Football
2009 KFYN High School Football Previews
By Tyler Clifton
KFYN Sports Director
Bells Panthers--District 11-2A
BELLS - Don't know how tough District 11-2A football is? All you have to
do is ask anyone associated with the Bells football program...
Head coach Charles Boles received a rude welcome in his first year at the helm, and the end result was a 0-10 record and 0-7 mark in district play despite having plenty of individual talent in Cody Vaughn, Reid Klose and
Ryan Klose.
Jordan Dabney and Josh Neal man the front line at defensive tackle along with ends Ross Brown and Kolby Milner. David Danes can back up any of the four up front and should see plenty of action.
Josh Fagan and Zack Wornhor surround middle linebacker Devin Bailey on the outside, with Pate Pritchard also seeing time.
Max Morris and Cody Stern are the Panthers' starting cornerbacks with Josh Copley and Nate Neal occupying the safety spots.
"We're a young, very enthusiastic defense," Boles said. "It's a very smart, intelligent group with not a whole lot of varsity experience."Boles is counting on his defense adjusting from week to week.
Bells suffered one significant piece of bad news after losing starting quarterback Brennan Haase to a broken femur during the first 15 plays of its scrimmage, forcing Boles to go to a platoon system of Milner and Bud
Pedigo.
Fagan will line up at running back, and the Panthers have plenty of receiving options in Morris, Neal, Stern and Wornhor.
"We've had to change our philosophies on offense," Boles said. "Whereas we've always been under center, we're now a one-back spread out of the shotgun. It better suits the types of kids we have, because Brennan was a traditional quarterback with a big, strong arm. We now have to be more
multipal, but we have a good mix of runners and receivers."
The offensive line is also young, but none of the starting five is a senior which should help Bells establish some form of continuity up front.
Tackle David Dane and guard Dillon Archer on the left side, center Dillon
Siimpson and the right side of guard Dabney and tackle Josh Neal give the Panthers a quintet averaging 255 pounds. Pritchard is the primary backup.
"The best part of our offensive line is the fact they're huge and incredibly smart," Boles said. "They're able to do a lot of things, but our main luxury is their intelligence."
Copley will handle Bells' kicking duties, and Milner is the punter.
"I think we have the potential to be very good offensively," Boles said.
"We moved the ball well in our scrimmages, and our first team offense averaged nine yards a play. If we can take care of the football, I feel we can be a hard group to stop.”
Members of Bells’ 10-0 junior varsity team making the jump tothe varsity level as well.
"We have young kids who know how to win and some older kids who can provide us some tremendous leadership," Boles said. "They all have an incredible work ethic, and if we can find a way to put it all together, I feel we can be dangerous."
Boles also stressed what he feels is the most important aspect of his
2009 team - chemistry.
"It's something you didn't see here last year," Boles said. "I think the underlying factor is how we have such a tight group who cares about each other and will fight, bleed and sweat for one another. That's big."
One thing Bells also knows is the fact it's going to have to come to play each and every week in the competitive world of District 11-2A while at the same time keeping mistakes to a minimum.
"We have to play well every week and get through the season without any more injuries," Boles said. "If we can do that, we can be a tough team."
Bells 2009 Schedule
**Aug. 27 Savoy
Sept. 4 Chisum
Sept.. 11 at Era
Sept. 25 *at Gunter
Oct. 2 *Whitewright (Homecoming)
Oct.. 9 *Howe
Oct. 16 *at Honey Grove
Oct. 23 *Leonard
Oct. 30 *at Melissa
Nov. 6 *at Tom Bean
**Thursday game
Celina Bobcats--District 9-3A
CELINA – The numbers speak for themselves, 68 straight wins, 25 consecutive playoff victories, four state championships in a row and eight overall. Celina is a yearly title contender, and despite being humbled by district rival Prosper in 2008, only Carthage prevented the Bobcats from giving 9-3A two champions.
“From our standpoint, we’re more concerned to see if we’re going to be any good or not,” coach Butch Ford said. “We have a hard schedule and are away for a lot of it with only three home games.”
A district Most Valuable Player candidate leads the defense in Oklahoma State commit Caleb Lavey (197 tackles, five sacks), who is a four-year starter and forms a solid 1-2 punch at linebacker with Jay Perez (98 tackles, four sacks). The other linebacker spot was up for grabs entering the season opener Thursday against Ferris at University of North Texas’ Fouts Field in Denton.
Cody Sandler and Tanner Franklin occupy the two defensive end spots, with tackle up for grabs for Sawyer Levit and others.
David Arogunmati is the Bobcats’ top returning cover man at cornerback and forms half of a rather potent secondary along with junior free safety Jose Romero.
“I feel like we’re stronger than we were last year with seven kids back defensively,” Ford said. “We did feel out-matched at times, but I feel we have a chance to perform well.”
Quarterback Cody Worrell (86 of 154, 1,278 yards, nine interceptions, 17 touchdowns passing; 166 carries, 1,029 yards, 14 touchdowns rushing) is another strong MVP candidate. He is joined in the backfield by running back Romero, a three-year starter, with sophomore Jamarcus Simmons also seeing time as he did in 2008 as a freshman.
They are protected by an offensive line of sophomore strong tackle Jordan Roos, guards Ryan Lohman and center Gomer Wilson. Guard John Jackson will miss some time with a fractured collarbone, while the decision for the other tackle spot went down to the wire.
Sander will also see time offensively at fullback.
Tight end Justin Brumfield and split end Cody Rhodes give Worrell a pair of talented passing options.
“We’re not really where we need to be offensively,” Ford said. “We’re going to have to do some scoring, and I hope we can.”
Alex Juarez, a kid Ford calls “120 pounds of dynamite” is the Bobcats’ kicker, and Garrett Stephenson is the punter.
Nothing short of a state championship is expected each and every year at Celina, and the Bobcats look to get back to their customary game in late December and come out on the winning end after falling short last year against Carthage in the final high school game at Texas Stadium.
“Argyle is just as good as Prosper this year, and there are three really strong teams in our district,” Ford said. “Gainesville is the most improved team to me, and Sanger is the biggest school and has plenty of talent. Whitesboro has some good athletes as well.”
Celina 2009 Schedule
**Aug. 27 at Ferris
Sept. 4 at Trinity Christian Academy
Sept. 11 at Daingerfield
Sept. 18 at Fort Worth Arlington Heights
Sept. 25 Whitehouse
Oct. 9 *at Sanger
Oct. 16 *Prosper (Homecoming)
Oct. 23 *at Gainesville
Oct. 30 *Whitesboro
Nov. 6 *at Argyle
**Thursday game
Bonham Warriors--DISTRICT 10-3A
BONHAM – One small step was taken in 2008, and the Bonham football team wants to take a giant leap on the 40th anniversary of man’s first step on the moon.
The Warriors won three games a year ago after going winless in 2007. There is a new head coach in alum Dale Trompler along with a new sense of optimism started by his predecessor John Hall.
Trompler returns to where it all began, and he hopes it’s a place he can stay forever.
“I’m back in my hometown where I grew up, and it makes things even more special for me,” Trompler said. “This is the ultimate coaching position for me.”
Five starters return on both sides of the ball, including senior quarterback Kyle Washington, who returns with one year of experience under his belt. He’s expected to lead the offense and will throw the football more than he did one year ago.
“Kyle is a great athlete, and we hope to utilize his talents,” Trompler said. “It’s a situation where he’ll have to learn on the fly, and he’ll be a big key to our success.”
Washington’s favorite target is back in tight end T.J. King, with fellow seniors Breelan Dunlap, Blaine Dunlap and Jake Wilson and junior Hunter Herriage all in the mix.
“Kids want an opportunity to touch the football, and we have a large bunch of attractive offensive skill kids,” Trompler said.
A trio of seniors lead the offensive line in guard Jacob Wheeler, center James Talley and tackle Jeff Williamson. Sophomores Will Baker (tackle) and Jonathan Cook (guard) will also start, with seniors Aaron Butner and Ethan Fox and Chris Rice also seeing time.
They hope to pave the way for junior running back Josh Price and three others who are expected to receive carries in senior Chase Gregory, junior Lane Fox and sophomore Braylon Mitchell.
“It took some time for our guys to adjust after changing our mindset when it comes to what we do offensively,” Trompler said. “We’re going to throw the football more, and we have the skill, but it’s all about the intricacies and timing in the passing game.”
Williamson (62 tackles in 2008) and Rich are at the defensive tackle spots, as is sophomore Cody Austin, who will rotate with the other two. Seniors T.J. King and Jacob Wheeler will get a majority of the reps at defensive end.
Senior Michael Hubbard leads the way at middle linebacker and is flanked by Lane Fox. Price and sophomore Levi Haggard will split time at the other outside position.
Senior Daine Dunlap is the strong safety, with junior Josh Samford at free safety. Breelan Dunlap and junior Dalton Cagle are the cornerbacks.
“We’re trying to simplify things defensively, and our new defensive coordinator (Brad) Hill has done a good job with our guys. It’s all about playing instinctively, running to the football and attacking the offense. We want our kids to play with enthusiasm and hustle.”
Dakota Harris and Washington are the leading candidates at kicker with Lane Fox and King doing the same at punter.
