Indians Outshine Crockett in Scrimmage
Roughnecks Show Development in 3-way Scrimmage
New Boston vs. North Lamar
Offensive Line a Primary Concern for 2A Defending Champs
Chancellor Seeking Positives as Pine Tree Scrimmages Corsicana
Red River Valley Teams Ready for Scrimmages
Outlaw Pleased with Lufkin's First Week of Practice
Tribe Defense Sizzling
Harrison and Marion County Teams Gear Up for Scrimmages
Athens Hornets Get First Look at '09 Team in Saturday's Scrimmage
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
District 14-AAAA Preview
District 14-4A should be one of the most competitive districts in East Texas in 2009. The six teams in the district proved last year that any team is capable of beating any other on any given Friday. With 16 returning starters, Whitehouse is the early favorite to win the district title. But in this district the gap between first place and fifth place in the district is minimal. Each week should bring a new surprise in district 14-4A and picking a favorite each week will be extremely difficult.
13-4A Pre-season Predictions:
Whitehouse Wildcats: Coach Randy McFarlin has transformed Whitehouse from a perennial homecoming opponent into a perennial playoff team. And in 2009 Coach McFarlin may field his most talented Wildcat team yet. An extremely talented junior class and a solid core of seniors has Whitehouse poised for a big year in 2009. The offense, which has been one of the most prolific scoring offenses in East Texas over the last couple of years, returns seven starters including talented wide receiver Trey Metoyer. Metoyer burst onto the scene last year as a sophomore and hauled in 72 receptions for more than 1100 yards and 14 scores. Preston Conder will take over the quarterback position for Brady Attaway who has moved on to the collegiate ranks. Conder is a good athlete whose running ability may add an extra element to the Wildcat’s spread offense. But if the Wildcats are going to advance past the first round of the playoffs they are going to need significant improvement from a defense that gave up 30 points a game in 2008. The Wildcats held only one team under 20 points all season. Nine starters return on the defensive side of the ball so improvement should be in the cards. Joey Gautney and Danny Laastad will anchor the defensive front and Logan Taylor, Chad Lewis and Connor Cashion will form a solid linebacking unit. Quincy Aldridge and Jermaine Kennedy will lead the secondary. Whitehouse lost two close district games last year to Kilgore and Nacogdoches each on the road. This season the Wildcats get three of their five district games at home. Whitehouse has the talent to go undefeated in the district, but the defense will have to be more consistent.
Kilgore Bulldogs: Coach Mike Vallery’s club won the district championship and advanced to the second round of the playoffs in 2008. But graduation has hit the Bulldogs hard. Gone are runningback Frank Reddic and the entire offensive line. Also gone is defensive end Dominique Jones, who will play for Mack Brown and the Texas Longhorns in 2009. In fact, Kilgore returns only five starters total. Coach Vallery will need to work some magic to get his team ready for what should be a very competitive district. He has some pieces to work with in linebacker Mishaud Austin and lineman Shadow Stokes. The job of replacing Reddic’s rushing production will most likely fall to sophomore Ladarius Anthony. Despite the loss of the majority of last year’s starters, Kilgore should be able to reload for another playoff run. Last year, Kilgore’s only district loss came in week six when the Lindale Eagles surprised the Bulldogs 35-17 in the district opener. In week eight Kilgore used an incredible performance by Frank Reddic and a last second Ryan Bustin field goal to beat Whitehouse 34-31. In 2009, tough district road games against Whitehouse and Nacogdoches may determine whether the Bulldogs get back into the playoffs. Kilgore has made the playoffs 13 of the last 14 years.
Lindale Eagles: The Eagles had a good season last year going 8-3 including 3-2 in district and making it back to the playoffs for the first time since 2005. The Eagles will have to replace most of their offensive skilled position players including their leading passer, leading rusher and leading receiver from a year ago. But the return of multi-talented athlete Matt Brousard will help. Brousard will take over the quarterback position after spending much of last year at wide receiver. An experienced offensive line should also help Broussard ease into his new role. With six players returning from an offense that scored nearly 33 points a game, the offense should be fine. Linebacker Jacob Merriman and safety John Reyzman will lead a solid defense that played well at times last year. Seven starters back on defense including experience in the defensive line could be enough for Lindale to be even better defensively in 2009. Lindale has the luxury of playing three of their five district games at home this year including hosting Whitehouse and Kilgore. But a tough road test at Nacogdoches in week eight and the district finale at Jacksonville could determine Lindale’s playoff fate.
