Gridiron Preview 2014 by Star Local Media

Page 2 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

Page 4 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Facts and figures, reviews and previews… basically everything you need to know about this season

When I moved to Texas in 1998, it was barely within my first month at Hendrick Middle School in Plano that I first learned about the allure of high school football. Just a seventh-grader at the time, I remember my coaches touting this grandiose vision of what it would one day mean for any of us to suit up and play for Plano East. At the time, I had no idea what any of that meant. Understand that I had just moved from the northeast and high school football in New Hampshire isn’t exactly well, comparable to Texas. It wouldn’t be until a couple years later that I first saw East and Plano Senior square off at Clark Stadium. To simply catch a glimpse of the exuberance teeming from every row of bleachers and the groundswell of support for both schools – it all made sense. In Texas, football is religion. Players, coaches and fans alike eat, sleep and breathe the sport yearround, and as the 2014 season draws near, consider

what you’re about to read just one more necessity to help satiate that appetite for the high school gridiron. Last year, Star Local Media debuted an all-market football tab designed to inform readers of everything worth knowing in preparation for their favorite school’s upcoming season. As you peruse through this tab, you’ll notice our new layout and the depth and insight on all the teams featured. Inside, readers will find everything from team and district previews, to player spotlights and schedules for the 2014 season. And what a compelling year it’s shaping up to be. Allen vies for a third consecutive state title, the first on-field effects of the UIL’s biennial realignment will come to light and from a sheer talent standpoint, the national spotlight will shine bright on the Metroplex over these next few months. All that and more is chronicled throughout this tab, which previews 41 schools across 14 districts and six different athletic classifications. This is merely the beginning as well.

Throughout the season, Star Local Media will be on the scene every Friday night, with plenty Thursdays and even a few Saturdays sprinkled in for good measure. Don’t believe me? Log onto starlocalmedia.com and follow our crew of sports reporters. They will keep you informed with up-to-minute news and coverage for everything sports-related in your respective communities. In addition to week-to-week game coverage, we will provide previews, columns, player and team features, college commitment stories, a litany of photo galleries and of course, the Pick-It Line. Our 14 community newspapers and website, starlocalmedia.com, will serve as the vehicles for all this content. However, for the time being, I hope you enjoy reading our second-ever all-market football tab, because there’s only more content and coverage to come in the months ahead. MATT WELCH, Executive Sports Editor

>> A LOOK INSIDE >> 06 DISTRICT 6-6A >> 41 >> 08 ALLEN EAGLES >> 10 FLOWER MOUND JAGUARS >> 11 FLOWER MOUND MARCUS

>> 19 >> 21

>> >> >> >> >> >>

MARAUDERS 12 HEBRON HAWKS 14 LEWISVILLE FARMERS 15 McKINNEY BOYD BRONCOS 16 PLANO EAST PANTHERS 17 PLANO SENIOR WILDCATS 18 PLANO WEST WOLVES

DISTRICT 7-6A

>> 20

COPPELL COWBOYS

DISTRICT 10-6A

>> 26 DISTRICT 11-6A >> 23 MESQUITE SKEETERS >> 24 MESQUITE HORN JAGUARS >> 25 NORTH MESQUITE STALLIONS

>> 28 DISTRICT 6-5A >> 27

ROWLETT EAGLES

>> 30 DISTRICT 9-5A >> 29

LAKE DALLAS FALCONS

>> 32 FRISCO RACCOONS >> 33 FRISCO CENTENNIAL TITANS >> 34 FRISCO HERITAGE COYOTES >> 35 FRISCO INDEPENDENCE KNIGHTS >> 36 FRISCO LIBERTY REDHAWKS >> 37 FRISCO LONE STAR RANGERS >> 38 FRISCO WAKELAND WOLVERINES >> 39 LITTLE ELM LOBOS >> 40 THE COLONY COUGARS

>> 47

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

DISTRICT 10-5A >> >> >> >>

42 LOVEJOY LEOPARDS 43 McKINNEY LIONS 44 McKINNEY NORTH BULLDOGS 46 PROSPER EAGLES

DISTRICT 11-5A

>> 48 CARROLLTON CREEKVIEW MUSTANGS >> 49 CARROLLTON NEWMAN SMITH

>> 50 DISTRICT 12-5A TROJANS

>> 53 DISTRICT 6-4A >> 51 MESQUITE POTEET PIRATES >> 52 WEST MESQUITE WRANGLERS

>> 55 DISTRICT 3-4A >> 54

>> 57

>> 56

ARGYLE EAGLES

CELINA BOBCATS

>> 59 TAPPS I-1

DISTRICT 6-3A

>> 58

>> 60 >> >>

SUNNYVALE RAIDERS

ARGYLE LIBERTY CHRISTIAN WARRIORS 61 JOHN PAUL II CARDINALS 62 PRESTONWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY LIONS

>> ON THE COVER Ronald Jones, McKinney North: Mark Martin; Soso Jamabo, Plano West: Troy Roland; Chason Virgil, West Mesquite: Glenn Gunn; Kyler Murray, Allen: Neil Fonville

>> CONTRIBUTING WRITERS • Ethan Grant egrant@starlocalmedia.com, @DowntownEG • Devin Hasson dhasson@starlocalmedia.com, @DevinHasson • Phil Hausmann phausmann@starlocalmedia.com, @PhilsHaus • Chris O’Dell codell@starlocalmedia.com, @cODellSCN • Justin Thomas jthomas@starlocalmedia.com, @JThomasSCN • Matt Welch mwelch@starlocalmedia.com, @MWelchSCN

>> CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS • Jerry Acuff • Kellie Anfosso • Oladipo Awowale • Dan Brown • Craig Engle • Manny Flores • Neil Fonville • Kenny Green • Glenn Gunn • Don Henderson

• Kelsey Kruzich • Scott Luedke • James Martin • Brad McClendon • Lisa Owens • Rog Pachuta • Troy Roland • Teo Salinas • Todd Steitle • Don Sparks

>> CONTACT US Mike Miller, Publisher Gina Aldaz, Executive Editor 972-398-4295 galdaz@starlocalmedia.com Matt Welch, Sports Editor 972-398-4268 mwelch@starlocalmedia.com Kevin Haezebroeck, Advertising Director 972-398-4471 khaezebroeck@starlocalmedia.com Peter Ackling, Sales Manager 972-398-4203 packling@starlocalmedia.com Gridiron Preview 2014 is published annually by Star Local Media, 624 Krona Dr Ste 170, Plano, TX 75074-8304. The entire contents of Gridiron Preview 2014 Copyright 2014 by Star Local Media. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written permission of Star Local Media. Additional copies are available for purchase by contacting customer service at 972-424-9504.

Page 6 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 6-6A >>

ALLEN EAGLES >> FLOWER MOUND JAGUARS >> FLOWER MOUND MARCUS MARAUDERS >> HEBRON HAWKS >> LEWISVILLE FARMERS >> McKINNEY BOYD BRONCOS >> PLANO EAST PANTHERS >> PLANO SENIOR WILDCATS >> PLANO WEST WOLVES This 6,600-pound gorilla figures to garner plenty of attention over these next two years. Not only does District 6-6A house a total of 14 football state championships, it features nine schools with enrollments of more than 3,000 students. The largest of the schools doubles as the one best suited to tack on title number 15 for 6-6A, as Allen sets its sights on a rare chance to win three consecutive championships in the state’s highest classification. A ninth consecutive district title wouldn’t be a bad addendum for Allen either. There projects to be no shortage of competition keen of knocking the Eagles from their perch, including presumptive contenders Plano Senior, McKinney Boyd and Hebron. The Wildcats and Broncos each return running backs (Brandon Stephens and Dedrick Scrivens, respectively) that garnered all-district superlatives last year, while the Hawks have the ammo to hang with anybody in 6-6A up front. The remainder of Lewisville ISD is eying a bounce-back campaign after down years for Flower Mound, Lewisville and Flower Mound Marcus, while the Marauders and Plano East will each break in new head coaches in Gerry Stanford and Joey McCullough, respectively. And lest we forget playoff contender Plano West, which features arguably the nation’s most talented running back in senior Soso Jamabo.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> ALLEN AT BOYD

>> PLANO AT ALLEN

>> EAST AT WEST

>> MARCUS AT FLOWER MOUND

>> EAST AT PLANO

(SEPT. 12) The Eagles don’t exactly begin district play in the shallow end of the pool. The 6-6A opener for both teams deals a young Allen defense one of its toughest tasks of the regular season: slowing down Boyd running back Dedrick Scrivens. Up front, the Eagles’ talented offensive line will have its hands full with Boyd’s duo of Kiel Simas and Ramon Readus. Allen will obviously have its say too, but this is a compelling district opener for both teams.

(SEPT. 18) District 6-6A might not exactly be the Big 12 when it comes to offense, but this is a matchup with shootout potential. One week after the Eagles challenge Boyd, they’re dealt what could be a more potent Wildcats offense. Plano quarterback Brooks Panhans and running back Brandon Stephens should enjoy a bit more success against Allen’s defense this year and with Plano breaking in several new faces in its defense, Kyler Murray and Co. will come to Clark Stadium ready to feast.

(SEPT. 19) This game comes at an interesting time for both teams. West will have two weeks of preparation for East thanks to a bye in Week 3, while the Panthers will enjoy its open week following this matchup. Neither team will be in the proverbial meat of their schedule yet and a win here could go a long way. Historically, for five of the past six years, the team that wins this matchup has finished higher in the district standings too – not a bad omen for playoff hopes.

(OCT. 3) Regardless of the state of either program, the annual Mound Showdown hasn’t disappointed in recent years. Three of the past four meetings between the Jaguars and Marauders have been decided by three points or less, including last season’s triple-overtime thriller won by Flower Mound, 30-27. In October, the Jaguars will attempt to win consecutive games against Marcus for the first time since 2007, while the Marauders’ new head coach Gerry Stanford eyes a positive start to his tenure against his program’s top rival.

(OCT. 10) The McCullough Bowl. A brand new layer will be added to the 33rd installment of Plano ISD’s most storied high school football rivalry when Plano head coach Jaydon McCullough and the Wildcats square off against East firstyear head coach Joey McCullough and the Panthers. Overall, Plano leads the rivalry, 16-15-1, and has gained the upper hand with a pair of blowout wins in the last two meetings between the programs.

/(*$&< / (*$&< 3/80%,1* 3 80% 1*

'//$ ,5#+ 4()3 3%!3/.

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

EAGLES ALLEN

Page 8 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

When Allen takes the field Aug. 29 against Denton Guyer, it’ll officially mark 700 days since the Eagles last lost a football game. During that span, all Allen has done is merely win 27 consecutive games and two Class 5A Division I State Championships. The Eagles have visions of extending that title run to three straight, although it won’t follow the same blueprint from years past. For one thing, Allen will spend its entire fall campaign on the road after Eagle Stadium was shut down for the remainder of 2014 for repairs, forcing Allen to take up temporary residence in Plano on Friday nights. From an on-field standpoint, the Eagles have matters of their own that need to be ironed out, starting on defense. Allen remains a question mark on that side of the ball after graduating 10 starters and returning only junior cornerback Jaylon Jones. A Division I prospect, Jones’ growth as both a player and leader will be accelerated as he gets his less-tenured teammates up to speed. Although Jones is the only returning starter on defense, names like junior linebacker Sione

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 *Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 18 Sept. 26 Oct. 4 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Denton Guyer UNT Dutch Fork (South Carolina)Kimbrough Stadium McKinney Boyd Ron Poe Stadium Plano Senior Clark Stadium Flower Mound Marcus Marauder Stadium Lewisville Kimbrough Stadium Hebron Hawk Stadium BYE Flower Mound Clark Stadium Plano West Clark Stadium Plano East Kimbrough Stadium

Jalen Guyton, Allen wide receiver

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

Established 1980

2014 LA Dance Magic National Champions

Now Registering For Fall Classes

Ages 2 and up

Offering Recreational and Competitive Programs Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Contemporary • Pom Dance • Drill Team w w w. c i n d y s s c h o o l o f d a n c e . c o m

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

972.727.1722

Tupou, senior defensive >> PLAYER lineman Camryn Manning and junior defenTO WATCH sive back Anthony Taylor all saw extensive reps last year, with names like sophomore James Tupou and senior Divine Diggs also expected to be in the mix in the fall. The Eagles are a bit more experienced on offense, with any talk of that unit likely beginning with senior quarterback Kyler Murray. GREG LITTLE The Texas A&M commit OFFENSIVE TACKLE is yet to lose a game Allen has become nothing short of an assembly line since assuming the when it comes to cranking helm of the Eagles’ ofout college-caliber offenfense in October 2012, sive linemen. If the early reand is coming off a junturns are any indication, ior campaign that netLittle has the potential to ted accolades like Texas become one of the best in program history. Gatorade Player of the As a sophomore, Little Year and MaxPreps graded out at 90 percent Player of the Year. and totaled 38 pancakes at He’ll have his top right tackle. A towering 6pass-catcher back in foot-6 and 288 pounds with senior receiver Jalen a background on the basketball court, Little rose to Guyton, while juniors prominence during the offKeon Williams and season by being named the David Feliciano will annation’s top 2016 recruit by chor the backfield. ESPN and 247Sports.com. Up front, the Eagles are as fortified as any team in the state, with seniors Bobby Evans (Oklahoma), Cody Wheeler (North Texas), Brian Cornell and junior Greg Little (Texas A&M) highlighting a mountainous offensive line.

Robertson

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

Orthodontics Proud To Support Allen Football

GOEAGLES! • $350 OFF Full Invisalign or Braces (with mention of this ad) • Complimentary Consultation ($199 value)

• Interest Free Payment Plans • Most Insurances Accepted • Open Saturdays

2730 Country Club Road, Suite A Lucas, TX 75002 robertsonorthodontics.com

972-363-8020

Limited time offer. Cannot be combined with HMO, PPO or other discounts. Discount applies to comprehensive upper and lower arch treatments for new patients only.

JAGUARS FLOWER MOUND

Page 10 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

After finishing in a tie for fourth in District 5-5A, but missing out on the postseason on tiebreakers last season, Dane Johnson is hopeful the Jaguars continue to take strides in his third season as head coach. Quarterback remains a question entering the fall as the Jaguars had as many as six signal callers getting reps during the spring. And while Johnson noted Logan Davis has the early lead, there are quality options behind him, including senior Zach Bradford, and the team wouldn’t opposed to a committee system. Flower Mound is looking for someone to step forward at running back as well and early on, senior Jordon Moore and sophomore Chase Lembke have impressed. Both possess the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, with Lembke more of a power back and Moore the slasher. Receivers include seniors Clayton Johnson (203 yards and two touchdowns last year), Colton Wilson and junior Devyn Coleman, all three of which bring speed and quality route-running ability. Perhaps the strength of the offense is the line, where senior Evan Curl anchors a unit with multiple

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 *Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Ryan Dailey, Flower Mound running back

Byron Nelson Keller Plano East McKinney Boyd Plano Senior Flower Mound Marcus Lewisville Hebron Allen BYE Plano West

Neal Wilson Stadium 7:30 p.m. Keller Athletic Complex 7:30 p.m. Kimbrough Stadium 7:30 p.m. Neal Wilson Stadium 7:30 p.m. Clark Stadium 7:30 p.m. Neal Wilson Stadium 7:30 p.m. Goldsmith Stadium 7:30 p.m. Neal Wilson Stadium 7:30 p.m. Clark Stadium 7:30 p.m. Neal Wilson Stadium

7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

returners, including sen>> PLAYER iors Nolan McDaniel and Dane Marwood, as well TO WATCH as junior Balin Smith. Defensively, Dane Johnson is optimistic about Flower Mound’s depth and athleticism. That starts in the back, where Clayton Johnson anchors a secondary that also features senior Blake Winters, junior Aaron Epping and junior Chandler Claterbaugh. Linebackers include junior Robert Darnell, CLAYTON senior Grayson Hoagland, JOHNSON senior Ian Lawrence and WIDE RECEIVER/ junior Colton Pennington DEFENSIVE BACK with senior Matthew The senior was a secondJohnstone — who is makteam all-district selection in 2013 following a season ing the move from offenin which he pulled in 17 sive line — and senior catches for 203 yards and Collin Alford up front. two touchdowns. Dane Johnson added he Head coach Dane Johnson is excited about the believes Clayton could prospects of junior Hayprove to be one of the squad’s dynamic playmakden Brewer. ers in 2014 with his ability “I think our defense to run after the catch. is going to be one of our But that’s just half of the strengths because of the equation as Clayton also leadership we have and produced a second-team the athleticism we have,” all-district season at safety last season and leads a talJohnson said. “I think ented secondary. we’ll be able to get in the backfield and make things happen and still be solid in the back.” The Jaguars are also looking to fill holes in the kicking game following the graduation of Andrew Hitscherich.

MARAUDERS FLOWER MOUND MARCUS

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

The early issue for Marcus’ football team — which qualified for the postseason in 2013 for the seventh consecutive year — is finding a quarterback. The squad had four different players attempt at least 30 passes last year and there will be an added emphasis on the position this year as the squad transitions to more of a spread attack under first-year head coach Gerry Stanford — who noted that while nobody has taken the lead, he would like to have the position settled by the start of the regular season. Options include junior Andrew Parish and junior Mitch Cason. In the backfield, junior Nate Hopkins — younger brother of all-time program rushing leader, Stephen — impressed during the spring and is expected to shoulder the load after gaining 497 yards (4.3 yards per carry) and four touchdowns as a sophomore. Stanford has also been pleased with the offensive line, which is led by Texas A&M commit and senior Keaton Sutherland and senior all-district performer Creighton Barr. “I can’t imagine having a more athletic and physical offensive line,” he said. “That will really

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 *Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 30 Nov. 7

Mansfield Arlington Lewisville Hebron Allen Flower Mound Plano West Plano East McKinney Boyd Plano Senior BYE

Marauder Stadium Maverick Stadium Marauder Stadium Hawk Stadium Marauder Stadium Neal Wilson Stadium Marauder Stadium Kimbrough Stadium Marauder Stadium Clark Stadium

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 p.m. *Homecoming

make things easier. And >> PLAYER we have some experience there, too.” TO WATCH Standout junior tight end Kaden Smith leads Marcus’ receiver targets, but in Marcus’ new system, juniors Alex Albright, Ryan Friedewald, senior Cade Erwin and junior Jake Nelson are in for larger roles. “I really like our depth there,” Stanford said. “We have about eight that can play, and NATE HOPKINS they’re getting better RUNNING BACK and better with more The name Hopkins is synonymous with Marexperience.” cus’ running game after Defensively, the MaStephen Hopkins wrote rauders will cause havoc the record books for the with depth and playMarauders from 2006making ability in the 09. front seven, including Now a junior, Stephen’s younger brother Nate is junior Andrew Fitzgerready to shoulder the ald, senior Will Miller, load following a sophojunior Troy Elliot and more year in which he senior David Thurmond. gained 497 yards and Defensive backs infour touchdowns. clude North Texas comMarcus head coach Gerry Stanford has been mit Erwin, seniors impressed with what he Travis Perry and Scotty has seen from Hopkins Alms at safety and senduring the spring and ior Ashton Easley and summer. junior Cameron Hupfer at cornerback. “We run to the ball extremely well,” Stanford said. “We have a lot of speed and we have a good perimeter in the secondary and with our outside linebackers.”