A win in their District 10-3A opener against Van Alstyne could pay dividends for the Warriors, who must defeat the Panthers or one of the Paris schools to have a shot at a post-season berth.
“Paris is going to be tough due to numbers alone,” Trompler said. “North Lamar and Van Alstyne have strong teams, but there’s no reason we shouldn’t be in the mix as well.”
Bonham 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Callisburg
Sept. 4 Sanger
Sept. 11 at Clarksville
Sept. 18 vs. Whitesboro (Homecoming)
Sept. 25 at Nevada Community
Oct. 9 *Van Alstyne
Oct.. 16 *at Commerce
Oct. 23 *North Lamar
Oct. 30 *at Paris
Nov. 6 *Anna (Senior Night)
Anna Coyotes
ANNA – There is nowhere to go but up for the Anna football program, and although the Coyotes are in a rather unenviable position when it comes to being in Class 3A, the town isn’t getting any smaller.
It’s a home Anna should get used to, and first-year head coach Curran McMahon looks to make the necessary adjustments to help bring this program to respectability.
The Coyotes are a combined 3-27 the last three seasons and are hoping to avoid another last-place finish.
The junior varsity team won four of its nine games in 2008, so there is some talent ready to compete at the varsity level with only seven starters returning.
“This is my first opportunity as a head coach after working at Coppell in the mid 90s under Kevin Harris, and when the job came up and I first got here, I was tickled to see how eager the kids were,” McMahon said. “They’re ready for a change, and we’re trying to simplify our scheme to allow our guys to play faster. Their hearts are with us, but we’ve got to get the level of execution up.”
Darian Gipson-Jackson, Joe Moreno and C.J. Wright man the front line in front of linebackers led by Andrew Smith and sophomore Cameron Williamson. Lloyd Jacobs headlines the secondary along with cornerbacks Devonte Horton and Mark Jackson.
“We’re young and are going to have six sophomores out there,” McMahon said. “They’re coming from a successful freshman season and are out there for a reason. I expect a lot of heart, hustle and execution from our defense. There are some things needing to be shored up, but it’s all about hustling to the football and giving their best effort.”
Anna runs out of the Wing-T and needs to have its running game working on all cylinders with leading tailback Matt Williams and quarterback Cory Medders. Jackson is the top returning receiver.
Honorable-mention All-District offensive linemen Austin Bailey and Cody Powell along with Jonathan Elliott and tight end Brandon Garrett must play well up front.
“I expect us to pick up our level of execution offensively with heart and hustle,” McMahon said. “Those things are the difference when it comes to being successful. Our freshmen and junior varsity both had successful seasons in 2008, and we’re laying the groundwork with those kids.”
District 10-3A play will be tough right off the bat with a home game against Van Alstyne separating trips to North Lamar and Paris (the three district favorites).
“It makes for some pretty interesting football,” said McMahon, who was once an interim head coach at Richardson on having four new head coaches in district. “Anytime you change things, it becomes invigorating. Van Alstyne will probably be the most stable through its transition, because it’s running the same system. Everybody else is new.”
Anna 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Chisum
Sept. 4 at Tom Bean
Sept. 11 Melissa (Homecoming)
Sept. 18 at Princeton
Sept. 25 Lovejoy
Oct. 9 *at North Lamar
Oct. 16 *Van Alstyne
Oct. 23 *at Paris
Oct. 30 *Commerce
Nov. 6 *at Bonham
Van Alstyne Panthers
VAN ALSTYNE – The fact Van Alstyne had to play Celina in the first round of the 2008 playoffs didn’t dampen the players’ spirits after a five-game turnaround from a two-win season of 2007.
Brian Polk left the program in good hands for heir apparent Mikeal Miller, who inherits a team that won seven of its first nine games and played for a district title on the final night of the regular season.
“We’re very excited with a good group of kids coming back,” said Miller, who moved up to head coach from his offensive coordinator position.
Van Alstyne is particularly strong in two areas, including at wide receiver, where the quartet of Chance Grayson, Preston Beall, Soloman Biscarro and Tanner Neill is all back from a productive 2008. The one difference is the fact they’ll have a different quarterback throwing them the football.
Senior Chris Burge had some injuries a year ago but started every game at cornerback and now takes over at quarterback for Jake Willingham, last year’s District Most Valuable Player.
“You don’t replace the district MVP with just anybody,” Miller said. “Chris is a leader and the type of kid his teammates will respect. There’s no doubt he can get the job done, and our wide receivers give us more skill players back than we’ve had in years past.”
Senior running backs Orion Thomas and Tyler Kuster along with sophomore Jordan Barnes attempt to rack up the yardage behind a line led three seniors in Shane Jones (who moves from tackle to center), left tackle Lucas Love and left guard Mason Braddock. Three players could see action on the right side in senior Zach Vickers, sophomore Manuel Monge and freshman Alex Mayes.
“It all depends on how well our linemen block up front,” Miller said. “Hopefully we’ll be able to move the ball and will do some things differently than we have in the past. We don’t have a whole lot of skill kids back, but we do have some guys who can make some good things happen when they have the ball in their hands.”
Inside linebackers David Goodenow and Braddock return defensively, with the two outside spots expected to be run by committee. A.J. Williams, Shane Wheeler, Jeremy Brennan, Austin Rogers and Kuster are all vying for the two open starting spots.
Biscarro and Grayson, the team’s top two all-around threats and second-team All-District selections in 2008, will start at cornerback and free safety, respectively. Beall and Neill could both see action at the other cornerback spot, while Barnes is the leading candidate at strong safety.
The front line entered the season as a potential question mark, but Zach Thrash and Vickers seemed to have cemented their roles at nose guard and end, respectively. Patrick Presley is the leading candidate at the other end position.
Biscarro is the Panthers’ punter, and four kickers were competing for the starting spot as of the team’s second scrimmage last week, leaving Van Alstyne to attempt two-point conversions after touchdowns if none of them come to the forefront.
“Most of our kids who play in the secondary are back, and our linebackers should be pretty good,” Miller said. “Our defensive line is hoping to build off what it did last year.”
Four of the Panthers’ five non-district games are at home, including a pair of district champions in Paradise (9-2A) and Farmersville (13-3A and 2007 Class 2A Region I state champion) along with playoff participant Bowie.
District play begins with road trips to Bonham and Anna in what should end up being another fight to the finish for a potential district championship.
“Obviously the two Paris schools are going to be in the mix, but I’ve said this to everybody about how Anna had some great young teams coming up,” Miller said. “Bonham has some really good athletes, and I feel it’s just a matter of time before they get things in the right direction. Commerce has some new athletes and personnel, and I’ve heard nothing but good things about them. It’s going to be a dog fight every week.”
Van Alstyne 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Paradise
Sept. 4 Quinlan Ford
Sept. 11 at Howe
Sept. 18 Farmersville
Sept. 25 Bowie (Homecoming)
Oct. 9 *at Bonham
Oct. 16 *at Anna
Oct. 23 *Commerce
Oct. 30 *at North Lamar
Nov. 6 *Paris
Commerce Tigers
COMMERCE – A football program familiar with winning state championships coming off a combined 3-17 record the last two seasons leaves Commerce vying for more.
The Tigers advanced to the state final every other year from 1995-2001, finishing runner-up the first two times before winning titles in their other two appearances. Those memories become more distant as each year passes, but new coach Scott Wells attempts to begin another successful run before the end of the decade.
“We’re pleased with our progress, but there’s still a long way to go overall,” Wells said. “The kids are doing the things we ask of them and are practicing at a fast-paced tempo. They’re progressing the way we like entering our season opener against Canton.”
The Tigers’ offense begins up front with the line of Andrew Nelson and Kyle Woodson at guards, center John McKenna and tackles Michael Bruce and Kody Miles. Wells said the offense’s success will depend on how well the line performs.
They will block for sophomore running back Jurace Brown, who is the team’s top two-way threat, and although he officially touched the ball only 14 times as a freshman receiver and defensive back (seven receptions, seven interceptions) he scored four times.
Senior quarterback Terrence Walker looks to get a full season under his belt after playing only two games last year after breaking his femur in against Gunter in Week 2.
The senior trio of RJ Harrison, Chris Brown and Evan Chapin are Walker’s top three receiving options, with seniors Shae Gwin and Kyle Putman lining up at tight end.
Wells cautioned about his team’s necessity to not worry so much about the other opponent and more about what it does and how it performs on a weekly basis.
“We’re not going to be too fancy, and it all comes down to how well we block on the line,” Wells said. “Our biggest opponent right now is us, and our job is to go play.”
Nelson is the top returning defensive lineman at tackle, with seniors Barry Askew, Cameron Nelson and Putnam sharing time at the end spots.
Gwin is the top returning linebacker and is joined by sophomore Gabe Conner. Chapin and Chris Brown are the cornerbacks, while Jurace Brown and Harrison are the safeties.
“Our defense did well in the two scrimmages,” said Wells, whose first-team group didn’t give up a touchdown in either game. “We have a fast, athletic group that is learning a new scheme different from what’s been done for a long time. I don’t remember us having a bad defensive practice, and the guys always show up ready to practice and prepare for the next opponent.”
Wells is looking for junior Miguel Perez to handle the kicking and punting. He also feels there is a logjam behind Paris for the other two playoff spots.