Nacogdoches Dragons: Despite going 6-4 in 2008 the Dragons failed to make the playoffs. In fact, Nacogdoches only has one playoff appearance in the last 16 years. But with a solid running game and a potential star in linebacker Alex Howard, the Dragons may be able to make some noise in district 14-4A in 2009. In order to improve upon an offense that produced 20 points a game in 2008, the Dragons will need to get more production from the quarterback position. Dragon quarterbacks combined to throw 17 interceptions and only seven touchdowns in 2008. Courtney Patton takes over as the Dragons’ signal caller in 2009 after getting a few starts in 2008. Patton’s main target will be tight end LaBryant Johnson who hauled in 16 passes a year ago. Senior wide receiver Jermichael Smith will try to provide a threat on the outside. Junior Jacolby Erwin should handle the bulk of the running duties for the Dragons. The defense, led by linebackers Howard and Javosky Ervin should be a strength. Nacogdoches will host three of their five district opponents in 2009 including Kilgore and Lindale whom the Dragons figure to be battling for playoff positioning.
Jacksonville Indians: The Indians only managed to win three games in 2008 and are 12-29 since 2005. But 2008 was not all bad. Two of those three wins came in district and those two wins were enough to get the Indians in the playoffs. Of Jacksonville’s three district losses, two came by a combined seven points. The only district game that the Indians failed to keep close was the 35-7 loss to district champ Kilgore. If Jacksonville hopes to improve its record from a year ago, the Tribe will have to find a way to score more points after managing only 18 points a game in 2008. Runningback Kendrick Hatton should carry much of the load offensively after rushing for nearly 800 yards and 18 touchdowns a year ago. The defense will be led by linebacker Justin Jones who has led the Indians in tackles each of the last two years. Defensive back Duke Hamilton may move to safety after starting last year at cornerback for the Tribe. Jacksonville returns only seven starters total from last year’s team so help will need to come from a lot of new faces. Talent from an 8-2 JV team should help. The Tribe will face tough district road games against Whitehouse and Kilgore in 2009. But if Jacksonville can take care of business at home against Nacogdoches and Lindale, the Tribe could find themselves back in the playoffs.
Henderson Lions: In 2009, the Lions suffered through their second 1-9 season in the last three years. Henderson has not been to the postseason since 2003 and is 44-61 over the last decade. Veteran coach Dickey Meeks’ club returns 12 starters including six on each side of the ball, none more important than quarterback Tyrell Jenkins. The 6’4” Jenkins threw for more than 1700 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2008 but must cut down on his 14 interceptions. Offensive linemen Justin Boose and Neco Jones, each over 300 pounds, should provide some protection for Jenkins. But the Lions need to find some playmakers if they want to improve an offense that managed only 16 points a game in 2008. Wide receiver Brandon Tatum could be that guy if Jenkins can get him the ball. On defense, Corey Fletcher will anchor the defensive line while Cord Fletcher will lead the linebackers. If the Lions are going to get to the playoffs they are going to have to beat some pretty good teams on the road as they will have to travel to Nacogdoches, Kilgore and Lindale. Henderson may actually be improved this year although it might not translate into more district wins because Nacogdoches and Jacksonville both look to be improved as well. Lion fans may have to wait another season or two before they see their first winning season since 2002.
Predicted Order of Finish for 14-4A:
1. Whitehouse Wildcats
2. Kilgore Bulldogs
3. Lindale Eagles
4. Nacogdoches Dragons
5. Jacksonville Indians
6. Henderson Lions
13-4A Pre-season Predictions:
Whitehouse Wildcats: Coach Randy McFarlin has transformed Whitehouse from a perennial homecoming opponent into a perennial playoff team. And in 2009 Coach McFarlin may field his most talented Wildcat team yet. An extremely talented junior class and a solid core of seniors has Whitehouse poised for a big year in 2009. The offense, which has been one of the most prolific scoring offenses in East Texas over the last couple of years, returns seven starters including talented wide receiver Trey Metoyer. Metoyer burst onto the scene last year as a sophomore and hauled in 72 receptions for more than 1100 yards and 14 scores. Preston Conder will take over the quarterback position for Brady Attaway who has moved on to the collegiate ranks. Conder is a good athlete whose running ability may add an extra element to the Wildcat’s spread offense. But if the Wildcats are going to advance past the first round of the playoffs they are going to need significant improvement from a defense that gave up 30 points a game in 2008. The Wildcats held only one team under 20 points all season. Nine starters return on the defensive side of the ball so improvement should be in the cards. Joey Gautney and Danny Laastad will anchor the defensive front and Logan Taylor, Chad Lewis and Connor Cashion will form a solid linebacking unit. Quincy Aldridge and Jermaine Kennedy will lead the secondary. Whitehouse lost two close district games last year to Kilgore and Nacogdoches each on the road. This season the Wildcats get three of their five district games at home. Whitehouse has the talent to go undefeated in the district, but the defense will have to be more consistent.
