam Smith wasn’t sure if Braswell was the place for him. The highly talented wideout and his family were moving to the Denton area from Plano, and Smith had a decision to make about where to go to school. Unsure about what to do next, Smith had a heartto-heart conversation with his mom that helped him decide. “My mom had asked me, ‘Do you want to go to a program where it’s already built, or do you want to help make a program and build the foundation?’” Smith said. “I thought about what she said and decided to become a Bengal, and I’m very happy with the decision I made.” As a freshman in 2017, Smith and the Bengals went 2-8, narrowly missing out on the playoffs. After dropping its first three games of the season last year, Braswell was in desperate need of a jolt offensively. The Bengals were in an 0-3 hole and averaging just 16 points per game. A homecoming game against Frisco Memorial loomed large. It was there that Smith burst onto the scene and provided Braswell the spark it needed. The then-sophomore hauled in the first two touchdowns of the game en route to a lopsided 43-0 victory to help get the Bengals back on track. “I just remember there was a big third down in that game where I jumped over a couple of guys and made a catch some probably didn’t think I would make,” Smith said. “I’ve had confidence in myself for a long time, but that game really made me feel like I knew I could help our team out.” Smith’s second touchdown of the game occurred on a play that wasn’t intended for him. From that moment on, Braswell quarterback Greyson Thompson knew the young receiver would create clutch plays for the Bengal offense. “During a busted play I threw it to him behind the line of scrimmage, and he just busted it for 15 to 20 yards and walked into the end zone,” Thompson said. “I was just like, ‘Wow, this guy is going to be really good for us.’”

Jeff Woo/DRC

BRASWELL LASTING LEGACY

Cam Smith decided to enroll at Braswell when his family moved to Denton largely because of the opportunity he would have to help build a new program. Smith has developed into a key weapon at a time Braswell’s program has shown signs of taking off. He has picked up scholarship offers from Tulsa and SMU heading into his junior season.

Smith’s breakout game earned him a starting spot at wide receiver for the remainder of his sophomore season. He finished 2018 with 37 receptions for a teamhigh 449 yards and was named to the District 7-5A Division II first team. “He’s got great ball skills, and he’s very good with the ball in his hands,” Braswell coach Cody Moore said. “He’s hard to tackle and he’s got big play ability.” Smith has started to receive interest from several Division I schools because of his performance last season. On May 29, he received his first offer from Tulsa. Less than a month later, Sonny Dykes and Southern Methodist decided to offer Smith a scholarship after watching him ex-

cel at one of the Mustangs’ summer camps in early June. “Cam is consistent in everything he does,” Moore said. “He brings a great work ethic and focus with him every day in the weight room, film room and practice. You never have to worry about what mood he’s in or if he’s ready to practice. He’s just consistently really, really good at practice every day, and he effects everybody who’s around him.” As good as Smith played during the second half of last season, Moore expects him to have an even bigger impact in 2019. “I have no reservations about getting

BENGALS Quick facts District: 7-5A Division II 2018 record: 3-7 (3-5 in district) Coach: Cody Moore (5-25 in three years at Braswell) Returning starters: Six on offense, eight on defense Key Players: WR Cam Smith, DL Braylen Butler, QB Greyson Thompson, OT Erick Cade Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 School Enrollment: 1,735 Stadium: C.H. Collins Athletic Complex

See BRASWELL on 45

Have a Great Season, Braswell Bengals! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Braswell Bengals 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 29 ........ Red Oak.........................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... at Burleson.....................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 13 ....... Frisco .............................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 20 ....... Frisco Memorial .............................7:00 p.m. Sept. 27 ....... Lovjoy (Bronco Field) .........................7:00 p.m. Oct. 11......... at Frisco Lebanon Trail*.................7:00 p.m. Oct. 17......... Frisco Reedy (Bronco Field)*.............7:00 p.m. Oct. 25......... at Princeton* ..................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 1 .......... Lake Dallas*...................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 8 .......... at Denison* ....................................7:00 p.m.

EDITORS NOTE: Braswell football team ofﬁcials decided not to take a team photo this season.

*Denotes District 7-5A (D2) games

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BRASWELL

Thursday, August 29, 2019

From Page 39

Braswell him [Smith] the ball down the field nine to 10 times a game,” Moore said. “If we don’t do that, we’re not doing a very good job of coaching.” Another element that will help Smith’s game is the return of Thompson, who is entering his third season under center. Thompson’s connection with Smith should help revitalize Braswell’s offense, which averaged just 25.4 points per game in 2018. The senior quarterback completed 57 percent of his passes for 1,549 yards, 10 touchdowns and five interceptions last year. “Greyson is a much different kid than last year,” Moore said. “But I think the biggest change that has taken place is his leadership and confidence. He’s really asserted himself and become confident in both his individual performance and our team’s ability to perform, and that has just been contagious around our program.” Dave Campbell’s Texas Football picked Braswell to finish fifth in District 7-5A. But with Smith and the offense preparing for their most explosive year yet, the Bengals believe this season could be the turning point that steers their program toward its first playoff appearance. “We’re so close to getting where we want to be,” Smith said. “Our mentality is different this year. The work we’re doing in our workouts and even outside of workouts has just been different. I feel we have the leadership this year that will take us to the next level.”

Jeff Woo/DRC

Braswell wide receiver Cam Smith, left, catches a pass and avoids Denison defensive back Nate Maulsby last season at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex.

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BRASWELL

Jeff Woo/DRC

Braswell coach Cody Moore believes the Bengals have the potential to field one of the Denton area’s top defenses this year behind a host of standout players, including, from left, defensive lineman Braylen Butler, safety Ben Blackmore and linebacker Chatavies Johnson.

Braswell’s defense key to playoff hopes By Bronte Hermesmeyer Contributing Writer

Braswell coach Cody Moore knew his defense had talent across the field last year. With the likes of Braylen Butler, Amari Banks and Ben Blackmore leading the way, the Bengals were never short on potential. What they were missing was experience. In a nine-team district that includes several offensive juggernauts, Braswell gave up 27.6 points per game on its way to finishing 3-7. The experience eight returning starters gained along the way gives the Bengals

hope they can transform into one of the area’s top defenses. “I thought our defense was really good at times last year, but we should play even better this year because we’re older and more mature,” Moore said. “We really run well to the ball, and I think we’re aggressive when we get there. We have a lot of guys on that side of the ball who are just 100 percent invested in being a Bengal.” Defensive linemen Braylen Butler and Amari Banks combined for 124 tackles last season. They will anchor Braswell’s defense this fall. Butler, who stands 6-0 and weighs 250

pounds, was named the District 7-5A Division II defensive newcomer of the year in 2018. He finished with 53 tackles and four sacks in addition to returning an interception for a touchdown. “Everything starts at the front with us,” Butler said. “We’re going to hold down the front, control the run and do our best to put pressure on other teams.” If Braswell’s defense is going to shut down explosive offenses, its defensive line will have to find ways to disrupt opposing backfields. “I just think from a size, strength and technique standpoint, our defensive line

is really good,” Moore said. “Our defensive line coach [Trevor Daniel] does a great job. Our D-line is excellent with their hands, and they throw so many things at you through the course of a game.” Senior linebacker Chatavies Johnson and senior safety Ben Blackmore should benefit from playing behind a stout line. Johnson finished his 2018 campaign with a team-high 83 tackles and five sacks. Moore said Johnson returns in better physical shape than ever. Blackmore led the Bengal secondary with two interceptions See BENGALS on 47

BRASWELL

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH The Bengals return eight starters on the defensive side of the ball. Braswell coach Cody Moore believes last year’s experience could propel the defense to new heights. A big and athletic defensive line led by Braylen Butler and Amari Banks will control the front, while Butler safety Ben Blackmore is poised for a breakout season after leading the team with two interceptions last season. The Bengals only gave up 27.6 points per game in 2018 and should be even Banks more stingy this fall thanks to the return of several key players.

POINT OF CONCERN Braswell will be solid at nearly every offensive skill position, but the Bengals head into 2019 with an inexperienced offensive line. Braswell will start just two lineman who saw significant action a year ago. Erick Cade, the Bengals’ 6-5, 313-pound tackle, enters the season Cade as the No. 33 offensive tackle for the Class of 2021, according to 247Sports’ composite rankings. But after

From Page 46

Bengals last season and serves as the team’s vocal leader. “Our class has been here all four years the school has been open,” Blackmore said. “I really feel like our chemistry is better than it has ever been, and I feel like we have more playmakers than we’ve ever had.” Wayne Willis and Mercedes Harrison will start at cornerback. Neither stand taller than 5-10, but Blackmore said both Willis and Harrison are two of the more physical corners he has played with. “I think our corners really started to feel comfortable with their roles at the end of last season,” Blackmore said. “Most receivers that line up against our corners probably feel as if they’ll have a career day because of their size, but Wayne and Mer-

Thursday, August 29, 2019

BENGALS Roster

Braswell’s district opener against Frisco at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex on Sept. 13 is intriguing, given the two teams are expected to battle for one of the final playoff spots in District 7-5A. Last season, Braswell started 0-3 and failed to manufacture any sort of momentum early in the year. A win over Frisco to could give the Bengals the momentum they need in a grueling nine-team district.

No. Player Pos 1 Cam Smith WR 2 J’Kalon Carter WR 3 Jaylon Banks WR 4 Nick Homer WR 5 Braylen Butler DL 6 Ifesimi Yessuff RB 7 Jacob Hernandez WR 8 Cameron Lara RB 9 Amari Banks DL 10 AJ Flowers WR 11 Greyson Thompson QB 12 Tristan McClary QB 13 Ben Blackmore DB 14 Tamarian Turner WR 15 Des Bowman DB 16 Jacob Ruston DB 17 Roy Germain WR 18 Wayne Willis DB 19 Jaden Washburn WR 20 Chandler Cutter DB 21 Jaylon Robinson LB 22 Parker Moore LB 23 Jayden Melendez DB 24 Romello Penn LB 26 Jeremiah Sanford RB 27 Rennato Ramos DB 28 Chatavies Johnson LB 29 Mercedes Harrison DB 30 JT Gray LB 31 Gabe Okelola DB 32 Josiah Hadley RB 33 Dre Young DB 34 Evan Peterson RB 35 Justin Vu LB 36 Quavon Beck LB 37 Gabe Ross RB 38 Koleone Bowens-Thomas DL 39 Noah Nichter LB 40 Jake Tyler LB

cedes really make it hard for anybody because of their physicality.” Braswell is hoping its defense will help it take the next step and reach the postseason for the first time in program history. The task won’t be easy considering three teams in District 7-5A advanced to the area round last season, including Frisco Reedy’s run to the state quarterfinals. Moore believes Braswell will need a breakthrough win over a highly ranked team to fuel a run to the postseason. The Bengals won’t have to wait long for their first opportunity, as they open the season at C.H. Collins for a Thursday night showdown against No. 17 Red Oak. “The light has got to come on,” Moore said. “Our kids believe, but there needs to be a moment where we realize we can compete with the top teams. We haven’t had that moment yet, so I think whenever we have that moment, that will get us from where we are now to the next level.”

Braswell defensive back Ben Blackmore, right, tackles Memorial wide receiver Nyles Ware last season at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex. The Bengals believe they could have one of the top defenses in the Denton area this fall.

Cade, Braswell becomes extremely thin up front. For the Bengals to have a productive year, they will need to shore up their line and avoid injuries.

KEY NEWCOMERS The junior class comes in with an abundance of offensive talent, starting with wide receivers J’Kalon Carter and Jacob Hernandez. These two wideouts provide plenty of speed and great ball skills and will be valuable weapons for quarterback Greyson Thompson. Carter Junior Tristan McClary, who quarterbacked the JV team that went undefeated last fall, is a dynamic athlete who could be used on both sides of the ball while serving as the backup to Thompson.

GAME OF THE YEAR

Yr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr.

BRASWELL Schedule Date Opponent Time Aug. 29 Red Oak 7 p.m. Sept. 6 at Burleson 7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 Frisco 7 p.m. Sept. 20 Frisco Memorial 7 p.m. Sept. 27 Lovejoy^ 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at Frisco Lebanon Trail* 7 p.m. Oct. 17 Frisco Reedy*^ 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at Princeton* 7 p.m. Nov. 1 Lake Dallas* 7 p.m. Nov. 8 at Denison* 7 p.m. *District 7-5A (D2) ^Game at Bronco Field

41 42 43 44 46 50 52 53 54 55 61 67 69 72 73 76 77 80 83 90 99

Dylan Allison Nathan Harper Jeremiah Elder Denzel Rice-Sayers Alex Solis Breon Rowe Cesar Davila Lance Lavoie Chris Caldwell Kei-Ard Bell Caleb Davis Jimmy Meza Dylan Halcomb Lucas Miller Michael Aguilar Erick Cade Anthony Nickols Arturo Ramirez Rodney Jumah Sam Cole Hunter Slimak

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

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

Jeff Woo/DRC

Thursday, August 29, 2019

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COVER STORY

Argyle’s talent well may never run dry By Steve Gamel Contributing Writer

There was a fleeting moment when those who really know Texas high school football thought Argyle’s run among the state’s elite might be at its end. And ironically, some of those predictions came shortly after the program’s crowning achievement. The year was 2013, and Argyle had just outgunned Fairfield 38-33 in the Class 3A Division II title game to cap a perfect 16-0 season. As dominant as that run was, the belief was that while coach Todd Rodgers had built a program everyone was envious of, it was crazy to think Argyle could make a habit of playing on the state’s grandest stage. After all, all-purpose star Ian Sadler — a once-in-a-generation player — was graduating in a few short months. “When you have an Ian Sadler on your team, there’s just a level of confidence that we’re going to get it done, and if we just play our hardest, Ian will take over at some point,” Rodgers said. “But we’ve always had a bunch of really good players.” Rodgers is right. Any doubters after that 2013 title run were silenced when they realized what everyone else had known for years — Argyle has an unusually deep well of talent. While it may never produce another Ian Sadler, it’s not unlikely, either. In the meantime, it’s a talent pool that literally allows Argyle to plug almost anyone into a position and not skip a beat. In many instances, that player or group of players are household names by season’s end. In 2014, one year after Sadler went to Texas Tech, the Eagles went 15-1 and lost in double overtime to Navasota in the Class 4A Division I state championship. The very next year, with supposedly even fewer superstars, Argyle played in another title game before losing to Waco La Vega by two points. Though they haven’t played in a title game since, the Eagles are 81-6 dating back to 2013. Entering their 17th season under Rodgers, the Eagles are 184-36 in that stretch and haven’t missed the playoffs since 2003. That’s an average of just more than 11 wins a season, and it’s not crazy to think they can eclipse that average this year despite returning only five starters on each side of the ball. “If you had interviewed me in Decem-

The Dallas Morning News file photo

Argyle players hoist the championship trophy after their 38-33 win over Fairfield in the 2013 Class 3A Division II state championship game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Argyle has developed into a state power under coach Todd Rodgers. ber and asked what next season is going to look like, I would have said, ‘Well, we just graduated all of our offensive linemen.’” Rodgers said. “If you ask me now, I’ll say, ‘We graduated all those guys, but we have some really good dudes coming.’ It’s ridiculous. This is the tallest, longest team we’ve ever had. It’s highly unusual for a high school football team to have the length and athleticism we have. “Now, does that always equate to wins? I don’t know.” In Argyle’s case, it does.