Kaden Smith, Marcus tight end (82)

HAWKS HEBRON

Page 12 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

The Hawks advanced to the postseason for the third consecutive year in 2013 and picked up their first postseason victory since 2008 with a win over L.D. Bell before bowing out against eventual state champ Cedar Hill in the area round. Hebron returns plenty of talent from the squad, but also has a few positional units that were hit exceptionally hard by graduation. That starts in the secondary — where the >> PLAYER Hawks lost three players who have since moved TO WATCH on to college — and in the backfield, where quarterback Carson Proffitt and leading rushers Treyvon Hughes, Braelen Evans, Cedric Dale and Jamal Adams are all competing in the college ranks in some way. As a result, firstteam senior linebacker Angelo Garbutt will play both ways and be HeANGELO bron’s feature back. He will be running GARBUTT behind a big and talRUNNING BACK/ ented offensive line. LINEBACKER With what head coach Brian “We knew coming in Brazil believes could be one of that our offensive line the best offensive lines during could be a real strength his tenure, the Hawks enter 2014 and that has proven to with a plan to pound the rock. To do so, however, the squad be true,” said Brian must find a ball-carrier after Brazil, Hebron head graduating each of its top four coach. “We have as rushers last year. much size as we’ve had Enter Garbutt, who impressed during spring camp after a 2013 since I’ve been here and season that saw him carry 16 we have some nice times for 100 yards. depth, too. We’re really In addition to being Hebron’s going to try and take adfeature back, Garbutt is coming off a first team all-district selecvantage of that next year tion as a linebacker, where Brazil and pound the ball.” said he is getting a majority of The Hawks’ line feahis looks at the college level. tures returning all-district performers in senior Hayden Seeley, junior Jarrett Farley and senior Brian Drew and will benefit greatly from the return of Arkansas signee and senior Zach Rogers, who was out last year with an injury. Hebron also has questions in terms of experience at receiver where it will look to seniors Christian Dawson and Omar Hicks-Onu, as well as two-sport

“WE KNEW COMING IN THAT OUR OFFENSIVE LINE COULD BE A REAL STRENGTH AND THAT HAS PROVEN TO BE TRUE.” – BRIAN BRAZIL, HEBRON HEAD COACH

Braelen Evans, Hebron defensive back (21)

athletes in juniors Isaiah Gary (basketball) and Derek Mueller (baseball). Hicks-Onu is the leading returner, but totaled just 63 yards on seven catches last season. Defensively, senior Gavin Burford returns to quarterback the linebackers, while senior David Brazil and junior Jehrett Lee lead a talented defensive line. Other key players include senior linebacker Clay Holford and senior defensive back John Wright. “[The secondary is] really the huge question for us,” Brian Brazil said. “That was without a doubt the strength of our team, but it’s tough to replace two corners and one safety that have gone on to play Division I ball.”

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 *Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Coppell Denton Ryan Plano Senior Flower Mound Marcus Lewisville BYE Allen Flower Mound Plano West Plano East McKinney Boyd

Buddy Echols Field Hawk Stadium Clark Stadium Hawk Stadium Goldsmith Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Hawk Stadium Neal Wilson Stadium Hawk Stadium Kimbrough Stadium Hawk Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

FARMERS LEWISVILLE

Page 14 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

The last time Lewisville’s football team qualified for the postseason was 2007. But the Farmers are hopeful that drought will soon end as the squad continues to progress under third-year head coach Gregg Miller. The team took strides two years ago, finishing within a touchdown in 4-of-5 games in district, before snapping its district skid last season and coming within a win in the regular-sea>> PLAYER son finale of qualifying for the postseason. TO WATCH The biggest holes for the Farmers in 2014 come on both fronts, where multiple starters were lost on the offensive and defensive sides. But overall, the squad has 12 starters back, including senior Alex Atchison on the offensive line. Experience returns TRINITY BENSON under center as senior WIDE RECEIVER Adrian Villarreal is in Benson stepped forward line to lead the Farmas Lewisville’s leading reers after starting multiceiver in 2013 and the ple games to close the Farmers are hopeful the 2013 season (214 senior will continue to rise yards, two touchdowns in 2014. and two interceptions). Last year, Benson paced the squad with 32 catches Perhaps for 419 yards to go with Lewisville’s strongest three touchdowns. unit is wide receiver, Lewisville head coach where seniors Trinity Gregg Miller noted that Benson (32 catches, Benson — as well as fel419 yards and three low receiver Cameron Creal — has aspirations touchdowns) and of continuing to play at Cameron Creal (22 the next level and that the catches, 328 yards and early portion of the 2014 four touchdowns) procampaign will be a critical vided much of the aspect in his recruiting. Farmers’ production in the passing game. Miller is also excited about the prospects of Lewisville’s running game, which will be headed by senior Carl McGhee and junior Dontae McGee. The pair combined for 450 yards and three touchdowns last year. Defensively, Miller was pleased with where

“I FEEL LIKE WE’RE FINALLY GETTING WHERE WE NEED TO BE.” – GREGG MILLER, LEWISVILLE HEAD COACH

Carl McGhee, Lewisville running back (23)

Lewisville wrapped up its spring game. “We were able to add stuff that we never got to in the past at this point because the kids were ready for more,” he said. Key returners for the Farmers include secondteam all-district selection and senior defensive back Kori Williams, senior second-team linebacker George Haskins, senior linebacker Nick Patton, senior defensive back Kenny Phillips and senior defensive lineman Caden Hartsburg. Miller expects a step forward from much of its roster, in particular as the program continues to take strides in its strength and conditioning. “I feel like we’re finally getting where we need to be,” he said.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 4 *Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 30 Nov. 7

Rowlett Richland Flower Mound Marcus BYE Hebron Allen Flower Mound Plano West Plano East McKinney Boyd Plano Senior

Goldsmith Stadium Birdville Stadium Marauder Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Goldsmith Stadium Kimbrough Stadium Goldsmith Stadium Clark Stadium Goldsmith Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Goldsmith Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

BRONCOS McKINNEY BOYD

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

Similar to its 2012-13 campaign, Boyd rebounded from a 2-3 start to finish 4-1 in District 10-5A. But District 6-6A won’t be as forgiving. Boyd has two tough games against Mesquite Horn and Coppell before it enters the eight-game district stretch, beginning with an even tougher opponent in Class 5A Division I State Champion, Allen. The Broncos will have help, though, with an offense that relies heavily on the ground game, featuring senior running back Dedrick Scrivens. Scrivens returns after a breakout season in his junior campaign where he carried the ball 259 times, rushing for 1,745 yards and 25 touchdowns. Losing quarterback and Air Force Academy signee Curtis Ladd to graduation hurts but whoever steps in for the Broncos won’t be asked to carry the load and will have capable weapons in juniors receiver Stephen Driskell and tight end Jacob Cantrell. The real pain will be felt on the defensive end, where Boyd takes a hit in its front seven and in the backfield.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 *Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 16 Oct. 24 Oct. 30 Nov. 7

Mesquite Horn Coppell Allen Flower Mound Plano West Plano East BYE Plano Senior Flower Mound Marcus Lewisville Hebron

E.H. Hanby Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Neal Wilson Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Kimbrough Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Ron Poe Stadium Marauder Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Hawk Stadium

7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

Alumni and lineback>> PLAYER ers Adam and Andrew Brown were Boyd’s top TO WATCH two leading tacklers last season and each brought leadership qualities to the Broncos’ defense. Gone as well from graduation are defensive linemen Shay Goodman and Tyler Ferguson along with defensive back Paxton Larson. The good news is that seniors defensive lineman Kiel Simas, defensive back Keaton LivDEDRICK ingston, outside SCRIVENS linebacker Ross Matiscik RUNNING BACK and junior defensive lineScrivens stepped onto the man Ramon Readus regridiron last season having to fill the large shoes left turn after coming off behind by Boyd alum and 2013 season performAir Force running back ances that landed each Bryan Driskell after he ran on the all-district team for 1,882 yards and 23 for 10-5A. touchdowns in 2012-13. Readus was named But if the shoe fits, wear it. the district’s Newcomer And the eventual 10-5A of the Year on defense Offensive Player of the and will create a formiYear didn’t just wear it, he dable tandem in the owned it after finishing trenches along with the last season with 1,745 team’s sack leader Simas rushing yards and 25 touchdowns to pair with (four), and Matiscik was 392 receiving yards and a first-team selection four touchdowns. with 65 tackles and two sacks. Boyd head coach Don Drake and the Broncos’ run through 10-5A was impressive, but it will take an even more impressive encore in order for Boyd to match last season’s success.

Ramon Readus, Boyd defensive lineman (92)

NFL APPROVED YOUTH (5-15) FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUES McKinney Allen Frisco The Colony

2014 Fall Season: September 13 thru November 7

Franchises Available

844-NFL-FLAG | www.ptathletics.com

PANTHERS PLANO EAST

Page 16 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Although East is breaking in its third head coach in as many seasons, expect this to be the last time we use that narrative in the near future. The Panthers (5-6 in 2013) will also look to erase the narrative that they are not a contender in District 6-6A. With a young squad and longtime Plano ISD stalwart Joey McCullough now at the helm, East is aiming to get back toward the Panther pride of old. It won’t be an easy task as it relates to the win-loss column. “We’ve got to get better,” McCullough said. “We know that. Right now, everybody is ahead of us. That’s OK. We’ve got to keep taking it one day at a time and stacking a brick one at a time.” McCullough took over for former head coach Randy Jackson in April. That didn’t give him much time to implement his concepts, hire a coaching staff and go through spring ball, but given the circumstances, McCullough was pleased with the progress made in the offseason.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 *Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Lake Highlands Jesuit Flower Mound Plano West BYE McKinney Boyd Plano Senior FlowerMoundMarcus Lewisville Hebron Allen

Landis Durham, East defensive end

(on most repairs)

10% PSC9814

★ Amazing Store Hours ★ Customer Service Shuttle ★ ASE Certified Technicians ★ Instant Credit Available ★ All Makes & Models

ANY REPAIR

Kimbrough Stadium Clark Stadium Kimbrough Stadium Goldsmith Stadium Kimbrough Stadium Kimbrough Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Sav-Mor Auto Center is a family-owned business delivering honest and professional automotive repair and auto maintenance services to the people of Plano and surrounding areas for over 50 years. We have Christian values and consider customers our friends. The quality ASE (automotive service excellence) certified technicians at Sav-Mor Auto Center employ today’s latest automotive technology and are equipped to handle all major and minor repairs on foreign and domestic vehicles.

972-424-9595

with the the mention mention of of this this ad! ad! with

2560 E PLANO PARKWAY • PLANO

Call today

Monday-Friday 7:30am-5:30pm

(972) 578-0588

www.TheAutoShop.com

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

*Homecoming

★ Same Day Service ★ Lifetime Warranty Available

OFF

Wildcat-Ram Stadium Haggar Stadium Kimbrough Stadium Clark Stadium

“I’m proud of the >> PLAYER kids,” he said, “proud of their effort, their TO WATCH commitment to me and the coaching staff and I thought their effort and attitude was great.” East will enter the 2014 season replacing a myriad of players on offense. At quarterback, junior Miles Thompson returns with experience after splitting time with alum Keith Long, and sophomore Miklo ANTHONY HINES Smalls, who drew rave LINEBACKER reviews in the spring Hines is transferring to East after a stellar freshand in 7-on-7 action, is man campaign at Episcoalso in the mix for reps. pal School of Dallas. But if the Panthers The 6-foot-2, 215-pound are to make noise in 6sophomore linebacker is 6A this season, expect expected to take the field it to be on the wings of with the Panthers as a starter for their first drive their defense. of the season, adding a Texas A&M commit major boost to a defense and senior Landis that already has standout Durham headlines an performers in seniors East defense that will Austin Corbett and Landis be much improved and Durham. Already a verbal commit has talent and depth at to Mississippi State, it key positions. wouldn’t be surprising to It’s clear the Pansee Hines shine in the thers will endure growheart of the East defense. ing pains during McCullough’s first campaign, but it won’t be surprising to see his squad give the rest of the district fits as the season moves along.

1114 14th Street - Plano www.sav-morautocenters.com Foreign & Domestic | ASE Certified

WILDCATS PLANO SENIOR

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

Plano wasn’t particularly bashful about its intentions on either side of the ball last year. The Wildcats were one of the area’s most run-heavy offenses, toting the rock just more than 80 percent of the time, and balancing that trench-centric attack with a hard-nosed defense that stacked up among the best in the state. Entering 2014, Plano’s modus operandi won’t stray too far from that approach, but don’t expect a frame-by-frame rehash of the 2013 Wildcats when the season gets underway. “We still want to be physical and run the football, but we’ll throw the ball off of play-action,” said Jaydon McCullough, Plano head coach. “I’d like to throw the ball a bit more and I think we can. At the same time, I think we have an identity now.” That identity came about after some offseason experimentation on offense that included influences from programs like Baylor and TCU. The Wildcats have an experienced unit to help bring that vision to fruition, returning eight starters on offense. Among that core is the team’s leading passer (senior Brooks Panhans)

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 18 *Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 16 Oct. 24 Oct. 30 Nov. 7

Tyler John Tyler Irving MacArthur Hebron Allen Flower Mound Plano West Plano East McKinney Boyd BYE Flower Mound Marcus Lewisville

Rose Stadium Clark Stadium Clark Stadium Clark Stadium Clark Stadium Clark Stadium Clark Stadium Ron Poe Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m.

Clark Stadium Goldsmith Stadium

7 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

and rusher (junior Bran>> PLAYER don Stephens), all-purpose senior Mitchell TO WATCH Hansen, plus standout seniors Sam Tecklenburg, Beau Hott and Lukas Arrieta up front. Plano’s defense thrived last year under returning defensive coordinator Clint Stewart, but will feature seven new starters this season. The names back in tow are proven ones though, particularly up front where TecklenBRANDON burg, a Baylor pledge, STEPHENS doubles as a defensive RUNNING BACK lineman. In the secondA team as run-heavy by deary, senior Cody Farhat sign as the Wildcats needs a quality bell cow to ensure anchors the unit at that offense operates safety as a player Mcseamlessly. Cullough anticipates After spending his non-disflirting with all-state trict campaign as a freshconsideration, while man on varsity, Stephens senior linebacker emerged as Plano’s lead back last season and went Neema Behbahani was on to rush for 991 yards third on the team in and seven touchdowns. He tackles last season. fell 9 yards short of beThe Wildcats are coming the Wildcats’ first hopeful that experience 1,000-yard rusher since will carry them into the alum Rex Burkhead in 2008. playoffs for the third He’ll be in prime position to straight year, no small achieve that feat this fall. feat in the voluminous 6-6A. Getting there, however, would give Plano’s 2014 edition a chance at becoming the first Wildcats team to win a playoff game since 2009.

*Homecoming

Brooks Panhans, Plano quarterback

Hirsch’s Specialty Meats & Sausages The Real Deal on Quality Meats

ivore The Carn thletes A Store for

Offering ONLY

The Top Grades of Beef WAGYU & E IC O H C , E IM R P Poultry • Sausage • Seafood • Poultry Tues-Fri 10-6, Sat 9-5, Closed Sun & Mon

1301 W. Parker Rd. #100 • Plano NW Corner of Parker & Alma

www.hirschsmeats.com

972-633-5593

Store Location 1201 E Spring Creek Pkwy. Plano, TX 75074 (972) 881-4384

WOLVES PLANO WEST

Page 18 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

West was looking to take a step forward in 2013 after making the deepest postseason run in school history a year prior, but instead posted a 6-5 campaign that culminated with a bi-district loss to Jesuit. Even with one of the state’s top rushing duos in alum Auston Anderson and senior Soso Jamabo, the Wolves didn’t have enough offense to account for their shortcomings on defense and lack of consistent quarterback play. Senior Robert Colmery and junior Logan Williams split the job last season, but out of the spring and through the summer in 7-on-7 action, West looked to Colmery to grasp the role once and for all. “We need Colmery to stay healthy,” said Mike Hughes, West head coach. “He was playing really well last year when he got hurt. He needs to have an outstanding year and take on that role of team leader.” It will help having Jamabo, fresh off a 1,000plus yard season, back as the team’s top rushing threat. With Anderson no longer in the fold, expect the five-star recruit to approach the 30-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 *Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Soso Jamabo, West running back

Mesquite Sachse BYE Plano East McKinney Boyd Plano Senior Marcus Lewisville Hebron Allen Flower Mound

Clark Stadium Williams Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Clark Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Clark Stadium Marauder Stadium Clark Stadium Hawk Stadium Clark Stadium Neal Wilson Stadium

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. *Homecoming

carry-per-game thresh>> PLAYER old on some nights. Defensively, the TO WATCH Wolves are excited about the influx of young talent. Juniors McKinley Mitchell and Ed Martin are expected to take on big roles in the linebacker rotation, while the secondary, with junior Tyler Campbell and senior Mark Cooks, will break in summer standouts, seniors Alex Prince and Seth Hammond. MARK COOKS One of the biggest DEFENSIVE BACK keys to a successful Cooks is penciled in as the starter at one cornerback season will be the spot, but don’t be surdepth to match up with prised if the electric kick the likes of Plano Senreturner makes his way ior, Allen and Hebron. into the rotation in West’s Depth, specifically from backfield. unproven players will “I think he’s an outstanding player and I expect be tested early on. him to have a strong year,” “When you have Hughes said. “Not only on young guys, you can defense – we’re going to talk about it all day use him on offense some long,” Hughes said, too. He’s really an out“but until you get out standing athlete.” Cooks’ versatility gives the there and rep it over, Wolves a weapon on speand over and over cial teams and on offense where it becomes habit, that no one is currently that’s what you’ve got accounting for. to do. That’s what we’ve done.” With a healthy Jamabo and an improved defense, the Wolves will be a sleeper team to reach the postseason out of 6-6A.

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 7-6A >>

COLLEYVILLE HERITAGE PANTHERS >> COPPELL COWBOYS >> EULESS TRINITY TROJANS >> HALTOM BUFFALOES >> HURST L.D. BELL RAIDERS >> RICHLAND REBELS >> SOUTHLAKE CARROLL DRAGONS On the gridiron, 7-6A is what many believe to be the toughest district in the state. The district boasts three teams that finished ranked in the top 10 in the state among all classifications according to MaxPreps.com last year with Coppell in fifth, Euless Trinity in seventh and Southlake Carroll in ninth. The Dragons and Trojans have combined for 11 state titles overall and all three programs went undefeated in their respective districts last year, but something will obviously have to give in 2014. Carroll — which was eliminated in the third round at the wire by Trinity — lost a good deal to graduation, but will take solace in having senior Ryan Agnew return under center. The Trojans advanced to the fourth round and only return four starters on the offensive side of the ball, but figure to have little difficulty re-establishing a ground-and-pound attack behind junior halfback Ja’Ron Wilson. The Cowboys — who bowed out in heartbreaking fashion in the second round against DeSoto — will also look to churn out yardage on the ground behind a dynamic duo of running backs in senior Charles West and junior Brandon Rice. L.D. Bell and Colleyville Heritage — which welcomes first-year head coach Darren Allman from Austin Westlake — are coming off postseason appearances in their own rights and have done so for the past four and eight years, respectively, meaning at least one perennial postseason player will be on the outside looking in when the dust settles next year. Another intriguing aspect should Carroll, Coppell and Trinity all qualify for the postseason is the return of the Dragons to Division II.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> COPPELL AT CARROLL

>> TRINITY AT CARROLL

>> HERITAGE AT BELL

>> COPPELL AT TRINITY

>> HERITAGE AT COPPELL

(OCT. 3) After a two-year hiatus, the Dragons and Cowboys will get back on the field in district action. When the two were paired up in 2011-12, the squads split meetings with each program winning on the road. With contests against Allen and DeSoto last year, the Cowboys got a good look at dualthreat quarterbacks which they will be seeing against the Dragons and Ryan Agnew (3,148 yards, 31 touchdowns and seven interceptions passing and 1,252 yards rushing with 20 touchdowns).

(OCT. 17) Two of the more storied programs in Texas will be squaring off twice in the next two years. Between the Dragons and Trojans, there are a combined 11 state titles. Fans can only hope these showdowns equal the drama displayed in the postseason last year when the Trojans topped the Dragons, 42-38. With the Trojans’ grind-it-out attack and Agnew pacing the Carroll offense, another high-scoring affair could be in store.

(OCT. 17) Barring the Panthers or Blue Raiders pulling off an upset of one of the big three, this contest could likely decide the fourth playoff representative from 76A. If that’s the case, either the Panthers (eight years) or Blue Raiders (four years) will have a lengthy postseason streak snapped. Bell will be looking to snap a six-game skid against Heritage which dates back to 2008. Last year, the Panthers took the matchup, 49-16.

(OCT. 24) The last time the Cowboys and Trojans met, the squads squared off in a playoff classic in the fourth round in 2010 with Trinity emerging on top in a battle of unbeatens, 41-40, scoring on the final play of the game. The two largest schools in the district, this contest could likely determine who will be the top seed in Division I with the winner being the squad that can more effectively stop the run.

(OCT. 31) With Haltom waiting in its regular-season finale, Heritage could prove to be the Cowboys last true test prior to the postseason. The Cowboys’ offense could have its hands full against a Heritage unit that returns seven starters, including standout defensive back Ryan Phillippe. The Panthers bring back seven starters on the offensive side as well, but are still seeking for a quarterback to fill the shoes of Griffin Pickler (Southeast Missouri).