Kilgore Bulldogs: Coach Mike Vallery’s club won the district championship and advanced to the second round of the playoffs in 2008. But graduation has hit the Bulldogs hard. Gone are runningback Frank Reddic and the entire offensive line. Also gone is defensive end Dominique Jones, who will play for Mack Brown and the Texas Longhorns in 2009. In fact, Kilgore returns only five starters total. Coach Vallery will need to work some magic to get his team ready for what should be a very competitive district. He has some pieces to work with in linebacker Mishaud Austin and lineman Shadow Stokes. The job of replacing Reddic’s rushing production will most likely fall to sophomore Ladarius Anthony. Despite the loss of the majority of last year’s starters, Kilgore should be able to reload for another playoff run. Last year, Kilgore’s only district loss came in week six when the Lindale Eagles surprised the Bulldogs 35-17 in the district opener. In week eight Kilgore used an incredible performance by Frank Reddic and a last second Ryan Bustin field goal to beat Whitehouse 34-31. In 2009, tough district road games against Whitehouse and Nacogdoches may determine whether the Bulldogs get back into the playoffs. Kilgore has made the playoffs 13 of the last 14 years.
Lindale Eagles: The Eagles had a good season last year going 8-3 including 3-2 in district and making it back to the playoffs for the first time since 2005. The Eagles will have to replace most of their offensive skilled position players including their leading passer, leading rusher and leading receiver from a year ago. But the return of multi-talented athlete Matt Brousard will help. Brousard will take over the quarterback position after spending much of last year at wide receiver. An experienced offensive line should also help Broussard ease into his new role. With six players returning from an offense that scored nearly 33 points a game, the offense should be fine. Linebacker Jacob Merriman and safety John Reyzman will lead a solid defense that played well at times last year. Seven starters back on defense including experience in the defensive line could be enough for Lindale to be even better defensively in 2009. Lindale has the luxury of playing three of their five district games at home this year including hosting Whitehouse and Kilgore. But a tough road test at Nacogdoches in week eight and the district finale at Jacksonville could determine Lindale’s playoff fate.
Nacogdoches Dragons: Despite going 6-4 in 2008 the Dragons failed to make the playoffs. In fact, Nacogdoches only has one playoff appearance in the last 16 years. But with a solid running game and a potential star in linebacker Alex Howard, the Dragons may be able to make some noise in district 14-4A in 2009. In order to improve upon an offense that produced 20 points a game in 2008, the Dragons will need to get more production from the quarterback position. Dragon quarterbacks combined to throw 17 interceptions and only seven touchdowns in 2008. Courtney Patton takes over as the Dragons’ signal caller in 2009 after getting a few starts in 2008. Patton’s main target will be tight end LaBryant Johnson who hauled in 16 passes a year ago. Senior wide receiver Jermichael Smith will try to provide a threat on the outside. Junior Jacolby Erwin should handle the bulk of the running duties for the Dragons. The defense, led by linebackers Howard and Javosky Ervin should be a strength. Nacogdoches will host three of their five district opponents in 2009 including Kilgore and Lindale whom the Dragons figure to be battling for playoff positioning.
Jacksonville Indians: The Indians only managed to win three games in 2008 and are 12-29 since 2005. But 2008 was not all bad. Two of those three wins came in district and those two wins were enough to get the Indians in the playoffs. Of Jacksonville’s three district losses, two came by a combined seven points. The only district game that the Indians failed to keep close was the 35-7 loss to district champ Kilgore. If Jacksonville hopes to improve its record from a year ago, the Tribe will have to find a way to score more points after managing only 18 points a game in 2008. Runningback Kendrick Hatton should carry much of the load offensively after rushing for nearly 800 yards and 18 touchdowns a year ago. The defense will be led by linebacker Justin Jones who has led the Indians in tackles each of the last two years. Defensive back Duke Hamilton may move to safety after starting last year at cornerback for the Tribe. Jacksonville returns only seven starters total from last year’s team so help will need to come from a lot of new faces. Talent from an 8-2 JV team should help. The Tribe will face tough district road games against Whitehouse and Kilgore in 2009. But if Jacksonville can take care of business at home against Nacogdoches and Lindale, the Tribe could find themselves back in the playoffs.