ARGYLE On the cover

‘We elevated everything’ Before he came to Argyle, Rodgers coached the secondary at what was one of the premier Class 5A programs in the state. Flower Mound Marcus had been to state title games in 1995 and 1997, winning the latter, and was consistently producing Division I talent at nearly every position. Not only was the bar set high for the

Jeff Woo/DRC Argyle coach Todd Rodgers has guided the Eagles to at least 11 wins in each of the last six seasons.

Marauders by the late Que Brittain, but a lot was demanded of the coaching staff. “Que never hesitated to guide and lead

you, and he held you accountable to your players,” Rodgers said. “He told me one time at halftime, ‘This is the worst secondary in Marcus history.’ I coached hard at halftime and in the second half, and when we won the game, he came up to me afterward, put his arm around me and said, ‘Attaboy, Rodgers.’ His attitude was to hire good coaches and let them go to work. He knew we knew the kids the best.” Rodgers brought Brittain’s philosophy to Argyle. He hired great coaches and instilled a belief among his players that hard work is the path to success. Despite gleaning so much knowledge, Rodgers didn’t know much about coaching at the Class 2A level and what it would take to win. Argyle was coming off a 1-9 season when he was hired and had a makeshift summer training program. “There was minimal attendance. Now, we have more than 270 kids in offseason See TALENT on 51

COVER STORY

Thursday, August 29, 2019

From Page 50

Talent conditioning,” Rodgers said. “It was one of those deals where it was a growing area and had potential, but I had no scope of a timeline and nothing to pull from to say where we could be. But we began formulating a plan to get there.” Argyle went 5-5 in Rodgers’ first year. The Eagles missed the playoffs, but by 2005, they were playing in a state title game. Argyle had the numbers they needed to compete with the best, and the coaches were placing an emphasis on not only getting kids playing time but also developing players at the lower levels. Kids in middle school who were growing up in the system, like current wide receiver Cole Kirkpatrick and quarterback Bo Hogeboom, were itching to one day play varsity football. “It’s a blessing to be able to put on the Argyle uniform, knowing its tradition,” Hogeboom said. “Especially knowing Argyle has always had good quarterbacks. It’s just a blessing to be a part of it.” By 2009, expectations got loftier: win district titles, play in December, and win a state title. Argyle advanced to its next title game in 2011. Though the Eagles lost to Wimberley, that season kick-started a stretch of playing in four title games over the next five seasons. Since 2012, the program’s only regular-season losses were to Abilene Wylie in 2012 and Celina in 2015. “We were progressing to something bigger,” Rodgers said. “We posted lofty goals knowing that we all had to put in the work to achieve them.”

A talent well that never runs dry Ricky Griffin, who has coached the baseball program to three state titles and is a long-time football assistant, said no other youth sports program in Argyle compares to football. That youth program is another big reason why the town’s talent well may never run dry. While most teams enter every season with at least a few glaring holes, some of which may need to be filled with someone whose not quite ready for Friday nights, Argyle is one of the few programs in North Texas that always has another talented player ready to step in. Those players may not be as seasoned as their predecessors, but there’s little to no drop-off in production. “I do know that we’ve had times where we [Arygle’s coaches] have said, ‘OK, this

DRC file photos

Argyle’s remarkable run of success under coach Todd Rodgers has been fueled by a series of standout players. That group features, clockwise from top left, current quarterback Bo Hogeboom as well as several former Eagles, including wide receiver Ian Sadler, linebacker Chase Petter and running back Nick Ralston. may be it. This may be the year we struggle.’ And then we have a better team than we had the year before,” Griffin said. “It’s finally gotten to the point where you begin to have those thoughts but then you’re like, ‘You know what? They’re going to come in and be amazing.’ There’s also the element where the kids are thinking, ‘Well, I’m not going to be that team that doesn’t get it done.’” When Sadler graduated, the Eagles turned to Nick Ralston, who was already a dominant running back but was asked to shoulder a heavier load. Ralston carried the ball 54 times in the 2014 title game and nearly willed Argyle to its second straight championship. In 2015, Argyle had a new starting quarterback for a second straight year but threw for just more than 2,800 yards and didn’t blink while moving Taylor Sweatt, the Defensive MVP from the 2014 title game, from linebacker to running back. Sweatt rushed for nearly 1,600 yards and 28 touchdowns. So when Rodgers was asked what he’s going to do to replace a guy like Chase Petter, who was the anchor of last year’s defense, he nearly ran out of breath rattling off

ARGYLE A remarkable run Argyle has enjoyed an extended run of success while posting an 81-6 record since the 2013 season. The following is a look: Season Record Playoff wins 2013 16-0 Six 2014 15-1 Five 2015 14-2 Five 2016 11-1 Two 2017 12-1 Two 2018 13-1 Three

names while pointing to returners such as Jake Sullivan, Blake Sullivan, and Tate Van Poppel — all of whom will undoubtedly pick up the slack at their positions. Offensively, Argyle still has Hogeboom. He’s coming off a year in which he threw for 3,366 yards and 44 touchdowns. Tito Byce rushed for 1,520 yards and 26 touchdowns and leads a skill positions crew that includes Alex Gonzales, Cade Merka, and Kirkpatrick. “Another really good athlete is going to step in and fill those spots,” Rodgers said. “I think our skill positions are going to be a really big deal for us.

Hogeboom agreed. “I’m very confident [in our receivers],” Hogeboom said. “Alex is back and I think Cole is going to be a stud just like Dillon [Carter]. Cade is a great fundamental receiver and has great hands.” Not only does Argyle have athletic kids, but they are smart and willing to do anything to win games. That includes playing both ways and switching to positions they’ve never played before. Argyle’s players are able to make adjustments midgame that many players can’t. “We can alter a game plan in the first quarter, second quarter, or third quarter of a game, and our kids can pick up on it,” Rodgers said. “Against Liberty-Eylau in 2015, we changed things up and did something we had never practiced in the secondary. We did it the entire second half and completely confused them.” There are plenty more examples that indicate Argyle’s talent well isn’t drying up anytime soon. “It’s difficult for people to play against and prepare for our kids,” Rodgers said. “When you have 11 guys doing what they are supposed to be doing, things tend to work out.”

Thursday, August 29, 2019

ALL-AREA OFFENSE

QB: Bo Hogeboom, Argyle

WR: Billy Bowman Jr., Ryan

Hogeboom threw for 3,372 yards and 44 touchdowns during Argyle’s 13-1 run to the regional final last year. With a talented receiving corps plus leading rusher Tito Byce back, Hogeboom should be in for another big year.

Bowman tallied 553 yards and eight touchdowns on 53 receptions in 2018. The Texas commit seemingly always delivers when his number is called and will be a focal point of Ryan’s offense again this season.

RB: Kaedric Cobbs, Guyer

WR: Deuce Harmon, Guyer

Cobbs hammered defenses for 1,487 yards and 19 touchdowns last season despite missing time with a knee injury. The 5-10 back finishes runs and closes out games, making him a key component to Guyer’s loaded offense.

Harmon will play offense this fall for the first time in two years and brings explosive athleticism to the field while using his defensive knowledge to his advantage. The cornerback already has offers from SMU and TCU.

RB: Emani Bailey, Ryan

OL: Andy Buttrell, Liberty Christian

Bailey racked up 1,284 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns as a junior last year, helping Ryan reach the state semifinal for the third straight season. The Louisiana-Lafayette commit is as elusive as they come.

Buttrell anchors the Warriors’ offensive line and helped Liberty Christian averaged 360 yards and 34.8 points per game last year. The 6-5, 298-pound tackle holds offers from Air Force, Nevada and Southern Miss.

RB: Tito Byce, Argyle Byce led the Denton area in rushing last year, scampering for 1,520 yards and 26 touchdowns on 215 carries. The Eagles’ workhorse headlines a potent Argyle offense that can light up the scoreboard in a hurry.

WR: Seth Meador, Guyer Meador hauled in 56 catches for 834 yards and nine touchdowns last year. The Air Force commit is one of quarterback Eli Stowers’ favorite targets due in large part to his crisp routes, which give defenses fits.

WR: Alex Gonzales, Argyle Gonzales reeled in 52 catches for 772 yards and six touchdowns last season, an impressive feat, considering his teammate, Dillon Carter, finished with more than 1,000 yards. With Carter gone, Gonzales will be Argyle’s top option.

OL: Chett Beach, Guyer

Jeff Woo/DRC

Guyer quarterback Eli Stowers threw for 2,690 yards and 22 touchdowns as a sophomore in 2018, when he emerged as one of the top players in the state. Stowers has committed to Texas A&M.

Player of the Year: Eli Stowers, Guyer In his first season under center last year, Stowers went through his trials and tribulations. But with a cannon for an arm, elite athleticism and uncanny composure, it was only a matter of time before he settled in. The Texas A&M commit enters his junior campaign as one of the top ranked dual-threat quarterbacks in the state, and it isn’t hard to see why. Stowers combined to rush and throw for 2,690 yards and 22 touchdowns a year ago with a young and relatively inexperienced offense. With nine starters back, including four of Guyer’s five starting lineman, leading rusher Kaedric Cobbs and leading receiver Seth Meador, Stowers is poised for a monster season.

Beach helped pave the way for running back Kaedric Cobbs to rush for 1,487 yards and kept quarterback Eli Stowers upright last year. Guyer has high expectations and will look to Beach to help it reach its potential.

OL: Jack Tucker, Argyle Tucker has some large shoes to fill following the departure of Preston Wilson, who is now at Oklahoma State. The 6-6, 265-pound tackle appears ready for the task. Argyle should have one of the area’s top offensive lines.

OL: Erick Cade, Braswell Cade is a force at 6-5, 313 pounds and is one of the biggest lineman in the area. He holds offers from nine Division I FBS schools, including Texas, Texas A&M and Texas Tech. Cade has elite athleticism and can set the edge.

ALL-AREA DEFENSE

Thursday, August 29, 2019

DL: Grant Mahon, Guyer

LB: Ahmad Terry, Ryan

Mahon missed last season with fractured vertebrae but is back for his senior campaign. The Oklahoma State commit finished with 43.5 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks at defensive end as a sophomore.

Terry tied with teammate Drew Sanders for the lead among Ryan players in tackles last year with 103 and was a District 4-5A Division I first-team selection. Terry will be a key cog in what is expected to be an elite Ryan defense.

DL: Braylen Butler, Braswell

DB: Kobee Minor, Lake Dallas

Butler wreaked havoc as a sophomore, earning District 7-5A Division II Defensive Newcomer of the Year honors. The 6-0, 245-pound lineman finished 2018 with 53 total tackles, eight tackles for loss, and four sacks.

Minor is one of the best tacklers among Denton-area defensive backs and recorded 97 stops last season. The Texas Tech commit is one of three returning starters on Lake Dallas’ defense and will play a key role for the Falcons.

DL: Isaac Broades, Denton

DB: Collin Gamble, Liberty Christian

Broades was a bright spot on a Denton defense that allowed 39.9 points per game in 2018. The versatile Bronco played several spots and was a force as a defensive end in addition to playing well at defensive tackle.

Gamble intercepted four passes last year and returned two of them for touchdowns. He currently holds offers from Notre Dame, California and Texas Tech. He is one of the Denton area’s most sought-after recruits.

LB: Jonathan Jones, Guyer Jones racked up 84 tackles last year despite missing some time due to injury. The 5-9, 180-pound linebacker has a quick first step, a knack for disrupting plays and makes his living in offense’s backfields.

LB: Jose Noyola, Aubrey Noyola was the preseason defensive MVP pick for District 3-4A Division II by Dave Cambell’s Texas Football after leading Aubrey with 105 tackles last year. He will serve as the captain and a key playmaker for Aubrey’s defense.

LB: Connor Lynch, Pilot Point Lynch patrols the middle of the field for coach Danny David and led the Bearcats in tackles with 102 last year. An enforcer that plays sideline-to-sideline, Lynch is the leader of a stingy Pilot Point defense.

DB: Deuce Harmon, Guyer

Jeff Woo/DRC

Ryan linebacker Drew Sanders is among the top high school prospects in the country. The senior committed to Alabama after his junior season, when he finished with 103 tackles and six sacks.

Player of the Year: Drew Sanders, Ryan One of the most highly-touted players to come out of the Denton area, Sanders’ sheer size, strength and athleticism make him a nightmare for opposing teams. The Alabama commit will play both sides of the ball this year, but his natural position is at linebacker, where he excels. Ryan gave up just 14.9 points per game last year, and Sanders was a major reason why. The 6-5, 230-pound game-wrecker posted a staggering 103 tackles, eight tackles for loss, six sacks, three interceptions and two blocked kicks in 2018. Teams haven’t had much luck shutting Sanders down and likely won’t any time soon. He is a generational talent and the backbone of a dangerous Ryan team.