“I think we’re all in the same boat with the exception of the two Paris schools,” said Wells, one of four new coaches in District 10-3A. “Paris is the front runner, but I think the rest of us are all wadded up in there together.”
The Tigers want to win their first game of 2009 much earlier than they did one year prior (Week 9).
Commerce opens the season with a pair of road games the first three weeks at perennial playoff contenders Canton and Gunter, home games against Crandall and Class 2A Division II state champion Daingerfield and another trip to Gladewater before a bye week preceding District 10-3A play.
The Tigers are Paris High’s homecoming opponent before going home to host Bonham.
Two games follow at Van Alstyne and Anna with a home game against North Lamar to close the regular season.
Commerce 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Canton
Sept. 4 Crandall
Sept. 11 at Gunter
Sept. 18 Daingerfield
Sept. 25 at Gladewater
Oct. 9 *at Paris
Oct. 16 *Bonham
Oct. 23 *at Van Alstyne
Oct. 30 *at Anna
Nov. 6 *North Lamar
Paris Wildcats
PARIS – Fans received quite a treat when Paris not only defeated rival North Lamar but also captured a District 10-3A title on the final night of the regular season against Van Alstyne under coach Travis Smith.
What the Wildcats are now looking to do is move beyond the first round, and they certainly have the athleticism and talent to do so. They also want to get off to a better start than their 1-4 mark of a year ago before making their second-half run.
“We started working on our discipline, and there aren’t any issues you might have seen two years ago,” Smith said. “There are no bad attitudes on our current team.”
Paris is the people’s choice to repeat, but it means nothing to Smith or the team.
“We don’t think about all that,” Smith said. “The only thing we’re worried about is Sulphur Springs. Win, lose or draw – we’re going to give it our best with a fast-break type of football the kids enjoy. We have good numbers, so it’s going to be nice.”
Smith reported numbers of 115 at the high school level as well as 76 eighth graders and approximately 88 seventh graders, so the interest is there as well as the ability to put a quality team on the field Friday night in hopes of beating the defending 4A state champ.
Paris has two key players returning at each of their three defensive skill positions. Ends Ced Hill (123 tackles) and Jamaal Wooten are back, with a combination of Dylan Cathey, Jared Guerra and James Henderson at tackle.
DQ Lipscomb and Travis Smock line up at inside linebacker, with Cory Battle and Jedda McFadden on the outside. Junior Travelle Cook and Kendall King can play both spots.
Dominique Mitchell is the Wildcats’ free safety, while Equettis Jenkins, Tevin Gray and Kendrick Smith are the cornerbacks.
“We’re a little young at some spots, but this is probably the fastest defense since I’ve been at Paris,” Smith said. “If we mature a little bit, we can be an outstanding defense.”
Running backs Aaron Ethridge (500 yards, nine touchdowns in 2008) and Tyrell Smith give the Wildcats a pair of explosive running backs, who run a 4.33 and 4.49 40-yard dash, respectively. They attempt to take the pressure off the shoulders of sophomore quarterbacks Broderick Reed and Corbin Taylor.
Paris is particularly blessed at wide receiver, where Mitchell and Jenkins are slated at the left outside spots, with Tavarrious Williams and King at the right outside positions. Darian Jones headlines a list of inside receivers on the left side that includes Aaron Ethridge and Michael Johnson, while Battle and Gray will play on the right side.
They’ll all play behind a massive offensive line of left guard Jarreckus Graves (6-6, 300), left tackle Cathey (6-4, 295), center Tez Allen (6-0, 255), right guard Henderson (6-0, 250) and right tackle Eric Campbell (6-5, 275).
“It’s all about getting our timing down, but I feel this can be the most explosive offense I’ve ever coached,” Smith said. “We don’t want to give defenses a chance to catch their breath and snap the football with 20 seconds on the play clock. If our kids remain disciplined and execute the way they can, then this should be a very fun bunch to watch.”
Paris even has the added benefit of having two sophomore kickers Andres Rivera and Gabriel Vera, who should both be vera, vera good. There are also two punters in Lipscomb and Tavarious Hill.
The 2009 season starts off with a bang against the defending Class 4A Division II champion Wildcats of Hopkins County. Three straight road games follow at Longview Pine Tree, Greenville and playoff contender Lindale before ending non-district play at home against 16-3A favorite Texarkana Liberty-Eylau.
“Our goal is to win the district, and once we do that, we’ll worry about the playoffs,” Smith said. “There are a lot of things between now and then, and it’s all about doing what we can to take care of what we do, learn from our mistakes and get better each week.”
Paris 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Sulphur Springs
Sept. 4 at Longview Pine Tree
Sept. 11 at Greenville
Sept. 18 at Lindale
Sept. 25 Texarkana Liberty-Eylau
Oct. 9 *Commerce (Homecoming)
Oct. 16 *at North Lamar
Oct. 23 *Anna
Oct. 30 *Bonham
Nov. 6 *at Van Alstyne
North Lamar Panthers
PARIS – North Lamar football coach Tommy Felty hopes 13 is a lucky number.
Felty, the dean of District 10-3A coaches enters his 13th year at the helm of the Panther program, and although there’s no harm in making the playoffs and losing to state champion Prosper, but North Lamar wants more in 2009.
Four of the district’s coaches are new bringing about change in a district that went winless in the playoffs a year ago.
“We have a lot of new coaches, and although I don’t know much about them, I know there are a lot of playmakers in this district,” Felty said. “Every team should be better, and it means we’re going to have to show up.”
Whereas offense wasn’t an issue for the Panthers with three straight 2,000-yard rushers earlier in the decade, it’s the one area they must improve upon if they want to make any noise and contend for a district title.
Juniors Dakota Boles and Bobby King played last season and are hard runners with decent speed. Ryan White got the edge at quarterback against Tyler Walston, arguably the fastest kid in the program who will move to receiver.
David Bozarth, Canyon Conley and T.J. Shirley give White plenty of targets in the passing game along with tight end Colton Perry.
The offensive line is young with only one starter returning in junior All-District left tackle Matt Farmer who will be alongside guard Devin Moiel. The rest of the line consists of junior center Michael Davidson and guard Dakota Newman and junior tackle Alfonso Rodriguez on the right side.
“We’ve had to grow up some and are looking at running some basic spread with a little more misdirection and see what we can do,” Felty said. “We ran more I last year, but it’s all about taking the right angles and techniques. We hope to have it all together Friday.”
Austin Parsons (42 tackles) leads the defensive line at nose guard, with Farmer and Davidson seeing time inside. Junior Tanner Goff and Will Herrington man the end spots.
Juniors Clay Flippin and Dominic Corpus lead the way at linebacker.
Conley is the strong safety and Shirley the free safety alongside Bozarth are the three most experienced players in the secondary.
“We’re quicker now than we were in the first scrimmage, and it’s encouraging,” Felty said. “Our guys have been delivering some big hits, and that’s been missing in the past.”
White is the punter, while Walston and Will Herrington are both options at kicker.
“We have a good shot at competing for a district title if we can stay healthy,” Felty said.
North Lamar opens the season at District 16-3A favorite Texarkana Liberty-Eylau and has two winnable home games against Terrell and Longview Pine Tree before closing out non-district play with a second trip to Texarkana to face Pleasant Grove as well as Jefferson, both playoff teams in 2008.
The Panthers host Anna and rival Paris to open District 10-3A play.
North Lamar 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Texarkana Liberty-Eylau
Sept. 4 Terrell
Sept. 18 Longview Pine Tree
Sept. 25 at Texarkana Pleasant Grove
Oct. 2 at Jefferson
Oct. 9 *Anna
Oct. 16 *Paris
Oct. 23 *at Bonham
Oct. 30 *Van Alstyne
Nov. 6 *at Commerce
Celina Bobcats--DISTRICT 9-3A
CELINA – The numbers speak for themselves, 68 straight wins, 25 consecutive playoff victories, four state championships in a row and eight overall. Celina is a yearly title contender, and despite being humbled by district rival Prosper in 2008, only Carthage prevented the Bobcats from giving 9-3A two champions.
“From our standpoint, we’re more concerned to see if we’re going to be any good or not,” coach Butch Ford said. “We have a hard schedule and are away for a lot of it with only three home games.”
A district Most Valuable Player candidate leads the defense in Oklahoma State commit Caleb Lavey (197 tackles, five sacks), who is a four-year starter and forms a solid 1-2 punch at linebacker with Jay Perez (98 tackles, four sacks). The other linebacker spot was up for grabs entering the season opener Thursday against Ferris at University of North Texas’ Fouts Field in Denton.
Cody Sandler and Tanner Franklin occupy the two defensive end spots, with tackle up for grabs for Sawyer Levit and others.
David Arogunmati is the Bobcats’ top returning cover man at cornerback and forms half of a rather potent secondary along with junior free safety Jose Romero.
“I feel like we’re stronger than we were last year with seven kids back defensively,” Ford said. “We did feel out-matched at times, but I feel we have a chance to perform well.”
Quarterback Cody Worrell (86 of 154, 1,278 yards, nine interceptions, 17 touchdowns passing; 166 carries, 1,029 yards, 14 touchdowns rushing) is another strong MVP candidate. He is joined in the backfield by running back Romero, a three-year starter, with sophomore Jamarcus Simmons also seeing time as he did in 2008 as a freshman.