COWBOYS COPPELL

Page 20 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

The Cowboys are coming off back-to-back district titles and have consistently been ranked among the Metroplex’s best teams during the past two seasons. That hasn’t translated to postseason success, however, as the squad was eliminated by DeSoto in the area round in each of the past two years. The task of getting over the second-round hump now falls to former defensive coordinator Mike DeWitt, who is entering his first year as head coach replacing Joe McBride. DeWitt inherits an offense stocked at the skill positions, but that is replacing all five starters on the offensive line. The linemen will be opening holes for a talented backfield that includes senior Charles West (1,437 total yards and 16 touchdowns) and junior Brandon Rice (410 yards and 10 touchdowns), both of which are getting looks at the collegiate level. Also back is senior quarterback Skyler Bonneau following an efficient 2013 campaign in which he completed 61 percent of his passes for 1,224 yards and 16 touchdowns against just two interceptions. Junior receiver Josh Fink also returns (22 yards

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 *Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Hebron McKinney Boyd Eastern Christian (Maryland) Cedar Hill L.D. Bell Southlake Carroll BYE Richland Euless Trinity Colleyville Heritage Haltom

Buddy Echols Field Ron Poe Stadium Buddy Echols Field Buddy Echols Field Buddy Echols Field Dragon Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Buddy Echols Field Pennington Field Buddy Echols Field Birdville Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

per catch and five touch>> PLAYER downs), while junior Obi Obialo (119 yards and TO WATCH one touchdown) mans receiver on the opposite end. The Cowboys will run limited sets with more than two receivers and as a result will also lean on senior fullback Parker Wilson and several tight ends in the passing game. Defensively, senior Chris Biggurs anchors an athletic defensive front CHARLES WEST that also includes junior RUNNING BACK Scott Huntsman. A unanimous first-team alldistrict selection as a mem“We have some ber of Coppell’s younger depth up front three-header monster in at nose guard and are the backfield last season, pretty athletic at the deWest has seen his recruitfensive end spots,” Deing pick up during the offWitt said. season as a he gears up for his season year. He already Senior Bo Anderson, has double-digit offers on who recently picked up the table, including an invite to the Army Arkansas, Kansas State and All-American Game and Texas Tech. was a first team all-disIn 2013, West displayed his trict selection last year, versatility and explosion, leading the team in yards leads a group of line(1,177), yards per carry (8.1) backers that lost three and total touchdowns (16), all-district performers to while also hauling in 11 regraduation. ceptions for 262 yards. The squad hopes to make up for that lack of experience in the secondary, however, where Northwestern commit and senior Jacob Murray, senior Bryce Vonzurmuehlen and senior Drew McAdams are all back and are Division I hopefuls.

GO COPPELL COWBOYS!!! Like us on facebook for a

$50 DISCOUNT on any plumbing repair

24/7 Emergency Service 972-247-6468 holdenplumbing.com

#M-8738

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 10-6A >>

HIGHLAND PARK SCOTS >> LAKE HIGHLANDS WILDCATS NORTH MESQUITE STALLIONS >> RICHARDSON BERKNER RAMS

>> MESQUITE SKEETERS >> MESQUITE HORN JAGUARS >> RICHARDSON PEARCE MUSTANGS >> RICHARDSON EAGLES Mesquite, North Mesquite and Mesquite Horn will see a decidedly different look to their district this year and not because they are in the new Class 6A. Gone are longtime rivals Tyler Lee and Longview, as well as the two Rockwall schools. In their place enters perennial powerhouse Highland Park and the four Richardson ISD schools, creating a whole new dynamic. Horn and Highland Park split the first-place votes in the preseason coaches poll. New Jaguars quarterback Chris Robison, just a sophomore, has looked good in the spring and 7-on-7 and his transition is eased by TCU commit and senior Jarrison Stewart at receiver and Division I prospect and senior Conner Dyer on the line. Highland Park quarterback Brooks Burgin, who had more than 4,200 yards last season, leads a group of eight returning starters. That includes three offensive linemen for the Scots, who are making the long-anticipated jump to the highest classification. Mesquite was hit hard by graduation for the second consecutive season but does have a dynamic offensive weapon in versatile junior Robert Blythe. Lake Highlands features plenty of experience at the skill positions, led by 1,000-yard rusher Tyler Hughes. North, trying to make the playoffs for the first time since 2007, will rely on its defense while a young offense comes together and it is the same story at Berkner, which graduated a majority of its production. Richardson could be a sleeper, returning six starters on both sides of the ball. Pearce was a playoff team a year ago, but will find it hard to repeat with several key losses.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> GARLAND AT MESQUITE (SEPT. 4) One of the oldest rivalries in the state, which dates back to 1904, will be renewed for the 74th time when the Owls and Skeeters meet at E.H. Hanby Stadium. But the teams have played only once since 2003, when Mesquite pulled out a 24-21 overtime win in the 2011 playoffs. Garland has been a playoff regular, having qualified in 19 of the last 21 seasons, but has not advanced beyond the area round since 2010.

>> HIGHLAND PARK AT HORN (OCT. 10) This is expected to be the marquee matchup of the district slate between the two preseason favorites. This will be the first meeting between the schools as the Jaguars try to shake the Scots’ dominance of Mesquite ISD, against whom they have a 48-4-2 all-time record. Highland Park quarterback Brooks Burgin, who led the team to the 4A state semifinals last season, is one of the top candidates for district MVP honors.

FLOOR ‘EM GUYS!

>> NORTH AT PEARCE (OCT. 17) The Stallions have been in the playoff chase until the final week of the season nearly every year since their last trip in 2007. One big reason for coming up short is a regrettable hiccup along the way, something Pearce is capable of providing. By this point, a young North offense should have an identity, but they cannot afford to look ahead to their final three-game stretch against Horn, Lake Highlands and Mesquite.

>> HORN AT LAKE HIGHLANDS (NOV. 7) These teams played in non-district from 2008-2011, but the first 10-6A meeting could have big playoff, and perhaps, district title implications. The Jaguars have won the final game of the regular season every year during their run of six straight playoff appearances. The Wildcats are not always flashy, but they have found a way to make six consecutive playoff appearances and they are always tough at the Boneyard.

>> NORTH AT MESQUITE (NOV. 7) For longtime Mesquite ISD fans, the city’s oldest rivalry is back where it belongs. The Skeeters and Stallions met in the final week of the regular season from 1970-1993, but have not done so since. There were playoff implications on the line in many of those early matchups, including the memorable 0-0 tie in 1983, and it will be a surprise if one, if not both, of these teams have more than just bragging rights on the line in Week 11.

WITH O OVER VER 1 MILLION SQ. SQ. FT FT.. OF FLOORING IN-STOCK IN-STOCK TODAY! TODAY Y! MESQUITE 214-459-3924 1330 N. Town o East Blvd. Blvd Mesquite, TX 75150

flooranddecor.com

STORE HOURS 7AM-9PM M-F 8AM-8PM SA AT 9AM-6PM SUN

Page 22 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

SKEETERS MESQUITE

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 *Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

“

Plano West Garland Duncanville BYE Mesquite Horn Lake Highlands Richardson Pearce Richardson Berkner Highland Park Richardson North Mesquite

Kimbrough Stadium E.H. Hanby Stadium Panther Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Mesquite Memorial Stadium 7:30 p.m. E.H. Hanby Stadium 7:30 p.m. Eagle-Mustang Stadium 7:30 p.m. Wildcat-Ram Stadium 7:30 p.m. E.H. Hanby Stadium 7:30 p.m. Eagle-Mustang Stadium 7:30 p.m. Mesquite Memorial Stadium 7:30 p.m.

group, most don’t have >> PLAYER to harbor those memories. TO WATCH Senior defensive end Bradley Glover and junior linebacker Pablo Manhard return in the front seven and their leadership will be just as valuable as their production as the unit grows up around them. The strength of the defense early on should be in the secondary with returners senior Ty Morrison, junior JimROBERT BLYTHE mie Lofton and junior WIDE RECEIVER Bryan Henderson. One of the fastest players in the district with 4.4 Last season, speed, the Skeeters used Mesquite’s younger Blythe in a variety of roles players had to grow up during his sophomore in a hurry against a talcampaign and will find ented non-district slate. ways to get him even more This year’s group will touches this year. Blythe averaged nearly 6 be thrown into the fire yards per carry and scored right away with a meetfive touchdowns on the ing against Plano West ground and showed good and one of the tophands with 49 catches for rated recruits in the 443 yards and three country in Soso Jamscores. He can also be an X-factor on special teams, abo. where he had a 97-yard The Skeeters do not kickoff return. expect to run the table like they did two years ago, but they would not mind a repeat of last season, when they learned from some early troubles to earn a trip to the playoffs for the third year in a row.

*Homecoming

“

For the second consecutive year, there will be a shortage of familiar faces in Skeeter jerseys during the early stages of the season as several newcomers get their opportunity to make an impact. Mesquite lost both experienced quarterbacks, go-to receiver Octayvious Miles and game-breaking running back Shadavian Reed, who led 12-5A in rushing. While those holes will be tough to fill, it should provide even more of an opportunity for electric junior Robert Blythe, who was effective for Mesquite in a variety of roles last season. In additon to Blythe, Mesquite does have some experience on the outside in seniors Jandt Weary, Juan Aguilar and junior Roderick Brown, but the backfield will be very green. The Skeeters could turn to youth to take over quarterback duties in sophomore Anthony Tennison, while returning senior starter Christian Castleberry is back to anchor the offensive line. The Mesquite defense is looking for a bit of redemption after giving up an average of 62.7 points in its last three games, but with a young

IT’S GOOD!

PROVIDING PROVIDING GREAT GREAT INSURANCE INSURANCE COVERAGE COVERAGE AND AND EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE SINCE SINCE 1940. 1940.

Now that’s a good call.

We represent many companies, including: • THE HARTFORD • METLIFE • TRAVELERS • SAFECO • KEMPER • ENCOMPASS

972-285-0381 307 307 W. W. Main Main Street Street Mesquite, Mesquite, Texas Texas 75149 75149 HanbyInsurance.com HanbyInsurance.com

Marshall Spraglin, Mesquite defensive lineman

JAGUARS MESQUITE HORN

Page 24 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Since breaking through and making it to the postseason for the first time in 2008, Horn has made the transition from up-and-coming program to perennial playoff team. Now, the Jaguars want to make the jump to state title contender. Horn advanced to the regional championship game in 2010, but has not made it out of the area round since then. Despite the departure of four-year starting quarterback Destri White, among others, the Jaguars’ goal of taking the next step has not wavered. Sophomore Chris Robison has been given the reins to the offense and he has been impressive through the spring and 7-on-7 workouts. Robison will have plenty of attractive targets on the outside, led by senior and TCU commit Jarrison Stewart, who caught 45 passes for 776 yards and six touchdowns last season. Senior Kakpa Mansaray will step into a larger role this season and junior Emmanuel Ogwo, a late comer to the sport, is a talented athlete who could be primed for big things.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 *Oct. 30 Nov. 7

McKinney Boyd Duncanville Rockwall BYE Mesquite Richardson Berkner Highland Park Richarsdon North Mesquite Richardson Pearce Lake Highlands

Jordon Harold, Horn linebacker

E.H. Hanby Stadium 7:30 p.m. E.H. Hanby Stadium 7:30 p.m. Wilkerson-Sanders Stadium 7:30 p.m. Mesquite Memorial Stadium Wildcat-Ram Stadium E.H. Hanby Stadium E.H. Hanby Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium E.H. Hanby Stadium Wildcat-Ram Stadium

7:30 p.m. :30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. * Homecoming

Friday Night Lights Just Got Brighter We salute the great traditions of High School Football! Our hearts beat faster as the weather cools, games are tightly contested and cheerleaders dance with pompoms. At Calloway’s even the garden awakens with the bright blooms of Fall.

CALLOWAY’S ®

N U R S E RY

17 Stores in D/FW Open Daily 9-7 www.calloways.com

There will be a new >> PLAYER featured running back with the loss of Justyn TO WATCH Oliphant. The offensive line also has some holes to fill, although they have an anchor in national recruit and senior Conner Dyer. Horn will be entering its second season running a 3-4 defense and one of the keys to that formation will be filled at nose guard by senior Dalen Morgan, who, along with senior ends CONNER DYER Christian Bacon and PatOFFENSIVE LINEMAN tro Howard, make up a The anchor in the trenches for the Jaguars strong line that is one of is rated as a four-star rethe strengths of the cruit by Rivals.com, with team. offers from LSU, Ohio That trio should open State, Oklahoma, Oregon things up for senior lineand Texas A&M, among backers C.J. Stallings, others. Dyer (6-foot-5, 280 who had 65 tackles last pounds) is a three-year season, and Malik starter who helped Horn Thomas to make plays. average 380 yards and 37 Senior J.R. Hall repoints per game last seaturns to lead what will son. The senior who can be an otherwise inexperiplay both guard and tackle and has the versaenced secondary, but like tility to pave the way in the other areas of youth, the running game as well Horn is confident in new as provide protection players stepping up. when Horn goes to the air. “The goal is always to build for a playoff run,” said Mike Overton, Horn head coach. “We have high expectations, we think this is a team that can win district, so the key is to stay healthy and play the way we are capable.”

L e a d e r i n V i s i o n Ca r e L e a d e r i n s u p p o r t f o r Me s q u i t e S c h o o l s Mesquite Eye Associates Treatment of Eye Disease & Vision Disorders

Dr. Karl Kutch Dr. Suzan Park Therapeutic Optometry

1128 N. Galloway | Mesquite (972) 288-4427

www.MesquiteEye.com

STALLIONS NORTH MESQUITE

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

It was an all too familiar story for North last season. The Stallions started out 6-0 and were in prime position to make their first playoff appearance since 2007. But things turned south down the stretch. It started with a last-minute 34-33 setback to Mesquite and they saw those hopes officially come to an end in Week 10 when Horn’s Taylor Lewis kicked a field goal as time expired to hand them a heartbreaking 34-31 loss. The Stallions will have a new look this season, especially on offense, where they return only one starter. The biggest challenge will be trying to fill the void left by the rushing tandem of Ta’Varius Luke and Corey Hunt, who combined for more than

senior Roger Johnson (44 tackles, two sacks) and junior Stacy Sublett (51 tackles, two interceptions). Returning senior starter Da’Trel Davis, who had 51 tackles and a pair of interceptions, will be counted on to be a leader of a young unit in the secondary. North would like to get off to a good start in district play, as a closing stretch of Horn, Lake Highlands and Mesquite will be tough to navigate.

2,500 yards and 25 scores. Sophomore Dreshawn Minnieweather and junior Kylan Harrison are the frontrunners to fill those spots while others should get looks as well. North used a quarterback rotation with Cody Williams and Shateek Nasir last season, but they have also both graduated. A newcomer will run the offense and it could be sophomore JaQuez Gooch. The Stallions do have some senior leadership on the outside with Jazz Preston and Davis Rico, with Jean Delance and David Hogue on the offensive line. There is a little more experience on the defensive side of the ball led by senior lineman Jalen Scott, a first-team all-district performer who had 75 tackles and three sacks. The strength of the defense could be in the linebacking corps with

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 28 Sept. 4 *Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 9 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Naaman Forest Arlington Sam Houston South Garland BYE Highland Park Richardson Richardson Berkner Richardson Pearce Mesquite Horn Lake Highlands Mesquite

Mesquite Memorial Stadium 7 p.m. Wilemon Stadium 7 p.m. Mesquite Memorial Stadium 7:30 p.m. E.H. Hanby Stadium Eagle-Mustang Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium Eagle-Mustang Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

Jareion Sanders, North wide receiver

Trey Davis, North defensive back

>> PLAYER TO WATCH

JALEN SCOTT DEFENSIVE LINEMAN At the start of last season, North was looking to fill some holes on the defensive line and Scott emerged to fill that void. The senior was strong against the run, recording 75 tackles, including two for a loss. He also showed flashes rushing the passer with three sacks and a pair of quarterback pressures. With several young players around him, the Stallions will rely on Scott to be not only a playmaker but a leader.

Page 26 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 11-6A >>

GARLAND OWLS >> GARLAND LAKEVIEW CENTENNIAL PATRIOTS >> GARLAND NAAMAN FOREST RANGERS NORTH GARLAND RAIDERS >> ROCKWALL YELLOWJACKETS >> ROWLETT EAGLES >> SACHSE MUSTANGS >> TYLER LEE RED RAIDERS

The all-Garland ISD district is a thing of the past – for now at least. For the first time in 20 years, a GISD team has been separated from the rest of the pack with South Garland dropping down a classification. In the Colonels’ absence, the remaining six GISD teams are joined by former district rival Rockwall and Tyler Lee, the lone 6A program in East Texas. Sachse, coming off its first district title and a 10-0 regular season, faces the tall task of re-

placing MVP quarterback Kent Myers, but senior running back Devine Ozigbo and junior wide receiver Devin Duvernay will make the transition easier for the new signal caller. Rowlett will rely on Texas commit and senior Charles Omenihu and the defense while junior quarterback Logan Bonner breaks in a new set of skill players around him. Garland quarterback Luther Kirk returns as the Owls aim at their 14th district title in the last 21 years. Rockwall is loaded at the skill positions, led

by wide receiver Xavier Castille and running back Chris Warren. Lee made the playoffs 13 times from 19972010 but has not been back since, while Lakeview is trying to snap a drought that started in 1995. New Naaman Forest coach Marvin Sedberry has reigning MVP Michael Nelson to lean on in the backfield, while North Garland is trying to turn things around after going 2-38 in the last four seasons.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> GARLAND AT MESQUITE (SEPT. 4) One of the oldest rivalries in the state, which dates back to 1904, will be renewed for the 74th time when the Owls and Skeeters meet at E.H. Hanby Stadium. But the teams have played only once since 2003, when Mesquite pulled out a 24-21 overtime win in the 2011 playoffs. Garland has been a playoff regular, having made the postseason in 19 of the last 21 seasons, while Mesquite has made 13 appearances during that span.

>> HORN AT ROCKWALL (SEPT. 12) These two teams are linked by Rockwall head coach Rodney Webb, who put Horn on the map by leading them to five consecutive playoff appearances from 2008-2012. In the first meeting against his old team last season, the Jaguars prevailed in a 49-32 victory. Aside from that storyline, this will feature two area finalists from a year ago and will be a good measuring stick for the Yellowjackets going into district.

>> ROCKWALL AT SACHSE (OCT. 16) Each of these teams is expected to contend for the district championship and this game should say a lot about who ends up on top at season’s end. This could be one of the most entertaining regular-season games in the state, as both sides are loaded at the skill positions. Sachse scored 40 or more points nine times last season, while Rockwall topped 40 in five games.

>> ROWLETT AT ROCKWALL (OCT. 24) The Lake Ray Hubbard Rivalry takes on heightened importance as the teams are back in the same district for the first time since 2007. The Yellowjackets have won the last two meetings to take a 9-7 lead in the series. A year ago, Rowlett could not slow down Rockwall in a 66-34 loss and the Eagles’ hopes will rest on finding those answers this time around.

>> ROWLETT AT SACHSE (NOV. 7) Rowlett has extended its streak of nine consecutive playoff appearances by winning its regular-season finale in each of the last two years. The Eagles should hope to avoid getting into the same scenario against Sachse, who has won the last two meetings, including last year’s 57-31 victory. The Mustangs, meanwhile, are hoping a victory in this game allows them to defend their district title.