Harmon blankets receivers and has transformed into a prototypical shutdown corner. The District 5-6A Defensive Newcomer of the Year in 2018, Harmon tallied 45 tackles and three interceptions last season.

DB: Tra Smith, Ryan Smith posted 86 tackles and three interceptions in 2018, emerging as a productive leader in Ryan’s secondary. He is one of six starters back on a Raider defense that surrendered just 14.9 points per game last year.

DB: Cristian Driver, Liberty Christian Driver notched 67 tackles and two interceptions as a freshman last year. Texas, LSU, Michigan and Oklahoma are among 22 Division I teams that have extended an offer. 247Sports ranks Driver the No. 6 2022 prospect in Texas.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

LAKE DALLAS

Minor has major hopes for Lake Dallas By Rich Luna For the Denton Record-Chronicle

The easy thing for Kobee Minor to do this fall would be to focus on his college career after Lake Dallas was hit hard by graduation, leaving the Falcons with just two returning defensive starters. Lake Dallas’ standout defensive back committed to Texas Tech over the summer and has a bright future ahead of him. But that approach is not in Minor’s nature. The Lake Dallas senior believes there is some unfinished business for the Falcons, such as making a run for the District 7-5A Division II title. Minor is ready to lead that charge. “I wouldn’t underestimate this team,” Minor said. “I’ve seen the progress. I’ve seen the hard work, and it’s going the pay off. We know what we’re up against, but everyone is working hard, and everyone is focused. I’m going to do everything I can to help this team.” Minor is certainly an ideal example when it comes to his play on the field. He was a first-team all-district performer in 2018, when he led Lake Dallas in interceptions with three and tied for the team lead with 97 tackles. He also recovered a fumble and blocked a field goal. Minor is set to guide a team that was decimated by graduation. Lake Dallas lost 33 letterman and 16 starters, including quarterback Ryan Depperschmidt. While the Falcons return just five offensive and two defensive starters, coach Michael Young’s system is one that maximizes every player. “This is probably the first time I’ve lost that many starters,” said Young, who is beginning his 15th season at Lake Dallas. “We really benefited by the summer practice rules change. That has definitely helped us.” Lake Dallas is coming off a 7-4 season which ended in the first round of the playoffs with a 53-31 bi-district loss to Corsicana. As 2019 unfolds, Young is looking to his veterans to lead the Falcons. Minor will manage the secondary along with Christian Hernandez. Senior Michael Soileau (6-3, 265 pounds) will anchor the defensive line, and Zack Blakely will lead the

Jeff Woo/DRC

LAKE DALLAS LASTING LEGACY

Lake Dallas defensive back Kobee Minor, right, is one of the top players in the Denton area and has committed to Texas Tech. Minor will join quarterback/wide receiver Brandon Engel in trying to help the Falcons exceed expectations this season after graduation left Lake Dallas with only seven returning starters.

linebacker corps. “The defense is one spot I feel good about,” Young said. “We’ve got some depth and a tradition of being pretty consistent on the defensive line. They need to help us out to protect some of the young guys we have in the secondary.” Offensively, there will be a changing of the guard following Depperschmidt’s graduation. Air Force commit Brandon Engel, who led the team in receiving last season with 62 catches for 1,093 yards and 11 touchdowns, is moving to quarterback. Engel will have strength at the skill positions, led by senior receivers Jaden McGrew, Jakoby Washington, Hunter Hope, Fabian

Nava, Sam Collier and sophomore Godwin Ugochukwu. Young has high hopes for this group, especially Ugochukwu. Engel also has options with in the backfield with Trevor Lindsey and Ike Onyekwere, who finished with 399 yards and four touchdowns on 95 carries last year. For the Falcons to contend for a postseason berth, they will need to establish consistency and confidence early on. “Our success is going to come from how well we play together,” Young said. “We have to keep our confidence up in those close games and know we can stay competitive. We’re going to rotate a lot of guys in and out. I feel like we can be that kind of team.”

FALCONS Quick facts District: 7-5A Division II 2018 Record: 7-4 (5-3 in district) Coach: Michael Young (110-52 in 14 years at Lake Dallas) Returning starters: Five on offense, two on defense Key players: QB/WR Brandon Engel, DB Kobee Minor, C Kellen Culberson, K Anthony Patti Offense: Multiple-set spread Defense: Multiple School enrollment: 1,260 Stadium: Falcon Stadium

Have a Great Season, Lake Dallas Falcons! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Lake Dallas Falcons 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ Denton ...........................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... Frisco Centennial ...........................7:00 p.m. Sept. 13 ....... at Frisco Reedy..............................7:00 p.m. Sept. 20 ....... Princeton........................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 4 ........... at Denison* ....................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 11 ......... Frisco*............................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 18 ......... at Frisco Memorial*........................7:00 p.m. Oct. 25 ......... Lovejoy* .........................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 1........... at Braswell* ....................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 8........... Frisco Lebanon Trail* .....................7:00 p.m. *Denotes District 7-5A (D2) games

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LAKE DALLAS

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH Lake Dallas has traditionally been strong at receiver, and this season shapes up to be more of the same. Brandon Engel led the district with 62 catches for 1,093 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, but he’ll play quarterback this year. The Falcons lost four other key receivers, so seniors Jaden McGrew, Ja- McGrew koby Washington, Hunter Hope, Fabian Nava, Sam Collier and sophomore Godwin Ugochukwu will need to fill in. The Falcons also have options with Ike Onyekwere and Trevor Lindsey out of the backfield.

POINT OF CONCERN Lake Dallas has concerns across the board after losing 33 lettermen from last season to graduation. The Falcons return just seven starters. Lake Dallas could have up to 17 new starters. Cohesion will be key early on, especially on the offensive line. Kellen Culberson, a second-team all-district perform-

er, will anchor the group. Young makes full use of his roster and rotates players. Many of the 16 returning lettermen saw significant playing time, including starts in several games.

KEY NEWCOMER Young has high expectations for a couple of sophomores, beginning with receiver Godwin Ugochukwu. “I really like this kid, and I’m anxious to see how he handles things,” Young said. “He’s got a lot of confidence and could really add to our mix.”

GAME OF THE YEAR Young wants to see how his team will respond to an Oct. 11 game against Frisco. Last year, Lake Dallas was averaging more than 430 yards offense per game but could only muster 220 yards in a 20-6 loss to the Raccoons. It was particularly frustrating that two third-quarter drives into the red zone yielded only three points. The Frisco contest this season is at the halfway point of district play, so Young is hoping his team delivers a win to set up a drive into the final month of the regular season.

FALCONS Roster No. Name Pos 1 Jaden McGrew WR 2 Anthony Patti K 3 Brandon Engel WR 4 Trevor Lindsey RB 5 Christian Crawford DL 6 Austin Arvizo LB 7 Kelvin Ukah DL 8 Ike Onyekwere RB 9 Kobe Minor DB 10 Kyle Nielsen QB 11 Josef Taylor DB 12 Mason Jeter WR 13 Jakoby Washington WR 14 Trevor Moon QB 15 Raja Singh DL 16 Austin Rutman RB 17 Preston Gregg K 18 Hunter Hope WR 19 Fabian Nava WR 20 Aaron Martin DB 21 Hunter Markham RB 22 Zach Blakely LB 23 Christian Hernandez DB 24 Tre Miles LB 25 Edward Felan DB 26 Zion Lewis DB 27 Sam Collier WR 28 Kalan Ferguson DB 29 Godwin Ugochukwu WR 30 Malachai Barnes LB 32 Austin Dabney DB 33 Patrick Wenger LB 35 Colin Bloomfield OL

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

Wt 150 155 200 180 220 190 220 200 180 200 160 180 185 180 180 170 170 190 160 140 165 185 165 175 150 150 125 160 190 190 165 185 180

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

LAKE DALLAS Schedule

Date Opponent Aug. 30 Denton Sept. 6 Frisco Centennial Sept. 13 at Frisco Reedy* Sept. 20 Princeton* Oct. 4 at Denison* Oct. 11 Frisco* Oct. 18 at Frisco Memorial* Oct. 25 Lovejoy* Nov. 1 at Braswell* Nov. 8 Frisco Lebanon Trail* *District 7-5A (D2) 36 37 40 48 50 54 56 57 58 61 62 65 70 71 72 75 76 81

D’Marjai Williams-Beard DB Joseph Puckett LB Jaden McCarter DL Caden Liston DL Deven Holder OL Jackson Berry OL Kellen Culberson DL Michael Soileau OL Croft Stevens OL Josh Gilbert DL AJ Shields OL Jonathan Synoground OL Zach Brewer OL Ethan Griffin OL Lamonte Lewis OL Greg Willmon OL Junior Flores DL Austin Vance WR

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

Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 170 Sr. 185 Jr. 200 Sr. 205 Sr. 235 Sr. 215 Jr. 230 Sr. 250 Sr. 200 Sr. 185 Jr. 255 So. 205 So. 185 So. 200 Sr. 175 Sr. 210 Jr. 250 Sr. 155 Sr.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS The five best games in the Denton area this season Houston at North Texas Saturday, Sept. 28, 7 p.m. Two of the top quarterbacks in college football will face off when Houston visits Apogee Stadium to take on North Texas. UNT’s Mason Fine is the preseason Conference USA offensive player of the year and the leading active passer on the Football Bowl Subdivision level with 9,417 yards. Houston’s D’Eriq King is one of the few players in college football with a resume to rival Fine’s. The senior accounted for 50 touchdowns last season, despite missing two games and part of a third due to injury. UNT and Houston are considered conference title contenders in C-USA and the American Athletic Conference, respectively.

Brock at Pilot Point Friday, Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m. If you love classic high school football with playoff and district title implications, this is the game for you. Pilot Point is loaded this season with 15 returning starters, including senior all-district quarterback Jacob Pitts. Brock coach Chad Worrell is from Pilot Point and played under legendary coach G.A. Moore,

DRC file photos

North Texas quarterback Mason Fine, left, and Pilot Point quarterback Jacob Pitts will play in two of the top games in the Denton area this season. Brock will travel to Pilot Point on Sept. 27. UNT will host Houston the following night. making this matchup all the more interesting. The Bearcats have a legitimate chance to contend for the District 4-3A Division I crown, and the road to a title starts here.

Southlake Carroll at Guyer Friday, Oct. 4, 7 p.m. Fuel was added to this budding rivalry when Carroll beat Guyer 33-29 last year, dashing the Wildcats’ district title hopes. Guyer comes into this season No. 8 in

Dave Campbell’s Texas Football’s Class 6A rankings. With 17 returning starters, the Wildcats are in prime position to win their first district championship since 2014. Their ability to do capitalize hinges on this home game against the Dragons.

UAB at North Texas Saturday, November 30, 3 p.m. The last two Conference USA West Division champions will square off in the last

week of the season at Apogee Stadium. UNT won the C-USA title in 2017 before UAB took home the division crown last year on its way to winning the overall conference title. This fall’s meeting between UNT and UAB could impact the C-USA title chase. The East and West division champions will face off on the field of the team with the highest winning percentage in league play. UNT and UAB are both considered top contenders the right to represent C-USA’s West Division.

Celina at Argyle Friday, Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m. Argyle shellacked Celina 63-21 in the regular season finale last year. Celina nearly avenged that loss three weeks later in the region quarterfinal. The Bobcats gave the Eagles all they wanted in a 26-22 loss and will get another crack at Argyle again in the final week of the regular season. District 7-4A Division I has become one of the toughest leagues in Class 4A, and this game will no doubt affect the playoff picture. It could even decide a district title.

ARGYLE

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Hogeboom ready to guide title chase By Reece Waddell Staff Writer

Bo Hogeboom still thinks about the way Argyle’s perfect season came to an end last year. The Eagles met Waco La Vega, a team they had already beaten in Week 2, in the regional final. Argyle boasted one of the best offenses in Class 4A and entered the rematch averaging 53.2 points per game. But on a cold, wet night with intermittent downpours, the Eagles’ high-powered offense sputtered. Hogeboom completed just 29 percent of his passes and threw two interceptions, as the Pirates went on to knock Argyle out of the playoffs. “It was just an off game,” Hogeboom said. “We had a bunch of mental errors that cost us the game. We didn’t throw the ball or run the ball how we usually did. I felt like we were always in it. We just couldn’t put the ball in the end zone, so the scoreboard didn’t seem like it.” The 31-14 loss has been on Hogeboom’s mind for the past nine months, but he and the rest of the Eagles have used the spring and summer to ensure history doesn’t repeat itself. “No one wanted it to end like that,” Hogeboom conceded. “But in the offseason we just needed to get better, and get bigger, stronger and faster, to where when we play a team like La Vega in that downpour, we aren’t lacking in anyway.” One of the most prolific passers in 4A, Hogeboom ended 2018 with 3,372 yards and 44 touchdowns against just eight interceptions. And he is prepared to elevate his game even more. Argyle coach Todd Rodgers believes Hogeboom’s experience will pay dividends this fall for the Eagles, who have only featured a returning starting quarterback twice in the past five years. Hogeboom is Argyle’s first returning starting quarterback since Dane Ledford in 2016. “He is so much farther along than he was at the end of [last] season,” Rodgers said. “His body is maturing. His confidence is maturing. Now, he’s seeing the

Kara Dry/DRC

ARGYLE LASTING LEGACY

Argyle senior Bo Hogeboom threw for 3,372 yards and 44 touchdowns last season and is one of the most productive quarterbacks in the state. He will look to build on that performance this fall and establish a legacy within the tradition-laden program by guiding the Eagles to a state championship for the first time since 2013.

corner over top and zips a back shoulder over there and doesn’t even think about it. There’s so much more understanding now.” Hogeboom is one of five returning starters on an offense that averaged 483.7 yards per game last season. The Eagles’ signal caller will also have leading rusher Tito Byce and receiver Alex Gonzales back to help lead Argyle’s potent attack. Byce ran for 1,520 yards and 26 touchdowns, while Gonzales hauled in 52 passes for 772 yards and six scores last year. “The returning of our offensive skill is going to be a big deal for us,” Rodgers said. “I think we can add another layer of success and experience on top of what we already know. I think it’s going to be profound.”