They are protected by an offensive line of sophomore strong tackle Jordan Roos, guards Ryan Lohman and center Gomer Wilson. Guard John Jackson will miss some time with a fractured collarbone, while the decision for the other tackle spot went down to the wire.
Sander will also see time offensively at fullback.
Tight end Justin Brumfield and split end Cody Rhodes give Worrell a pair of talented passing options.
“We’re not really where we need to be offensively,” Ford said. “We’re going to have to do some scoring, and I hope we can.”
Alex Juarez, a kid Ford calls “120 pounds of dynamite” is the Bobcats’ kicker, and Garrett Stephenson is the punter.
Nothing short of a state championship is expected each and every year at Celina, and the Bobcats look to get back to their customary game in late December and come out on the winning end after falling short last year against Carthage in the final high school game at Texas Stadium.
“Argyle is just as good as Prosper this year, and there are three really strong teams in our district,” Ford said. “Gainesville is the most improved team to me, and Sanger is the biggest school and has plenty of talent. Whitesboro has some good athletes as well.”
Celina 2009 Schedule
**Aug. 27 at Ferris
Sept. 4 at Trinity Christian Academy
Sept. 11 at Daingerfield
Sept. 18 at Fort Worth Arlington Heights
Sept. 25 Whitehouse
Oct. 9 *at Sanger
Oct. 16 *Prosper (Homecoming)
Oct. 23 *at Gainesville
Oct. 30 *Whitesboro
Nov. 6 *at Argyle
**Thursday game
Whitesboro Bearcats
WHITESBORO – The Whitesboro football team could have a better season in 2009 yet still finish in last place due to being in the state’s toughest district with a returning state champion and runner-up on the schedule.
The Bearcats also hope their first two games against two of the state’s top-three ranked teams will help them down the road when the season really counts.
“We’re looking forward to the year,” Whitesboro coach Eddie Gill said. “We have a tough schedule, but we’re ready to get going.”
All-District linebacker Ethan Shadden returns and moves to the inside where he will be joined by sophomore John Wood. Dalton Tune and sophomore Eddie Ruiz are the outside backers, and Roger Hildebrand will also see time on the inside.
Senior Jerrid Caffey and Jonathan Jones will split time up front at nose guard. Dillon Kirby and Justin Moss are expected to share the load at one end as well as Kenny Smith and Cody Welch on the other side.
Zane Ferguson (also the punter) and Jordan Gill are half of the secondary at safety, with All-District performer Cameron Clark and Eric Perkins at cornerback. Garrett Hickman and Dustin Dickson will also see time in the secondary.
“I think we can run to the football a lot better and are more aggressive defensively,” coach Gill said. “We gave up 49 points the first two weeks last year, and although we’re still playing two quality football teams, we don’t want to give up that many points again.”
Offensively, center Jones, guard Hildebrand and senior Justin Hosp lead the way, with juniors Dalton McConnell and Kenny Smith and sophomore Kolton Bailey rotating amongst the other two spots.
They’ll look to open up holes for running back Caffey and protect sophomore quarterback Jordan Gill, who played half the season in 2008 as a freshman. Junior Blake Scorsone moves from wingback to tight end, with Ferguson, Perkins and Clark all seeing time at receiver. Wood can play receiver or fullback, and Travis Weatheread kicks.
“It’s nice to have a little experience up front with three offensive linemen returning,” Gill said. “We have experience at other positions as well as a good mix of players, and I feel we’re better than what we were last year, but on the same token, we’re not nearly as big after losing a pair of thick kids such as Hayden Baillio (track athlete at Texas) and others.”
Whitesboro has a tall order in securing one of the three playoff spots, will have to come to play every night and can’t afford to make too many mistakes playing in the state’s toughest 3A district.
“You have a state champion and runner-up as well as another team that went two rounds deep, so it doesn’t get any tougher,” Gill said. “Gainesville is a talented and dangerous team, and Sanger is solid from top to bottom.”
Whitesboro 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Pilot Point
Sept. 4 at Cisco
Sept. 11 Pottsboro
Sept. 18 at Bonham
Sept. 25 Aubrey
Oct. 9 *at Gainesville
Oct. 16 *Argyle
Oct. 23 *at Prosper
Oct. 30 *at Celina
Nov. 6 *Sanger
Argyle Eagles
ARGYLE – There is no reason for Argyle to make another significant playoff run after going two rounds deep in 2008.
Coach Todd Rodgers and his Eagle team are looking to be mentioned in the same breath as Celina and Prosper.
“We’re looking forward to the season after a restful summer,” Rodgers said. “The kids are looking forward to taking their hard work and applying it to the football field.
Argyle’s backbone is its defense, with most of the significant playing time coming back on that side of the ball.
District 9-3A Defensive Lineman of the Year and Texas Christian University commit David Johnson (77 tackles in 2008) moves to inside linebacker and will be joined by Storm Griffin, Jake Sizelove and Blake Dunham. Trent Cantrell, Murphy Ellis and Carston Bossow are the backups.
Argyle is particularly strong in the secondary, with Dran Crenshaw and Jake Meeks along with Aaron Cullen and Alejandro Castor.
The front line is the strength of the offense with senior and returning All-District center Sam Forrer leading the way along with left guard Brandyn Hinnrichs. Left tackle Mark Vickers, right guard Erik Hartmann and right tackle Trey Keenan complete the line.
They look to protect starting running back Kevin Ryon, who is currently injured. Scotty Seiber and Trevor Kuketz should also see action in the backfield.
Junior Chad Hedlund (137 of 239, 2,010 yards, 14 interceptions, 19 TDs in 2008) will start at quarterback with plenty of backup help in sophomore Austin Aune. Lance Sutton (21 receptions, 368 yards, three TDs) is the top returning receiver.
Justin Bruton joins Sutton on the outside, with Layton Lowry the starting inside receiver.
Justin Hommel, Taylor Brasher, Zack Miller and Chad Bossow are the backup receivers.
Tyler Sweatt is the starting tight end and gives the Eagles plenty of bulk up front.
Hedlund is the punter and kicker.
“We have some experience offensively, just not as much as we do on defense,” Rodgers said. “We’ll be trying to grow and learn as much as we possibly can during the non-district portion of our schedule and get our guys seasoned for district play.”
And as far as district play is concerned, Rogers has a simple response.
“We just want to get in the playoffs with a mindset of winning the games we’re supposed to win and challenging the opponent in the games that are supposed to be challenging.”
Argyle 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Iowa Park
Sept. 4 Burkburnett
Sept. 11 at Vernon
Sept. 18 at Decatur
Sept. 25 Bridgeport
Oct. 9 *Prosper
Oct. 16 *at Whitesboro
Oct. 23 *Sanger (Homecoming)
Oct. 30 *at Gainesville
Nov. 6 *Celina
Prosper Eagles
PROSPER – A new high school adorns the Prosper High School campus with a football team fresh off a 2008 Class 2A Division I state championship, but just like a team that has to put the past behind it after a subpar season, the Eagles must do the same after their year to remember.
“We graduated some good football players but have a good group coming back,” Prosper coach Kent Scott said. “We want to pick up from where we left off, and the good thing about our kids is the fact they aren’t complacent after coming off a state championship.”
Six starters are back on a defense that looks to lead the way early until the offense finds a way to catch up.
Middle linebacker Drew Miller (103 tackles), and outside backers Dillon Hood (All-District) and Colin Padilla are a force as well as the front line that is led by a pair of ends in All-District performer Mario Edwards and Rock Ortega. Sophomore Zach Neely is one defensive tackle, while the other spot will be a tackle-by-committee.
Brett Thompson is back in the secondary and is joined at safety by Dillon Hood. Jordan Airhart and Hunter Havens are the cornerbacks.
“I think our defense is a physical group of kids who know the system after having been in it for two years,” Scott said. “They’re comfortable with what they’re doing and are a good group of boys who will get after you.”
Quarterback Hunter Nix and all five starting offensive linemen have departed, so Prosper was forced to do a complete overhaul.
Senior Brian Hardy takes the reins at quarterback but is being pushed by junior Patrick Tague.
Both are attempting to fill Nix’s rather large shoes.
They have plenty of options at receiver in Thompson, Havens and Edwards along with senior Trevor Jones.
Five newcomers man the offensive line in left guard Andrew Zarycki, left tackle Cody Minwell, center Philip Manto, right guard Justin Abbott and right tackle Carlos Salinas.
Miller and Neely are the tight ends, and Padilla is the fullback. Sophomore running back Juan Williams (108 carries, 706 yards, nine touchdowns) is the top running back and will be backed up by Ortega and junior Chance Pinkley.
Those wondering who the kicker and punter will be need to attend the season opener Friday at Queen City.
“We’re looking forward to another great year,” Scott said. “It was nice to have something like last year happen for our kids, and this group coming back is still hungry for another.”