EAGLES ROWLETT

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

Rowlett has one of the longest playoff streaks in the area, having qualified in each of the last nine seasons. But it has not always been easy. In five of those years, the Eagles lost three district games, including the last two seasons when they needed to win their regular season finale to extend their season. The bottom line, though, is Rowlett has found a way to come through when it needed to during the past decade and it may need to call upon that resilience once again as an inexperienced offense finds its identity. The good news for the Eagles is the defense has the potential to ease some of the growing pains as they return seven starters. Defensive lineman Charles Omenihu, who has committed to Texas, is poised for a huge senior season. Senior D.J. Middlebrooks returns to anchor the linebacker corps with three-year starter and senior Jerek Capdeville leading the secondary. Rowlett returns only two starters on offense, but it always good when one of those is the quar-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 *Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Lewisville Max Goldsmith Stadium Lake Highlands Homer B. Johnson Stadium Keller Homer B. Johnson Stadium Lakeview Centennial Homer B. Johnson Stadium Tyler Lee Homer B. Johnson Stadium Garland Williams Stadium BYE North Garland Homer B. Johnson Stadium Rockwall Wilkerson-Sanders Stadium Garland Naaman Forest Homer B. Johnson Stadium Sachse Williams Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7 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. *Homecoming

terback. Junior Logan >> PLAYER Bonner earned district sophomore of the year TO WATCH honors last year, completing 59 percent of his passes for 2,415 yards and 22 touchdowns. The question early on is where Bonner will distribute the ball, as the Eagles lack experience at both running back and wide receiver. If players can step up at the skill positions, Rowlett could turn into a formidable unit, with CHARLES senior center Colton OMENIHU Gillespie and senior DEFENSIVE LINEMAN guards Ricardo MarOmenihu burst onto the tinez and Christian Marscene during his junior season and colleges took tinez returning on the notice. He is rated as a line. three-star prospect by The kicking game Rivals.com and has given could be an X-factor, as a verbal commitment to the Eagles feature a the University of Texas. pair of Division I caliber The scary thing for opponents is that Omenihu talents in senior Drew will only improve. At just Galitz, who has commit16, he is listed at 6-4, 214 ted to Miami, and senior and has tremendous upJosh Williams. side in regards to both “We have a lot of growth and experience, new guys on offense having only played for three seasons. and it is going to take some time, and I feel our defense will give us that, but we still have a long ways to go,” said Doug Stephens, Rowlett head coach. “But this is a group that works hard, they are blue collar and it is a great group of men to be around, so I’m excited about it.”

Page 28 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 6-5A >>

BIRDVILLE HAWKS >> FORT WORTH CARTER-RIVERSIDE EAGLES >> FORT WORTH DUNBAR WILDCATS >> FORT WORTH EASTERN HILLS HIGHLANDERS >> FORT WORTH POLYTECHNIC PARROTS >> GRAPEVINE MUSTANGS >> LAKE DALLAS FALCONS To say that 2014 will be an adjustment period for Lake Dallas is an understatement as big as the distance between District 6-5A’s seven schools. At the 2014-2016 UIL realignment, a late drop to Class 5A by Grapevine pulled Lake Dallas, a closer opponent for the Mustangs and Birdville, into 6-5A with four Fort Worth schools. So instead of facing traditional rivals Denton, Denton Guyer and Wichita Falls, the Falcons will travel to Handley Stadium in Fort Worth twice in 2014 for games against Carter-Riverside and Eastern Hills, and to Clark Stadium for their final regular season game against Dunbar. Dunbar went undefeated in 2013 and lost a close game in the playoffs, drawing the respect of Lake Dallas head coach Mike Young. “We’re excited about the change in districts,” he said. “We have a tough schedule. Dunbar had a really good season last year – anytime you go undefeated, you’re a great team. And Grapevine and Birdville are obviously very good teams.” Lake Dallas will look to make the playoffs in 2014 after missing the postseason last year. Birdville, coming off a playoff loss in the state quarterfinals to Denton Guyer, is expecting another successful year despite graduating all-state running back Xavier Turner, who rushed for more than 2,000 yards and 41 touchdowns in 2013. Grapevine has senior Air Force commit Sam Berry at quarterback, who in 2013 was named Co-Offensive Newcomer of the Year after amassing 13 rushing touchdowns and a receiving touchdown and throwing for three more scores. Also competing in its first year under new head coach Randy Jackson, Grapevine played in 5A last year against bigger schools and should compete for a top spot in 65A in 2014, along with Dunbar. The Fort Worth schools should be familiar with one another, as they have played each other several times over the past two years. The real question for all seven teams in 6-5A in 2014: Will the unfamiliarity play a part in deciding the playoff seedings?

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> BIRDVILLE AT LAKE DALLAS (OCT. 10) These two teams have met in the playoffs in past years, but playing each other in a district matchup is new territory for the Falcons and Hawks. This game will feature two high-octane offenses, as Lake Dallas will look to throw the ball all over the field while Birdville will feed star running back Isaiah Duarte (11 touchdowns in 2013) the ball as much as possible. Oh, and Hawks quarterback Will Hayward (15 touchdowns in 2013) is pretty good, too.

>> BIRDVILLE AT DUNBAR (OCT. 24) In what could very well be a forecast for the district championship, these two teams should compete for first place in 6-5A. On paper, both teams possess strong defenses and even better offenses. Both are excellent running teams that can also throw the ball. This matchup has the makings of a game where the team that has the ball last wins, which may well give the winner the inside track to first place in the district.

>> DUNBAR AT EASTERN HILLS (OCT. 31) Dunbar went undefeated in 2013 and lost a close game in the playoffs to Wichita Falls. This year, the Wildcats will look to finish at the top of the brand new 6-5A. Anytime two of the Fort Worth schools play each other in 2014 will be a big game for bragging rights, but Dunbar’s contest against Eastern Hills should provide the Wildcats their biggest in-town challenge.

>> GRAPEVINE AT BIRDVILLE (OCT. 31) The two largest schools in the district by far, Grapevine and Birdville have the luxury of more than 2,000 students each to pull from. Both schools have potent offenses led by strong quarterbacks (Sam Berry for the Mustangs, Hayward for the Hawks). New Grapevine head coach Randy Jackson comes with a strong program-building background and will look to make a splash against the Hawks in his first year.

>> LAKE DALLAS AT DUNBAR (NOV. 6) This game will be a huge test for the Falcons and one rife with questions for both programs. Will Lake Dallas’ core of returning starters match up well against a previously undefeated team? Will the Falcons’ defense, which has been suspect in previous years, hold up against Dunbar’s star running back Taylor Martin (23 touchdowns in 2013)? On the other side, how will Dunbar handle the firepower throughout the Lake Dallas offense?

FALCONS LAKE DALLAS

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

In hindsight, head coach Mike Young feels confident his Lake Dallas team would have qualified for the Class 4A football playoffs in 2013 if they hadn’t been hit hard by the injury bug midway through the season. “We were playing really well, and then we lost four or five guys all at once, it seemed,” he said. “One of the things I’m most excited for this year is our depth. Everyone needs to understand that guys are going to get banged up, and it’s up to the next guy to step in and play well.” The Falcons were 4-0 in 2013 when star receiver Josh Jackson landed hard on his ankle, breaking his leg and shelving him for the remainder of the season. And while the drop in production following Jackson’s injury was definitely felt, it allowed other receivers the opportunity to grow. Enter Keegan Brewer, Lake Dallas’ top receiving threat heading into 2014. Brewer finished 2013 with 66 points, which led the Falcons – 11 total touchdowns, 739 receiving yards and 41 catches. The majority of Brewer’s production came after Jackson went

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 *Sept. 26 Oct. 2 Oct. 10 Oct. 16 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 6

Frisco Wakeland Frisco Centennial Lovejoy Dallas Kimball Grapevine Fort Worth Carter-Riverside Birdville Fort Worth Eastern Hills BYE Fort Worth Polytechnic Fort Worth Dunbar

Toyota Stadium Memorial Stadium Leopard Stadium Falcon Stadium Falcon Stadium Handley Stadium Falcon Stadium Handley Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m.

Falcon Stadium Clark Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m.

down, as he became >> PLAYER quarterback Dagan Haehn’s favorite target. TO WATCH Now, the junior duo of Haehn and Brewer will look to lead the offense to even greater heights in 2014. “I don’t think we’ve ever had this many returning players with so much experience like we do now,” said Young, referring to his large junior and senior class. “We’re excited, and we’re looking to go JOSIAH TAUAEFA far this year.” DEFENSIVE END Young added that Simply by virtue of racking up 75 tackles left seasenior defensive star son, Tauaefa asserted his Josiah Tauaefa will see presence as one of the some snaps on offense Falcons’ premier defenthis season as a receiver sive weapons. and running back when Not only is the lineman he’s not causing havoc poised for a standout 2014 campaign, he may prove to as a defensive end. The be Lake Dallas’ most veroffensive line also resatile asset as well. In adturns 6-foot-6 senior dition to anchoring the road-grader Dalton defense, Tauaefa is in line Montgomery and newto see snaps on offense as comer Segun Ijiyera, a both a running back and a receiver. sophomore. How many Class 5A deMake no mistake, fensive linemen are aththe offense will be the letic enough to earn that focal point of Lake Daldistinction? las’ season, with Haehn (29 touchdowns in 2013) leading the charge. The season kicks off for Lake Dallas on Aug. 29 against Frisco Wakeland.

*Homecoming

FOLLOW THE

LEADER

SEE LIVE SCORE UPDATES AT GRIDIRONONLINE.COM

GridironOnline.com

Page 30 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 9-5A >>

>> FRISCO RACCOONS >> FRISCO CENTENNIAL TITANS >> FRISCO HERITAGE COYOTES >> FRISCO INDEPENDENCE KNIGHTS FRISCO LIBERTY REDHAWKS >> FRISCO LONE STAR RANGERS >> FRISCO WAKELAND WOLVERINES >> LITTLE ELM LOBOS >> THE COLONY COUGARS Will this be the year someone finally knocks off Centennial in the race for the district crown? The Titans have won three consecutive titles, including an unbeaten mark during the 2011 season and are capable of maintaining that success in 2014. Standing in their way of a fourth straight championship will be crosstown rival Frisco and up-and-coming The Colony. Both the Cougars and Raccoons return talented rosters after finishing second and third, respectively, in the district last season. The Colony likely would have ended Centennial’s streak of dominance if not for a late meltdown in last season’s head-tohead meeting that saw the Titans score two touchdowns in the final 4:38 to capture a 21-20 victory. With Centennial quarterback Kelly Cordova lost to graduation, the Titans will have a new face under center and will look to establish a more consistent running game to offset any inexperience at quarterback. The team will also have plenty of shoes to fill on the defensive side of the ball after facing a similar task last offseason. Wakeland and Heritage also pose a threat to Centennial’s title defense, with Little Elm, Independence, Lone Star and Liberty looking to create balance throughout the district.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> CENTENNIAL AT FRISCO (SEPT. 25) Two of the preseason favorites for the 9-5A crown will square off in the second week of district action, with the Titans fresh off an opener against Heritage and the Raccoons coming off a battle at Little Elm. Centennial won last season’s meeting by a final score of 35-28 en route to the team’s third consecutive championship. If any team is to end Centennial’s district dominance, it could be Frisco with a win in this Sept. 25 matchup.

>> HERITAGE AT WAKELAND (OCT. 24) Heritage finished on the outside of the playoff picture last season, with crosstown rival Wakeland earning the fourth and final postseason spot. An experienced Coyotes team will look to book the first trip to the playoffs in program history and will likely need to defeat the Wolverines in order to make that happen. The two 9-5A foes will meet in an Oct. 24 matchup sandwiched in between four winnable games for the Coyotes.

>> THE COLONY AT LITTLE ELM (OCT. 24) When these two long-time rivals square off against each other, you can forget about records. Little Elm entered last season’s regular-season finale without a win in district play, while The Colony had a chance to split a share of the District 9-4A championship. The Lobos played spoiler in that game by earning a 17-14 win, and The Colony will be looking for revenge when the two teams meet in an Oct. 24 matchup this season.

>> LONE STAR AT INDEPENDENCE (OCT. 31) Independence will likely take its share of lumps in the school’s inaugural season. With a young roster that features no seniors, a Halloween matchup against Lone Star will show how much the Knights have improved after one full season. The game will also be a chance for Lone Star sophomore quarterback Jason Shelley and company to end the season on a high note after a four-week onslaught against The Colony, Centennial, Heritage and Frisco.

>> CENTENNIAL AT THE COLONY (NOV. 7) Centennial and The Colony met in a Nov. 1 matchup last season that essentially determined the 9-4A title. The Cougars feel they let one slip away after leading by 11 points in the final five minutes before Centennial prevailed for a 21-20 victory. Both teams figure to be contenders once again and will meet in the regular-season finale this time. If the 9-5A rivals take care of business before their Nov. 7 meeting, this game could be for all the marbles.

FREE LETTER JACKET! BEST PRICE GUARANTEE!

With the purchase of Gold Package ($150)

610 COIT RD. • PLANO TX

469-374-9000

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

FREE LETTER

JACKET! With the purchase of Gold Package ($150)

m Custo lle Cheni s & e Patch idery o Embr

BEST PRICE GUARANTEE! Call to Schedule Your Group Sizing Quick & ery v i l e D s n i k l Wa me Welco

469-374-9000 610 Coit Rd. Plano, TX

(Located Behind RaceTrac)

RACCOONS FRISCO

Page 32 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

There will be plenty of new faces under center for District 9-5A football teams this season. Only Frisco is tasked with replacing last season’s district MVP (Jake Battaglia), though. “We’ve got some big shoes to fill,” said Vance Gibson, Frisco head coach. Replacing Battaglia, who ran for 401 yards and nine touchdowns while also completing 68-of-134 passes for 1,385 yards and 13 scores, will be junior Rohan Vasa. “[Vasa] is similar to Jake,” Gibson said. “He’s a great leader and has a lot of passion to play football.” Aiding Vasa’s transition will be a Wing-T scheme that puts little pressure on the quarterback. The junior will have several reliable runners to lean on with seniors Dayton Bush and Mykael McCorry joining junior Lucas Reynolds in getting the bulk of carries. “We’ve got some kids we feel can be pretty good,” Gibson said. The team’s Wing-T scheme has shown steady progression during recent years, helping the program become a perennial playoff contender. Vasa will also have the benefit of the team’s top receivers from last season coming back. Senior

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 6 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 25 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 *Oct. 16 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

North Forney Waxahachie Little Elm The Colony Frisco Centennial Frisco Heritage BYE Frisco Independence Frisco Lone Star Frisco Wakeland Frisco Liberty

Austin Shaw, Frisco wide receiver/cornerback

Memorial Stadium Lumpkins Stadium Memorial Stadium Tommy Briggs Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium

7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Toyota Stadium Memorial Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. *Homecoming

T.J. Keys and Bush led >> PLAYER the Raccoons with a combined 26 receptions TO WATCH and six touchdowns a year ago. The Raccoons return a total of 13 starters, with six players coming back on defense. Adding stability for the team will be the offensive line, with a unit featuring plenty of size and strength in senior Jaxson Deaton, sophomore Jack Anderson, senior Greg James, senDAYTON BUSH ior Dolan Motter and RUNNING BACK/ senior Jordan Noriega. DEFENSIVE BACK The unit will be key, The Raccoons make no secret of their game plan with Frisco keeping the on the offensive end. ball on the ground for Frisco likes to attack opthe majority of plays. ponents on the ground The Raccoons will atwith a Wing-T scheme that tempt to knock off threefeatures multiple runners. time defending champion One of those ball carriers will be Bush, who will join Centennial atop the disteammates Lucas trict standings. The two Reynolds and Mykael Mcteams met in an Oct. 25 Corry for the bulk of carmatchup last season with ries. Bush should become the Titans earning a 35a familiar face to Frisco 28 victory en route to the fans, getting plenty of touches on offense while 9-4A crown. also playing a key role in “This district will be the team’s secondary. very competitive,” Gibson said. “Each week, we’ll have to come ready to play.” Frisco opens the regular season with an Aug. 29 home game against North Forney from Memorial Stadium.

NFL APPROVED YOUTH (5-15) FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUES McKinney Allen Frisco The Colony

2014 Fall Season: September 13 thru November 7

STAR LOCAL MEDIA

READERS’

choice

Richardson Bike Mart has three locations in the Dallas area to serve your cycling needs. Stop by when you are in the area to talk bikes, riding and racing with any of our knowledgeable staff.

THREE LOCATIONS! Franchises Available

844-NFL-FLAG | www.ptathletics.com

8820 John Hickman Pkwy. Frisco, TX 75034 972.335.7600

1451 W. Campbell Rd. Richardson, TX 75080 972.231.3993

9040 Garland Rd. Dallas, TX 75218 214.321.0705

www.bikemart.com

CENTENNIAL FRISCO

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

No District 9-5A team has a bigger target on its back than Centennial. The Titans have won three consecutive district titles, including an unbeaten run against 9-4A opponents in 2011. With eight other teams looking to knock off the Titans this season, the team will have little room for error. “There are several teams that are talented enough to win every time they go out,” said Vance Gibson, Frisco head coach. Frisco and The Colony believe they are two of those teams, and matchups against both could present must-win situations for Centennial. The Titans will have a new face under center for the second straight season. Former quarterback Kelly Cordova, who ran for 695 yards and 11 touchdowns while completing 203-of-349 passes for 2,641 yards and 23 scores, will be replaced by either sophomore Court Walker or junior Jeremichael Deason. Centennial head coach Mark Howard said the Titans won’t be forced into choosing one over the other. “It could honestly be a situation where we play both guys,” he said.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 30 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 25 *Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 7

Highland Park Lake Dallas BYE Frisco Heritage Frisco Frisco Independence Frisco Lone Star Frisco Wakeland Frisco Liberty Little Elm The Colony

Ford Stadium (SMU) Memorial Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Toyota Stadium 7 p.m. Toyota Stadium 7 p.m. Memorial Stadium 7 p.m. Toyota Stadium 7 p.m. Toyota Stadium 7 p.m. Toyota Stadium 7 p.m. Memorial Stadium 7 p.m. Tommy Briggs Stadium 7 p.m. *Homecoming

Walker was the fresh>> PLAYER man team quarterback last season and will make the TO WATCH jump to varsity, while Deason changes positions after playing safety during his sophomore campaign. “They both have things to work on,” Howard said. Walker and Deason will have the luxury of the district’s leading returning receiver in senior Devin McCord. The speedster caught a team-leading 71 passes for 951 yards and DEVIN MCCORD seven touchdowns last WIDE RECEIVER season, joining seniors Although the Titans will have a new face under Riley Brasuell and Jackson center after the graduaGrimes as reliable targets tion of Kelly Cordova, one for Walker and Deason. constant for the team’s ofThe Titans will also fense should be wide reease the transition under ceiver Devin McCord. center by establishing a The senior fell just short of the 1,000-yard mark more consistent ground last season, racking up 71 attack. receptions for 951 yards “We feel like we have and seven touchdowns. As the size and the strength the district’s leading reto establish a better runturning receiver, look for ning game,” Howard said. McCord to be Centennial’s go-to option on passing The shift could also downs this season, while ease the burden on a dealso easing the transition fense replacing eight to a new quarterback. starters for the second consecutive season. “We’ve made some strides [on defense] in the [offseason],” Howard said. “We’re going to be really young on defense though.” The Titans open the season with an Aug. 22 scrimmage against Mesquite Poteet.

Jackson Grimes, Centennial wide receiver

COYOTES FRISCO HERITAGE

Page 34 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

With the bulk of District 9-5A teams making a change under center, the Coyotes can rest easy with senior Malik Walker returning. Walker ran for 390 yards and eight touchdowns during his junior campaign while completing 168-of-301 passes for 1,968 yards and 23 touchdowns. “We feel like we have a lot back on offense,” said Che Hendrix, Heritage head coach. Walker will also have three of his favorite targets back from last season. Seniors Keaton White (765 yards and 11 touchdowns) and Chris Baez (342 yards and three touchdowns) will join junior Bubba Ogbebor (180 yards and three touchdowns) in the passing attack. That firepower allowed the Coyotes to have a successful offseason that included their first-ever trip to the state 7-on-7 tournament. “It’s always fun to go out and win,” Hendrix said. “It breeds confidence in our players.” Heritage failed to qualify for the playoffs last season, but made steady improvements with a four-win season. If the team is to take that next step, it will need to fend off teams such as Wake-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 11 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 *Oct. 3 Oct. 9 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 30 Nov. 7 Keaton White, Heritage wide receiver

Richardson Eagle-Mustang Stadium Carrollton Creekview Standridge Stadium The Colony Memorial Stadium Frisco Centennial Toyota Stadium BYE Frisco Toyota Stadium Frisco Independence Toyota Stadium Frisco Lone Star Memorial Stadium Frisco Wakeland Toyota Stadium Frisco Liberty Toyota Stadium Little Elm Lobo Stadium

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. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

land, Lone Star and Lit>> PLAYER tle Elm for the fourth and final playoff spot. TO WATCH Junior Kene Nwangwu will likely get the bulk of carries after the graduation of leading rusher Sean Jones (772 yards and five touchdowns). Nwangwu racked up 393 yards and two scores on 77 carries during his sophomore season. With nine returning starters on offense, K.C. BROWN scoring will be the least CORNERBACK of Heritage’s concern. The Coyotes know what they have on the offenThe team brings back sive side of the ball. Imjust two defensive proving on defense is starters from last seawhat could take the team son and will look to disto the next level and play balance on both leading that cause will sides of the ball to comlikely be Brown. Brown is normally tasked pete with the likes of with covering the oppoCentennial, Frisco and nent’s best receiver and The Colony. handles the job well. The “We’ve got to consenior will likely play a tinue to work hard and key role if the Coyotes are get better,” Hendrix to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in prosaid, “because we’re a gram history. long ways from where we want to be.” The Coyotes open the season with an Aug. 29 game against Richardson at Eagle-Mustang Stadium.