With La Vega ranked No. 1 and Argyle No. 3 in Dave Campbell’s Texas Football’s preseason 4A poll, there is a wide belief that the two are on a collision course to meet again in the postseason. The Eagles will get an early crack at the Pirates Week 2 in Waco, but will then have to navigate one of the toughest non-district and district schedules in the state. But with Hogeboom and most of Argyle’s high-octane offense back, Rodgers likes his chances. “I signed up to win them all and we’re going to try to win them all,” Rodgers said. “I think we can go with anybody in the state of Texas. Give me seven days to prepare

EAGLES Quick facts District: 7-4A Division I 2018 record: 13-1 (6-0 in district) Coach: Todd Rodgers (181-36 in 16 years at Argyle) Returning starters: Five on offense, five on defense Key players: QB Bo Hogeboom, RB Tito Byce, WR Alex Gonzales, OL Jack Tucker, DL Tate Van Poppel Offense: Spread Defense: 5-1 Bear/Multiple School enrollment: 1,050 Stadium: Eagle Stadium

See ARGYLE on 59

Have a Great Season, Argyle Eagles! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Argyle Eagles 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ at Stephenville ...............................7:00 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... at Waco La Vega ...........................7:00 p.m. Sept. 13 ....... Tyler Chapel Hill ............................7:30 p.m. Sept. 27 ....... Liberty Eylau (Sulphur Springs).............7:30 p.m. Oct. 4........... at Sanger .......................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 11......... North Lamar*..................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 18......... at Paris* .........................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 25......... Melissa* .........................................7:30 p.m. Nov. 1 .......... at Anna* .........................................7:30 p.m. Nov. 8 .......... Celina* ...........................................7:30 p.m. *Denotes District 7-4A (D1) games

EDITORS NOTE: Argyle team photo was not available for publication.

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ARGYLE

Thursday, August 29, 2019

EAGLES Roster

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH Argyle had some turnover due to graduation in the offseason, but the players it does return have experience at key positions. The Eagles’ skill players on offense — quarterback Bo Hogeboom, running back Tito Byce and receiver Alex Gonzales — are all seniors. That trio has Byce played in several big games for Argyle, and makes up the core of an offense that averaged 50.4 points and 483.7 yards per game last year. Hogeboom is one of the most prolific passers in Class 4A, and will captain the Eagles in their quest to bring home a state title for the first time since 2013.

POINT OF CONCERN The Eagles lost six starters on both sides of the ball and were hit especially hard up front. Preston Wilson, who anchored Argyle’s dominant offensive line last year, is now at Oklahoma State. The Eagles will turn to Jack Tucker and Caden Reeves to fill in. Coach Todd Rodgers said Argyle must gain experience. Tate Van Poppel will help shore up the Eagles’

defensive line, but Argyle will also have to replace linebacker Chase Petter. The Denton Record-Chronicle’s all-area defensive player of the year posted 144 tackles to go along with 12 sacks last year.

Player Pos Yr. Jake Sullivan

Sr.

Bo Hogeboom

Sr.

Cade Merka

Sr.

Cole Kirkpatrick

Jr.

Alex Gonzales

Sr.

Connor Kilgore

Sr.

Cullen Davee

Jr.

Tito Byce

Jr.

Will Ramsey

So.

Ward McCollum

So.

CJ Rogers

Jr.

GAME OF THE YEAR

Caleb Murdock

Jr.

It isn’t hard to find the marquee matchup on Argyle’s schedule, not with a Week 2 meeting with defending Class 4A champion Waco La Vega on the slate. The Eagles and Pirates split the season series last year, but La Vega got the last laugh, knocking off Argyle in the regional final. While the Eagles’ non-district schedule is grueling, District 7-4A Division I is shaping up to be a gauntlet. Argyle will have to navigate the waters in a district that features Paris, Melissa and Celina. Argyle ends the regular season with a home game against the Bobcats on Nov. 8, which could decide the district title.

Zach Stewart

Jr.

Colin Crawford

Sr.

Michael Zarcone

So.

Reid Palmer

Jr.

Knox Scoggins

So.

Jett Copeland

So.

Luke Farris

Sr.

Cade Doggett

Braden Baker

Riley Hartman

Cole Kirkpatrick will be one of the receivers tasked with succeeding Dillon Carter, who was the Denton-area’s leading receiver in 2018. Kirkpatrick brought in 21 passes for 301 yards and five touchdowns last year, and will have an expanded role.

From Page 57

Argyle and let’s go play.” It has been six years since Argyle last won a state title — a 38-33 victory over Fairfield that capped an undefeated season. Since then, the Eagles have been to two championship games in 2014 and 2015, but lost both. In that span, Argyle is a combined 816. From 2013-2018, the Eagles have gone undefeated in the regular season five times. But for a school — and community — that has an expectation of winning it all in December, coming up short the past several years has been an unusual feeling. Argyle is ready to get back on top. And Hogeboom is ready to lead them to a championship. “I think [winning a state title] is overdue,” Hogeboom said. “It would mean everything, not just for me, but for the town of Argyle. Everyone has been waiting for us to go back since 2015. It would be awesome to lead them back. The teams before definitely had the talent to but couldn’t get it done. I feel this is the year to do it.”

No. 2

KEY NEWCOMER

ARGYLE Schedule

Date Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 at Stephenville

7 p.m.

Sept. 6

at Waco La Vega

7 p.m.

Sept. 13 Tyler Chapel Hill

7 p.m.

Sept. 27 Liberty Eylau^

7:30 p.m.

Oct. 4

at Sanger*

7 p.m.

Oct. 11

North Lamar*

7:30 p.m.

Oct. 18

at Paris*

7:30 p.m.

Oct. 25

Melissa*

7:30 p.m.

Nov. 1

at Anna*

7:30 p.m.

Nov. 8

Celina*

7:30 p.m.

*District 7-4A (D1) ^Game at Sulphur Springs

Tate Van Poppel

Reid Atkins

Jr.

Grant Chaney

So.

Blake Sullivan

Sr.

Jr.

Reece McCue

Jr.

Darren Chapa

Jr.

Sr.

Hunter Parris

Sr.

Jacob Rodriguez

Jr.

Riley Page

So.

Hunter Roberts

Jr.

Ty Johnson

Jr.

Landry McClure

Sr.

Ben Rymers

Sr.

Braiden Rexroat

Sr.

Matt Shaneyfelt

Sr.

Chase Wohnoutka

So.

CJ Massey

Sr.

Jayden Holland

Sr.

Drew Taunton

Sr.

Gannon Pels

So.

Landon LeBoeuf

Sr.

Corbin Johnson

Sr.

Sam Collins

Sr.

Nate Blachowicz

Sr.

Caden Reeves

Jr.

Zach Yates

Sr.

Sheridan Wilson

So.

Trevor Duck

So.

Micah Hiter

Sr.

Davis Elsey

Jr.

Josh Hicks

Sr.

Jack Tucker

Jr.

Jake Woelfel

Sr.

Aiden Pipkin

Sr.

Nick Rubien

So.

Aidan Pruner

So.

Blake Spence

Jr.

Jacob Giangiulio

Sr.

Jasper Lott

Jr.

Ethan Gonzales

So.

Gus Sanchez III

So.

Your North Texas Commercial & Industrial Real Estate Specialist Jeff Woo/DRC

Argyle quarterback Bo Hogeboom looks for an open receiver during a game against Celina last season at C.H. Collins Athletic Complex.

Sr.

Tom Fouts Commercial Real Estate info@dentontx.com (940) 382-1541 DE-18659

Thursday, August 29, 2019

SANGER

New coach Smart rebuilding at Sanger By Rich Luna For the Denton Record-Chronicle

Considering Sanger has won just four games in the last two seasons and not advanced to the playoffs since 2015, the mood in fall practice was quite high and spirited. “It’s really amazing to see,” senior defensive tackle Tony Valdez said. “Practices are fun. They’re hard work, but everyone is moving around with purpose. We’ve got a new attitude that started last spring, carried over to the summer and now into practice. It’s a big change.” For new coach Rocky Smart, creating that enthusiasm may be half the battle. Since arriving on campus last spring, he has been working hard to instill confidence — along with new offensive and defensive schemes — that he hopes will help return Sanger to competitive play. The last few seasons have been tough on the Indians. Sanger won at least nine games four times since 2010, and last made the playoffs in 2015 under now-athletic director Chuck Galbreath. But the last few seasons have not been so kind. Under Cole Ford, the Indians were 4-17, including an 0-10 record last year. Enter Smart, who brings 20 years of coaching experience, including stops as a head coach at Clyde, Seymour and Nazareth. Smart has an 89-41 career record and 11 playoff victories. Most recently, he was the offensive coordinator at North Forney. “The first year can be tough for any new head coach,” Smart said. “We have to build their confidence and let them see success in what we do. They have really embraced what we’ve been teaching them, and I really like their attitude. They gave me a chance. “Sanger has some tough, hard-nose kids who have played hard. They just need to finish out the games and keep their focus no matter what happens.” Sanger returns just four starters on offense and two on defense and is changing systems. The timing for the switch to a spread offense and a 4-4 defense is good with 21 juniors and four sophomores on the roster. Those players will help the Indians build for the future. Sanger will depend on its linemen to

Jeff Woo/DRC

SANGER LASTING LEGACY

Sanger defensive lineman Tony Valdez is among a host of veterans the Indians will lean on this season as they make the adjustment to playing under new head coach Rocky Smart. The former North Forney offensive coordinator took over a program that finished 0-10 last year and has brought a new energy level to the program.

provide a solid foundation as it adjusts. Senior Quaylynn Burkes leads the way on the offensive line and will likely be joined by seniors in Braden Harris, Ethan Lance and Ben Rainey, and junior Morgan Bowland. The front line will be critical to protect sophomore quarterback Rylan Smart, the son of Sanger’s new coach. “He needs to have a good year,” coach Smart said. “He’s a positive leader and the kids respond well to him. What I like about him is he is even keel. He doesn’t have those sophomore eyes. He’s always been around football.” The 6-3, 195-pound quarterback is a versatile athlete, having placed fourth in

the discus at the state track meet last spring for Sanger with a toss of 155-11. The team’s strength on the front lines carries over to the defensive side where seniors Valdez, Daniel Hubanks, Caleb Robertson and Mason Phillips will likely start. Sanger’s strength up front will give the Indians a chance to improve, but success may be measured by progress more than wins. “A lot of things have to go right for us,” Valdez said. “Our toughness has to be better. We’ve got to come out stronger and finish stronger. We can’t make mental mistakes. From what I’ve seen in practice, I feel good about where we’re headed.”

INDIANS Quick facts District: 7-4A Division I 2018 record: 0-10 (0-6 in district) Coach: Rocky Smart (first year at Sanger) Returning starters: Four on offense, two on defense Key players: WR Zach Shepard, WR/LB Tally Welborn, LB Carson Stamper, DL Tony Valdez Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 School enrollment: 790 Stadium: Indian Stadium

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Sanger Indians 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 .......... Plainview...............................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 ........... at Springtown........................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 13 ......... at Bridgeport .........................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 ......... Mineral Wells ........................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 27 ......... at Celina* ..............................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 4............. Argyle* ..................................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 18........... at North Lamar* ....................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 25........... Paris* ....................................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 1 ............ at Melissa* ............................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 8 ............ Anna* ....................................................7:00 p.m. *Denotes District 7-4A (D1) games

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Thursday, August 29, 2019

SANGER

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH

KEY NEWCOMERS

The Indians return experienced players on the offensive and defensive lines, and new coach Rocky Smart says he will depend on their veteran leadership. Sanger will have mostly upperclassmen in the trenches. Tony Valdez will play a key role on the Indians Rainey defensive line, while Ben Rainey and Quaylynn Burkes will provide Sanger on base to build from on its offensive line.

Sophomore Rylan Smart, Coach Smart’s son, will start at quarterback, so his development will be critical. Jakob Pritchett, who joined the program in the spring, is expected to make a positive impact at wide receiver and defensive back. A couple of juniors, Zach Shepard (wide re- Shepard ceiver/defensive back) and Carson Stamper (linebacker), are also players to watch that could make a difference.

POINT OF CONCERN

The first few games will be critical for a team coming off two tough seasons, a four-win campaign in 2017 and a winless 2018. The season begins with Ardmore (Okla.), Plainview, a team that beat Sanger 42-7 last year, followed by road games at Springtown and Bridgeport. Being competitive in those games will be important, but getting a win would go a long way toward helping build confidence. The Indians must try to generate as much momentum as possible before a tough district opener against Celina.

Sanger has just four offensive starters and two on defense from a team that went 0-10 last year. With a new coach, new offensive and defensive schemes, and several new starters on both sides of the ball, the Indians will need their young players to quickly grasp the new system. With most of its roster playing both ways, Sanger will need to avoid injuries. If the Indians get banged up, depth could become an issue in a hurry.

GAME OF THE YEAR

INDIANS Roster No. Name 1 Avery Walker 2 Jezick Collett 3 Peyton Punches 4 Jacob Campbell 5 Daniel Hubanks 6 Kaden McReynolds 7 Bryon Dallas 8 Zach Shepard 9 Tallyn Welborn 10 Tyler Brown 11 Rylan Smart 12 Jakob Pritchett 13 Ben Turnbo 14 Zack Carter 15 Kaden Trietsch 16 Colton Knox 17 Chris Adams 18 Santos Hernandez 19 CJ Flowers 20 Cody Kyle 21 La’Derrious Day 22 Albert Rincon 25 Zach Shepard 32 Jaxon Olsen 33 Carson Stamper 40 Andres Tostado 41 La’Derrick Day 51 Braden Harris

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

Yr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr.