Prosper 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Queen City
Sept. 4 Farmersville
Sept. 11 at Bridgeport
Sept. 18 Frisco
Sept. 25 Decatur (Homecoming)
Oct. 9 *at Argyle
Oct. 16 *at Celina
Oct. 23 *Whitesboro
Oct. 30 *at Sanger
Nov. 6 *Gainesville
Sanger Indians
SANGER – Several sophomores got a taste of varsity football last year at Sanger, and they’re eager to get back under the lights after finishing one win short of a playoff berth.
Coach Chuck Galbreath and his group of Indians are looking for ways to stop the opposition and eventually find a way to secure a playoff spot.
“We’re all undefeated right now, and we bring quite a few kids back,” Galbreath said. “They’ve worked hard all summer and are looking forward to getting back on the field.”
Nathan Rotter moves from cornerback to safety and is joined by Bo Bob Howard in the secondary. Darius Johnson and Ryan Scott are the cornerbacks.
The Indians suffered a significant loss in Tyler Hodges, who moved out of district and is now at Decatur. His loss takes away 91 tackles and two interceptions from the secondary.
“He was our leading tackler, and it’s not what you want, but you can’t control that,” Galbreath said. “We’ve regrouped and still feel we have a good football team with guys who have to step up and fill in the gaps and become a big part of what we’re doing now.”
Sanger is stout with the front line of Kyle Carrow and Mark Roberson (6-2, 320) inside along with ends Anthony Story and Johnny Crittenden.
Playing behind them is a talented trio of returning starter Kade Erwin at middle linebacker along with outside backers Drake Sides and sophomore Hayden Thomas.
“I think the front seven are the strength of our team with good size and speed,” Galbreath said. “Our secondary is coming around with new faces and is getting better every week.”
Hodges (91 carries, 575 yards, five touchdowns) will also be missed offensively as well as quarterback Jeshua Price, who is now at Pilot Point.
Johnson and Brock Squier will share the tailback duties, Dane Evans takes over full time at quarterback and Bo Bob Howard moves from running back to wide receiver. Rotter is one of the outside receivers, with Scott at the other outside spot and Zane Paddack inside.
Center D.J. Marick and left guard Jake Garrett headline the offensive line, a group also consisting of left tackle Dusty Schertz and the right side of guard Ethan Scheffler and tackle David Grace. They won state in the annual Lineman’s Challenge over the summer.
“Our offensive line is more experienced with some of our guys having been in the system for three years now,” Galbreath said. “They’re getting a better grasp of the offense, and I have complete confidence in Dane’s ability to lead our offense successfully. His father is our offensive coordinator, so he’s very familiar with our plan and what we want to run.”
Galbreath doesn’t mince words when it comes to what it will take to compete in 9-3A.
“We have to stay healthy and get better each week when it counts if we want to be in the mix,” Galbreath said. “We need to step up, be competitive and beat a good opponent.”
Sanger 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Lovejoy
Sept. 4 at Bonham
Sept. 11 Lake Worth (Homecoming)
Sept. 18 at Pilot Point
Sept. 25 at Princeton
Oct. 9 *Celina
Oct. 16 *Gainesville
Oct. 23 *at Argyle
Oct. 30 *Prosper
Nov. 6 *at Whitesboro
Sherman Bearcats--DISTRICT 9-4A
SHERMAN – There was only one blemish on Sherman’s schedule entering its 110th Battle of the Ax game against rival Denison, and the Bearcats learned it’s not a team’s start but the finish fans remember the most during the offseason.
A second loss in as many years to the Yellow Jackets on their home field followed by a playoff defeat at the hands of Richardson Pearce had Sherman licking its wounds.
Gary Kinne replaces Drew Young and expects the team to get better week by week.
The biggest story of the offseason was the developing quarterback controversy that developed with the transfer of Thor Long.
First-team All-District performer Madison Carter looks to keep his job after throwing for more than 1,000 yards and running 113 times for 544 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2008. Zach Whitfield (23 carries, 183 yards) was slated to be the heir apparent to Waymon James (TCU) at running back but is out indefinitely with an injury. James’ younger brother Nathan could be pushed to the backfield from receiver.
Greg Jackson, Geoff Hooker, Ben Pressley, Tory Minor and others can offset the loss of James at receiver, as the Bearcats have plenty of firepower.
The offensive line is young and inexperienced and must find a way to improve each day. The group consists of Hunter Davis, Max Milks, Travis Overturf and Danny Wiser.
Defensive tackle Charles Leslie and end Kyle Crick lead the defensive line, with senior hybrid Garrett Powell (85 tackles, six sacks) lining up on the line and moving to linebacker depending upon the formation.
Senior Brent Pulliam returns at linebacker after missing a significant amount of time last season after a knee injury. He is joined by Brian Goosen and J.J. Floyd, while John Welborn (95 tackles, four interceptions) and Hooker lead the secondary.
T-Bone Taylor is the Bearcats’ kicker.
Sherman 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Lake Dallas
Sept. 4 Rockwall Heath
Sept. 11 at Little Elm
Sept. 25 *Frisco (Homecoming)
Oct. 2 *at McKinney North
Oct. 9 *Frisco Centennial
Oct. 16 *Frisco Wakeland
Oct. 23 *at Frisco Liberty
Oct. 30 *McKinney
Nov. 6 *at Denison
Denison Yellow Jackets
DENISON – There weren’t any hefty expectations placed upon the Denison football team in 2008, but the Yellow Jackets showed everyone they would be a force to be reckoned with after finishing 12-1 and reaching the regional finals before succumbing to eventual state champion Sulphur Springs.
Denison improved its record by eight games from 2007 but won’t be able to sneak up on anyone this year. The pre-season fourth-ranked Yellow Jackets are picked by many to win the Division II state championship.
“I always put pressure on myself personally, but it’s better to have expectations than for people to think you stink,” Denison coach Cody White said. “I think it is luck more than anything else, but we have a lot of experience after making a pretty good run last year.”
White does have some concerns about depth and talked about goals never changing from improving the first three weeks, winning a district title and earning a post-season berth.
“It’s nice to know there’s some continuity back,” said White, whose team will play Little Elm on Friday instead of having a bye the opening week.
The offense can’t be discussed without mentioning seniors D.J. Jones and Jordan Taylor.
Jones returns after posting an All-State season where he ran 197 times for 2,676 yards and 40 touchdowns.
Taylor looks for an injury-free season after missing a good chunk of district play last year. He is a threat in his own right on the ground but has plenty of options in the air with receivers Jimmay Mundine and Cody Reeves at his disposal as well as Hudson Milford, Tyler Jennings and Kyle Galyan.
They will be protected up front by a line led by All-State center Corbin Boettger and right tackle Jaqwaylin Arps. Nick Buckner will play alongside Arps, with guard Conner Counts and tackle Garrison King on the left side.
“Our linemen aren’t tremendously big up front, but they fit what we do offensively,” White said. “Everybody thinks linemen have to be huge, but we’re fine throwing the football and are more of a West Virginia or Appalachian State type of offense. We have the players who can run the ball, but the spread fits our style of playing football as well.”
The strength of Denison’s defense is on the front line, with all four starters returning in Mundine and Aaron Morrison at the end spots and Arps and Devonte Kemp at tackle.
Ty Carter will split time with Aaron Crawford at middle linebacker, with Jacob Marshall and junior Stacey Golston (four interceptions in 2008) at the outside spots.
The secondary consists of Reeves (who also returned two kicks for TDs) and Darian Springfield at corners and sophomore Hayden Chapman and Jake Marcum at safeties.
“It all starts up front for us,” White said. “We need to mature and get some experience at the back end.”
Sophomore Dalton Hestand is the Yellow Jackets’ punter, while Reeves is the kicker.
It all adds up to what Denison hopes is another lengthy run and potential state title.
“Sherman is always going to be good, and we saw them in 7-on-7,” said White of the 9-4A rival. “They’re talented and are having to acclimate themselves to a new system. McKinney has plenty of offensive firepower, and Liberty will be a scary team to go up against as well as the others in our district.”
Denison 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Little Elm
Sept. 4 at Big Spring
Sept. 11 Wichita Falls (Homecoming)
Sept. 25 *at Frisco Liberty (Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 2 *McKinney
Oct. 9 *at Frisco Wakeland (Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 16 *at Frisco (Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 23 *McKinney North
Oct. 30 *at Frisco Centennial (Frisco Memorial)
Nov. 6 *Sherman
Frisco Centennial Titans
FRISCO – Every new season brings about a sense of freshness and hope, and Frisco Centennial is looking to build on last year’s playoff appearance.
It won’t be easy with eight teams fighting for four playoff spots, but the Titans and head coach Mark Howard expect to be in the thick of things by the time Week 10 rolls around.
“It’s a new team with different leadership, and it’s what makes the fall so much fun,” Howard said. “You have a new team, and the anticipation is high, and you can’t get better than Texas high school football.”
There are some big shoes to fill at quarterback with the graduation of Ryan Mossakowski, who is now at the University of Kentucky. Junior Nick Foster (18 of 38, 224 yards, two interceptions, two touchdowns in 2008) gets the nod behind center.
Split end Bryan Singer and part-timer Tim Fuller are also back, with Matt Washington (backup Cole Cantrell), Emanuel Duchane and Nick Bush back on the inside.
Four linemen are back, including second-team All-District left tackle Joe Kopidlansky, a three-year starter. He will start the year at center until returning starter Trey Neal returns from a broken foot.
