Check out the photos here.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
White Oak Roughnecks Preview
District: 18-2A
Head Coach: Tracy Blankenship
2008 Season Record: 8-3, 6-1 (Class 2A Division I Bi-District Finalist)
The drop in classification served White Oak well in 2008 as the Roughnecks matched their win total from the previous three years combined and made the playoffs for the first time since 2005. This year the Roughnecks will have to find a way to replace 4 all-state players (OL Taylor Tarr, OL Barrett Blankenship, LB Trevor Wait and RB Orlando Humble) from their 8-3 district championship team. The Roughnecks return 5 starters on each side of the ball including a pair of 1000 yard rushers.
Opposing teams had trouble slowing down the Roughnecks’ Slot T offense last year. White Oak averaged better than 42 points a game and did their damage almost exclusively on the ground. The Roughnecks had three runners go over 1000 yards in 2008: Orlando Humble (1458 yards 24 tds); Jackson McCurdy (1150 yard 11 tds); and Junior Hamilton (1179 yards 14 tds). Humble has moved on to Navarro College but Hamilton and McCurdy return and will form a formidable backfield tandem.
The quarterback position is a little less clear as there may be a log jam at the position. Connor Sharp was named 18-2A offensive newcomer of the year even though he split time with Austin Tubbs in 2008. Sharp and Tubbs may again split time behind center and Joey Dykes might see some time as the Roughneck signal caller as well.
The Roughnecks will need to fill some holes on the offensive line left by the departure of Tarr and Blankenship. Brandon Heim (second team all-district) and Ben Adams are not a bad place to start. And newcomer Randall Bernathy should help solidify the line.
Five starters return from a defense that allowed less than 16 points a game last year. All-state linebacker Trevor Wait will be hard to replace but linebackers Adam Thompson (128 tackles) and Logan King (78 tackles) should be up to the challenge. Defensive end Skylar Barnes (73 tackles) and defensive tackle Josh Lettow (2 sacks) will help lead the defensive line. The secondary will be led by cornerback Josh Spedowski.
The Roughnecks allowed more than 21 points only once in 2008, but the defense picked a terrible time to have their worst showing of the season giving up 39 points in their playoff loss to Jefferson.
18-2A is a solid district that featured five teams with at least six wins in 2008. White Oak’s first district game against Harmony could wind up being for the district championship.
White Oak has gone a decade without a playoff win, but a solid group of returning starters and help from an undefeated JV team could help the Roughnecks get out of the first round for the first time since 1998. Region III may be the strongest region in the state so a deep playoff run will be difficult.
Head Coach: Tracy Blankenship
2008 Season Record: 8-3, 6-1 (Class 2A Division I Bi-District Finalist)
The drop in classification served White Oak well in 2008 as the Roughnecks matched their win total from the previous three years combined and made the playoffs for the first time since 2005. This year the Roughnecks will have to find a way to replace 4 all-state players (OL Taylor Tarr, OL Barrett Blankenship, LB Trevor Wait and RB Orlando Humble) from their 8-3 district championship team. The Roughnecks return 5 starters on each side of the ball including a pair of 1000 yard rushers.
Opposing teams had trouble slowing down the Roughnecks’ Slot T offense last year. White Oak averaged better than 42 points a game and did their damage almost exclusively on the ground. The Roughnecks had three runners go over 1000 yards in 2008: Orlando Humble (1458 yards 24 tds); Jackson McCurdy (1150 yard 11 tds); and Junior Hamilton (1179 yards 14 tds). Humble has moved on to Navarro College but Hamilton and McCurdy return and will form a formidable backfield tandem.
The quarterback position is a little less clear as there may be a log jam at the position. Connor Sharp was named 18-2A offensive newcomer of the year even though he split time with Austin Tubbs in 2008. Sharp and Tubbs may again split time behind center and Joey Dykes might see some time as the Roughneck signal caller as well.
The Roughnecks will need to fill some holes on the offensive line left by the departure of Tarr and Blankenship. Brandon Heim (second team all-district) and Ben Adams are not a bad place to start. And newcomer Randall Bernathy should help solidify the line.
Five starters return from a defense that allowed less than 16 points a game last year. All-state linebacker Trevor Wait will be hard to replace but linebackers Adam Thompson (128 tackles) and Logan King (78 tackles) should be up to the challenge. Defensive end Skylar Barnes (73 tackles) and defensive tackle Josh Lettow (2 sacks) will help lead the defensive line. The secondary will be led by cornerback Josh Spedowski.
The Roughnecks allowed more than 21 points only once in 2008, but the defense picked a terrible time to have their worst showing of the season giving up 39 points in their playoff loss to Jefferson.
18-2A is a solid district that featured five teams with at least six wins in 2008. White Oak’s first district game against Harmony could wind up being for the district championship.