*Homecoming

FOLLOW THE

LEADER

SEE LIVE SCORE UPDATES AT GRIDIRONONLINE.COM

GridironOnline.com

KNIGHTS FRISCO INDEPENDENCE

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

The Knights will come into the season as the most inexperienced team in District 9-5A. That will also put little pressure on the firstyear school competing in a difficult nine-team group. “We have a lot of youth on this team,” said Kyle Story, Independence head coach. “The guys have been working hard, though.” With no seniors on the roster, the team will look for leadership anywhere it can find it. “These younger guys will have to step up,” Story said. “They have to take some leadership >> PLAYER roles earlier than you normally have on a varTO WATCH sity team.” The team has a three-player race at quarterback and likely won’t determine a starter until just before the Aug. 29 regular-season opener at Princeton. “We won’t know until we get in pads who will be our main guy,” Story said. Whoever wins the MYLES RUSSELL starting gig will likely WIDE RECEIVER/ find junior Myles RusSAFETY sell as a primary target The Knights will look for in the slot. Russell will leaders to emerge also double as team’s throughout the season on starting strong safety. a team with no seniors “[Russell] has been and little varsity experia playmaker for us so ence. One of those leaders far,” Story said. could be Russell, who will Although Story has likely be a two-way starter a history of running upat strong safety and inside tempo offenses with no receiver. Russell will get huddles, the Independhis first taste of varsity ence coach said he will action after playing for the likely slow the pace durHeritage junior varsity team last season. The juning his team’s inaugural ior will also look to ease season. the transition for the “We’d normally be team’s first starting quaran up-tempo offense,” terback. he said, “but we’ll prob-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Princeton Castleberry Frisco Liberty Little Elm The Colony Frisco Centennial Frisco Heritage Frisco BYE Frisco Lone Star Frisco Wakeland

Jackie Hendrix Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium Lobo Stadium Memorial Stadium Memorial Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Memorial Stadium Memorial Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m.

“We are ably use a hudyoung right now,” dle this year to “THESE YOUNGER GUYS WILL HAVE TO Story said. “We’ll help our deSTEP UP. THEY HAVE TO TAKE SOME have to improve fense.” the season William McLEADERSHIP ROLES EARLIER THAN YOU as goes along.” Collum will also The Knights feature promiNORMALLY HAVE ON A VARSITY TEAM.” will benefit from nently in the of– KYLE STORY, INDEPENDENCE HEAD COACH a local schedule fensive scheme that features six with athleticism other Frisco ISD schools, The Colony and Little that can be used in a variety of ways. Elm. On defense, the Knights will look to defensive “We’re trying to learn more about each team back Kolbre Smith and defensive end Andrick as we go along,” Story said. Williams as two leaders. Junior defensive tackle Independence opens the season Aug. 29 at Gabe Maele will also provide some varsity experiPrinceton and will ease into district action with a ence on the team after playing for Liberty last Sept. 12 matchup against Liberty. season.

REDHAWKS FRISCO LIBERTY

Page 36 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Liberty will have a different look this season than it did a year ago. TO WATCH Headlining the list of changes is former Seminole head coach Chris Burtch filling in for Galen Zimmerman, who accepted an offensive coordinator gig at Dripping Springs. “I just want to see the kids buying into each other and buying into what we’re doing offensively and defensively,” Burtch said. JARED CARMONA The Redhawks will LINEBACKER also have a new face Liberty’s 2-5 mark against District 9-4A opponents under center after the last season made for few graduation of Connor Robright spots. bison. Taking over at One of those bright spots quarterback will be senwas Carmona, who finior Udgam Goyal, who reished with a district-leadceived little playing time ing 144 tackles, with 14 of those for a loss. The senior last season. also tallied four sacks, “We went into [the one interception, three offseason] thinking he forced fumbles and two was our guy,” Burtch passes defended. said, “and he hasn’t done If the Redhawks improve anything to change that.” on their 2-8 mark during head coach Chris Burtch’s Goyal will likely first season, Carmona figspread the ball around on ures to be at the forefront passing plays, with the of that cause. Redhawks going with a committee of receivers. “We don’t have that one go-to guy yet,” Burtch said, “but we have several guys that have the potential to be good this season.” Aiding the team’s cause will be the returning experience on defense. Key players such as seniors

>> PLAYER

Garrett Locke, Liberty linebacker

Jared Carmona (all-state linebacker), Romello McCollum and junior Gage Reiter return to give Liberty a strong defensive unit. “Our kids enjoy playing defense,” Burtch said. “They like to get after it.” McCollum will make the switch from safety to cornerback and has already made an impression on his new coach. “[McCollum] could be a diamond in the rough for us,” Burtch said. Junior running back Chris McPhaul will get the bulk of carries after leading the Redhawks on the ground last season. During his sophomore campaign, McPhaul tallied 593 yards and eight touchdowns on 107 carries. With McPhaul back with the team’s nine returning starters on defense, Goyal’s progression will be key for a team looking to make significant improvements after a last-place finish in 2013. “I just want to see the kids buying into each other and buying into what we’re doing offensively and defensively,” Burtch said. The Redhawks open the season with an Aug. 29 game at Denison.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 *Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 7

Denison McKinney Frisco Independence Frisco Lone Star Frisco Wakeland BYE Little Elm The Colony Frisco Centennial Frisco Heritage Frisco

Munson Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium Memorial Stadium Toyota Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Memorial Stadium Tommy Briggs Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. *Homecoming

RANGERS FRISCO LONE STAR

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

The Rangers get to say goodbye to Argyle and Celina after leaving District 10-3A for the nine-team District 9-5A. However, Lone Star must now contend with Frisco ISD teams, The Colony and Little Elm instead. “The big difference is depth and numbers,” said Jeff Rayburn, Lone Star head coach. “As long as we can stay healthy, we can be really competitive.” Easing the team’s transition to Class 5A will be stability under center. Sophomore quarterback Jason Shelley returns after a freshman campaign that saw the speedster tally 821 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground while completing 99-of-161 passes for 1,346 yards and 12 scores. “Any time you’ve got a kid like Jason Shelley, you’ve got a chance to win,” Ray>> PLAYER burn said. TO WATCH Shelley’s primary target on offense will likely be senior receiver Jordan Jones, who led the team with 51 receptions for 693 yards and eight touchdowns last season. “[Jones] should be a big-time playmaker for us,” Rayburn said. Lone Star returns just four starters on each side of the ball and will need to find a replacement for the productive Ramon Harris in the backfield. In his senior season, Harris ran for 1,621 yards and 21 touchdowns on 210 carries while racking up another 208 yards and three scores on 14 receptions. JASON SHELLEY Filling that void will be the duo of junior QUARTERBACK Robert Hall and senior Carlos Bolton. With Lone Star making the Bolton, a move-in from Edgewood, was jump from District 10-3A named offensive MVP in his district last to 9-5A this season, the season. Hall got just 26 carries in 2013 and Rangers will have the benefit of a reliable playracked up 88 yards and one touchdown in maker under center. the process. Shelley took command of “[Running back] is pretty up in the air the starting quarterback right now,” Rayburn said. job last season and made The Rangers should be set in the kickthe most of his opportuing game with senior kicker and punter nity, tallying 821 yards and seven touchdowns on the Cameron Scott returning. ground while completing “[Scott] is one of the best kickers in the 99-of-161 passes for anstate,” Rayburn said. other 1,346 yards and 12 Although the defense returns just four scores. Shelley will be key starters, Rayburn said he likes the unit’s for Lone Star’s attempt at potential. a smooth transition to “We’re going to be extremely athletic Class 5A. defensively,” he said. “We have a >> VARSITY SCHEDULE lot of kids that can run and hit.” Aug. 28 Sherman Toyota Stadium 7 p.m. Lone Star Sept. 5 North Forney City Bank Stadium 7:30 p.m. opens its season Sept. 11 Frisco Wakeland Toyota Stadium 7 p.m. with an Aug. 28 Sept. 19 Frisco Liberty Memorial Stadium 7 p.m. contest against Sherman. *Sept. 25 Little Elm Memorial Stadium 7 p.m. Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

The Colony Frisco Centennial Frisco Heritage Frisco Frisco Independence BYE

Tommy Briggs Stadium Toyota Stadium Memorial Stadium Memorial Stadium Memorial Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. *Homecoming

Jordan Jones, Lone Star running back

“THE BIG DIFFERENCE IS DEPTH AND NUMBERS. AS LONG AS WE CAN STAY HEALTHY, WE CAN BE REALLY COMPETITIVE.” – JEFF RAYBURN, LONE STAR HEAD COACH

WOLVERINES FRISCO WAKELAND

Page 38 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Experience shouldn’t be an issue for Wakeland this season. The Wolverines return eight starters on each side of the ball after qualifying for the playoffs as the district’s fourth seed last season. “Our senior class is a big strength,” said Marty Secord, Wakeland head coach. “They’re the key component that will make our team go.” Headlining the group of returners is senior running back Brent Altieri on offense and junior linebacker Tanner Euting on defense. Altieri racked up 873 yards and 10 touchdowns on 155 carries last season while Euting tallied 92 tackles and one interception. “A lot of blood, sweat and tears were put into the offseason,” Secord said. The Wolverines will have a new face under center after the graduation of Jackson Lamb. Filling Lamb’s vacated spot will be junior Noah Anderson, who re>> PLAYER ceived TO WATCH sporadic playing time last season when Lamb was injured.

>> BRENT ALTIERI RUNNING BACK With the departure of quarterback Jackson Lamb and speedster Alex Marr in the backfield, Altieri could see an expanded role in Wakeland’s ground attack this season. Altieri led the Wolverines with 873 yards and 10 rushing touchdowns on 155 carries last season. With a new face under center in Noah Anderson or Garrett Schulze, the reliable Altieri should give stability to an offense looking to build off last year’s postseason return.

“[Anderson] got a lot of valuable experience last year,” Secord said. “We like what he can do.” Anderson, a dual-threat weapon, will have the benefit of several reliable targets in the passing game. Senior receiver Justice Williams will return after catching a team-high 33 passes for 595 yards and two touchdowns. Euting and senior Jimmy Wilkins also figure to play key roles in the air attack. “There’s a good supporting cast where we can distribute the ball around,” Secord said. The ultimate key for Wakeland’s postseason return could be health. Last season, injuries plagued the Wolverines more than any other team in the district. “We just never could keep everyone healthy and on the field,” Secord said. “Hopefully that changes this year.” There will be plenty of competition for the four playoff berths, with Centennial, Frisco and The Colony headlining a group of tough District 9-5A foes. “There’s a lot of parity in our district,” Secord said. “There’s a lot of competition amongst all the schools.” The Wolverines open the season with an Aug. 29 home game against Lake Dallas.

“OUR SENIOR CLASS IS A BIG STRENGTH. THEY’RE THE KEY COMPONENT THAT WILL MAKE OUR TEAM GO.” – MARTY SECORD, WAKELAND HEAD COACH

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 *Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Lake Dallas Lovejoy Frisco Lone Star BYE Frisco Liberty Little Elm The Colony Frisco Centennial Frisco Heritage Frisco Frisco Independence

Toyota Stadium Leopard Stadium Toyota Stadium

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

Toyota Stadium Lobo Stadium Memorial Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium Toyota Stadium Memorial Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. *Homecoming

Justice Williams, Wakeland wide receiver

LOBOS LITTLE ELM

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

Perhaps no team in District 95A will shift its identity more than Little Elm this season. The Lobos are in the midst of major changes, starting with the departure of former head coach Donald Stowers and the hiring of former DeSoto defensive coordinator Kendrick Brown as Stowers’ replacement. “Our focus will not be how we start, but how we finish,” Brown said. Under Brown, the Lobos will implement a more balanced attack after keeping the ball on the ground for a majority of plays in recent years. Leading that change will be senior quarterback Josh Savage, who received sporadic playing time as Christian Bourdo’s backup last season. Savage tallied 68 yards and two touchdowns on the ground while completing 4-of-15 passes for 42 yards. With a run-dominant offense under Stowers, Savage had little time to work on his passing game, but has shown signs of life during the offseason. “I thought [Savage] got better every practice,” Brown said. With the Lobos transitioning to a hurry-up offense with more balance, Brown said his senior quarterback could be due for a breakout season.

“We saw glimpses when he did good things last year,” Brown said. “We just have to try and get him into open space.” Savage will have several reliable targets in the passing game, with seniors Victor Gonzalez and David Bynum joining junior Edgar Khan with key roles in the air attack. The Lobos will still feature a physical ground game after leaning on former running backs Keaun Kinner and Kaleb Chapman the last two seasons. Leading the position battle is senior speedster Huey Mitchell. “[Mitchell] has vision and speed to make it happen,” Brown said. If Mitchell wins the job, the senior should be able to rely on a solid offensive line. Brown said the Lobos will need to win games in the trenches to be successful. “The strength of this team will be up front,” he said. “We really need that group to be >> PLAYER dominant.” TO WATCH The Lobos open the season with an Aug. 29 home game against Terrell.

“OUR FOCUS WILL NOT BE HOW WE START, BUT HOW WE FINISH.” – KENDRICK BROWN, LITTLE ELM HEAD COACH

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 25 *Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 30 Nov. 7

Terrell McKinney North Frisco Frisco Independence Frisco Lone Star Frisco Wakeland Frisco Liberty BYE The Colony Frisco Centennial Frisco Heritage

Lobo Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Memorial Stadium Lobo Stadium Memorial Stadium Lobo Stadium Memorial Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Tommy Briggs Stadium 7 p.m. Memorial Stadium 7 p.m. Lobo Stadium 7 p.m. *Homecoming

JOSH SAVAGE QUARTERBACK The Lobos relied little on quarterback play during head coach Donald Stowers’ tenure. With Little Elm transitioning to a more balanced and up-tempo attack under former DeSoto defensive coordinator Kendrick Brown, Savage could be due for a breakout season. Savage saw limited time under center last season as a backup, but displayed playmaking ability as a dual-threat weapon. Savage’s progression will be key for a team looking to return to the playoffs after a one-year absence. Gregory Peoples, Little Elm cornerback

COUGARS THE COLONY

Page 40 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

In 2013, The Colony was in the hunt for a district title entering the final two weeks of the regular season and punched its first playoff ticket since 2002 before coming up short in the bi-district round against Highland Park. With seven starters back on both sides of the ball, the Cougars believe they are in line to take the next step in 2014. Offensively, the Cougars must replace Bryan Hammond in the backfield, but running back Khalil Banks received valuable playing time down the stretch and in the postseason last year and head coach Rudy Rangel believes the junior could be in line for a breakout season with The Colony’s runheavy attack. Banks and company will have the benefit of running behind an offensive line that returns three starters, including senior David Shin. Senior Myles Benning, meanwhile, will shift from the line to fullback — his more natural position — which should also benefit Banks and the running game. Also back is senior quarterback Andrew Lotz (51 percent completions, 842 yards, eight touchdowns and two interceptions) and senior receiver Tate Ala-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 11 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 *Oct. 3 Oct. 9 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Khalil Banks, The Colony running back

Saginaw Corsicana Frisco Heritage Frisco Frisco Independence Frisco Lone Star Frisco Wakeland Frisco Liberty Little Elm BYE Frisco Centennial

Tommy Briggs Stadium Tiger Stadium Memorial Stadium Tommy Briggs Stadium Memorial Stadium Tommy Briggs Stadium Memorial Stadium Tommy Briggs Stadium Lobo Stadium

7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Tommy Briggs Stadium 7 p.m. *Homecoming

nis (team highs of 23 >> PLAYER catches and 331 yards). The strength of the TO WATCH Cougars resides on the defensive side, however, where the team returns an abundance of talent from a squad that ranked second in the Class 4A in the area in yardage (214.5 per game) and third in scoring (15.9 points per game) last season. Key cogs back for The Colony include the Defensive Sophomore of the Year in linebacker ALEC GIBBONS Alec Gibbons, all-district LINEBACKER first-teamers senior Last year’s 9-4A Defensive Sophomore of the Year, GibJustin Jinning (inside bons joins all-district perlinebacker and Iowa comformers Justin Jinning, mit), senior Julian AbdalTyrone Brooks and Austin lah (defensive tackle) and Myers in what figures to be senior Dominic Spotwood one of the more productive (safety) and second-teamlinebacker units in the Metroplex. ers senior Jordan HiWith a blend of speed and gashida (defensive end), strength, the junior could be senior Tyrone Brooks (inready to take the next step side linebacker), junior in 2014. Austin Meyers (outside Gibbons’ contributions linebacker) and senior Ty aren’t limited to the defensive end, however, as he also Linthicum (safety). contributed in the backfield In addition to their last season, carrying the eight all-district returnball 81 times for 339 yards ers, the Cougars will inand six touchdowns. fuse talent from a junior varsity squad that went unbeaten in 2013. Rangel is excited in particular about the addition of sophomore linebacker Josh Jinning, Justin’s younger brother, who brings a similar style of play and pedigree.

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 10-5A >>

DENISON YELLOW JACKETS

>> LOVEJOY LEOPARDS >> McKINNEY LIONS >> McKINNEY NORTH BULLDOGS >> >> SHERMAN BEARCATS >> WYLIE PIRATES >> WYLIE EAST RAIDERS

The makeup of District 10-5A resembles the bulk of the former 13-4A. And if it plays out anything like the latter, then the race to the district’s top spot is going to be close. One win separated first place from fifth in that district and returning talent from each team should provide plenty of nail biting down the stretch as Wylie, Wylie East, McKinney North, Lovejoy and Sherman duke it out again.

Alongside Wylie, North appears to be the team most poised to rise to the top with an offense featuring senior running back and Oklahoma State commit Ronald Jones, but questions on the offensive line and quarterback could hold the Bulldogs back. The same questions under center don’t hold true for Lovejoy, which could also find itself in contention under new head coach and former defensive coordinator Ryan Cox. The Leopards will

PROSPER EAGLES

have junior quarterback Bowman Sells taking snaps after a sophomore season in which he threw for 1,024 yards, 13 touchdown and four interceptions. The wildcards in the district are McKinney and Prosper. The Lions are exiting the old 10-5A after an 0-5 district finish. Prosper didn’t fare much better in 9-4A (1-6) last season, but did surprise the Bulldogs earlier with a 59-48 win.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> LOVEJOY AT DENISON

>> NORTH AT PROSPER

>> McKINNEY AT NORTH

>> LOVEJOY AT EAST

(SEPT. 26) The two teams’ last meeting catered to those whose tastes veered toward the offensive side of the football. Denison had three players with over 100 rushing yards and combined with Lovejoy for over 1,000 total offensive yards and almost 100 points as the Leopards defeated the Yellow Jackets, 56-42. The two starting quarterbacks from that game – Lovejoy junior Bowman Sells and Denison senior Devon Blanton – return for their respective teams and will look to replicate their performances from last year’s contest.

(OCT.3) The football gods smiled on North by giving it another chance against Prosper after the Eagles ran the Bulldogs out of their stadium with a 5948 win. And if getting a chance to avenge last season’s defeat wasn’t enough, this time there’s district implications. The game will be even more important this campaign, because the road only gets tougher for the Bulldogs, with district games against Lovejoy, McKinney and Denison in the following weeks.

(OCT.17) The crosstown rivalry was placed on the backburner after McKinney and North were separated following the breakup of 10-4A after the 2011-12 season due to realignment. During those two years apart, North has been claiming pieces of the 134A crown while McKinney has been treading water with the depth of competition in 105A. Now back together, the two teams will look to reignite a rivalry that last ended with the Lions letting a 24-6 first-quarter lead slip, eventually losing 34-24 to North.

(OCT. 31) Both squads entered last season’s final 13-4A matchup tied with a 4-2 district record and East looked as if it would capitalize early, holding a 22-10 first-quarter lead. But Lovejoy stormed back, grabbing a 33-30 lead in the third quarter that the Leopards clung to in the 47-44 win. The loss dropped East to fifth place in the district and kept the Raiders out of the postseason.