Nick Conrad is back at right guard, and Austin Closs fills in Kopidlansky’s left tackle spot. There are two new faces up front in left guard Garrett Shinn and right tackle Faison McKinnis.
All-district running back Imoh Edohoukwa (51 carries, 186 yards, two TDs) returns, with Jamel Bullock, Toye Oyelami and Lakeylon Rice also seeing action in the backfield.
Howard and the Titans’ goal is to rush for a minimum of 100 yards a game.
“There are still some question marks, and I feel we haven’t run the ball well the last three years,” Howard said. “We have to run the football, and I believe this could be the most effective offensive line we have to date as far as size and its ability to run. We graduated a special player at quarterback, but we do have some solid skill players back. We’re confident in what Nick can do but don’t want to put all the pressure on his shoulders.”
Defensively, nose guard Chase Applebee leads the front line between left end Dylan McDonald and right end Caden Patterson.
Middle linebacker Lakeylon Rice and inside backer Joe Risoli are back, with Andrew Ahlfield penciled in at the other inside spot. Emanuel Duchane (51 tackles, five sacks) and Richard McGuire are the two outside linebackers.
Edohoukwa (three interceptions, one TD) and Oyelami are the cornerbacks on the right and left side, respectively. Austin Schotts is the safety, with Nigel Barlis also seeing time.
“We lost two All-District ends (including Aaron Moore to Iowa State), one to a Division I school and the other to a Division II, and we lost a solid nose guard as well,” Howard said. “It’s all about getting the job done when it counts and keeping everybody healthy. If we can do those things, we might surprise some people. The key for us is quickness.”
Junior Clay Willeford is the Titans’ kicker.
Centennial grabbed the fourth and final playoff berth in 2008, but it should once again go down to the wire.
“We’re in a competitive district that got a rap for being good offensively and not so good defensively,” Howard said. “You have to give the nod to Denison, no ifs, ands or buts about it, but we went to their place last year and played a very physical game – one of our best of the year. McKinney has an outstanding quarterback and receiver with other good players sandwiched between.”
Frisco Centennial 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Denton (Frisco Memorial)
Sept. 4 at McKinney Boyd (Ron Poe Stadium)
Sept. 11 Mesquite Poteet (Homecoming at Frisco Memorial)
Sept. 25 *McKinney North (Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 2 *vs. Frisco Wakeland (Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 9 *at Sherman (Bearcat Stadium)
Oct. 16 *vs. Frisco Liberty (Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 23 *at McKinney (Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 30 *Denison (Frisco Memorial)
Nov. 6 *at Frisco (Pizza Hut Park)
McKinney North Bulldogs
McKINNEY – Mike Fecci got promoted from McKinney North’s offensive coordinator to its head coach, and his familiarity with the program is what he hopes can avoid a large transformation and push the program into the upper echelon of District 9-4A.
Four key players return on offense in All-District running back Josh Matthews, quarterback Brenton Griffin and receivers Josh Allen and Jamar Phillips.
Matthews ran 240 times for 1,429 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2008, and Griffin returns with varsity experience.
“Anytime you have your quarterback returning, it’s a plus,” Fecci said. “Our offense has been there before, and we have others who have played parts of all 10 games last year.”
Allen (18 receptions, 138 yards, three touchdowns) and DyAnte Hudson are the inside receivers with Victor Rivera and Jamarris Phillips on the outside.
The Bulldogs have a line with not many starts under its belt but a unit with plenty of varsity experience. John Turner (left) and Devonte Fields (right) man the tackle spots, with Reed Hawkins slated for left guard, Mitchell Grimes at right guard and Taylor Honey at center.
Fecci brought Brock Walker in as offensive coordinator, a former college teammate who comes from Highland Park.
“This is a real tight-knit group offensively that works really hard together,” Fecci said. “We’ve traditionally had a very decent offense, and I’m willing to take on that responsbility to continue it further.”
Defensively, the secondary is led by returning starter Jon Alexander, who is joined at cornerback by DeAnte Moore. Two other starters are also back in strong safety Frank King and free safety Austin Laudenslager.
Tony Brown returns at middle linebacker and is joined on the outside by Cody Barrow and Stefan Hurd.
Alex Lucio is slated to start at the strong defensive end spot and is joined on the front line by tackle Brandon Ramsey, who moves from middle linebacker. Marcquel Shepard is the nose guard, with Kenya Alexander at the quick side end.
“I feel good about our defense, because they’re extremely fast, the fastest since I’ve been here for sure as far as total team speed,” Fecci said. “Our priority is to run to the football, and many people can do it in today’s game, because it revolves so much around open space, maximizing your athleticism and taking advantage of matchups, and we feel good about who we have.”
Bryson Long is back for his third season at kicker, while Laudenslager is the punter.
McKinney North is looking to get back in the thick of the District 9-4A race in 2009.
“You obviously have the big three of Sherman, Denison and McKinney, but we’re going to try and give ourselves an opportunity to sneak up on them and get in the playoffs. Denison is the hands down favorite, Sherman will be a force to be reckoned with and McKinney’s going to score a ton of points. I think the rest of us are on equal standing.”
McKinney North 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 McKinney Boyd (Ron Poe Stadium)
Sept. 4 at Garland Lakeview (Homer B. Johnson Stadium)
**Sept. 10 Forney (Ron Poe Stadium)
Sept. 25 *at Frisco Centennial (Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 2 *Sherman (Homecoming at Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 9 *at Frisco Liberty (Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 16 *McKinney (Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 23 *at Denison (Munson Stadium)
**Oct. 29 *Frisco (Ron Poe Stadium)
Nov. 6 *at Frisco Wakeland (Frisco Memorial)
**Thursday games
Other District 9-4A Schedules
Frisco Raccoons
Aug. 28 Lakeview Centennial (Pizza Hut Park)
Sept. 4 at Mesquite Poteet (Mesquite Memorial)
Sept. 18 at Prosper
Sept. 25 *at Sherman (Bearcat Stadium)
Oct. 2 *Frisco Liberty (Homecoming at Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 9 *at McKinney (Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 16 *Denison (Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 23 *at Frisco Wakeland (Pizza Hut Park)
**Oct. 29 *at McKinney North (Ron Poe Stadium)
Nov. 6 *Frisco Centennial (Pizza Hut Park)
**Thursday game
Frisco Liberty Red Hawks
Aug. 28 at Fort Worth Brewer
Sept. 4 Highland Park (Pizza Hut Park)
Sept. 11 at Lovejoy
Sept. 25 *Denison (Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 2 *at Frisco (Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 9 *McKinney North (Homecoming at Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 16 *vs. Frisco Centennial (Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 23 *Sherman (Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 30 *vs. Frisco Wakeland (Pizza Hut Park)
Nov. 6 *at McKinney (Ron Poe Stadium)
Frisco Wakeland Wolverines
Sept. 4 at Saginaw
Sept. 11 at Royse City
Sept. 18 Fort Worth Brewer (Homecoming at Frisco Memorial)
**Sept. 24 *at McKinney (Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 2 *vs. Frisco Centennial (Frisco Memorial)
Oct. 9 *Denison (Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 16 *at Sherman (Bearcat Stadium)
Oct. 23 *Frisco (Pizza Hut Park)
Oct. 30 *vs. Frisco Liberty (Pizza Hut Park)
Nov. 6 *McKinney NOrth (Frisco Memorial)
**Thursday game
McKinney Lions
**Sept. 3 Sachse (Ron Poe Stadium)
Sept. 11 Denton Ryan (Ron Poe Stadium)
Sept. 18 at McKinney Boyd (Ron Poe Stadium)
**Sept.. 24 *Frisco Wakeland (Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 2 *at Denison (Munson Stadium)
Oct. 9 *Frisco (Homecoming at Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 16 *at McKinney North (Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 23 *Frisco Centennial (Ron Poe Stadium)
Oct. 30 *at Sherman (Bearcat Stadium)
Nov. 6 *Frisco Liberty (Ron Poe Stadium)
**Thursday games
Pottsboro Cardinals--DISTRICT 10-2A
POTTSBORO - It will definitely be a tale of two seasons for the Pottsboro football team.
Only one starter returns from the 2008 team that went 13-2 and advanced to the state semis.
Defensive end Malcolm Blanco (102 tackles, 10 sacks) has something to tell his children as the team's lone returnee, but head coach Matt Poe has arguably his biggest challenge since molding the Cardinals into a consistent winner upon his arrival four years ago after serving as Sherman’s offensive coordinator.
“You can sit there and feel sorry for yourself with only one returning starter, or you can go out there, work hard and try to get better,” Poe said. “It’s my job to coach these kids, and they came out with the right attitude and an open mind. We have some young guys who see the opportunity of what they can do, and they’re progressing fast. It’s nice to see.”
Ryan Samford and Kameron Heady are fighting for the starting end spot opposite Blanco, with the trio of Blake Hawkins, Zeke George and Dylan Parr competing for the two tackle spots.
Pottsboro should be particularly strong at linebacker with Brandon Love and Brandon Kent (who saw limited playing time last year) inside between Thomas Matthews and Shane Pemberton. Josh Maynor also figures in the mix.
Poe feels good about his secondary, including free safety Kevin Garcia and strong safety Dakota Bauguss.