Henderson Lions: In 2009, the Lions suffered through their second 1-9 season in the last three years. Henderson has not been to the postseason since 2003 and is 44-61 over the last decade. Veteran coach Dickey Meeks’ club returns 12 starters including six on each side of the ball, none more important than quarterback Tyrell Jenkins. The 6’4” Jenkins threw for more than 1700 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2008 but must cut down on his 14 interceptions. Offensive linemen Justin Boose and Neco Jones, each over 300 pounds, should provide some protection for Jenkins. But the Lions need to find some playmakers if they want to improve an offense that managed only 16 points a game in 2008. Wide receiver Brandon Tatum could be that guy if Jenkins can get him the ball. On defense, Corey Fletcher will anchor the defensive line while Cord Fletcher will lead the linebackers. If the Lions are going to get to the playoffs they are going to have to beat some pretty good teams on the road as they will have to travel to Nacogdoches, Kilgore and Lindale. Henderson may actually be improved this year although it might not translate into more district wins because Nacogdoches and Jacksonville both look to be improved as well. Lion fans may have to wait another season or two before they see their first winning season since 2002.
Predicted Order of Finish for 14-4A:
1. Whitehouse Wildcats
2. Kilgore Bulldogs
3. Lindale Eagles
4. Nacogdoches Dragons
5. Jacksonville Indians
6. Henderson Lions
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The East Texas Report
Join Randy Shortnacy and me as we continue to breakdown the East Texas teams...Randy and I take a look at Class 3A and also go One on One with Scott Surratt of Carthage.
August 12th at 6:oopm
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/The-Old-Coach
August 12th at 6:oopm
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/The-Old-Coach
Monday, August 10, 2009
Whitehouse Wildcats
The Wildcats, who are favored to win District 14-4A, got going on Monday at 7:00am.Whitehouse returns 16 starters from last year's 7-4 playoff team.
The Wildcats will scrimmage Carthage in Whitehouse on August 21st.
Whitehouse opens their schedule at Garland Naaman Forest on August 28th.
Interesting scrimmages right around the corner
It is still almost three weeks until the games start counting for real. But many area teams have already started strapping on the pads and soon those teams will begin pairing off in preseason scrimmages. The old cliché says that scrimmages don’t mean anything and that is true to some extent. But there are things coaches and fans can learn from these early scrimmages. Scrimmages offer fans a preview of how teams are shaping up for the coming season. They provide the athletes with their first chance to test themselves against a “real” opponent. And it allows coaches to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their teams and get those competitive juices flowing.
Area scrimmages begin in earnest on August 15th and continue through the 22nd. There are several interesting matchups around the area. Here is a list of some of my favorites:
Tatum @ Daingerfield (August 15th):
Daingerfield is coming off a 2A state title in 2008. They are returning a bevy of talent at the offensive skilled positions. The Tigers also return 7 starters on defense and will feature a stingy defensive secondary. But there are questions to be answered. Daingerfield must replace all five starters on the offensive line. The Tigers also must replace 3 all-state performers on defense including the linebacking duo of Carl Moore and Julius Hurndon. Who will be the leader of the defense?
Tatum had a run of three state title game appearances come to an abrupt end as they returned to the 3A ranks. Tatum went 5-6 including 2-3 in district but still managed to make the playoffs for the seventh year in a row. Tatum returns 17 starters and 26 lettermen (the most in their district). B.J. Allen is a stud on both sides of the ball. Coach Andy Evans will try to find a way to improve a defense that gave up 34 points a game in 2008. Does Tatum have enough to make a run in the 3A playoffs?
This is a great cross-classification matchup.
Jefferson @ Liberty Eylau (August 15th):
Jefferson has four D1 prospects including defensive end Clarence Lee. The Bulldogs beat White Oak in the first round of the playoffs last year and gave Arp a close game. Many “experts” are high on the Bulldogs in 2009. Do the Bulldogs have a shot at unseating the Daingerfield Tigers as district champs?