>> McKINNEY AT PROSPER (OCT. 31) Prosper and McKinney are the new faces lumped in with the majority of the old 13-4A and both will attempt to rebound this season after last-place finishes in their respective districts. The two teams also started 2-1 before district play capsized their seasons. McKinney and Prosper will be hoping that a new district equals a change of fortunes of the gridiron, but only one team is coming out of this game with a win.

LEOPARDS LOVEJOY

Page 42 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

The departure of former head coach Matt Green had a chance to define Lovejoy’s offseason. But the Leopards seamlessly accepted Green’s defensive coordinator, Ryan Cox, into the fold as the new head coach, and the program had one of its best summers to date in qualifying for the Division I 7-on-7 State Tournament for the first time. Lovejoy won’t take solace in the summer, though, especially since it left District 13-4A as a two-time champion. Last season, the Leopards finished in a four-way tie for first with McKinney North, Denison and Wylie. All four of those programs return to 10-5A this year, along with new faces Prosper and McKinney. The biggest storyline early in the season will be on offense, where junior Bowman Sells completed the entire offseason without problems. Injuries limited the top-flight recruit as a sophomore, and limited the Leopards’ ceiling as well. Elsewhere, a talented group of backs and re-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 28 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 *Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Hunter Pfaff, Lovejoy running back

Mansfield Legacy Frisco Wakeland Lake Dallas BYE Denison Sherman McKinney North Wylie East Prosper Wylie McKinney

Vernon Newsome Stadium Leopard Stadium Leopard Stadium

7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Munson Stadium Leopard Stadium Roe Poe Stadium Leopard Stadium Eagle Stadium Wylie ISD Stadium Leopard Stadium

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. *Homecoming

ceivers, such as junior >> PLAYER wideout Aaron Fuller and senior running back TO WATCH Hunter Pfaff, will be counted on early in the season as Lovejoy keeps its entire uptempo, spread playbook from the Green era. Another strength will be on the offensive line, where four starters return. Defensively, the Leopards won’t have a hard time finding motivation to improve. The AARON FULLER lasting image from their WIDE RECEIVER previous campaign is Fuller was a secondary option last year thanks to the 64 points Ennis put all-state alum Chochy up in the area round of Luce, but the junior is the playoffs. ready to take on a bigger Junior Kevin Davis role in the passing game has turned heads at this season. linebacker in the sumThanks to an impressive 7-on-7 slate and various mer, taking on a bigger performances at camps, role as the leader of the Fuller has also asserted defense. Senior Mac himself as a prospect colMetzler, making the leges will keep their eye switch from defensive on this season. line to backer, and junDon’t be surprised if he becomes Sells’ go-to tarior Dakota Michaels, get and puts up numbers who took over for Sells similar to what Luce did in at quarterback last year his final season. but will primarily play safety this season, are two others to watch. In a district where a handful of the best offenses in 5A reside, Lovejoy will be up against it to retain the first-place trophy.

LIONS McKINNEY

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

It’s not exactly the tale of Moses, but McKinney was forced to wander the talented terrain of the former District 10-5A for two years. But instead of succumbing to the competition, McKinney has reached a district of promise within the confines of the new 10-5A. During that two-year stretch with the likes of back-to-back Class 5A State Champions Allen, Plano West and McKinney Boyd, McKinney went 1-9 in district play. The Lions fared better outside the district, though, as they started the 2012-13 campaign off 4-0 and went 3-1 last season before a winless finish. Now, McKinney will have the opportunity to prove that it can compete on a more level playing field and will do so with key starters returning on both sides of the ball. Senior quarterback Brian Sutter will enter his second season as the Lions’ signal caller after throwing for 1,290 yards, 10 touchdowns and six interceptions in his junior campaign. Sutter won’t be asked to do it all at the position, though, as head coach Jeff Smith plans for

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 11 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 *Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Richardson Pearce Frisco Liberty Carrollton Newman Smith BYE Wylie Denison Sherman McKinney North Wylie East Prosper Lovejoy

Ron Poe Stadium Toyota Stadium Ron Poe Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m.

Wylie ISD Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Bearcat Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Wylie ISD Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Leopard Stadium

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. *Homecoming

him to split time with >> PLAYER junior Tyree Johnson. Johnson was one of the TO WATCH few bright spots for the Lions as Smith lined him up at quarterback, running back and wide receiver. Johnson finished the season third on the team in rushing yards (403) and the team leader in rushing touchdowns (10). The defense will have a hard time replacing Utah State University signee Jontrell ISSAC NUNEZ Rocquemore and Jake LINEBACKER Brown at safety along The stats from Nunez’s sophomore campaign are with linebacker Reed impressive, but his play Thompson after the trio will have to be othergraduated. But the worldly this season if the Lions possess enough Lions are to rebound after returning starters to try last year’s disappointing and stop opponents finish (0-5) in district play. During that stretch, McKfrom running wild after inney allowed an average giving up 1,668 rushing of 333.6 yards on the yards in the second half ground. With the exit of of last season. That task alum and linebacker Reed will start up front, Thompson, there will be where senior defensive even more importance on Nunez to build on a seaend Ty Stone will pair son in which he totaled 57 with seniors Colton tackles, one sack and four Jack, Brian Cooper and fumble recoveries. junior Issac Nunez at linebacker. If McKinney can perform against its new district opponents like it has with those outside of its old district, the Lions might finally turn things around.

Brian Sutter, McKinney quarterback

NFL APPROVED YOUTH (5-15) FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUES McKinney Allen Frisco The Colony

2014 Fall Season: September 13 thru November 7

Franchises Available

844-NFL-FLAG | www.ptathletics.com

BULLDOGS McKINNEY NORTH

Page 44 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

North enters this season the polar opposite of how it did a year ago. At the beginning of 2013-14, North was a team searching for a spot in the postseason after a fifth-place finish in District 13-4A the season prior as it attempted to replace a large part of its defense lost to graduation. This campaign, the Bulldogs are fresh off of a trip to the area playoffs and winning a piece of the district championship, but North will need to replace a majority of its offense in order to contend for its new district’s championship. The biggest holes to fill will be those on the offensive line after the quintet that created holes last season returns just one in junior Andrew Grisham. The person taking snaps behind center will also change with Ben Dutze gone, as well as Dutze’s primary target last season, Tre Sanders (743 receiving yards and three touchdowns). The same force will be coming out of the backfield, though, with senior running back Ronald Jones. Jones should provide a smooth transition for whoever ends up handing off the

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 25 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 *Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Carrollton Newman Smith Little Elm Richardson Pearce BYE Wylie East Prosper Lovejoy McKinney Denison Sherman Wylie

Jomarr Davis, North defensive lineman

Standridge Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Eagle-Mustang Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Ron Poe Stadium Eagle Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Bearcat Stadium Ron Poe Stadium

7 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.

ball and blocking for the >> PLAYER Oklahoma State commit. North’s advantage TO WATCH also comes in its defensive backfield with seniors Bryce Balous (110 tackles) and Anthony Grogan. But that isn’t to take away from the front seven. Junior defensive tackle Justin Madubuike will be looked at to anchor the defensive line after a season in which he RONALD JONES posted 69 tackles and RUNNING BACK five sacks. He will be The spotlight is going to be shining bright on Jones after paired with junior Gabe beginning last season under Dutze, as senior Nick the radar. Leshowitz begins the But after a stellar junior seatransition from defenson in which he ran for 2,406 sive end to outside lineyards and 39 touchdowns, backer. the hoopla surrounding the Oklahoma State University North head coach commit should only continue Mike Fecci proved he to grow. could overcome Jones will have to overcome turnover last year with losing four out of five startan almost brand new ing offensive linemen – insquad of defensive cluding University of Central Arkansas commit Austin starters. The added adHorton – and alum and vantage of Jones and a quarterback Ben Dutze in more familiarized deorder to live up to the stanfense facing a slate of dards he set last season. familiar district opponents should balance out the significant losses on offense and have the Bulldogs in contention for a second consecutive district championship.

*Homecoming

THOMASON TIRES, INC. Celebrating Over 60 Years! 4th Generation McKinney Family Owner and Operated since 1954

Our Team - Our Town

McKinney 2800 W Virginia Pkwy

(972) 562-9530 TexasStarBank.com

Cooper • Bridgestone • Firestone • Tires Wheels • Batteries • Struts • Alignment • Balancing 972-542-3471 or metro 972-562-6525 County Wide Road Service Mon - Fri 7am - 5:30pm • Sat 7am-1pm

211 N. McDonald, MckInney, TX 75069

Member FDIC

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

FREE LETTER

JACKET! With the purchase of Gold Package ($150)

m Custo lle Cheni s & e Patch idery o Embr

BEST PRICE GUARANTEE! Call to Schedule Your Group Sizing Quick & ery v i l e D s n i k l Wa me Welco

469-374-9000 610 Coit Rd. Plano, TX

(Located Behind RaceTrac)

EAGLES PROSPER

Page 46 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

A transition to District 10-5A could aid Prosper’s return to playoff form this season. The Eagles tallied a 3-7 mark last year, including a 1-6 record against the Frisco ISD schools, The Colony and Little Elm. “Last year was certainly a disappointing one for us and for our senior class,” said Kent Scott, Prosper head coach. “If you go back and look at the games, we were in almost every game.” Prosper won’t have to deal with the likes of Centennial, Frisco and The Colony this year, but the team will now face the McKinney ISD schools, Wylie, Lovejoy, Wylie East, Denison and Sherman. “It’ll be extremely competitive,” Scott said. “It’s a district we’re excited about.” With quarterback Steele Walker electing to forego his senior year in favor of baseball, the Eagles have an open job under center. “That’s the million-dollar question,” Scott said. “It’s wide open right now.” Senior Colton Hepp, the team’s junior varsity quarterback last year, is the early favorite to win the job and will likely make senior receiver Zack English his favorite target.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 6 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 *Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Birdville Justin Northwest Highland Park BYE Sherman McKinney North Wylie East Wylie Lovejoy McKinney Denison

Eagle Stadium AT&T Stadium Highlander Stadium

7:30 p.m. 8 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Bearcat Stadium Eagle Stadium Wylie ISD Stadium Wylie ISD Stadium Eagle Stadium Ron Poe Stadium Eagle Stadium

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. *Homecoming

Best Dance Studio

133 DYLAN DRIVE SUITE D PROSPER TX 75085

DANCER-STRONG.COM | 214-491-6141

“[English] is a two>> PLAYER year starter for us with great hands,” Scott said. TO WATCH English tallied 43 receptions for 488 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Whoever wins the starting gig at quarterback will be handing the ball off to a committee of running backs. Senior Travis Tidmore, junior Robert Mahone and junior Jay Bias all figure to receive plenty of carries. “[The running back ZACK ENGLISH position] could very well WIDE RECEIVER be by committee this The Eagles will have a new quarterback this year season,” Scott said. after Steele Walker The Eagles should elected to forego his senhave added confidence ior season in favor of about their move to 10baseball. 5A after handing top Aiding the team’s new face contender North a 59-48 under center will be the reliable hands of senior loss during each team’s receiver Zack English, who second regular season caught 43 passes for 488 game last year. yards and eight touch“That will certainly downs last season. The give McKinney North two-year starter in the some bulletin board maslot may also find himself as a key contributor on terial,” Scott said. defense this season, with Fans will become the Eagles looking to fill quite familiar with sevholes left by six graduated eral returners doing doudefensive starters. ble duty on offense and defense. “We lost some good players, but we’re excited about the group we have coming back,” Scott said. The Eagles open the season with an Aug. 29 contest against Birdville.

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 11-5A >>

BRYAN ADAMS COUGARS >> CARROLLTON CREEKVIEW MUSTANGS >> CARROLLTON NEWMAN SMITH TROJANS >> CONRAD CHARGERS >> HILLCREST PANTHERS >> NORTH DALLAS BULLDOGS >> THOMAS JEFFERSON PATRIOTS >> WOODROW WILSON WILDCATS

When the UIL announced the new districts at its biennial realignment meeting last February, coaches and administrators in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD were understandably excited to no longer be competing against the likes of the Mesquite schools and Highland Park. Instead, programs like Creekview and Newman Smith have been lumped in with Dallas programs of similar enrollment. The Trojans and Mustangs are hoping that

pays dividends as early as this season with both programs eyeing postseason runs. For Creekview, that would make consecutive appearances, while Smith is hoping for its first berth since 2010 when it advanced to the third round. The top competition for the C-FB ISD programs figures to be Woodrow Wilson. Last season, the squad went unbeaten in district (with its closest contest a 34-19 win over Lin-

coln) and cruised past Seagoville in the bi-district round before bowing out the next week against Mesquite Poteet. Bryan Adams is also coming off a playoff appearance, while Hillcrest notched only four wins but brings back nine starters on offense and seven on defense. Conrad, North Dallas and Thomas Jefferson figure to bring up the rear after posting just two wins apiece last season for a combined mark of 6-24.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> SMITH AT WILSON (OCT. 9) The Trojans are looking to use every scrap of their 2014 campaign to erase the sting of a 2-8 run in 2013. Realignment worked in Smith’s favor and with the playoffs in reach, a matchup against the Wildcats will serve as an early district litmus test for the Trojans. Wilson projects to be in the district title hunt this fall and the Trojans will learn a lot about where they stand this year based on how they fare against a seasoned Wilson squad.

>> HILLCREST AT ADAMS (OCT. 10) Although neither the Cougars nor Panthers appear ready-made to crack the Creekview-Wilson echelon of the district, that doesn’t mean there won’t be plenty riding on the outcome of this mid-October clash. These two programs could find themselves amid the proverbial playoff bubble as the season progresses and the winner here will have a leg up in grabbing 11-5A’s final playoff spot. Adams has won its past three meetings against the Panthers.

>> CREEKVIEW AT WILSON (OCT. 31) The scheduling gods did Creekview and Wilson a favor by slotting this matchup during the penultimate week of the regular season. Both will have enough experience under their belts, a plus for Creekview considering it will be breaking in a new quarterback this season. These two squads project as the two best in 11-5A and thanks to the timing of the matchup, the winner of this Halloween showdown could lock up the district championship.

>> NORTH AT JEFFERSON

>> CREEKVIEW AT SMITH

(NOV. 6) The past three years haven’t been particularly kind to North, which has just two district victories in its past 21 tries. Experience isn’t exactly on the Bulldogs’ side either, returning just one starter on each side of the ball. But after being realigned to 11-5A, this season finale presents the best opportunity for either North or Jefferson to notch a district victory. Although neither projects as a playoff contender just yet, ending the season on a high note can’t be overlooked.

(NOV. 7) The two largest schools in the district close out the season renewing another chapter in the city rivalry. The Trojans and Mustangs have been district bunkmates for a few years now, splitting the last four installments of this matchup, 2-2. The past three meetings have been decided by seven points or less as well, and although a playoff berth would ensure both programs are slotted in Division I, bragging rights always weigh heavily in this affair.

MUSTANGS CARROLLTON CREEKVIEW

Page 48 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Everything is in place for a banner season for Creekview if the Mustangs can just find a way to replace the passing combination of David Blough to Markcus Hardy. This just one year after the Mustangs returned to the postseason for the first time since 2008. Filling the shoes of Blough — now at Purdue — figures to be the tallest task and Creekview will enter fall camp with an open competition between seniors Patrick Wood, Josh Drucker and junior Eddie

Cecena. Wood primarily handled the signal-calling duties during 7-on-7 play, but head coach Jay Cline noted that won’t play a factor in the fall. Whoever gets the job will benefit from an offensive line and backfield that Cline believes could be among the best Creekview has had. Up front, things start with senior tackle Larry Hughes, who has picked up offers from North Texas and Louisiana-Monroe. Rounding out the line is junior Spencer Lewis at right tackle and seniors An-

drew Lopez and Seth >> PLAYER Miller at guard with senior Aldo Naranjo and TO WATCH junior Jordan Simpson in competition at center. Cline noted the offensive line had the most productive spring and summer of any positional unit and is in line to potentially be the best line since his arrival. “They can do a lot of things and come off the ball with explosion,” he said. “And they’re able JUSTICE OGUERI to do a lot more pulling RUNNING BACK and are able to get up The junior showed flashes in the backfield as a sophomore and is into the second level.” now expected to be Creekview’s In the backfield, junlead back following the graduaior Justice Ogueri (108 tion of Raul Bustillos. carries for 600 yards and Ogueri is coming off a 2013 campaign in which he gained six touchdowns last more than 5 yards per carry (600 year) and senior Emory yards on 108 attempts with six Nelson will pace what touchdowns). Cline believes will be a Ogueri will also have the benefit of running behind an offensive productive rushing atline that head coach Jay Cline tack. believes could be the best since Receivers include he has been leading the Musseniors Aquilian Banks, tangs. However, Ogueri won’t have to Dylan Cordray and Tony shoulder the entire workload as Sutherland with senior Emory Nelson and others will Zuri Davis expected to combine for what Cline referred pick up the slack at tight to as a “stable of running backs.” end. Expectations are high on the defensive end as well and the strength is in the trenches where the Mustangs possess a deep and versatile group, including junior Julian Cueto, senior Joe Davies, junior Major Walker and senior Phillip Hinojosa. Linebackers are sophomore Adrian Munoz, juniors Matt Hong, Axel Garcia and senior Lucas Worthington. Even more experience returns in the secondary, where seniors Desmond Funches, Riley Pfiester and junior Keimone Davis are back.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 28 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 18 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 *Oct. 10 Oct. 16 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Adrian Gonzales, Creekview defensive back

Saginaw Chisholm Trail Frisco Heritage Denton Conrad BYE Hillcrest North Dallas Bryan Adams Thomas Jefferson Woodrow Wilson Carrollton Newman Smith

Chisholm Trail Stadium Standridge Stadium C.H. Collins Stadium Standridge Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

Franklin Stadium Standridge Stadium Standridge Stadium Loos Athletic Complex Standridge Stadium Standridge Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

TROJANS NEWMAN SMITH

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

A distraction-free offseason is just one of the many reasons head coach Paul Ressa believes the Trojans could be in for a turnaround following a 2013 campaign in which the squad went just 2-8. Ressa was pleased not only with the effort he saw this spring and on through the summer, but also with the sheer number of players in camp which will benefit the Trojans’ depth. After completing 51 percent of his passes for 527 yards and six touchdowns and four interceptions in limited action last year, senior Cayde Williams will see a full workload at quarterback for the Trojans. Junior Justyn Hughes will be Williams’ top option in the passing game off a season in which he had 25 catches for 317 yards and five touchdowns. Senior Alan Veloz splits out wide opposite Hughes and Ressa noted the squad will have multiple quality options in the slot, including junior Tyler English, senior Keelan Stone and junior Muhammed Amin. Senior Marcus Sonnier will also see time in the slot, but will spend a majority of time behind Williams as Smith’s top option in the running game. Ressa believes Sonnier will be a great fit for the Tro-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 28 Sept. 5 Sept. 11 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct.2 Oct. 9 Oct. 17 *Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

McKinney North Standridge Stadium Arlington Seguin Wilemon Field McKinney Ron Poe Stadium BYE Bryan Adams Forester Field Thomas Jefferson Standridge Stadium Woodrow Wilson Franklin Field North Dallas Franklin Field Conrad Standridge Stadium Hillcrest Franklin Field Carrollton Creekview Standridge Stadium

7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

jans’ offense because of >> PLAYER his patience, vision and pass-catching abilities. TO WATCH Sonnier will be running behind a beefy offensive line that has impressed Ressa and the staff this offseason. Key cogs include seniors Gerrot Winters, Bryant Lara, Tommy Shelton, junior Josh Escamilla and senior Austin Burchett. Defensively, Smith’s success starts with firstteam all-district performer and senior nose LESTER guard Trevor Johnson. MELONTREE The additional presSAFETY ence of junior Malik Described by head coach Paul Ressa as the quarterCarter and Escamilla has back of the Smith defense, allowed senior Travis Melontree brings speed, inGolden to move from destincts and smarts to the pofensive end to linebacker. sition while also possessing Throw in returning junsize at 6-foot-2. iors Truett Gorden, AdarLast season as a junior, Melontree paced Smith in most deius Boyd and senior fensive categories, including Daniel Brewer and Ressa tackles (87), interceptions believes Smith has a mix (two), pass breakups (four) and of speed and physicality touchdown-saving tackles in the middle of the field (three). He also chipped in a that the program has not sack, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. seen before. The senior figures to be one of The secondary is anSmith’s more sought-after chored by senior Lester players to continue in college. Melontree at safety, while seniors Ollen Howard and Anthony Perez are back to man the corner positions. The Trojans also possess a weapon in the kicking game in senior Gilbert Jimenez.