Tanner Budra, Matt Potter and Austin Hudgeons are expected to play at cornerback on a rotating basis.
“We’re young but are coming along and getting more aggressive every day defensively,” Poe said. “We’ve emphasized running to the football until the whistle blows and are continuing to identify who can do what and find out what schemes best fit our kids.”
Garcia takes over at quarterback after seeing limited action a year ago in mop-up duty but did play a key role in the state semifinals against Cisco before losing by a touchdown.
“Kevin gave us a chance to win the football game, and it’s all we could ask for from him,” Poe said. “We feel good about him and the way he’s progressed. He’s grown a lot maturity-wise and has done a great job of running our offense and developing an understanding of the game.”
Potter also saw a little playing time in 2008 as a sophomore running back and has been able to overcome some nagging injuries.
Poe is expecting him to take the position and run with it.
Bauguss and Budra, who saw some time before injuries got the best of him a year ago, give the Cardinals a pair of outside receivers more than six feet tall and are what Poe says are the team’s two go-to receivers entering the season.
Poe is also excited about the play of inside receiver Pemberton and said Tyler McAlister and freshman Tanner Frye will both see playing time on offense.
Poe describes the offensive line as a “work in progress” with left tackle Blanco leading the way. Two guys are competing to play alongside him in Samford and Bobby Boyles (who put on 20 to 30 pounds in the spring).
Love is acclimating to his new center position, with two sophomores occupying the right side in guard Tyler Edwards and tackle Zack Hunkapillar.
“Those guys have gotten better as a unit, and it’s harder to adjust on the offensive line,” Poe said. “The skill position kids tend to come along at a faster rate due to the positions they play. I feel good about our offensive line and look for it to progress each and every week and allow us to move the football. We have the playmakers to allow us to do it.”
Blanco has a third chore as the team’s punter, while Cody Parton is the kicker and has one of the better legs in district.
The right pieces must fall into place for Pottsboro to make a similar lengthy run, and Poe talked about taking the 2009 season in stride and improving on a weekly basis.
“I feel we have a big advantage in the fact we have kids who understand our system offensively and defensively,” Poe said. “We’ve made it a big deal in emphasizing to them how to play a physical game with a lot of heart.”
District 10-3A is obviously stout with Pottsboro and Pilot Point both reaching the state semifinals last year and Callisburg going two rounds deep. Aubrey is under new leadership, while S&S and Valley View look to make their presence felt in 2009.
“I’d say Pilot Point is a little bit ahead of everybody else due to the kids they have returning, but after that I feel it is wide open,” Poe said. “Aubrey is much improved, Callisburg is good, Valley View is young and S&S seems to have gotten better also. I think it is five teams fighting for two spots and feel good about our chances if we continue to progress. Once district rolls around, we need to have the kinks worked out and be ready to roll.”
Pottsboro 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Henrietta
Sept. 4 Princeton
Sept. 11 at Whitesboro
Sept. 18 at Lovejoy
Sept. 25 at Farmersville
Oct. 9 *Pilot Point (Homecoming)
Oct. 16 *at Aubrey
Oct. 23 *Callisburg
Oct. 30 *S&S
Nov. 6 *at Valley View
S&S Rams
SADLER – Another subpar season in 2008 has the S&S football program wondering what it can do to get its name mentioned in the same breath with the likes of district foes Pilot Point, Pottsboro, Callisburg and Aubrey.
The Rams were winless in district play a year ago but hope a year of experience under the belts of their returning players could possibly pay dividends down the road.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the fruits of our labor the last year-and-a-half and what they produce,” second-year coach Ashby Porter said. “We have six new coaches since last year in what we hope is a new look and a new face for this program.”
Running back Michael Lee (28 carries, 179 yards, two touchdowns), leads a backfield that includes fullback Chance Bratcher, who moved up from the junior varsity.
Junior quarterback Danny Franklin also moves to the varsity level and is who Porter said “is a kid who can add a new dimension to our offense by the way he performs and throws the football.”
Senior Billy Hewitt is back at receiver and joins forces with Jesse Miller, while Jacob Aguirre shifts from guard to tight end.
Former tight end Cameron Fisher is now the quick tackle alongside guard Chris Campbell, last year’s center. He is replaced by sophomore Alex Shelton, with guard Garrett Clements and Randall Furry on the strong side.
“I think we can be a lot more potent offensively with our quarterback, who also runs the ball pretty well,” Porter said. “We want to spread the ball out to more different guys this year in order to be less one-dimensional than we’ve been in the past.”
Vincent Torrefranca and Fisher line up at end around nose guard Michael Lee, with Campbell also seeing time in the middle. Drew Hall should also see plenty of action.
All-District linebacker Jacob Aguirre (94 tackles) returns and is joined on the outside by sophomore Chance Bratcher, with Jeremy Croney and Jesse Melton manning the inside.
Hewitt and Miller are the cornerbacks, with Blair Keeton and Franklin at the safety spots.
“We have a new look from a year ago with some big, strong kids up front,” Porter said. “We’re also using a quicker scheme to get our kids moving around quite a bit to use their speed. We’re hoping it adds up to our guys being able to tackle better upfield.”
Shelton is the kicker, with Franklin adding to his already lengthy duties as punter.
It’s all about improving during non-district play and making a move once 10-2A action rolls around.
“Our district will be as tough as it was last year with the same guys and the same usual suspects,” Porter said. “Pilot Point is going to be as tough as anybody, and Callisburg could’ve possibly been the district favorite until they lost the Long kid. Aubrey is going to be a heck of a lot better with Coach Moore in charge and should contend as well. Pottsboro lost a bunch of seniors but are still a very-well coached bunch of kids. They had 80 kids out for football and should be as tough as ever. We’re trying to be as competitive as we can and grab some momentum early and see how good we are in district.”
S&S 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Muenster
Sept. 4 Blue Ridge (Homecoming)
Sept. 11 at Nocona
Sept. 18 Lindsay
Sept. 25 Collinsville
Oct. 9 *Valley View
Oct. 16 *at Pilot Point
Oct. 23 *Aubrey
Oct. 30 *at Pottsboro
Nov. 6 *Callisburg
Pilot Point Bearcats
PILOT POINT – Fresh off its 2008 state semifinal appearance, the Pilot Point football team is poised to make the final push toward a state championship after falling short a year ago against Muleshoe.
“We’re ready to get started and feel good about where we stand since two-a-days,” Bearcats coach Blake Feldt said. “We’ve been banging against each other for several weeks and are eager to kick off and play.”
Three key players return on both sides of the ball, including the offensive trio of quarterback Seth Tilley, running back Jarman Johnson and right tackle Cam Feldt.
Tilley (66 of 130, 900 yards, eight interceptions, eight TDs in 2008) is looking to work on consistency with another year of experience under his belt. Johnson (161 carries, 1,350 yards, 21 TDs; 17 receptions, 286 yards, three TDs receiving) is a threat whenever he touches the football, with Jeremy Jackson the backup.
Seniors Justin Chambers, Collin Noe, and Tyler McNary bring experience to the receiver position along with Austin Balderas and Willie Davis, and they’re all big-play threats.
“They’re basically the same guys, but they’re so much better and improved during the offseason,” coach Feldt said. “They worked all summer working on their running routes.”
None of them could perform without the services of two-year starter Cam Feldt (an Arkansas commit) and right guard Ryne Menard, who started all 13 games in 2008. The line also consists of junior center Cody Peacock, left guard Cody Sutton and left tackle Boone Feldt.
“We have lots of game experience on our line,” coach Feldt said. “It has improved from a year ago, and those guys are so important. We expect a lot of good things out of them.”
The defense is led by All-State tackle Carter Street (committed to Louisiana Tech) and All-District linebackers Mason Guthrie (80 tackles) and Balderas (35 tackles).
Cam Feldt starts on defense for the first time at nose guard, withAustin Echetera and Louis Tetre at the end spots.
Davis and Jackson will occupy the two spots alongside Guthrie (inside) and Balderas (outside).
Chambers leads the secondary and will be joined at safety by JP Price. Wes Hotton is one of the cornerbacks, with Johnson, Noe and Collin Buckingham rotating at the other spot.
“We didn’t play very well in our scrimmage last week, and it’s hard to figure out how we played so well in our first and and not so well in the second,” coach Feldt said. “We’ll have to wait and see what happens, as our team is still kind of a mystery right now.”
Ruben Martinez, the feel-good story of 2008 after kicking the game-winning field goal in the regional championship game, is back at kicker, while Chambers will do the punting.
Pilot Point is the consensus favorite to win district and has the expectations and predictions to go along with it. Coach Feldt said it will all come down to staying healthy, something that didn’t affect the Bearcats until late in 2008 after having no less than six players suffer injuries.
“We stayed healthy all year long and didn’t have anybody miss a practice because of an injury,” coach Feldt said. “Once the playoffs started, the injury bug hit us, and we hope to avoid that this time.”
Pilot Point 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Whitesboro
Sept. 4 at Lake Worth
Sept. 11 Ferris
Sept. 18 Sanger (Homecoming)
Sept. 25 Childress (at Iowa Park)
Oct. 9 *at Pottsboro
Oct. 16 *S&S
Oct. 23 *at Valley View
Oct. 30 *at Callisburg
Nov. 6 *Aubrey
Callisburg Wildcats
CALLISBURG – One player doesn’t make a team, but he sure can change its chemistry.