SANGER Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 30 Plainview 7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 at Springtown 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Bridgeport 7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 Mineral Wells 7:30 p.m. Sept. 27 at Celina* 7 p.m. Oct. 4 Argyle* 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at North Lamar* 7 p.m. Oct. 25 Paris* 7 p.m. Nov. 1 at Melissa* 7 p.m. Nov. 8 Anna* 7 p.m. *District 7-4A (D1)

52 54 55 56 59 64 66 71 72 76 85 88 99

Tony Valdez Nick Williams Ethan Lance Sam Kirk Mason Horton Ben Rainey Austin Burgoon Caleb Robertson Quaylynn Burkes Morgan Bowland Dewey Terrault Jimmy Dutson Mason Phillips

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AUBREY

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Noyola aims to go out on top at Aubrey By Bronte Hermesmeyer Contributing Writer

Growing up, Jose Noyola spent his childhood bouncing around the Dallas-Fort Worth area, never spending more than a year in the same place. As time went by, Noyola often wondered whether or not he and his mother would ever find a permanent home. Then, when Noyola entered the fourth grade, the two packed their bags and headed for the small town of Aubrey. Noyola remembers feeling nervous his first day at Monaco Elementary, but as he started to interact with people in class and make friends, something felt different about this particular community. “I never got to settle down at one place and focus on friends, and actually build my way up through a school,” Noyola said. “Here in Aubrey, my teammates, classmates and people in the community have helped my family out. Everybody here is friendly and amazing. I’m truly blessed to call this place home.” While Noyola started to develop friendships in Aubrey, he realized a lot of his new friends were interested in football, a sport he had been passionate about since he was 6 years old. Noyola grew up idolizing Pittsburgh Steelers’ All-Pro Troy Polamalu. He loved the way the hard-hitting, long-haired safety recklessly threw his body all over the field to do whatever it took to help his team win. “I’ve always been the small kid on the field,” Noyola said. “My whole life, my mom has told me, ‘I know they’re bigger than you, but do not be scared.’ I think watching Troy play with no fear made me feel that I could play the same way, no matter my size.” Going into his senior season at 5-8, 165 pounds, Noyola will look to lead an Aubrey defense that returns eight starters. He was picked as the District 3-4A Division II preseason defensive MVP by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football after finishing with 105 tackles last season, which was the fourth-most in the Denton area. “Jose is a really good football player,” Aubrey coach Keith Ivy said. “He’s not the biggest in stature, but he’s a very instinctive player, and he’s all over the field on both

Jeff Woo/DRC

AUBREY LASTING LEGACY

Jose Noyola found a home in Aubrey after moving from one town to another in the Dallas/Fort Worth area with his family in his formative years. He has since developed into a standout player for the Chaparrals. Noyola finished with 105 tackles and rushed for 377 yards last season. He hopes to lead Aubrey to the playoffs in his senior season.

sides of the ball. While Noyola will soak up much of the linebacker duties, the senior will also start at fullback for the Chaparrals in their Wing-T offense. He rushed for 377 yards last season and scored two touchdowns. Noyola and quarterback Jaxon Holder should shore up an Aubrey offense that struggled to find the end zone last season. The Chaparrals averaged just over 16 points per game in 2018. Aubrey will run the Wing-T, a runbased offense that stands out in Texas high school football. “All the misdirection and deception of the Wing-T gives people problems,” Ivy said. “Nearly everybody has gone to the

spread, so it’s hard to simulate it in a practice situation unless you are familiar with running it.” Although Aubrey ended 2018 with a 3-8 record, the Chaparrals realized they weren’t far from playing at an elite level. Aubrey narrowly dropped a 42-35 contest in district play to Iowa Park, which advanced to the 4A Division II semifinal. Entering his final season in a Chaparral uniform, Noyola was quick to admit the thought of playing with his teammates for the last time makes him emotional. “I was never sure about this place when I first got here,” Noyola said. “But these people have given me some of the best moments of my life.”

CHAPARRALS Quick facts District: 3-4A Division II 2018 record: 3-8 (2-3 in district) Coach: Keith Ivy (27-30 in five years at Aubrey) Returning starters: Five on offense, eight on defense Key Players: FB/LB Jose Noyola, QB Jaxon Holder, DT Shawn Stephens, RB/DB Jackson Jennings, WR/DB Isaiah Byers Offense: Wing-T Defense: 4-3/multiple School enrollment: 684 Stadium: Chaparral Stadium

Have a Great Season, Aubrey Chaparrals! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Aubrey Chaparrals 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ Van Alystyne..................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... at Whitesboro.................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 ....... Pilot Point.......................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 ....... at Pottsboro....................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 27 ....... Wichita Falls Hirschi ......................7:30 p.m. Oct. 11......... at Vernon*......................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 18......... Krum* .............................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 25......... at Iowa Park* .................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 1 .......... Graham*.........................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 8 .......... at Bridgeport*.................................7:00 p.m. *Denotes District 3-4A (D2) games

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AUBREY

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH Aubrey returns eight starters on defense and will feature what coach Keith Ivy expects to be a strong secondary. Safety Jackson Jennings will lead the Chaparrals’ defensive backs after a 2018 campaign in which he took home District 3-4A Division II de- Jennings fensive Newcomer of the Year honors. JJ Cook, AJ Prince and Tyler Covington will join Jennings in rounding out a group that will be one of Aubrey’s strengths.

POINTS OF CONCERN Although Aubrey will be experienced on defense, the Chaparrals are very thin at linebacker. Jose Noyala returns, but the other two spots in Aubrey’s 4-3 system are up for grabs. On the other side of the ball, the Chaparrals will lack depth throughout the offensive line. Aubrey returns two starters from last year’s offensive line, but Ivy believes this unit

has a chance to be solid with UTEP commit Ian James leading the way.

KEY NEWCOMERS After losing Luke Sciba, who finished second in the Denton area with 127 tackles, the Chaparrals will turn to sophomore Martavious Hill to take over at one of the linebacker positions. Hill and senior Jordan Stevens are set to battle for the starting job middle linebacker during fall camp.

GAME OF THE YEAR Ivy has established a winning culture at Aubrey and is looking to reach the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season. The Chaps narrowly reached the postseason in 2018 after beating Bridgeport in a do-or-die game the final week of the season. Both Aubrey and Ivy Bridgeport return valuable pieces. Their Week 11 matchup will be critical for both teams that will most likely contend for the third and fourth playoff spots in District 3-4A.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

CHAPARRALS Roster

No. Player

Pos. Yr.

Landon Stewart

RB/DB/K

Sr.

Isaiah Byers

WR/DB

Sr.

Tyler Covington

WR/DB

Sr.

Levi Moore

RB/DB

Sr.

Jared Garcia

WR/DB

Jr.

Jackson Jennings

RB/DB

Jr.

Jaxon Holder

QB/LB

Jr.

AUBREY Schedule Date Opponent Aug. 30 Van Alstyne Sept. 6 at Whitesboro Sept. 13 Pilot Point Sept. 20 at Pottsboro Sept. 27 Wichita Falls Hirschi Oct. 11 at Vernon* Oct. 18 Krum* Oct. 25 at Iowa Park* Nov. 1 Graham* Nov. 8 at Bridgeport* *District 3-4A (D2)

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. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Zach Taylor

WR/LB

Jr.

11 Kolten Burt

WR/DB

Sr.

12 Brendan Hall

RB/DL

Jr.

13 Justin Gibby

RB/DB

Jr.

14 A. J. Prince

RB/DB

Sr.

18 Jose Noyola

RB/LB

Sr.

22 J.J. Cooke

RB/DB

Jr.

60 Lane Bartel

OL/DL

So.

23 Nate Britten

WR/DB

Jr.

62 Logan O’Neil

OL/DL

Jr.

24 James Perry

RB/LB

Jr.

72 Brayden Berger

OL/DB

Jr.

28 Parker Stonecipher

QB/DB

Jr.

73 Ian James

OL/DL

Sr.

30 Kyle Smith

RB/LB

Jr.

75 Grant Turner

OL/DL

Jr.

36 Logan Larman

TE/DL

Jr.

76 Korbin Larman

OL/DL

Sr.

40 Martavious Hill

RB/LB

So.

77 Jacob Millican

OL/DL

Sr.

52 Shawn Stephens

OL/DL

Sr.

79 Zach Oliver

OL/DL

Jr.

54 Joey Mitchell

OL/LB

Jr.

80 A. J. James

WR/DB

Sr.

55 Jordan Stevens

OL/LB

Sr.

82 Jackson Fetters

TE/DL

Sr.

88 Wyatt Dyer

TE/DE

Jr.

57 Cody Newton OL/DL Jr.

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Thursday, August 29, 2019

KRUM

Krum aims for turnaround under Clark By Matthew Brune Contributing Writer

Eight-and-a-half months ago, Krum’s trying 2018 season came to an end with a 48-10 loss to Iowa Park. The lopsided defeat marked the end of the Bobcats’ 0-10 campaign, and also completed Krum’s crash to rock bottom. After being outscored by 298 points on the year, former coach Allen Oh left the school to return to Coppell. Quarterback and do-it-all player Bryson Lightfoot departed for Birdville, and just like that, Krum was left with few answers as the questions started to pile up. The first of many answers came in the hiring of Robby Clark, who was the head coach and athletic director at Palestine. The second answer came as an added bonus, as coach Clark’s son, Cagen Clark, joined him in moving to Krum, and is now poised to start at quarterback this fall. With those two spots filled, the team’s focus now shifts on leaving last year’s debacle behind. For coach Clark, that process began with bringing a love for football back. After two years of bottom-dwelling, players and supporters began to distance themselves from the program. “We have to change the mentality of not only our kids but the community as a whole,” coach Clark said. “It doesn’t happen overnight. It’s going to take time. When you go 1-9 and 0-10, there’s a certain mindset that develops, and there are a lot of guys who don’t enjoy the game and guys who leave. We have a lot to overcome, and how far can we come in one offseason? We’re going to find out, but we need to work like we’re out to get our respect back.” Coach Clark praised the foundation of the program, which set a standard for quality football that was perhaps overlooked in the past two seasons. Before that, Krum made the second round of playoffs for three straight seasons from 2014-2016. This offseason, there has been a tangible change in the relationship between the coaches and players, resulting in more respect and more enthusiasm in practices. “The structure has changed a lot and

Jeff Woo/DRC

KRUM LASTING LEGACY

Offensive lineman Zane Tyler will play a key role in Krum’s efforts to rebound from an 0-10 season under new coach Robby Clark. The former Palestine coach has seven returning starters to work with and believes the running game could be among the Bobcats’ best assets largely because of the foundation Tyler will give Krum up front.

we’re a lot more organized now,” senior linebacker and tight end Daniel Lackey said. “We do a lot more things that are beneficial and the coaching staff as a whole is more supportive and coach us up, and I love that.” New offensive and defensive coordinators further strengthen the change in the program, but players like Lackey, Clark, senior offensive guard Zane Tyler, and junior running back Trey Cook have to lead the Bobcats on the field to produce the results. A balanced approach, along with a variety of personnel on offense, allows coach Clark to attack defenses depending on what they give him. While he wants to keep teams off balance, the run game in particu-

lar has a chance to take a step forward behind Tyler and Cook in 2019. “The run game is going to improve a lot,” Tyler said. “I’m the only returning starter on the offensive line, but even with the younger guys, we’re going to have a better unit and jell better than in previous years. Practices are a lot more positive and faster paced, so I feel like it’ll be a winning season this year.” Krum’s seniors were freshmen the last time the program made the playoffs and are hoping to return this fall. “Everyone has been very positive with the change,” coach Clark said. “We still have a long way to go, but we’re excited about our potential.”

BOBCATS Quick facts District: 3-4A Division II 2018 record: 0-10 (0-5 in district) Coach: Robby Clark (first year at Krum) Returning starters: Four on defense, three on defense Key players: MLB Daniel Lackey, OL Zane Tyler, QB Cagen Clark, RB Trey Cook. Offense: Power spread Defense: 3-3-5 stack School enrollment: 634 Stadium: Bobcat Stadium

Have a Great Season, Krum Bobcats! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Krum Bobcats 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ Plano John Paul ll ..........................7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... at Pilot Point...................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 ....... Benbrook........................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 ....... Carrollton Ranchview.....................7:30 p.m. Sept. 27 ....... at Wills Point ..................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 11 ......... at Bridgeport*.................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 18 ......... at Aubrey* ......................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 25 ......... Graham*.........................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 1........... at Vernon* ......................................7:00 p.m. Nov. 8........... Iowa Park*......................................7:00 p.m. *Denotes District 3-4A (D2) games

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Thursday, August 29, 2019

KRUM

BOBCATS Roster

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH

KEY NEWCOMERS

Krum coach Robby Clark is excited about the defensive front six and the defense as a whole. Led by senior middle linebacker Daniel Lackey, the unit should take a step forward and be competitive in a tough district. There is optimism that Krum’s defense can be a Lackey strength moving forward despite the turnover the Bobcats have experienced since last season. Krum returns just seven starters, including three on the defensive side of the ball.

Clark mentioned three newcomers who will have plenty of responsibility to shoulder this fall. The first being the aforementioned Jamison at right tackle. Cagen Clark, coach Clark’s son, will step in as quarterback in his junior year and has a chance to inject life into the offense. Clark On the outside, sophomore Jake Cook will play both wide receiver and cornerback.

POINT OF CONCERN The offensive line returns standout Zane Tyler, but no one else. With four new starters up front, the challenge has been finding continuity and jelling before the season. Tyler starts at guard and is the only returning all-district player on the roster. Young players like sophomore right tackle Gabe Jamison will need to prove themselves at the varsity level.

GAME OF THE YEAR: Three of the first four district games on the Bobcats’ schedule are against teams Krum will compete with in a potential playoff race. Aubrey, Vernon and Bridgeport all are in the playoff hunt and could make the postseason. The Bobcats open district play against Bridgeport on Oct. 11. Krum needs to win that game to bolster its playoff hopes and move toward what it hopes is a turnaround season under Clark, who took over a team that has won just one game in the last two years.