FTFT Mission Statement:

Mark McPhaul’s Story

The Full-Tilt Full-Time Mark McPhaul Grant (FTFT Grant) was established to promote safety on the field and leadership off of the field. The FTFT Grant seeks to raise funds to purchase athletic equipment athletic equipment that will ensure that safety is a top priority for student athletes. The grant also seeks to foster student leaders, recognize them throughout the school year and celebrate student athletes who display exemplary leadership.

Mark suffered repeated concussions while playing football at Creekview and ultimately needed emergency brain surgery to save his life. Mark invested his heart and soul into his football team, his school and his district and it was all taken away from him because of an injury. The founders of the FTFT Grant are investing heavily in the safety of our student athletes but can’t do it alone.

Please contribute today for more information visit

www.FullTiltGrant.com

Page 50 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 12-5A >>

FORNEY JACKRABBITS >> NORTH FORNEY FALCONS >> MESQUITE POTEET PIRATES >> ROCKWALL-HEATH HAWKS ROYSE CITY BULLDOGS >> SOUTH GARLAND COLONELS >> TERRELL TIGERS >> WEST MESQUITE WRANGLERS

Mesquite Poteet, West Mesquite, Forney, North Forney and Terrell happily waved goodbye to nemesis Highland Park, as well as the two Carrollton schools during February’s realignment. But the arrival of Rockwall-Heath and South Garland could add two new challengers for the 12-5A title. Poteet, the preseason favorite, has a 42-11 record during the last four years with three trips to the regional finals. The Pirates have star power in seniors Malik Jefferson, Deandre Mc-

Neal and Jaylon Smith, but are breaking in a new quarterback. Rockwall-Heath was one of the smallest programs in the largest classification last year but is hoping fortunes change as the largest in 12-5A. West should be well-prepared for wide-open games both on offense, with senior quarterback Chason Virgil (Mississippi State) and senior Akilian Butler (Boise State), and defense with a loaded secondary. Forney returns Sophomore of the Year Luke

Skipper at quarterback to go along with a seasoned defense. South Garland opted to drop down from its fellow Garland ISD mates in hopes of recapturing its past success, while newcomer North Forney is hoping this is the year it breaks through. Terrell has a new coach in Mike Shields, who came over from Red Oak, while Royse City went 1-9 last season and needs a young team to grow up in a hurry if they hope to improve on that mark.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> HEATH VS. EULESS TRINITY (SEPT. 6) This will be the biggest non-district test any 12-5A team faces when the Hawks play the three-time state champion Trojans at AT&T Stadium. Trinity, a 11-3 regional finalist last year, should boast the same grinding ground game and stingy defense that has made them a perennial power. This will be a chance for quarterback Jordan Hoy, running back Rico Henderson and the Hawks offense to see where they stand against a tough opponent.

>> POTEET AT HEATH

>> SOUTH AT WEST

>> WEST AT POTEET

>> NORTH AT FORNEY

(SEPT. 25) The opening of the district season offers a marquee matchup between a pair of teams touted as 12-5A favorites. The Hawks believe this is a special senior class, and they have an opportunity to make a major statement with a win. The biggest question for the Pirates is how the quarterback situation has been developed through non-district play. The winner will take a huge leap forward in the race for the district championship.

(SEPT. 25) Another big game on the opening night of the 12-5A season that could loom large at season’s end. The Wranglers have been able to flip a switch after some tough early slates in recent years, winning seven of their last eight district openers. A key matchup to watch will be South’s doit-all wide receiver Jerminic Smith against West’s highly touted secondary of Josh Butler, Corvette Miles and Bailey Phillips.

(OCT. 3) The city’s second-oldest rivalry has taken on greater meaning in recent years with the ascension of both programs. Poteet ended an eight-game losing streak in the series with last year’s 31-10 victory, but West still holds a 13-11 overall edge. A young Pirate secondary will get its biggest test of the regular season against quarterback Chason Virgil, wide receiver Akilian Butler and the Wrangler passing attack.

(NOV. 7) A budding rivarly between Forney, the old guard, and new kid on the block North Forney could have playoff implications for the first time. Both return experienced quarterbacks with Luke Skipper for the Jackrabbits and Hunter Herndon for the Falcons. In all, each team returns 12 starters, giving both hope of pushing into the upper tier, but the regular-season finale might decide who breaks through and who stays home.

PIRATES MESQUITE POTEET

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

It was not too long ago – 2010, in fact - that the thought of simply making the playoffs would have been hard to comprehend at Poteet. The times have changed, though, as the Pirates have posted a 42-11 record during the past four seasons with three trips to the regional championship game. A winning culture breeds higher expectations and that is not lost on anybody affiliated with the program. “These guys have had some success, but we aren’t satisfied,” said Kody Groves, Poteet head coach. “There are still a lot of things we want to accomplish and the guys understand that and they come out and work hard toward getting to where we want to be.” The Pirates will have a new starting quarterback for the third consecutive season. In fact, they might have two as sophomore Kaleb Fletcher and junior Tuck Tucker have split time taking snaps. Concerns about the quarterback position are allayed when looking at the rest of the Poteet offense. Senior Deandre McNeal, a highly-touted Class of 2015 prospect, is effective out of the backfield and

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 25 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 *Oct. 17 Oct. 23 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Lancaster Wylie East Richardson Berkner BYE Rockwall-Heath West Mesquite Forney Royse City South Garland North Forney Terrell

Mesquite Memorial Stadium 7:30 p.m. Wylie ISD Stadium 7:30 p.m. E.H. Hanby Stadium 7:30 p.m. Wilkerson-Sanders Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium Citi Bank Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium Homer B. Johnson Stadium Citi Bank Stadium E.H. Hanby Stadium

7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

on the outside as is junior >> PLAYER Walter Dawn. Both players amassed more than TO WATCH 1,000 yards rushing and receiving a year ago. The running game should also be solid, although Poteet will be breaking in several new players on the offensive line around senior Dontae Duff. Senior Jaylon Smith, who had 1,240 yards and 19 touchdowns last season, does not need much of a hole and can run through defenders when MALIK nothing is there. JEFFERSON Everybody knows LINEBACKER about senior linebacker Jefferson is the most herMalik Jefferson, one of alded recruit to come out of Mesquite ISD in recent the top recruits in the namemory. He is ranked as tion, but the strength of the No. 1 prospect in the Poteet defense goes Texas by Rivals.com and is beyond its star. 19th nationally. Fellow linebacker It is not hard to underZach Barrientos was stand why, as Jefferson recorded 93 tackles, 18 named district Sophotackles for loss, and 14 more of the Year after sacks last season. The 6recording 107 tackles and 2, 214-pounder is lauded seniors Morgan Shields for his versatility, being a and Dee Spencer also resolid run-stopper and a turn to head a strong fearsome pass rusher who is also capable of dropfront seven. ping back into coverage. The main area for concern for the Pirates is in the secondary, where they graduated all four starters. There are promising newcomers ready to step in, but it will take some time to make the adjustment to the varsity level.

MESQUITE

Deandre McNeal, Poteet wide receiver

POTEET

NORTH

WEST

HORN

“Blessings to our Athletes” – John 3:16

Sunday Service: 10am Wednesday Service: 7pm

Higher Ground Church 2635 N. Beltline Rd • Sunnyvale • 214-803-2397 • Highergc.org

WRANGLERS WEST MESQUITE

Page 52 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 28 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 25 Oct. 3 *Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 23 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Arlington Seguin Wylie Red Oak BYE South Garland Mesquite Poteet Terrell Rockwall-Heath North Forney Forney Royse City

Wilemon Stadium 7 p.m. Mesquite Memorial Stadium 7:30 p.m. Goodloe Stadium 7:30 p.m. Mesquite Memorial Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium Wilkerson-Sanders Stadium Mesquite Memorial Stadium E.H. Hanby Stadium Royse City ISD Stadium

7 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. * Homecoming

West never quite got fully on track last season. Senior quarterback Chason Virgil was injured in the second game against Wylie and while he did return for the second half of the season to help lead the Wranglers to their eighth consecutive playoff appearance, they did not get to the point where they were

to receiver in senior Akilian Butler firing on all cylinders. (37-446), who has committed to After a solid spring and a trip to Boise State, and junior Dee Anderthe state 7-on-7 tournament in July, son could be a breakout star. West is hoping to get off to a quick Senior Le’Billie Hunter, who start and to build from there. rushed for 775 yards and eight The Wranglers have an abuntouchdowns while splitting carries dance of riches on the outside and last year, will shoulder a larger role in the secondary and if they can dein the running game. velop on the lines, they feel they Defensively, the Wranglers will are poised for a special season. feature one of the best secondaries “We feel we have a great group in the state. Senior Josh Butler, who of skill guys on both offense and dehas several college offers, can play fense,” said Jeff Neill, West head either safety or at the corner. Senior coach. “Against anybody, though, a Corvette “Speedy” Miles plays lot is going to come down to the larger than his 5-7 frame and junior trenches and we just need to conBailey Phillips is a top Class of 2016 tinue to get better to get us where recruit after his breakout sophowe need to be.” more season. The Wranglers have a new ofThe key early on for West is to fensive coordinator in Seth Bell, plug some holes in the front seven who has added some new looks. prior to the start of the district seaThat should only help Virgil, the son. Mississippi State pledge who threw for 1,440 yards and 11 touchdowns despite missing “WE FEEL WE HAVE A GREAT nearly four games. Virgil has a goGROUP OF SKILL GUYS ON BOTH

OFFENSE AND DEFENSE.”

>> PLAYER

– JEFF NEILL, WEST HEAD COACH

TO WATCH

CHASON VIRGIL QUARTERBACK Virgil, who has committed to Mississippi State, has started since his freshman season. Despite missing time during his freshman and junior campaigns, he has thrown for 4,487 yards and 40 touchdowns with the Wranglers. Virgil does have the ability to run, although he prefers to stay in the pocket. With a wealth of options on the outside, including Boise State commit Akilian Butler, Virgil is ready to show he has saved his best season for last. Akilian Butler, West wide receiver

Billy Hunter, West running back

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 6-4A DIV. I >>

ARGYLE EAGLES

CARROLLTON RANCHVIEW WOLVES >> DALLAS CARTER COWBOYS >> SANGER INDIANS >> WILMER HUTCHINS EAGLES

Last year’s District 6-4A layout featured nine schools. Thanks to the UIL’s biennial realignment, the newly formed 6-4A Division I features only six programs, and one returning state champion. Argyle, fresh off a 16-0 season and 3A Division II state title, will not be in familiar district territory when it comes to defending the crown. Gone are former regional mates Celina, Aubrey,

Anna and Frisco Lone Star. In their place are Dallas Carter, Wilmer Hutchins, Dallas Pinkston, Sanger and Carrollton Ranchview. Though the grouping doesn’t have the same level of talent on paper as 10-3A, it should still serve as a tough test to Argyle’s reign. Carter has the prestige and history of its dominance from the 90s to fall back on, while

DALLAS PINKSTON VIKINGS

Sanger returns seven starters on both sides of the ball. But the clear cream of the crop here is Argyle, which will navigate a brutal non-district schedule leading into three road games during the 6-4A slate. Carter and Sanger should provide the biggest challenges, but the Eagles have the chops to get out of the district unscathed in hopes of making another deep postseason run.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> ARGYLE VS. DENISON (SEPT. 5) The Eagles will return to the scene of their state championship triumph, AT&T Stadium in Arlington, for a showdown in early September versus the up-and-coming Yellowjackets. One of four co-district 13-4A champions last year, Denison will make a statement to the rest of the 5A football scene this year if it can find a way to knock off Argyle in this neutral site contest.

>> CARTER AT KIMBALL (SEPT. 6) Once one of the premier football rivalries in the state, Carter and Kimball have shared the same district more than a time or two. The Knights are classified a division above the Cowboys in the current UIL layout, but the two Dallas ISD squads managed to schedule each other once again in a non-district battle that should invoke a big crowd and a bit of history.

>> CELINA AT ARGYLE

>> ARGYLE AT CARTER

(SEPT. 12) Former district rivals collide once again in a non-district matchup between the Eagles and the Bobcats. While Celina will be intent on proving that last year’s 63-13 loss to Argyle was a fluke, it won’t be an easy task. The Eagles have outscored the Bobcats by a combined 88 points in two wins over the latter in their previous two meetings as part of 10-3A.

(OCT. 24) Both of these new district rivals have a storied history of success as football programs, albeit in different eras. The Cowboys won’t feel any remorse for crashing the Eagles’ party, though, and will be eager to prove they are a force to be reckoned with after moving down to the 4A level for the next two seasons. Kincaid Stadium will be packed for this one.

>> CARROLLTON RANCHVIEW AT PINKSTON (NOV. 7) Games aren’t played on paper, but as it stands, Argyle, Carter and Sanger project to be the early playoff favorites from 6-4A. That leaves one spot for three teams, as Ranchview, Pinkston and Hutchins vie for the final playoff seed. Fast forward to Week 10 and this late-season battle between Ranchview and Pinkston, which doubles as the regular-season finale for both programs, could very well determine who’s out and who’s in when it comes to the postseason.

EAGLES ARGYLE

Page 54 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

The third time in the state championship game was the charm last season for Argyle. A 3833 win over Fairfield in the Class 3A Division II title game cemented the Eagles’ place among the top-flight programs in the state. After the loss of both title-game MVPs (wide receiver Ian Sadler and linebacker Colton Hinnrichs) to graduation, though, there are holes to fill if Argyle will repeat as champions at the 4A level this season. The return of running back and senior Nick Ralston, along with Clemson commit and senior tight end J.C. Chalk, will soften the blow on offense, but the Eagles are breaking in a new quarterback (Cooper Rodgers) and new faces on the offensive line. Defensively, only three starters return. The Eagles haven’t filled their schedule with soft opponents early on to tip the balance in their favor, either. Right off the bat, Argyle will host Abilene Wylie, a perennial powerhouse, followed by Denison, familiar foe Celina and Graham, the Division II 7-on-7 State Tournament winner.

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 9 *Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Ian Sadler, Argyle wide receiver

Abilene Wylie Denison Celina Graham Paris BYE Carrollton Ranchview Wilmer Hutchins Carter Pinkston Sanger

Eagle Stadium AT&T Stadium Eagle Stadium Newton Field Wildcat Stadium

7:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Standridge Stadium Eagle Stadium Kincaid Stadium Eagle Stadium Indian Stadium

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. *Homecoming

In 6-4A Division I, Argyle will be joined by the likes of Dallas Carter and Sanger, which promise to offer a different look to the schemes the Eagles saw in 10-3A the past two seasons. It certainly changes their travel slate, which now includes trips to Dallas and Carrollton for away games. Regardless, Argyle again has the talent on paper and the experience of head coach Todd Rodgers to be considered one of the top 4A teams in the state. Challenges, such as replacing 14 starters and stacking up with a few of the toughest teams in the state early in the season, will exist for the Eagles, but the bottom line is simple: A district title and another deep playoff run are once again the expectations for this team.

>> PLAYER TO WATCH

NICK RALSTON RUNNING BACK Ralston rushed for over 1,800 yards and 31 touchdowns last season, but was somewhat overshadowed due to teammate and incoming Texas Tech freshman Sadler’s allaround standout play. This year, the Arizona State commit is poised for another monster season as the first option out of Argyle’s backfield. If he also receives the departed Sadler’s carries, the 2,000-yard threshold won’t be out of reach for Ralston.

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 3-4A DIV II >>

ANNA COYOTES >> AUBREY CHAPARRALS >> BONHAM WARRIORS >> BRIDGEPORT BULLS >> CELINA BOBCATS >> KRUM BOBCATS

Celina had more than its share of competition during a stay in District 10-3A. The Bobcats had all they could handle in defending state champion Argyle, but now move to the more winnable 3-4A Division II minus the Eagles. With Argyle’s departure, Celina should return to its championship-contending ways despite a sixth team to compete against. Joining the Bobcats will

be Anna, Aubrey, Bonham, Bridgeport and Krum. Of the five district foes, Bonham presents the biggest obstacle to Celina winning the 3-4A crown. The Warriors posted a 5-7 mark last season and return five starters on each side of the ball. Competition will likely be balanced after the Bobcats though, with four of the five remaining teams losing eight games or more last season. Bridgeport was the worst of the group in 2013

and finished with an 0-10 mark. The Bulls will look for a big turnaround despite losing 13 starters. Anna boasts one of the most talented runners in the district, with Isaac Armijo returning after a stellar 2013 season. Armijo tallied 1,531 yards and 25 touchdowns for the 3-8 Coyotes. Expect Celina, Bonham and Anna to claim three of the four playoff berths, while Aubrey and Krum battle for the final spot.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> CELINA AT ARGYLE

>> MELISSA AT CELINA

>> BONHAM AT AUBREY

>> BONHAM AT CELINA

>> AUBREY AT ANNA

(SEPT. 12) These former 10-3A foes couldn’t get enough of each other. Although Celina and Argyle will no longer square off with a district title on the line, the two perennial playoff teams will meet once again during non-district action. For Celina, the game presents a chance for revenge after dropping a pair of blowouts (63-13 in 2013 and 45-7 in 2012) with title implications. A win could also give Celina an unbeaten regular-season mark and added momentum for a postseason run.

(SEPT. 26) Celina and Melissa have met in each of the last two regular-season openers, with each team coming away with a close win. Last season, the Bobcats won (33-29) with a last-minute touchdown courtesy of a 46-yard pass from Nathan Elliott to Cash Conder. The Cardinals left the game with the same feeling Celina did a year prior after dropping a 2012 contest (18-13) in the final 10 seconds. This Sept. 26 matchup presents a tiebreaking scenario just two weeks after Celina’s dogfight against Argyle.

(OCT. 10) While Bonham appears to be Celina’s biggest challenger in 3-4A this season, Aubrey has other ideas. The Chaparrals could jump into the driver’s seat for the No. 2 seed with a win in this Oct. 10 matchup. For Bonham, opening district action with a loss to Aubrey would be a devastating blow for any hope of contending for a district title. Look for the winner of this game to battle Anna for the No. 2 seed, leaving the loser clinging to a potential fourth spot.

(OCT. 24) Bonham likely presents the biggest challenge for Celina during 3-4A action this season. Aside from the Bobcats (9-2), the Warriors (5-7) were the only 3-4A team to win more than three games last season. A win against Bonham in this Oct. 24 matchup would all but ensure a Celina district championship after a brief drought in District 10-3A. A Bonham upset would likely clinch one of four playoff spots for head coach Cody Bounds and the Warriors.

(NOV. 7) If Celina and Bonham claim the top two spots in 3-4A this season, it will likely be Aubrey and Anna battling for the No. 3 seed. Anna brings back talented running back Isaac Armijo, who ran for 1,531 yards and 25 touchdowns last season. However, Armijo’s Coyotes managed just three wins in 11 games. Aubrey will be under new leadership after a 2-8 mark in 2013. Head coach Keith Ivy will look to give the Chaparrals a quick turnaround in the top-heavy district.