Liberty Eylau missed the playoffs in 2008. But the Leopards are the coaches’ pick to win the district in 2009. Are the Leopards really the best team in district 16-3A?
Another matchup pitting a 2A team against a 3A team.
Arp @ Chapel Hill (August 20th):
Arp begins the season ranked #2 in 2A after losing to an eventual state finalist team each of the last two years. Arp returns 13 starters including all-state safety Lavocheya Cooper. But the Tigers must replace quarterback Will Allen and all-state linebacker Garrett Williams. Is this the year for the Tigers?
Chapel Hill has made the playoffs each of the last three years. In 2008, they finished 4-1 in district 17-3A. But can the Bulldogs replace runningback Matthew Tucker? Where will the offensive production come from?
Yet another cross-classification scrimmage that should test both teams.
Troup @ Van (August 20th):
Two teams that return nearly everybody. Troup will contend for a playoff spot in 19-2A. Van looks to make a deep run in the 3A playoffs. Van will have an opportunity to showcase their new state of the art stadium.
Carthage @ Whitehouse (August 21st):
Carthage is coming off a 3A state championship. They must replace SiDarius Blackshire and Dwight Smith. But the Bulldogs still have one of the best offensive lines in East Texas. Can Carthage reload on offense?
Whitehouse is favored to win district 14-4A. The Wildcats return a ton of talent including Trey Metoyer. Preston Conder takes over at quarterback for Brady Attaway. The offense should be explosive. But can the defense improve enough to give the Wildcats a chance in the playoffs?
Longview @ John Tyler (August 21st):
Longview is everybody’s pick to win the 4A state championship. Aaron Johnson, Tyler McCray and company look to get it going.
John Tyler has a chance to win the district 11-5A title. The Lions’ Ashton Dorsey is one of the best defensive tackles in the country.
A good scrimmage between two former district rivals.
Area scrimmages begin in earnest on August 15th and continue through the 22nd. There are several interesting matchups around the area. Here is a list of some of my favorites:
Tatum @ Daingerfield (August 15th):
Daingerfield is coming off a 2A state title in 2008. They are returning a bevy of talent at the offensive skilled positions. The Tigers also return 7 starters on defense and will feature a stingy defensive secondary. But there are questions to be answered. Daingerfield must replace all five starters on the offensive line. The Tigers also must replace 3 all-state performers on defense including the linebacking duo of Carl Moore and Julius Hurndon. Who will be the leader of the defense?
Tatum had a run of three state title game appearances come to an abrupt end as they returned to the 3A ranks. Tatum went 5-6 including 2-3 in district but still managed to make the playoffs for the seventh year in a row. Tatum returns 17 starters and 26 lettermen (the most in their district). B.J. Allen is a stud on both sides of the ball. Coach Andy Evans will try to find a way to improve a defense that gave up 34 points a game in 2008. Does Tatum have enough to make a run in the 3A playoffs?
This is a great cross-classification matchup.
Jefferson @ Liberty Eylau (August 15th):
Jefferson has four D1 prospects including defensive end Clarence Lee. The Bulldogs beat White Oak in the first round of the playoffs last year and gave Arp a close game. Many “experts” are high on the Bulldogs in 2009. Do the Bulldogs have a shot at unseating the Daingerfield Tigers as district champs?
Liberty Eylau missed the playoffs in 2008. But the Leopards are the coaches’ pick to win the district in 2009. Are the Leopards really the best team in district 16-3A?
Another matchup pitting a 2A team against a 3A team.
Arp @ Chapel Hill (August 20th):
Arp begins the season ranked #2 in 2A after losing to an eventual state finalist team each of the last two years. Arp returns 13 starters including all-state safety Lavocheya Cooper. But the Tigers must replace quarterback Will Allen and all-state linebacker Garrett Williams. Is this the year for the Tigers?
Chapel Hill has made the playoffs each of the last three years. In 2008, they finished 4-1 in district 17-3A. But can the Bulldogs replace runningback Matthew Tucker? Where will the offensive production come from?
Yet another cross-classification scrimmage that should test both teams.
Troup @ Van (August 20th):
Two teams that return nearly everybody. Troup will contend for a playoff spot in 19-2A. Van looks to make a deep run in the 3A playoffs. Van will have an opportunity to showcase their new state of the art stadium.
Carthage @ Whitehouse (August 21st):
Carthage is coming off a 3A state championship. They must replace SiDarius Blackshire and Dwight Smith. But the Bulldogs still have one of the best offensive lines in East Texas. Can Carthage reload on offense?