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

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

KRUM Schedule Date Opponent Aug. 30 Plano John Paul II Sept. 6 at Pilot Point Sept. 13 Benbrook Sept. 20 Carrollton Ranchview Sept. 27 Wills Point Oct. 11 at Bridgeport* Oct. 18 at Aubrey* Oct. 25 Graham* Nov. 1 at Vernon* Nov. 8 Iowa Park* *District 3-4A (D2) 50 55 56 58 65 71 72 77

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PILOT POINT

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Pitts ready to lead Bearcats to playoffs By Reece Waddell Staff Writer

When Danny David was hired as Pilot Point’s coach almost three years ago, the former Bearcat had a critical decision to make. Pilot Point already had an experienced quarterback in senior Quincy Kemp, but he was slated to graduate in a year. David valued Kemp’s experience, but he also wanted a quarterback he could develop. David didn’t have to look far to find one. Kemp’s cousin, Jacob Pitts, was coming off a 2016 campaign in which he was the district newcomer of the year as a freshman. There was just one problem. He was playing wide receiver. “Coach David came in, and he asked if I could throw,” Pitts said. “I threw a little bit, and then he changed my position. He wanted to get comfortable with me because I was going to be here longer than my cousin was.” Just like that, the cousins swapped roles. Pitts became Pilot Point’s starting quarterback while Kemp moved to running back and wide receiver. The Bearcats haven’t looked back since. “Jacob was just a natural at quarterback,” David said. “His cousin was going to be the quarterback, and he was going to be a senior and Jacob was going to be a sophomore. Well, my thinking was, ‘I’ve got this kid for three years.’ I feel like it’s paid off.” It has. Pitts was a first-team all-league selection in a highly competitive District 4-3A Division I last year after accounting for 2,454 yards and 23 touchdowns. He threw for 1,481 yards and 11 touchdowns, completing 59 percent of his passes in just his second season at quarterback. Pitts’ rapid growth was unquestionably the main reason the Bearcats improved from 3-8 in David’s first year to 7-4 in 2018. “Jacob is what makes it go,” David said. “He’s the kind of kid that if you get him in space, he’s hard to deal with. We’ve also got some athletes for him to throw to. Now, [defenses] really have to play the whole field.” Pilot Point averaged 26.3 points and 331.7 yards per game last year, numbers that should go up this fall. With two years

Jeff Woo/DRC

PILOT POINT LASTING LEGACY

Pilot Point’s program took off after Jacob Pitts moved from wide receiver to quarterback back in 2017, when he swapped roles with his cousin, Quincy Kemp. The Bearcats have been on the rise ever since and have the potential to add to the program’s significant legacy this fall with Pitts leading the way.

of experience under his belt, plus seven other returning starters on offense, the Bearcats are primed for what could be a historic year. “I’ve gotten pretty comfortable knowing coverages and where defenses line up,” Pitts said. “It’s getting easier, and I’m more comfortable in the position now than I was my junior and sophomore year. “We already have a lot of stuff down and are farther along than we were in past years. I think we’re going to make a big run this year.” Pitts will have a talented supporting cast to help Pilot Point make that run. The Bearcats return starting running back Javon Bruce, as well as three of the

team’s four leading receivers. Up front, senior Brandon Fangman and juniors Troy Tincher and Caleb Holloway anchor the offensive line. Defensively, Pilot Point will lean on linebacker Connor Lynch. Pitts hopes to lead that group as he looks to guide Pilot Point to its first playoff win since 2014, a four-year drought that has left a community with a rich football history longing for postseason success. “Everyone in our community is at the games on Friday nights,” Pitts said. “I would love to see how everyone would react because everybody loves football around here. It would mean the world to everybody.”

BEARCATS Quick facts District: 4-3A Division I 2018 record: 7-4 (4-2 in district) Coach: Danny David (10-12 in two years at Pilot Point) Returning starters: Eight on offense, seven on defense Key players: QB Jacob Pitts, RB Javon Bruce, OL Brandon Fangman, LB Connor Lynch, DE/ TE Aydon Cox Offense: Multiple Defense: 10-1 School enrollment: 423 Stadium: Massey Stadium

Have a Great Season, Pilot Point Bearcats! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Pilot Point Bearcats 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ Bridgeport ......................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... Krum ..............................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 ....... at Aubrey........................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 ....... at Gunter........................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 27 ....... Brock* ............................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 4........... at Whitesboro* ...............................7:30 p.m. Oct. 11......... Ponder* ..........................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 18......... at Boyd* .........................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 25......... Paradise* .......................................7:30 p.m. Nov. 8 .......... at Bowie*........................................7:30 p.m. *Denotes District 4-3A (D1) games

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PILOT POINT

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH With eight returning starters on offense and seven on defense, Pilot Point boasts one of its most experienced rosters in recent years. Senior quarterback Jacob Pitts is the straw that stirs the drink on offense after accounting for 2,454 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2018. The Bearcats will also be strong up front with senior Bran- Lynch don Fangman and juniors Troy Tincher and Caleb Holloway in the trenches. Defensively, senior Connor Lynch is an enforcer in the middle. The linebacker was a District 4-3A Division I first-team selection last year, when he led Pilot Point in tackles with 102.

POINT OF CONCERN Pilot Point lost its starting nose guard when Diego Martinez graduated, and that is the Bearcats’ most glaring hole. Martinez made 26 tackles, two tackles for loss and led the team with three sacks. While undersized at 5-7, coach Danny David said Martinez was proficient at plug-

ging holes and generating pressure on the quarterback. If the Bearcats can find a replacement for Martinez, they could have one of the best defenses in District 4-3A. Pilot Point has seven defensive starters returning.

KEY NEWCOMERS Aydon Cox saw some playing time as a freshman last year, but David expects his role to really expand this season. The 6-3 sophomore will be a versatile weapon at tight end and defensive end, giving Pitts a big target in the red zone. Defensively, Cox should help replenish some of the production lost when Martinez graduated.

GAME OF THE YEAR There are plenty of tough games on Pilot Point’s schedule, but the Bearcats’ district opener, a home clash with powerhouse Brock on Sept. 27, is the game to circle on the calendar. Brock coach Chad Worrell is from Pilot Point and played for legendary coach G.A. Moore. The game could decide the district title and will be an old-school, knockdown, drag-out fight.

No. Player

Thursday, August 29, 2019

BEARCATS Roster

Pos.

Ht. Wt. Yr.

1 Aydon Cox

TE/DE

6’3” 177 So.

2 Javon Bruce

RB/LB 5-10 165 Sr.

3 Kaleb Ratliff

RB/DB

5-9 155 Jr.

4 Jacob Pitts

QB/DB

6-1 183 Sr.

5 Javin Bruce

PILOT POINT Schedule Date Opponent

Time

Aug. 30

Bridgeport

Sept. 6

Krum

7:30 p.m.

Sept. 13

at Aubrey

7:30 p.m.

SE/DB 5-10 168 Sr.

Sept. 20

at Gunter

7:30 p.m.

6 Jay Cox

RB/LB

Sept. 27

Brock*

7:30 p.m.

8 Jabari Anderson

SE/DB 5-10 140 Sr.

Oct. 4

at Whitesboro*

7:30 p.m.

5-9 144 Sr.

Oct. 11

Ponder*

7:30 p.m.

10 Coleton Beathard RB/DB 5-10 166 Sr.

Oct. 18

at Boyd*

7:30 p.m.

Oct. 25

Paradise*

7:30 p.m.

Nov. 8

at Bowie*

7:30 p.m.

9 Michael Hargrave SE/DB

6-2 165 Jr.

11 Dorian Saroka

RB/LB

5-9 150 Jr.

12 Max Hollar

RB/DB

5-9 150 Jr.

14 Triston Trubenbach RB/LB

5-9 154 Jr.

7:30 p.m.

*District 4-3A (D1)

15 Avery Smith

SE/DB 5-10 141 Jr.

18 Sammy Giron

KICKER

6-0 155 Sr.

47 Jacob Dane

20 Jimmy Hoover

TE/LB

6-0 157 Sr.

50 Brandon Fangman OL/DL 5-10 216 Sr.

21 Ish Harris

RB/DB

6-3 183 So.

56 Troy Tincher

OL/DE 5-10 186 Jr.

23 Ryan Stewart

RB/DB

5-9 153 Jr.

59 Drayden Lawson

OL/DL

5-9 187 Sr.

24 Edwin Gutierrez

SE/DB 5-10 144 Sr.

68 Caleb Holloway

OL/DL

6-2 260 Jr.

32 Colby Vedder

RB/LB

5-9 169 Sr.

70 Jordan Tuinei

OL/DE

6-3 205 Jr.

33 Victor Martinez

RB/DL

5-7 167 Sr.

72 Collin Haynes

OL/DL

6-2 225 Jr.

35 Ben Beggs

/OLDL 5-10 245 Sr.

76 Tanner Binyon

OL/DL

6-4 285 Jr.

45 Connor Lynch

TE/LB

77 Jacob Scott

OL/DL

6-3 348 Jr.

6-0 242 Sr.

RB/LB

5-9 153 Jr.

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Thursday, August 29, 2019

PONDER

Ponder’s Taylor boasts football legacy By Bronte Hermesmeyer Contributing Writer

Chase Taylor doesn’t remember a time when football wasn’t a part of his life. He grew up watching New England Patriots and Oakland Raiders games while hearing stories of his father’s successes on the field. In the 1996 Class 5A Division I state championship game, Luke Taylor rushed for five touchdowns for Lewisville, which took down Converse Judson 58-34 under longtime head coach Ronnie Gage. That performance helped earn Luke a spot in the Texas High School Sports Hall of Fame in Waco, where his jersey hangs beside Drew Brees’ uniform. Brees, a former NFL MVP, led Austin Westlake to the Class 5A Division II championship that same season and is a legendary figure in Texas high school football. “I grew up watching football all the time, and I always just wanted to play,” Chase Taylor said. “With my dad playing in high school, he always looked for ways to teach me the game as I was growing up. We still have our talks after games on what I could’ve done better and what I’m doing great.” Chase started to gravitate toward football when he was 2, but he didn’t participate in his first game until he was 9. Chase was the youngest player on his father’s flag football team. Luke said his son demonstrated the abilities and knowledge to play quarterback, despite his age. “I wasn’t even looking to put him at quarterback, but he was the only one who could correctly field a snap at the time,” Luke Taylor said with a laugh. “Aside from that, Chase showed the ability to not only make plays at a young age but to also put in the hard work required.” Over the course of the next six years, Chase was the quarterback for his Ponder youth team. It wasn’t until the seventh grade that Ponder’s coaches converted Chase to running back to take advantage of his talents in the Lions’ run-heavy offense. Chase adapted to the new position quickly. He played running back and safety all the way through his sophomore season. In 2018, he led Ponder in both rushing

Jeff Woo/DRC

PONDER LASTING LEGACY

Ponder quarterback Chase Taylor grew up wanting to play football and follow in his father’s footsteps. Luke Taylor was a star running back for Lewisville and rushed for five touchdowns in a win over Converse Judson in the 1996 Class 5A Division I state title game. Chase Taylor is hoping to make his own playoff memories with the Lions.

yards (508) and tackles (89). After losing last year’s quarterback, Mason Durrett, to graduation, Ponder coach Mike Bowling knew Chase was equipped to take over. “Chase is going to be our guy,” Bowling said. “He’s a great kid who has never missed a summer workout in high school, and he’s played in every football game on the varsity since his freshman year. He’s just everything you would want your starting quarterback to be on the field and in the locker room.” Ponder returns 13 starters, but the Lions will be young with several key sophomores and juniors. “Last year most of our kids were play-

ing almost every minute of the game, and when the fourth quarter came around you could definitely tell there was a loss of energy from our guys,” Bowling said. “We’re going to try and play a bunch of younger guys this season with the mentality that we’ll be fresh at all times in the game on both offense and defense.” With Chase moving under center, Terrance Clark will become the Lions’ primary running back. Ponder will look for Clark to showcase his speed behind a big offensive line and a new offensive coordinator. Bowling was promoted from offensive coordinator to head coach after Rusty Ballard

LIONS Quick facts District: 4-3A Division I 2018 record: 2-8 (0-6 in district) Coach: Mike Bowling (first year at Ponder) Returning starters: Six on offense, seven on defense Key Players: QB Chase Taylor, RB/LB Terrance Clark, LB Cameron Carroll, WR/DB Oscar Martinez, LB Tristan Conner Offense: Spread/Multiple Defense: 4-3 School Enrollment: 429 Stadium: Ponder Field

See PONDER on 74

Have a Great Season, Ponder Lions! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Ponder Lions 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ Howe..............................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... at Wichita Falls City View ..............7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 ....... at Nocona.......................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 ....... S&S Consolidated..........................7:30 p.m. Sept. 27 ....... at Boyd* .........................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 4........... Paradise* .......................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 11......... at Pilot Point* .................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 18......... Bowie*............................................7:30 p.m. Oct. 25......... at Brock* ........................................7:30 p.m. Nov. 1 .......... Whitesboro* ...................................7:30 p.m. *Denotes District 4-3A (D1) games

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PONDER

Thursday, August 29, 2019

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year advantage of Ponder’s youth and lack of speed in the secondary, which resulted in big plays and backbreaking touchdowns. Ponder will still be extremely young on the back end of its defense again this year. There will be a lot of pressure to contain the speed of district opponents. The Lions’ secondary must show growth if Ponder wants to hold powerhouse teams, such as No. 6 Brock, in check.

KEY NEWCOMERS

DRC file photo

Ponder running back Chase Taylor returns a kickoff in Ponder. Taylor will join Terrance Clark in the Lions’ powerful backfield.

POSITION OF STRENGTH Ponder’s Chase Taylor and Terrance Clark form what could be one of the most underrated backfields in a loaded District 4-3A Division I. The two juniors’ speed and agility should help ignite the Lions’ offense. Look for Taylor and Clark to provide the explo- Clark sive plays Ponder has been missing the last two seasons as they try to lead the Lions to their third playoff appearance in program history.