BOBCATS CELINA

Page 56 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Celina no longer has to worry about the likes of Argyle and Lone Star. With the Bobcats transitioning to District 3-4A Division II this season, things should get much easier during district action. Celina will join Anna, Aubrey, Bonham, Bridgeport and Krum in the new district and will enter the season as heavy favorites for the championship. “It’s time to get ready for some real football,” said Bill Elliott, Celina head coach. Four of Celina’s five district foes lost eight or more games last season, with Bonham’s 5-7 mark the best of the group. The Bobcats bring back a talented junior class headlined by quarterback Nathan Elliott, who committed to North Carolina during the offseason. “We have a really good group of kids,” coach Elliott said. “They’ve been playing together for a long time and are really focused on what they want to do.” Elliott joins eight other starters back on offense, giving the Bobcats a high-scoring attack. That offensive success will make things easier on a defense that struggled at the end of last sea-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 *Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Nathan Elliott, Celina quarterback

Argyle Liberty Christian Dallas Bryan Adams Argyle Bishop Lynch Melissa BYE Anna Bridgeport Bonham Aubrey Krum

Bobcat Stadium Forester Stadium Eagle Stadium Roffino Stadium Bobcat Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Bobcat Stadium Bull Memorial Stadium Bobcat Stadium Chaparral Stadium Bobcat Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. *Homecoming

son. The Bobcats surren>> PLAYER dered 118 points in the final two games of the TO WATCH season, including a 55-49 playoff loss to Gainesville in the opening round. Junior Jarren Alexander will likely get a heavy dose of carries after a sophomore campaign that featured 433 yards and six touchdowns on 71 carries. Senior Collin Schmid, who tallied 436 yards and four scores on 64 attempts, will also return JEFF SIMS to add depth in the backCORNERBACK field. The Celina defense will be looking to start the 2014 Defense remains the season better than it biggest question mark ended 2013. though, and a turnThe Bobcats surrendered around would likely be 118 points in their final led by senior linebacker two games of the season, Trenton Hambrick, senior including a 55-49 loss to Gainesville in the opening defensive back Payton round of the playoffs. If Baird, senior cornerback the defense gets back to Jeff Sims and sophomore its shutdown ways, Sims safety Conner Pengleton. could play a key role in the “We saw some turnaround. Sims finished young kids that rose up the offseason strong by intercepting four passes [during the offseason],” during the state 7-on-7 coach Elliott said. “It’s tournament in College good to see those young Station. guys coming through like that.” The Bobcats open the season with an Aug. 29 game against Argyle Liberty Christian. Celina then meets several familiar foes before the start of district, with Argyle and Melissa scheduled for Sept. 12 and Sept. 26, respectively.

Our Team - Our Town

Celina 302 S. Preston Road

(972) 382-2347 TexasStarBank.com

Member FDIC

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> PREVIEW: DISTRICT 6-3A DIV. I >>

CADDO MILLS FOXES

COMMERCE TIGERS >> DALLAS LIFE OAK CLIFF LIONS >> RED OAK LIFE MUSTANGS >> SCURRY-ROSSER WILDCATS >> SUNNYVALE RAIDERS

A new classification ushers in a much different look in 6-3A Division I. Sunnyvale, Caddo Mills and Commerce remain district mates, where they are joined by Red Oak Life, as well as Scurry-Rosser and Dallas Life Oak Cliff, who were both Division II last year. The favorite going into the season is ScurryRosser, which posted a 12-1 record and advanced to the regional semifinals. The Wildcats return 12 starters, including star quarterback Paten Snell, a

dual threat who had 4,225 total yards and 44 touchdowns last season. Sunnyvale has some big holes to fill, but they have a workhorse in the backfield in Abdul Khalaf and playmakers on defense with linebackers Hunter Allen and Conner Mears. Caddo Mills had a losing record, but won when it counted during district play to make the playoffs and they return running back David Chandler (874 yards, nine touchdowns) and a

solid defense. Red Oak Life put up some big offensive numbers last season and could do so again with running back Kaine Blake (224-1,415) and receiver Nick Forde (46-889). Commerce will be trying to catch up after Jeff Cleveland took over in a late-spring coaching change, while Dallas Life Oak Cliff is hoping the underclassmen who played last season can take a big step forward.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> LONE OAK AT SCURRY-ROSSER (AUG. 29) An early-season clash between the 6-3A D-I favorite Scurry-Rosser and Lone Oak, the coaches’ preseason pick to win 6-3A D-II. There should be plenty of offense, pitting Scurry-Rosser quarterback Paten Snell, who threw for 3,230 yards and 36 touchdowns while rushing for 995 yards and eight scores last season, against Lone Oak’s two-headed attack of quarterback Jake Williams (2,550 yards, 36 touchdowns) and running back Devin Shaw (1,586 yards, 18 touchdowns).

>> SUNNYVALE AT COMMERCE (OCT. 24) Both teams are breaking in new quarterbacks to start the season but that should not be a factor at this stage of the year. The teams have split the head-to-head meetings during the last two years, with the Raiders claiming a 31-21 win last season. If Sunnyvale takes care of business during its first two district games, this could be the week it is able to punch a ticket to the playoffs for the first time in school history.

>> CADDO MILLS AT SUNNYVALE (OCT. 31) The team might downplay it, but Sunnyvale would love to gain a measure of revenge against Caddo Mills. A year ago, a missed extra point proved to be the difference in a 41-40 overtime victory for the Foxes that sent them to the playoffs instead of the Raiders. Caddo Mills held Sunnyvale to 31 rushing yards in that game, while David Chandler had 126 yards and two scores on the ground for the Foxes.

>> COMMERCE AT CADDO MILLS (NOV. 7) Commerce could be playing with a postseason berth on the line. It was not too long ago that the Tigers boasted one of the top programs in the state. They made the playoffs every year from 1991-2005, winning state titles in 1999 and 2001 and finishing as the runner-up on two other occasions. Commerce has made the playoffs just twice since that stretch and this could be the game that determines if they return to the postseason or stay home once again.

>> SUNNYVALE AT SCURRY-ROSSER (NOV. 7) If the preseason district polls are any indication, Sunnyvale might not only be heading to the playoffs for the first time in school history, but this season finale might be for the 6-3A D-I championship. Snell is dangerous because of his ability to not only throw the ball but also make plays with his legs. That scrambling ability will be put to the test against Sunnyvale linebackers Hunter Allen and Conner Mears.

RAIDERS SUNNYVALE

Page 58 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

Sunnyvale had seen last season’s script before. For the second consecutive year, the Raiders posted a strong 7-3 record, but it was not enough to earn the program’s first playoff berth. What was even more painful is that Sunnyvale’s three district losses came by a total of seven points, including one on a last-second field goal and another on a failed extra-point conversion in overtime. But August represents a fresh start and the Raiders are eager to write a new chapter, one that includes them playing in Week 12. The new 6-3A Division I appears to line up well for that to happen. With the exception of regional semifinalist Scurry-Rosser, Sunnyvale is the only other team that posted a winning record last season and the remaining four squads had a combined 9-32 record. But the Raiders are not getting ahead of themselves. Among the early challenges will be finding replacements for quarterback Ryan Cottingame and wide receiver Josh Quinn, who were each threeyear starters and first-team all-district selections. The good news for the Sunnyvale is that senior

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 *Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Godley Eustace Community Venus Redwater BYE Red Oak Life Dallas Life Oak Cliff Commerce Caddo Mills Scurry-Rosser

Demetrius Gray, Sunnyvale wide receiver

Raider Stadium Bulldog Stadium Raider Stadium Bulldog Stadium Dragon Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Raider Stadium Raider Stadium Memorial Stadium Raider Stadium Wildcats Stadium

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

running back Abdul Kha>> PLAYER laf returns after rushing for 960 yards and 11 TO WATCH touchdowns last season. The senior could be the workhorse while the passing game develops. The new signal caller will have a proven commodity in junior receiver Lawson Ayo (36-611, nine touchdowns), and the offensive line should be solid, led by senior alldistrict selection Caleb Beard. Defensively, the ABDUL KHALAF Raiders’ front seven RUNNING BACK should be stout, espeThe senior was somewhat overshadowed due to cially at linebacker with Sunnyvale’s high-powered seniors Hunter Allen and passing attack, but he figConner Mears, who comures to play a much more bined for 285 tackles last prominent role as the season. Raiders break in a new Senior Evan Adrian quarterback. Khalaf is certainly capable of the and junior Curt Fitzgerassignment. Last season, ald, who also had 100 he had 132 carries for 960 tackles last year, will anyards, an average of 7.3 chor the defensive line, yards per attempt, and 11 while seniors Matthew touchdowns. He is also a Pettway and Joey Rosato valuable asset catching the ball, where he had 20 will help lead some receptions for 282 yards younger faces in the secand three scores. ondary. At first glance, Sunnyvale appears to have the talent and the schedule to make the playoffs for the first time, but they understand they still have to prove it on the field.

* Homecoming

• DIVORCE • CUSTODY • CHILD SUPPORT • ENFORCEMENT • PATERNITY • MODIFICAITON

J. DARLENE EWING FAMILY LAW Proud Supporters of our Sunnyvale Football Team

J. DARLENE EWING SPECIALIZES IN FAMILY LAW AND HELPING FAMILIES. Darlene Ewing is well known as a tough negotiator and taking the action necessary to make sure that the interest of your family is priority one.

214-221-2600 Law Offices of J. Darlene Ewing 605 Hwy 80 E, Suite A Sunnyvale, Texas 75182 214-575-8350 (fax)

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

>> PREVIEW: TAPPS I-1 >> ARGYLE LIBERTY CHRISTIAN WARRIORS >> BISHOP DUNNE FALCONS >> BISHOP LYNCH FRIARS >> FORT WORTH NOLAN VIKINGS >> JOHN PAUL II CARDINALS >> MIDLAND CHRISTIAN MUSTANGS >> PRESTONWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY LIONS >> TRINITY CHRISTIAN-ADDISON TROJANS

In recent years, it’s become increasingly apparent that the state’s premier outlet for topflight private school football is in this very district. For the fifth time in six years, two schools from TAPPS I-1 clashed for the Division I State Championship, as Fort Worth Nolan edged Prestonwood Christian Academy, 24-21, for its third straight state title. If the current TAPPS talent pool is any indication, the Metroplex’s private school ensemble has

up to four programs with legitimate title aspirations this year. Prestonwood is as experienced as any squad in TAPPS, while the Vikings still have enough talent in tow to weather the graduation of some key starters. One rung below those two sits state semifinalist Trinity Christian-Addison, which returns six starters on each side of the ball and has the firepower to boast the state’s top offense. Argyle Liberty Christian will attempt to rebound under new head coach Barton Hundley,

who will have one of the state’s most experienced defenses to fall back on. However, Bishop Dunne, Bishop Lynch and John Paul II all share similar optimism with at least 13 returning starters apiece. Of course, neither of the aforementioned seven schools were done any favors after TAPPS added Division II powerhouse Midland Christian, winners of seven state championships, to the fold.

>> THE TOP FIVE: WHICH GAMES TO WATCH THIS YEAR >> TRINITY AT NOLAN (OCT. 10) Although Nolan has won seven TAPPS state titles since Trinity last hoisted a championship in 2000, the Trojans have shown a knack for playing the Vikings close recently. The X-factor has been Trinity rusher Nahshon Ellerbe, who has totaled more than 400 yards of offense and eight touchdowns against the typically airtight Nolan defense. The result has been two meetings decided by a combined four points. Oh, and those two games totaled 93 and 85 points.

>> LYNCH AT JOHN PAUL (OCT. 10) Last year, a late-season win over El Paso Cathedral wound up being enough to sneak the Cardinals into the playoffs for the first time ever. John Paul’s schedule doesn’t feature a similar matchup late this fall, but this midseason clash looms large for any potential Cardinal playoff hopes. Not only will John Paul need a win here to put itself in playoff position, but what a better way to begin new head coach John Furin’s tenure than by winning its first district game since 2009?

>> PRESTONWOOD AT MIDLAND (OCT. 17) The schedule doesn’t do the Lions any favors by slotting matchups against Midland and Nolan in consecutive weeks, and this mid-October encounter marks the first leg of Prestonwood’s chance to assert itself as a feared state title contender. In Midland’s case, this is a proving ground matchup for the Mustangs to show they belong among the Division I elite. Expect the points to come quick and fast between the district’s two most experienced offenses.

>> NOLAN AT PRESTONWOOD (OCT. 24) When a state championship game rematch is on the regular season docket, it’s probably worth going out of one’s way to watch. The Lions denied a Nolan two-point conversion attempt with 14 seconds left to win the first meeting between the two last year and the Vikings went on to return the favor in the TAPPS Division I title game. This matchup is the best thing going in TAPPS football these days.

>> NOLAN AT MIDLAND (NOV. 7) This matchup pits TAPPS Division I’s irresistible force against TAPPS Division II’s immovable object. A meeting that features a combined 14 state championships between the two programs, Midland will be plenty adjusted to the Division I landscape by the time November rolls around for its test against the reigning champs. Couple that with this being the season finale for both programs and potential playoff seeding at stake, and the ramifications get a tad larger than mere bragging rights.

WARRIORS ARGYLE LIBERTY CHRISTIAN

Page 60 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

With the firing of longtime head coach Greg Price, Liberty banded together some of the old guard of Lewisville ISD. New head coach Barton Hundley was the defensive backs coach for the Warriors the past three seasons under Price and served in the same position with Lewisville back in 2006. Joining Hundley’s staff and calling plays for the offense will be former LISD athletic director Randy Mayes. Mayes, who announced his retirement from the position with LISD in April, was on the sideline opposite Hundley for the “Battle of the Axe” when he was the head coach of Flower Mound Marcus for six seasons until requesting reassignment after the 2007 season. While the coaching change was unexpected, the need for a new quarterback has become routine for the Warriors. Warriors alum and Kansas State University commit Colby Moore was the latest in a line of quarterbacks to put up a great statistical season before departing via graduation. Moore was a dual threat at the position, whether it was through the air (2,272 yards, 25 touchdowns, 14 interceptions) or on

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 *Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Justus Lee, Liberty wide receiver

Celina Bobcat Stadium Springtown Bowles Stadium Melissa Bowles Stadium BYE Fort Worth Nolan Bowles Stadium Bishop Lynch Roffino Stadium Midland Christian Mustang Field Bishop Dunne Bowles Stadium Trinity Christian-Addison Tom Landry Stadium Prestonwood Christian Academy Bowles Stadium John Paul II Cardinals Stadium

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. *Homecoming

the ground (1,271 yards >> PLAYER and 15 touchdowns). With Moore gone, the TO WATCH next Warrior up is senior quarterback Drew Hunnicut. Hunnicut’s time under center was limited with Moore, but he did put on quite the show in last season’s opener against Springtown. In that game, he hit senior wide receiver and linebacker Danny David Linahan with a 12-yard game-winning touchDANNY DAVID down pass in the fourth LINAHAN quarter to defeat SpringWIDE RECEIVER/ town, 44-41. He finished LINEBACKER/ the game completing 19DEFENSIVE BACK of-24 passes for 284 yards Linahan may not have known and three touchdowns. where his team’s bench was with how much he was on the The Warriors’ offense field for the Warriors. will also contain two caIn addition to playing wide repable targets for their ceiver for Liberty, Linahan also new starting quarterback spent time at linebacker and with junior wide receiver even defensive back. Justus Lee (523 receiving He came up big in wins over Springtown, 44-41, – with two yards, six touchdown touchdown catches – and Trinity catches) and sophomore Christian-Addison, 40-37, when receiver Jalen Hurt. he recovered an onside kick to Returning defenders seal the win. – including senior lineLinahan exemplifies the overall backer Hunter Griffith versatility of the Warriors’ roster. and junior defensive back Givon Washington – should also help ease the transition behind center and on the sidelines, but may not have the Warriors contending just yet with the likes of Prestonwood Christian Academy in the district.

CARDINALS JOHN PAUL II

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

This fall gives rise to a new era in John Paul football, as John Furin embarks on his first season with the Cardinals. Hired in April, Furin brings 30 years of coaching experience, including several years on the international football circuit, plus the luxury of having served as a coordinator on both offense and defense. It’s a change that in its infant stages, is resonating with the Cardinals. “I think that our attitude has been tremendous,” Furin said. “These kids are just awesome and their football knowledge has improved tremendously. They’ve been great at learning our techniques and executing both the offense and defense.” That’s all Furin and John Paul can hope for at this juncture. What happens when that tutelage is put into practice on Friday nights is a whole other discussion. The Cardinals will be looking to use this season to steadily begin exorcising eight years worth of hardships on the gridiron. Although last fall culminated in John Paul’s first-ever playoff berth, it came following a 1-9 regular season. Overall, the Cardi-

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 *Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7

Arlington Oakridge Irving Cistercian Dallas Christian BYE Bishop Dunne Prestonwood Christian Academy Bishop Lynch Trinity Christian-Addison Midland Christian Fort Worth Nolan

Jeff Conatser Memorial Stadium 7 p.m. Cardinals Stadium 7:30 p.m. Charger Stadium 7:30 p.m. Cardinals Stadium Lions Stadium Cardinals Stadium Tom Landry Stadium Cardinals Stadium Doskocil Stadium

Argyle Liberty Christian Cardinals Stadium

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. *Homecoming

nals have never won >> PLAYER more than three games in a single season. TO WATCH Working in John Paul’s favor is an experienced cast, courtesy of returning 14-of-22 starters from last season. Eight of those veterans reside on defense, including senior linebackers Tommy Angeloni, whom Furin has dubbed “the heart and soul” of the unit, and Merek Pierce. Juniors Zach Goodman, Mitch McCoy, senior DANAN BROWN Danan Brown and sophoRUNNING BACK/ more Austin Tyler are SAFETY names to monitor in the After splitting carries with Senior Merek Pierce last secondary, as is junior season, Brown projects as Clay Stahl up front. John Paul’s lead back and The Cardinals still could emerge as the Cardiproject to feature several nals’ premier playmaker. As a players on both sides of junior, Brown rushed for 425 the ball, although the yards and three touchdowns on 95 carries, while bagging play-making abilities of 151 receiving yards. Pierce and Brown could Brown’s responsibility has prove that a worthwhile increased with each season endeavor. Brown is back on varsity. After turning in a as John Paul’s lead runstrong spring, coupled with ning back, while Pierce the Cardinals making it a point to stretch opposing projects to be utilized in defenses this season, Brown both a rushing and rewill get plenty of chances to ceiving role this season. make an impression. For the third straight year, John Paul will break in a new starter under center, as junior Andrew Haidet assumes the reins after 2013 starter Zach Norris transferred back to Plano West.

Keegan Ferer, John Paul wide receiver

LIONS

PRESTONWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Page 62 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014

The Lions grew up by the game last season, and despite possessing one of the youngest rosters in TAPPS competition, still carved out a spot in the Division I State Championship Game. The bad news: Fort Worth Nolan’s veteran guise brought an abrupt halt to that narrative, edging the Lions, 24-21, for the TAPPS crown and denying Prestonwood a third state championship in the past five years. The good news: Last year’s youth becomes this year’s experience for the Lions, who return 14 starters from their 2013 state runner-up squad, including nine on offense. Some of those offensive stalwarts might even see time on the other side of the ball as well, which was an emphasis during the spring. “We’ll probably have a few more guys playing both sides of the ball because they can,” said Chris Cunningham, Prestonwood head coach. “They’ve had the spring to work the other side and didn’t have to spend the whole time on their primary side of the ball because they pretty well had it down.” Names like senior Eric Stevenson (running

>> VARSITY SCHEDULE Aug. 30 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 *Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Twayne Blackwell, Prestonwood wide receiver

Houston Episcopal IMG Academy Sherman BYE Trinity Christian-Addison John Paul II Bishop Dunne Midland Christian Fort Worth Nolan Argyle Liberty Christian Bishop Lynch

UNT Lions Stadium Bearcat Stadium

4 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Lions Stadium Lions Stadium Earl Hayes Stadium Mustang Field Lions Stadium Warrior Stadium Lions Stadium

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. *Homecoming

back and linebacker) >> PLAYER and junior Collin Whitaker (receiver and TO WATCH safety) project as potential two-way threats. Both are among the bevy of skill-position players Prestonwood returns, alongside incumbent running back and junior Ryan Bradberry, and junior wideouts Jonathan Heasley and Michael Irvin. Add senior Twayne Blackwell to that mix as well. After splitting ERIC STEVENSON reps at quarterback LINEBACKER/ with junior Ryan Cash RUNNING BACK last season, Blackwell Transferring to Prestonwood from Coppell last projects to see more year, Stevenson turned in time as a receiver this a stellar 2013 campaign season, while Cash will on both sides of the ball. be entrenched as the Emerging as a force at day one starter under linebacker, Stevenson talcenter. lied 74 tackles, six sacks and two interceptions. As That unit figures to last season progressed, shoulder the load for Stevenson garnered carthe Lions early, while ries out of the backfield, the defense gets up to adding 285 rushing yards speed. They’ll look to do (9.8 yards per carry) and on the backs of players four touchdowns – mostly against playoff competilike junior linebacker tion. He projects to see an DeOnte Williams, junior even bigger role at both defensive lineman Will positions this fall. Jones and senior safety Jeremiah Caldwell. If that side of the ball can match pace with Prestonwood’s offense by November, a return to the state title game may well be in the cards for the Lions.

Week of August 25, 2014 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Page

Page 64 — Gridiron Preview 2014 — Week of August 25, 2014