Whitehouse is favored to win district 14-4A. The Wildcats return a ton of talent including Trey Metoyer. Preston Conder takes over at quarterback for Brady Attaway. The offense should be explosive. But can the defense improve enough to give the Wildcats a chance in the playoffs?
Longview @ John Tyler (August 21st):
Longview is everybody’s pick to win the 4A state championship. Aaron Johnson, Tyler McCray and company look to get it going.
John Tyler has a chance to win the district 11-5A title. The Lions’ Ashton Dorsey is one of the best defensive tackles in the country.
A good scrimmage between two former district rivals.
News from around East Texas
Lufkin Panthers begin two-a-days
Longview's King hopes fires still burn
Paris Wildcats hard hitting
Tyler Lee Red Raiders eyeing another district title
District 14-4A Preseason Team
John Tyler Lions hoping to build on last years's success
Jacksonville Indians get back to work
Lindale Eagles elect to spring forward with fall practice
Whitehouse Wildcats' tough non-district schedule
Longview's King hopes fires still burn
Paris Wildcats hard hitting
Tyler Lee Red Raiders eyeing another district title
District 14-4A Preseason Team
John Tyler Lions hoping to build on last years's success
Jacksonville Indians get back to work
Lindale Eagles elect to spring forward with fall practice
Whitehouse Wildcats' tough non-district schedule
Friday, August 7, 2009
Two Aaron's Commit
Longview's Aaron Johnson gave his verbal commitment to play at the University of Houston. Meanwhile another Aaron: Marshall's Aaron Franklin has decided to go north of the border to Oklahoma to play his collegiate ball for Bob Stoops.
Aaron Johnson
Aaron Franklin
East Texas Commits
Aaron Johnson
Aaron Franklin
East Texas Commits
USA Today College Preseason Top 25
The Texas Longhorns are #2 in the the USA Today Preseason Coaches' Poll.
Texas North errr..... Oklahoma is #3.
And TCU is #17.
The Top 25
Texas North errr..... Oklahoma is #3.
And TCU is #17.
The Top 25
Thursday, August 6, 2009
District Preview: 13-AAAA
District 13-4A could be one of the strongest 4A districts in the state. In 2008 Sulphur Springs won the 4A division II state championship and Longview made it to the 4A division I state finals. The district also features perennial East Texas powers Texas High and Marshall. Three of the four playoff teams from a year ago won at least one playoff game. With Longview, Texas High and Sulphur Springs all loaded with talent, the district will be extremely competitive again in 2009.
13-4A Pre-season Predictions:
Longview Lobos: Coming off of last year’s playoff run that took the Lobos all the way to the state finals, Longview is picked by many to win its first state title since 1937. Coach John King returns 12 starters including a number of D1 prospects from last year’s playoff team. On offense, quarterback Aaron Johnson, runningback Tyler McCray and receiver Carey Fortson will lead a very balanced offensive attack for the Lobos. And on defense, defensive linemen Bubba Vactor and Jeremiah Farley will anchor a talented Lobo defense. Longview rolled through district 13 in 2008 and the Lobos are the favorite to win the district again. But, to get back to the state championship game Longview will have to run the gauntlet of a very tough region II that includes teams like Denison, Dallas Carter, Waco Midway and Highland Park.
Texas High Tigers: The Tigers went 9-2 in 2008 including 5-1 in district. However, the highly anticipated district showdown with Longview did not go well for the Tigers. The Lobos jumped on the Tigers early and rolled to a 41-7 victory. There is no question that Coach Barry Norton has September 25th circled on the calendar as the Tigers will play host to the Lobos and will be looking for a little revenge. The Tigers return 9 starters from last year’s team including quarterback and Oklahoma State commit Nathan Sorenson. Sorenson’s favorite target from last year, Cobi Hamilton, has moved on to the collegiate level. But, wide receiver Montrae Williams will try to pick up the slack. Big offensive lineman Ben Jackson will be charged with the task of keeping Sorenson on his feet. Texas High will be looking ahead and trying to reel in the Lobos while at the same time looking behind them and trying to hold off a talented Sulphur Springs team for the second spot.