POINT OF CONCERN Last season, district opponents took

Juke Kelley and Kris Hicks played significant snaps for Ponder in 2018 as freshmen. The Lions are hopeful last year’s experience will mold Kelley and Hicks into vital playmakers this season. Kelley will start at fullback for Ponder and will primarily serve as a block- Kelley er in the Lions’ backfield, while Hicks will see time at linebacker after recording 17 tackles in his first season.

GAME OF THE YEAR The Lions believe they are creeping closer and closer to reaching the playoffs for the first time since the 2016 season. A Sept. 27 matchup at Boyd to open district play is a must-win if Ponder wants a legitimate shot at one of the top four spots in 4-3A and a playoff berth. A good start to the season could give Ponder Bowling confidence by the time it makes the 27-mile drive to take on their rival on Sept. 27. “I think it’s key that we have a good start,” Ponder coach Mike Bowling said. “We’ve got to take care of business in our non-district to get us rolling into a tough district.”

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No. Player

Pos.

LIONS Roster

Ht. Wt. Yr.

3 Cordon Moore

WR/DE 6-0 170 Sr.

4 Christian Scott

RB/DB 5-10 160 Sr.

5 Tre Carter

RB/DB 5-10 155 Sr.

6 Oscar Martinez

WR/DB 6-2 160 Sr.

7 John Sweeden

WR/DB 6-0 170 Jr.

8 Kris Hicks

RB/LB 6-0 180 So.

9 Connor Spivey

QB/DB 5-9 150 Sr.

10 Terrance Clark

RB/LB 5-9 170 Jr.

11 Chris Taylor

QB/DB

12 Ashton McCall

QB/DB 5-8 145 Jr.

15 Jacob Rios

WR/DB 5-11 155 So.

17 Tristan Conner

RB/DB 5-11 160 Sr.

5-9 165 Jr.

PONDER Schedule

Date Opponent Aug. 30 Howe Sept. 6 at W.F. City View Sept. 13 at Nocona Sept. 20 S&S Consolidated Sept. 27 at Boyd* Oct. 4 Paradise* Oct. 11 at Pilot Point* Oct. 18 Bowie* Oct. 25 at Brock* Nov. 1 Whitesboro* *District 4-3A (D1)

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.

20 Aaron Stephens RB/DB 5-7 165 Jr. 21 Hunter Green

WR/DE 6-2 180 Sr.

58 Joe Green

OL/DL 6-3 210 So.

22 Jose Avilla

RB/LB

5-6 150 So.

64 Tristan Page

OL/DL 6-5 310 Jr.

26 Cameron Carroll RB/LB 5-10 200 Jr.

65 Collin Hall

OL/DL 6-0 305 So.

28 Luke Moser

RB/LB 5-7 160 So.

68 Blake Fain

OL/DL 5-8 275 Sr.

31 Dale Camp

RB/DE 5-11 170 Sr.

70 Brian DeLeon

OL/DL 6-0 240 So.

33 Juke Kelley

RB/LB 6-0 240 So.

73 Edward Shell

OL/DL 6-0 225 Sr.

34 Aaryn Anderson

TE/DL

6-2 205 So.

75 Josh Cortez

OL/DL 6-0 260 Sr.

WR/DB

5-9 150 So.

77 Gage Eades

OL/DL 6-0 275 Sr.

44 Eric Thedford

52 Victor Fernandez OL/DL 5-6 180 Jr.

84 Demetri Stowers WR/DE 6-3 180 Jr.

54 Bryan Ornanles

88 Paul Lloyd

OL/DL 5-7 180 Jr.

From Page 72

Ponder resigned in December. Bowling’s first move as head coach was to hire Damian Van Winkle as his offensive coordinator. Van Winkle was previously the receivers coach at Keller Timber Creek. He also called plays for Class 2A Falls City when the Beavers reached the state final in 2013. The biggest change in Bowling’s first season will be the Lions’ defensive scheme. Last season, Ponder played a defense that featured 10 players near the line of scrimmage in an effort to stop powerful running offenses. The formation worked

OL/DL 6-3 180 Jr.

at times, but when it failed, teams gashed Ponder for big plays and crushing touchdowns. This year, Bowling and Ponder defensive coordinator Reed Eichenberger plan to limit those big plays by employing a conventional 4-3 formation. Cameron Carroll will lead Ponder’s defense. The junior will make the shift from outside linebacker to middle linebacker. After finishing with 24 tackles in 2018 and having what Bowling called “an excellent offseason,” Carroll will be tasked with captaining Ponder’s defense this fall. “We’re really excited to get this thing started,” Bowling said. “The kids have bought in to our new way of doing things.”

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LIBERTY

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Elite defensive backs to anchor Liberty By Randy Cummings For the Denton Record-Chronicle

Two of Liberty Christian’s standouts in its secondary share plenty of traits. They’re coachable, aren’t afraid to work hard, are busting at the seams with athletic ability and have a full understanding of the nuances of the game. They also possess good speed, quickness and a proven toughness. Neither is shy about making an open-field tackle. But there is one area — age — where cornerback Collin Gamble and safety Cristian Driver are noticeably different. Gamble is a senior with three full years of starting experience under his belt while Driver is a sophomore who burst onto the scene as a not-so-wide-eyed freshman a year ago. Despite the age difference, both emerged as cornerstones on Liberty’s defense, roles they will fill again this season. Gamble will also serve as a team captain while Driver continues to adjust to playing on the varsity level in his sophomore campaign. “With the maturity of Collin as a senior leader and a vocal leader, combined with Cristian and his talent and coachability, I think you’ve got two young men who are really going to help us become the team we want to be this season,” Liberty coach Steven Greek said. Gamble racked up 42 tackles and four interceptions last season while attracting the attention of college coaches. Notre Dame, Ole Miss and Cal are among more than a dozen teams that have offered Gamble a scholarship. Driver is just as talented and emerged as a key player as a freshman last fall. “He’s been around the game his whole life, so he plays fast even though he was very young,” Greek said. “His progress game by game got better and better and he became more confident. We believe that after starting as a freshman, even though he’s only a sophomore, he’s more mature and the game is slowing down.” Driver finished with 67 tackles last season to go along with a pair of interceptions in his first season playing defensive back. He mostly played receiver while learning

Kara Dry/DRC

LIBERTY LASTING LEGACY

Cristian Driver, left, and Collin Gamble will anchor Liberty Christian’s secondary that will be among the Denton area’s best this season. Driver is the son of long-time NFL wide receiver Donald Driver, while Gamble is one of Liberty’s top veterans. Both are elite college prospects with offers from multiple nationally-prominent programs.

about the game during his time in middle school. “Last year I was a young pup,” Driver said. “Coming in, I just took a lot of knowledge from the secondary coaches and my teammates. I learned a lot from them. Last year was my first playing safety, so that was big for me. I just trusted my coaches throughout the process.” Driver learned about the game and what it takes to excel from his father, 14year NFL veteran and Super Bowl champion Donald Driver. “My dad has been teaching me since I was young to stay humble and trust in God and what his plans are,” Driver said. Greek knows that Driver will bene-

fit from the knowledge his father passed along. “It’s definitely an advantage when a young man or a young lady is brought up and they had a parent who played at the next level, be it collegiately or at the professional level,” Greek said. “You not only have the genetics, but those parents know what it took and the adversity you have to fight through.” Gamble, meanwhile, has fully embraced his stature as a team captain. “Everybody has always told me ever since I was young that I’m a natural born leader,” Gamble said. “Now that I’ve been voted a captain, I really have to step into that role and show people they’re right.”

WARRIORS Quick facts District: TAPPS, Division I, District I 2018 Record: 8-5 (3-1 in district) Coach: Steven Greek (8-5 in one year at Liberty Christian) Returning starters: Five on offense, five on defense Key players: QB Daniel Greek, OL Andy Buttrell, DB Collin Gamble, DB Cristian Driver, LB Micah Grizzle, WR/DB Reid Rorick Offense: Spread, no-huddle Defense: 4-3 School enrollment: 1,100 Stadium: Warrior Stadium

datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Liberty Christian Warriors 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ........ Melissa...........................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 ......... at Celina.........................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 14 ....... at Brock..........................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 ....... Prestonwood*.................................7:00 p.m. Sept. 27 ....... China Spring ..................................7:00 p.m. Oct. 4........... at Austin Hyde Park.......................7:00 p.m. Oct. 11......... at Fort Worth Nolan*......................7:00 p.m. Oct. 18......... Midland Christian*..........................7:00 p.m. Oct. 25......... at Fort Worth All Saints* ................7:00 p.m. Nov. 1 .......... Trinity Christian*.............................7:00 p.m. *Denotes TAPPS Division 1 District 1

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LIBERTY

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year KEY NEWCOMERS

Liberty Christian returns all four members of its secondary that will anchor the Warriors’ defense. Liberty will need the group to play at a high level in a season it is replacing four starters on its defensive line. Highly touted corner Collin Gamble, who has offers from Notre Dame, Rorick California and Texas Tech, can take away an opponent’s best receiver. Sophomore Cristian Driver, who has offers from 22 Division I programs, will start at safety, with Reid Rorick and Kellen Moran rounding out the secondary.

In addition to Mallard and Nathan Greek, coaches expect sophomore Elijah Williams to make an impact at slot receiver. Coach Greek believes he also has a couple of potential impact players in two incoming transfers — junior linebacker Seth Terry and receiver Nate Montecure. Nathan Greek’s size should be a plus along the defensive line while Williams, the son of former NFL receiver Randal Williams, possesses skills beyond his youth.

Liberty’s entire defensive line will consist of first-year starters. Coach Steven Greek’s youngest son, Nathan, will be among them. The 6-4, 242-pound freshman was being groomed as a quarterback to follow in the footsteps of older brother Daniel Greek, the team’s junior signal-caller. Those plans have changed. Liberty is hoping the position change will pay off.

WARRIORS Roster

POSITION OF STRENGTH

POINT OF CONCERN

Thursday, August 29, 2019

GAME OF THE YEAR Coach Greek admits he strives to keep his team focused on whatever game is next up on the schedule. “I know that’s a coach answer, but what I’ve found over the years is if kids circle a game in, say, week seven, then in week three we’re all of a sudden not who we need to be for that game,” Coach Greek said. “We feel like we’re going to get everyone’s best effort each week and that’s why you can’t really look ahead.” That said, a Sept. 20 home game against Prestonwood Christian — where Greek coached before coming to Liberty Christian last year — should be a critical one.

No. Player Pos. 2 Gabe Ramirez WR 3 Kellen Moran WR 4 Jake Ezzo WR 5 Tye Strickland RB 6 Joshua Zabmili WR 7 Collin Gamble WR 8 Nate Montecure WR 9 Jalen McCoslin WR 10 Elijah Williams WR 11 Nathan Greek TE/QB 12 Daniel Greek QB 13 Cristian Driver WR/DB 14 Steele Doss WR/QB 15 Cooper Stephens WR 17 Harrison Bacci WR 18 Ryder Holland QB 19 Micah Grizzle TE 20 Seth Terry WR 21 Truett Walker RB 22 Reid Rorick WR 23 Logan Mallard RB 24 Josh Ezzo WR 25 Bryson Werntz WR 26 Nick Ricardo WR 27 Logan Moonier RB 28 Joseph Shillingburg RB 29 Trai Hampton WR 30 Maverick Graham RB 33 Bayless Earle WR 34 Cade Strickland WR 35 Justus Tuls WR 36 Jameson Tuls WR 37 Zach Mason WR 40 Braden Lambert WR 43 Carson Reddell WR 44 Noah Cameron WR 47 Daniel Kvistad OL

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

Yr. 170 175 150 175 170 185 190 175 170 240 235 175 165 150 190 130 195 185 190 180 220 150 150 185 195 170 150 145 135 150 165 130 150 205 155 155 190

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

LIBERTY Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 30 Melissa 7:30 p.m. Sept. 6 at Celina 7 p.m. Sept. 14 at Brock 7:30 p.m. Sept. 20 Prestonwood* 7 p.m. Sept. 27 China Spring 7 p.m. Oct. 4 at Austin Hyde Park 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at Fort Worth Nolan* 7 p.m. Oct. 18 Midland Christian* 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at Fort Worth All Saints* 7 p.m. Nov. 1 Trinity Christian 7 p.m. *TAPPS Division 1 District 1 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 62 65 68 72 76 77 78 84 88 99

Jake Richardson Gabe Moore Jeremy Morrow Camden Packwood Triston DeLaRosa David O’Neal Travis Stockton Walker DeBord Caden Niewolny Christian Fisher Nathan McCray Chris Archer Callen Daugherty Tyler Smeikal Andy Buttrell Cody Lowe Trey Schulze Michael Hogg Jackson McCullough Jared Bravenec David Kvistad

OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL WR WR OL

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

260 240 230 185 215 195 215 160 270 155 205 165 250 230 285 160 245 200 195 190 170

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

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CALVARY

Calvary’s Helzer to fill leadership role By Randy Cummings For the Denton Record-Chronicle

Calvary running back Jacob Helzer readily accepts just how important his presence on the field will be for the Lions this season. His dual roles at running back and defensive back are key spots in the often-explosive six-man game. But perhaps just as important to Calvary will be his evolving position as a team leader. He’s a senior now, and ready to take on that role. “I definitely embrace being a leader,” Helzer said. “I want to be a leader, be selfless and do everything for the team. “My freshman year, I played basketball and my brother was the biggest leader on the team. He was a senior. He was the man. I learned from him and others. I want to lead the younger guys so when they’re in my position they’ll know what to do.” New coach Paul Davis watched Helzer rush for 1,102 yards and 16 touchdowns as a Lions assistant last season. Davis knows Helzer will fit perfectly as one of the Lions’ leaders. “I know that he’s very excited,” Davis said. “He sees great possibilities this year. He’s been in contact with the other kids and has been talking to them during workouts.” Helzer’s emergence as one of the Lions’ vocal leaders began last season in a brutal road loss against Gainesville Lone Star North. Known for their size, athleticism and toughness, the Tornadoes came out and physically dominated Calvary with an easy score on their opening drive. The game went downhill from there. It was Helzer, though, who gathered his stunned teammates and inspired them to keep fighting despite ultimately being overwhelmed in a devastating defeat. “It was a pretty tough situation in the first quarter,” Davis recalled. “But he kept the morale up. He got the kids up. The kids looked up to him. On our second drive, we drove the ball and he was leading the way.” It was his competitive nature that spurred Helzer to try to rally his teammates. “They kind of tossed us around in the