White Oak has gone a decade without a playoff win, but a solid group of returning starters and help from an undefeated JV team could help the Roughnecks get out of the first round for the first time since 1998. Region III may be the strongest region in the state so a deep playoff run will be difficult.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Troup Tigers Preview
19AA
John Eastman
4-7 (3-2) D2 Bi-district Finalist
Der’rikk Thompson did everything but wash the team uniforms for the Troup Tigers in 2008. But chances are that if Coach John Eastman had asked him to do that too Thompson would have done it with a smile and the uniforms would have come out cleaner than ever before. The 5’11” 188 pound Thompson played several positions for the Tigers including cornerback, wide receiver, slot back, kick returner, and punt returner and helped a very young Troup team make the playoffs last year. With 19 starters returning Troup could be one of the most improved 2A teams in the state.
Troup returns ten starters on offense and will feature a big offensive line and some very talented skilled position players. The Tigers will look to get the ball in Thompson’s hands as often as possible. The SMU commit may be one of the fastest players in the state. He claims a personal best 4.37 in the 40 yard dash and a 10.5 100 meter time. Thompson will line up mostly as a slot receiver but will also run the ball from the slot back position. But, Thompson may be most dangerous as a kick returner having taken seven kickoffs back for scores last year.
While Thompson may get most of the attention, he is not the only threat for the Tigers. Runningbacks Ryan Nichols and Cody Lepelley are capable runners who will force defenses to respect the run. And Quarterback Tyler Davis will have three quality targets to throw to in Thompson, wide receiver Chance Tosh and tight end Jeremy Richardson.
Troup’s offensive line will be the engine that makes the machine go. Ethan Isaacs, Patrick Alonzo, and C.J. Deason will help form a very impressive line for the Tigers.
If the Tigers hope to significantly improve their record from a year ago, the defense, which gave up more than 26 points a game, will have to play much better. With nine starters back on the defensive side of the ball, improvement is likely. Two-way starter, Richardson will anchor the defensive line and help lead an experienced Tiger defense. Taylor Beaty and Caleb Gipson will head up a solid linebacking corps. And Thompson may move from cornerback to free safety for his senior campaign, which will give the Tigers a defensive play-maker in the middle of the field.
Troup started slowly in 2008 but came on toward the end of the year. The Tigers hope to take further strides in 2009. Troup will have enough talent to claim a playoff spot out of district 19AA but probably will not have enough to knock off reigning district champ, Arp. Nonetheless, Coach Eastman’s Troup Tigers should be back in the playoffs for the ninth time in the last 11 years. With the experience of 19 returning starters, Troup might even be able to pick up a couple playoff victories. But region III is very strong so getting any deeper than 3 rounds will take a monumental effort.
John Eastman
4-7 (3-2) D2 Bi-district Finalist
Der’rikk Thompson did everything but wash the team uniforms for the Troup Tigers in 2008. But chances are that if Coach John Eastman had asked him to do that too Thompson would have done it with a smile and the uniforms would have come out cleaner than ever before. The 5’11” 188 pound Thompson played several positions for the Tigers including cornerback, wide receiver, slot back, kick returner, and punt returner and helped a very young Troup team make the playoffs last year. With 19 starters returning Troup could be one of the most improved 2A teams in the state.
Troup returns ten starters on offense and will feature a big offensive line and some very talented skilled position players. The Tigers will look to get the ball in Thompson’s hands as often as possible. The SMU commit may be one of the fastest players in the state. He claims a personal best 4.37 in the 40 yard dash and a 10.5 100 meter time. Thompson will line up mostly as a slot receiver but will also run the ball from the slot back position. But, Thompson may be most dangerous as a kick returner having taken seven kickoffs back for scores last year.
While Thompson may get most of the attention, he is not the only threat for the Tigers. Runningbacks Ryan Nichols and Cody Lepelley are capable runners who will force defenses to respect the run. And Quarterback Tyler Davis will have three quality targets to throw to in Thompson, wide receiver Chance Tosh and tight end Jeremy Richardson.
Troup’s offensive line will be the engine that makes the machine go. Ethan Isaacs, Patrick Alonzo, and C.J. Deason will help form a very impressive line for the Tigers.
If the Tigers hope to significantly improve their record from a year ago, the defense, which gave up more than 26 points a game, will have to play much better. With nine starters back on the defensive side of the ball, improvement is likely. Two-way starter, Richardson will anchor the defensive line and help lead an experienced Tiger defense. Taylor Beaty and Caleb Gipson will head up a solid linebacking corps. And Thompson may move from cornerback to free safety for his senior campaign, which will give the Tigers a defensive play-maker in the middle of the field.
Troup started slowly in 2008 but came on toward the end of the year. The Tigers hope to take further strides in 2009. Troup will have enough talent to claim a playoff spot out of district 19AA but probably will not have enough to knock off reigning district champ, Arp. Nonetheless, Coach Eastman’s Troup Tigers should be back in the playoffs for the ninth time in the last 11 years. With the experience of 19 returning starters, Troup might even be able to pick up a couple playoff victories. But region III is very strong so getting any deeper than 3 rounds will take a monumental effort.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Daingerfield - Wills Point to Scrimmage in Whitehouse
Daingerfield and Wills Point will scrimmage on Friday, August 21st in Whitehouse. The 9th grade and JV will start at 9:00am followed by the Varsity at 10:00am. This will be both teams' final tuneup before the regular season begins. Both teams scrimmaged on Saturday with Daingerfield facing Tatum and Wills Point scrimmaging Chapel Hill.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
News From Around East Texas
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
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
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
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