Sulphur Springs Wildcats: Ask Wildcats’ head coach Greg Owens what was the hardest thing about winning the first state championship in school history and he might tell you just getting out of his own district. The Wildcats went 14-2 and captured the 4A division II state championship in 2008. The Cats’ only losses came to district foes Texas High and Longview. Sulphur Springs also needed a shootout victory over Marshall (57-36) and a nail-biter over Hallsville (28-24) just to secure a playoff spot. Once in the playoffs the Wildcats put up gaudy offensive numbers in route to the state championship. The offense will have to replace dynamic quarterback Tyrik Rollison (Auburn) and runningback Ryan Young (Air Force). But the offense returns plenty of talent including a huge offensive line led by Beau Carpenter, Mason Y’Barbo and Alex Peek. The defense is loaded as well with Texas commit Bryant Jackson in the secondary and Texas Tech commit Kedrick Dial on the defensive line. The Wildcats will once again be a playoff team in 2009.
Marshall Mavericks: The Mavericks were back in the postseason in 2008 for the fourth time in five years. Marshall was 3-3 in district in 2008 with the three losses all coming against the other three playoff teams in the district. If the Mavericks are going to overtake any of those three teams they will need the services of linebacker Aaron Franklin. Franklin is one of the most highly recruited linebackers in the state despite missing his entire junior season with torn ligaments in his knee. At 6’1” and 210 pounds Franklin has legitimate 4.5 speed in the forty and runs a sub 22 second 200 meter. Having a healthy Franklin back should help the Mavericks improve on a defense that surrendered 27 points a game last year. Marshall should have enough to make the playoffs and could challenge for the third spot in the district.
Hallsville Bobcats: Coach David Plunk’s Bobcats were 2-3 in district and missed the playoffs for the second straight year. But there were some bright spots for the Bobcats beginning with a defense that led the district in points allowed. Hallsville also played very competitive games against Longview and Sulphur Springs, losing 21-7 and 28-24 respectively. But, with the fewest returning starters of any team in the district (7) it may be difficult to improve on last year’s five wins. Look for more of the same from Hallsville this year: a five win season and a fifth place finish in the district.
Pine Tree Pirates: Not much went right for the Pirates in 2008. Pine Tree was 2-8 overall and 0-6 in district. New coach Huey Chancellor will look to get the Pirates back in the playoffs for the first time since 2001. Coach Chancellor has ten returning starters with which to work his magic. Mark Malone and Dominique Webb could share the running duties and Tyler Kids will handle the quarterback position. On defense, Steven Hawkins should be solid up front and Evan Kokenzie will move from defensive back to outside linebacker. The Pirates have an uphill battle to get into the playoffs in such a loaded district. But with 114 wins in his 14 seasons at Bellville, Coach Chancellor brings a winning resume to Pine Tree. Better days may be ahead for the Pirates.
Mount Pleasant Tigers: The Tigers have not won more than 6 games in a season since 1997. And with only eight starters returning from last year’s 3-7 team, the trend may not end anytime soon. To make matters worse, the Tigers lost their two best players on offense (WR – Roman Hurndon and QB Terrell Howard) and their two best players on defense (LB – Tevin Elliott and DL Tremaine Elliott) to graduation. It could be a long season for the Tigers.
Predicted Order of Finish for 13-4A:
1. Longview Lobos
2. Texarkana Texas High Tigers
3. Sulphur Springs Wildcats
4. Marshall Mavericks
5. Hallsville Bobcats
6. Longview Pine Tree Pirates
7. Mount Pleasant Tigers
13-4A Pre-season Predictions:
Longview Lobos: Coming off of last year’s playoff run that took the Lobos all the way to the state finals, Longview is picked by many to win its first state title since 1937. Coach John King returns 12 starters including a number of D1 prospects from last year’s playoff team. On offense, quarterback Aaron Johnson, runningback Tyler McCray and receiver Carey Fortson will lead a very balanced offensive attack for the Lobos. And on defense, defensive linemen Bubba Vactor and Jeremiah Farley will anchor a talented Lobo defense. Longview rolled through district 13 in 2008 and the Lobos are the favorite to win the district again. But, to get back to the state championship game Longview will have to run the gauntlet of a very tough region II that includes teams like Denison, Dallas Carter, Waco Midway and Highland Park.