Jeff Woo/DRC

CALVARY LASTING LEGACY

Calvary senior Jacob Helzer will play both running back and defensive back this season for the Lions. He will also fill a leadership role that will be just as important during Paul Davis’ first season as Calvary’s coach. Helzer rushed for 1,102 yards last season and can build on his legacy in the program with another solid year.

first half,” Helzer said of the Tornadoes. “Some of our guys had their heads down. I told them we had to keep battling, and we couldn’t just give up. We didn’t get the win, but we showed that we can battle through hard times.” The Lions went on to finish 5-6 overall and 2-4 in district play. With the return of 11 of its 12 starters, Calvary will be a much more experienced team this fall. And Helzer won’t be the only senior that supplies the Lions with game-tested experience. Calvary’s defensive line will be anchored by two seniors, Brice Coffey and Brandon Overton. Coffey brings great size at 6-6, 240 pounds. Overton led Calvary with 46

tackles last season and has a knack for getting to the ball carrier. Another senior, Joseph Schmidt, is expected to return at one of the linebacker spots. Helzer will be joined by fellow senior Gage Pirkle in the secondary. “Pirkle is a great ball hawk,” Davis said. “He’s got good speed. He had a couple of big interceptions that ended games for us last year, games that came down to the last drive.” Another returning senior, David Lewis, battled through injuries much of last season and is expected to log most of his minutes at linebacker. He will also get some See CALVARY on 80

LIONS Quick facts District: TAPPS Division I, District I 6-man 2018 Record: 5-6 (2-4 in district) Coach: Paul Davis (first year at Calvary) Returning starters: Five on offense, Six on defense Key Players: RB/DB Jacob Helzer, LB David Lewis, TE/DE Brice Coffey, OL/LB Joseph Schmidt, TE/DE Brandon Overton Offense: Tight Pro Defense: 3-2-1 School enrollment: 130 Stadium: Ryan High School

Have a Great Season, Denton Calvary Lions! datcu.org

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Denton Calvary Lions 2019 Football Schedule Date

Opponent

Time

Aug. 30 ...... Savoy ...............................................7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 ..... Watagua Harvest .............................5:00 p.m. Sept. 20 ..... Forrestburg ......................................5:00 p.m. Sept. 27 ..... at Dallas Lutheran* ..........................5:00 p.m. Oct. 4......... Dallas Lakehill* ................................5:00 p.m. Oct. 11....... Gainesville State School* ................5:00 p.m. Oct. 25....... Rockwall Heritage*...........................5:00 p.m. Nov. 1 ........ at Lucas Christian*...........................7:30 p.m. Nov. 8 ........ Amarillo San Jacinto*.......................5:00 p.m. *Denotes TAPPS Six-Man Division 1, District 1 Games Calvary home games at Ryan High School

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CALVARY

LIONS Roster

EXTRA POINTS Keys to a successful year POSITION OF STRENGTH

KEY NEWCOMERS

Three returning upperclassmen with loads of experience at running back should give the Lions plenty to work with on offense. Having seniors Jacob Helzer and David Lewis along with junior Beck Hillman back to anchor Calvary’s offensive attack is a plus. Helzer will be the Li- Lewis ons’ starter at running back and Hillman should get the nod at quarterback. “Both of them [Helzer, Hillman] played an extensive amount of time as our running back and our quarterback last year,” coach Paul Davis said. “[Lewis] was very good at catching the ball out of the backfield.”

Sophomores Andrew Brown and Preston Hamilton got a taste of six-man football a year ago, playing limited roles, primarily on defense. Both showed a toughness during their first varsity seasons that should pay dividends this season. They’re not hesitant to make the tough open-field tackle and their speed is a plus from their secondary positions. “I’m very excited about both of these kids and their capabilities,” Davis said.

POINT OF CONCERN Although the Lions return two seniors (Brice Coffey and Brandon Overton) at defensive end, the defensive line will have to rely on some younger players. “We’re going to have to rotate some kids in with our upperclassmen,” Davis said. “They’re going to have to have some stamina and some mental toughness.”

GAME OF THE YEAR Calvary took it on the nose against Dallas Lakehill last year, falling 64-38 on the road. This season the Lions get them at home, where they enjoyed their most success in 2018. Davis figures the matchup to be one of the year’s biggest tests again this fall. “The one thing I saw with them last year, they’re very disciplined on defense,” Davis said. “And they know what they’re doing on offense. It’s going to be a great challenge for us and it should give us a good idea right in the middle of the season of where we’re at.”

No. Player 3 Preston Hamilton 4 Andrew Brown 5 Gage Pirkle 6 Jacob Helzer 8 Larsen Ranslaben 9 Beck Hillman 11 Derek King 13 Zachary Calmes 18 Brice Coffey 19 Brandon Overton 20 Joseph Schmidt 22 Michael Schmidt 27 Bielss, Creedon 44 David Lewis

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

Yr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Fr. Sr.

From Page 78

Calvary snaps at running back after racking up 669 yards and 13 touchdowns a year ago. “He’s a sideline-to-sideline linebacker,” Davis said. “He’s got good speed and he’s a tough kid.” Another key returning veteran is junior Beck Hillman. He is expected to start at quarterback, play in the secondary and handle kicking duties. A year ago he rushed for 283 yards and threw five touch-

CALVARY Schedule

Date Opponent Time Aug. 30 Savoy 7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 Watagua Harvest 5 p.m. Sept. 20 Forrestburg 5 p.m. Sept. 27 at Dallas Lutheran 5p.m. Oct. 4 Dallas Lakehill 5 p.m. Oct. 11 Gainesville State School 5 p.m. Oct. 25 Rockwall Heritage 5 p.m. Nov. 1 at Lucas Christian 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8 Amarillo San Jacinto 5 p.m.

down passes before a broken wrist midway through the schedule ended his season. “He gives us a lot of speed in the backfield,” Davis said. “He can fly. He’s got good wheels. And on defense, anything that came to his side, it was a tackle. He didn’t miss too many tackles.” Davis will no doubt lean heavily on his upperclassmen this fall. And while Helzer may be among the busiest of those seniors, the coach knows he’s got a reliable leader he can count on both on and off the field. “[Helzer] plays, literally, every play,” Davis said.

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PACs, PR ﬁrms haven’t driven up early voting Local candidates report contributions, spending on political consultants By Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe Staff Writer pheinkel-wolfe@dentonrc.com

Denton City Council candidates reported spending $76,000 on the May 4 election — which comes to about

To a

Elections 2019 $30 per ballot received during the first week of early voting and ballots by mail, thanks to anemic local voter turnout thus far. The candidates filed their final campaign finance statements due before the election at the end of last week. The statements help voters understand

Today is the last day to cast your ballot early. Find early voting details on 2A what the candidates are doing — not just saying — to win the race. From the statements, voters can know which candidates raised the most, and who gave them the contributions. Voters can also learn more about how See VOTING on 5A

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Denton City Council candidates reported spending $76,000 on the May 4 election — which comes to about

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A man walks into the Denton County Elections Administration Building on Monday, the second-to-last day of early voting for local city and school elections. Election day is Saturday.

Election judge under investigation

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PACs, PR ﬁrms haven’t driven up early voting Local candidates report contributions, spending on political consultants By Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe Staff Writer pheinkel-wolfe@dentonrc.com

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Denton City Council candidates reported spending $76,000 on the May 4 election — which comes to about

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Staff Writer pheinkel-wolfe@dentonrc.com

Denton City Council candidates reported spending $76,000 on the May 4 election — which comes to about

Elections 2019

$30 per ballot received during the first week of early voting and ballots by mail, thanks to anemic local voter turnout thus far. The candidates filed their final campaign finance statements due before the election at the end of last week. The statements help voters understand

Today is the last day to cast your ballot early. Find early voting details on 2A

what the candidates are doing — not just saying — to win the race. From the statements, voters can know which candidates raised the most, and who gave them the contributions. Voters can also learn more about how See VOTING on 5A

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To a speedier summit

Denton County GOP precinct chair accused of taking campaign sign By Dalton LaFerney

Denton County GOP precinct chair accused of taking campaign sign

Staff Writer dalton.laferney@dentonrc.com

Roxanne Vogel, who received her master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University in 2017, is shown reaching the summit of Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur, at 6,923 feet.

A Republican from Denton County is facing an investigation in the alleged theft of a campaign sign for a candidate she opposes in a City Council election that is seen by some as one of the most divisive in Plano’s recent memory. Suzanne Blackstone, a county precinct chairwoman for the Denton County Republican Party who has served as an election judge, was caught on Vogel, who Roxanne received her master’s camera removing afrom Texas Womdegree an’s University in 2017, is Plano resident’s shown yard reaching the sumsign in supportmit ofofIceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur, incumbent Ron at Kel6,923 feet. Courtesy photo ley, who is running against Blackstone’s favored candidate. Blackstone The Plano Police By Jenna Duncan Staff Writer Monday it is Department confirmed jduncan@dentonrc.com investigating the incident. Blackstone, As an experienced climber and exercise physiologist, Roxanne Vogel has climbed five of the however, said the seven situation hasin been highest summits the world. In 2017, Texas Woman’ s University gradsettled; before hanging upthe the phone uate started experimenting with rapid ascents to Monday, she said, “Nothing happened.” get up the mountains faster and has cut trip times up two major summits in half. Whether or not Blackstone faces Now, she hopes to do the same with the world’sraises highest mountain, Mount Everest. Vogel, charges, the episode questions 33, plans to complete the journey up the mountain’s north face 29,029-foot summit, then about her involvement into theDenton climb back down, in 14 days. She’s set to depart County elections. sometime between May 1 and May 15, depending She has been an election judge for her voting precinct in Plano as recently as November. As an election judge, Blackstone 77-year-old influenced was the person in charge of her voting generations of students precinct, overseeing clerks and others By Brett Vito at a polling site Staff at Writer Prestonwood Baptist Church to makebvito@dentonrc.com sure voting was done Dwain Bean taught a host of lessons

By Dalton LaFerney Staff Writer dalton.laferney@dentonrc.com

ways, I actually do,” she said. She’s used this training structure to prepare for climbing two other summits, and it’s worked. Plus, she’s been training with climbing coaches since last summer, spending two to six hours a day, six days a week, training for the climb. Part of the climb will be conducting research for work, and she’ll be wearing a shirt with sensors her company developed that can do electrocardiograms, continuously monitor her breathing, pulse and blood pressure, and check her oxygen levels. By collecting data on herself, Vogel hopes to learn what happens to the human body during

See EVEREST on 5A

See SIGN on 6A

TWU alumna will attempt rapid ascent of Mount Everest

Courtesy photo

TWU alumna will attempt rapid ascent of Mount Everest As an experienced climber and exercise physiologist, Roxanne Vogel has climbed ﬁve of the seven highest summits in the world. In 2017, the Texas Woman’s University graduate started experimenting with rapid ascents to get up the mountains faster and has cut trip times

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PACs, PR ﬁrms haven’t

driven up early voting Election judge under investigation in Plano

judge under

By Jenna Duncan

Chase shut down trafﬁc on I-35; driver arrested Blotter, 2A

A man walks into the Denton County Elections Administration Building on Monday, the second-to-last day of early voting for local city and school elections. Election day is Saturday.

To a Election speedier summit

Staff Writer jduncan@dentonrc.com

Guyer faces Lake Ridge in playoff series Sports, 1B

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on weather. “I don’t know if it’s going to work, but I’m going to give it my best try,” she said in a phone interview last week. “I want to be successful and come back safely, but there’s things I can’t control.” Normally, hikers take ﬁve to seven weeks to get up and down the mountain, and a lot of the time is spent acclimating to the climate and altitude. Vogel has been sleeping in an altitude training tent since February to simulate the low oxygen levels in high altitudes. At work as a nutrition and performance research manager at GU Energy Labs in Berkeley, California, she’s also spending four hours a day in oxygen-restricted chambers. “I feel like I live in a bubble, and in a lot of

Bean, longtime Denton coach and UNT Hall of Famer, dies

to generations of students in Denton. He taught some to golf, others to play football and even more how to drive, including Jason Mills.

ton High School and University of North Texas football standout who took driver’s education from Bean. Memories of those lessons came ﬂooding back for Mills and Bean hundreds of others this week when they found out a cornerstone of the Denton community died on Saturday. Bean was 77.

for the Mean Green. Bean then spent 30 years as a coach and teacher in Denton ISD. A celebration of Bean’s life will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Denton Country Club. Burial will be a private family service. “Think of all the kids he coached and taught,” said Ken Garland, who coached with Bean at Denton High. “You don’t last 30 years in one place unless you are respected by the kids, the

That is why we coach. You hope that you have an impact. He had an impact on this town and Denton High School.” Bean came to Denton after a standout career at Tyler Junior College and contributed right away for what was then North Texas State University. He led the Missouri Valley Conference in rushing in 1962 and 1963. Bean rushed for 657 yards as a junior and 770 yards as a senior. He scored 12 rushing touchdowns in that span.

“He was a good running back and hard-nosed,” UNT Hall of Fame coach Ken Bahnsen said. “He ﬁt in really well with us. “He was also a good guy. I never heard Dwain say anything bad about anybody. He wasn’t about himself, he was about the team.” Bean was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 12th round of the 1964 draft during the tenure of legendary coach Vince Lombardi. He went on to

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