Texas High Tigers: The Tigers went 9-2 in 2008 including 5-1 in district. However, the highly anticipated district showdown with Longview did not go well for the Tigers. The Lobos jumped on the Tigers early and rolled to a 41-7 victory. There is no question that Coach Barry Norton has September 25th circled on the calendar as the Tigers will play host to the Lobos and will be looking for a little revenge. The Tigers return 9 starters from last year’s team including quarterback and Oklahoma State commit Nathan Sorenson. Sorenson’s favorite target from last year, Cobi Hamilton, has moved on to the collegiate level. But, wide receiver Montrae Williams will try to pick up the slack. Big offensive lineman Ben Jackson will be charged with the task of keeping Sorenson on his feet. Texas High will be looking ahead and trying to reel in the Lobos while at the same time looking behind them and trying to hold off a talented Sulphur Springs team for the second spot.
Sulphur Springs Wildcats: Ask Wildcats’ head coach Greg Owens what was the hardest thing about winning the first state championship in school history and he might tell you just getting out of his own district. The Wildcats went 14-2 and captured the 4A division II state championship in 2008. The Cats’ only losses came to district foes Texas High and Longview. Sulphur Springs also needed a shootout victory over Marshall (57-36) and a nail-biter over Hallsville (28-24) just to secure a playoff spot. Once in the playoffs the Wildcats put up gaudy offensive numbers in route to the state championship. The offense will have to replace dynamic quarterback Tyrik Rollison (Auburn) and runningback Ryan Young (Air Force). But the offense returns plenty of talent including a huge offensive line led by Beau Carpenter, Mason Y’Barbo and Alex Peek. The defense is loaded as well with Texas commit Bryant Jackson in the secondary and Texas Tech commit Kedrick Dial on the defensive line. The Wildcats will once again be a playoff team in 2009.
Marshall Mavericks: The Mavericks were back in the postseason in 2008 for the fourth time in five years. Marshall was 3-3 in district in 2008 with the three losses all coming against the other three playoff teams in the district. If the Mavericks are going to overtake any of those three teams they will need the services of linebacker Aaron Franklin. Franklin is one of the most highly recruited linebackers in the state despite missing his entire junior season with torn ligaments in his knee. At 6’1” and 210 pounds Franklin has legitimate 4.5 speed in the forty and runs a sub 22 second 200 meter. Having a healthy Franklin back should help the Mavericks improve on a defense that surrendered 27 points a game last year. Marshall should have enough to make the playoffs and could challenge for the third spot in the district.
Hallsville Bobcats: Coach David Plunk’s Bobcats were 2-3 in district and missed the playoffs for the second straight year. But there were some bright spots for the Bobcats beginning with a defense that led the district in points allowed. Hallsville also played very competitive games against Longview and Sulphur Springs, losing 21-7 and 28-24 respectively. But, with the fewest returning starters of any team in the district (7) it may be difficult to improve on last year’s five wins. Look for more of the same from Hallsville this year: a five win season and a fifth place finish in the district.
Pine Tree Pirates: Not much went right for the Pirates in 2008. Pine Tree was 2-8 overall and 0-6 in district. New coach Huey Chancellor will look to get the Pirates back in the playoffs for the first time since 2001. Coach Chancellor has ten returning starters with which to work his magic. Mark Malone and Dominique Webb could share the running duties and Tyler Kids will handle the quarterback position. On defense, Steven Hawkins should be solid up front and Evan Kokenzie will move from defensive back to outside linebacker. The Pirates have an uphill battle to get into the playoffs in such a loaded district. But with 114 wins in his 14 seasons at Bellville, Coach Chancellor brings a winning resume to Pine Tree. Better days may be ahead for the Pirates.
Mount Pleasant Tigers: The Tigers have not won more than 6 games in a season since 1997. And with only eight starters returning from last year’s 3-7 team, the trend may not end anytime soon. To make matters worse, the Tigers lost their two best players on offense (WR – Roman Hurndon and QB Terrell Howard) and their two best players on defense (LB – Tevin Elliott and DL Tremaine Elliott) to graduation. It could be a long season for the Tigers.
Predicted Order of Finish for 13-4A:
1. Longview Lobos
2. Texarkana Texas High Tigers
3. Sulphur Springs Wildcats
4. Marshall Mavericks
5. Hallsville Bobcats
6. Longview Pine Tree Pirates
7. Mount Pleasant Tigers
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Longview #49 on RivalsHigh 100
The Longview Lobos are #49 on rivalshigh.com's list of the top 100 high school teams in the nation.
Rivals High 100
The Lobos are the #1 ranked 4A team in Texas.
Rivals High 100
The Lobos are the #1 ranked 4A team in Texas.
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