Such was the case at Callisburg, a team ready to build on its third-round appearance of 2008, but the departure of honorable-mention All-State quarterback Thor Long to Sherman left a huge hole to be filled.
Twenty-three seniors return, including Bobby Dorman, one of the district’s top all-around threats along with Aubrey’s Levi Birdsong. Head coach Jerry Bomar has 28 years of coaching experience under his belt and said it’s all about working with the cards your dealt.
“It never has been an issue, and it didn’t surprise us,” said Bomar of Long’s departure. “I’ve never based a football team on one person, and life goes on. It’s all about changing the team’s personality and making it better.”
The biggest question mark is obviously who will replace Long, and the answer is the versatile Dorman. The Wildcats lose his 55 receptions, 893 yards and six touchdowns from a year ago but have changed their offensive philosophy from throwing all over the field to concentrating more on the running game.
It doesn’t mean Callisburg won’t throw the football with the likes of receivers Clay McKenzie, Jordan Weaver, Colton Sparkman and tight end Cole Brezina. Bomar wants to utilize running backs Chris Apala, Corey Harmon and Langston Jones.
They will run behind a line of guard Zac Coulter and tackle Brandon Rochelle on the quick side and center Dylan Douglas along with guard Chase McCage on the strong side along with either Brandon LaRue or sophomore Cody Morrison at tackle.
“We’re not as big on the line as we were last year, but the guys we have now are athletic,” Bomar said. “We’re going to run more and have the ability to move the football, but it’s all about our guys being patient.”
Linebackers Chris Apala (137 tackles in 2008) and McCage lead the way defensively at inside linebacker. Cole Brezina and Seth Wolfe join them on the outside. Kevin Bartley and Harmon are the cornerbacks, with All-District corner Dorman (six interceptions in 2008) not seeing quite as many snaps due to his other duties of quarterback and kicker.
Jones is the Wildcats’ safety, with Dorman and McKenzie also seeing action in the secondary.
Senior Charles Smith is slated as the nose guard, with LaRue and Dalton Ing at the end spots. Junior Aaron Beard should also see time, a player Bomar praised for his decent size and quickness.
“We’re not the kind of defense that’s going to shut out or dominate an opponent, but we have a solid, athletic group we expect to play well every Friday night,” Bomar said. “We have the type of group capable of holding a team to 10 to 14 points a game.”
Bomar saw a lot in his team’s first scrimmage against Melissa and said it will come down to the offense limiting any mistakes. The 2008 team won the first two playoff games in school history, part of a budding tradition Bomar said has been more than a year in the making.
“I feel we can be a very competitive football team and have been the last four years,” said Bomar, whose teams have made the playoffs in three of those seasons and just missed in the fourth. “We had an outstanding team last year, and our guys aren’t cocky. They’re simply confident they can be in every game.”
Callisburg 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Bonham
Sept. 4 All Saints Episcopal
Sept. 11 Whitewright
Sept. 18 at Nocona
Sept. 25 Watauga Christian
Oct. 9 *at Aubrey
Oct. 16 *Valley View
Oct. 23 *at Pottsboro
Oct. 30 *Pilot Point
Nov. 6 *at S&S
Aubrey Chaparrals
AUBREY – There’s a new sheriff in town, and he happens to have the most wins in Texsa High School football history.
G.A. Moore is back, and he wants to take the focus off his return to the sidelines and place it on his new team, a group returning 16 starters after missing the playoffs in 2008 by a single game.
“I took a little vacation, but it’s all the same to me,” Moore said. “We’ve got a long way to go, because Aubrey has never been that successful in football. We’re trying to change that, and we’ll see how this big challenge comes out.”
The big issue is a rash of injuries that have occurred during the hot month of August.
Junior Justin Griffin (81 carries, 510 yards, six touchdowns in ’08) is expected to get most of the carries along with 150-pound Chase Mahurin. Billy Feathers (20 receptions, 300 yards, four TDs) injured his knee, giving Skylar Craig the advantage at fullback.
Levi Birdsong (21-300-3) is arguably one of the best all-around threats in district along with Callisburg’s Bobby Dorman, but the receiver is questionable with a hip flexor. Taylor Conway is expected to contribute but is nursing a pulled hamstring of his own, with receiver Brian Shorlin and tight end Daniel Radford also looking to make an impact in the passing game.
Kayleb Parrent returns at quarterback but could share time with junior James Wurster while also seeing time at running back.
The offensive line has potential, but three of its members are out at the moment in Joe Martin (knee), Trey Gomez (back) and junior center Justin Dossey (hamstring). Billy Martinez is healthy but missed three days of practice after his grandfather passed away.
Tucker McNabb and freshman Cody Greer will both see time on the front line.
“I think we have to be a wide-open offense,” Moore said. “Our line is quick off the ball, and they must open up holes for our running game we have to establish.”
Defensively, All-District performer Matt Robbins is the nose guard and is surrounded by ends Feathers and Martinez.
All-District selection Daniel Radford, Trevor Howard (50 tackles), Jordan Starling and Birdsong are one of the top linebacker quartets around.
Kendall Jones moves from free safety to strong safety, with sophomore Charlie Radford taking his old spot. Alex Rositas and Parrent are the starting cornerbacks.
“We’re tyring to shift and move a lot in order to pressure people and prevent giving up the big play,” Moore said. “You have to win with defense, so we’re putting our best people there and have spent a lot of time in that area. We’ll see what happens.”
Birdsong will do all the kicking and punting.
Aubrey is looking to unseat one of the three 2008 playoff teams this year, and Moore talked about it coming down to his players being confident in their talents and abilities.
“The only thing we’re worried about right now is playing Whitewright (Friday’s Week 0 opponent),” Moore said. “We need to block, tackle and take care of ourselves without worrying about everyone else.”
Aubrey 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Whitewright
Sept. 11 Paradise
Sept. 18 at Nevada Community
Sept. 25 at Whitesboro
Oct. 2 FW SW Christian (Homecoming)
Oct. 9 *Callisburg
Oct. 16 *Pottsboro
Oct. 23 *at S&S
Oct. 30 *Valley View
Nov. 6 *at Pilot Point
Valley View Eagles
VALLEY VIEW – There is one common bond in the District 10-2A football circles in the fact that all six teams have the ability to score in bunches.
Valley View looks to put all three facets of its game together to make a significant run to one of the district’s three playoff spots.
“We’re ready to get the season under way,” second-year coach Terry Felderhoff said. “Our comfort level is better, and our kids are better football players than last season.”
Valley View is no exception when it comes to its ability to reach the end zone, but it will be the defense’s job to shoulder the load and find a way to keep opposing offenses’ scoring to a minimum.
Ends Josh Anding (65 tackles) and Paul Pearce must penetrate the line of scrimmage along with sophomore nose guard Bo Davis. They need to have backup help from junior middle linebacker A.J. Kassen as well as senior Dustin Tomlinson and sophomore Oscar Luna on the outside along with junior Zac Williams.
Junior Dustyn Whetzel (three interceptions in 2008) headlines the secondary at safety, with senior Cody Marcom and junior Casey Boaz at cornerback. Senior Garret Kassen should also see time, and sophomore Sammy Ponce is receiving more repetitions.
“We’ve changed our defense in order to fit our kids and personnel better,” Felderhoff said. “Our plan is to try and keep opposing offenses off balanced and create some confusion as far as stunts are concerned. We want to bring people from everywhere.”
Valley View is looking for help in its running game, and Tomlinson grabbed the starting role. Whetzel will also see plenty of carries.
Junior Scott Willis (96 of 214, 1,357 yards, 12 interceptions, 10 touchdowns) is back at quarterback but must show better consistency if the Eagles are to contend this season.
“Scott took over in Game 3 last year, and we teased him for having the excuse of being a sophomore,” Felderhoff said. “He’s grown and matured so much and has shown better decision making. He’s progressing and getting better each and every week.”
Boaz is back at wide receiver and is joined by A.J. Kassen and junior Dylan Pembroke as well as 6-foot-5 inch tight end Cameron Vesperman.
Another big body up front is 6-foot-6 left tackle Anding, who leads the offensive line along with senior center Hayden Terry, who started all 10 games in 2008. Pearce is the left guard, while juniors Austin Pruitt (guard) and tackle Colton Wilson (tackle) man the right side. Alex Hamilton also figures in the mix.
“We struggled with our consistency last year, and it’s important for us to sustain drives,” Felderhoff said. “We lost focus at times and struggled finishing off drives, and we have to put points on the scoreboard.”
No doubt with the competition in District 10-2A.
“There’s going to be a really good 2A team sitting in fourth place when it’s all said and done,” Felderhoff said. “There’s no hiding the fact we want to finish in the top three.”
Valley View 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Nocona
Sept. 4 at Chico
Sept. 11 Alvord
Sept. 18 at Howe
Oct. 2 *Fort Worth Christian (Homecoming)
Oct. 9 *at S&S
Oct. 16 *at Callisburg
Oct. 23 *Pilot Point
Oct. 30 *at Aubrey
Nov. 6 *Pottsboro
Melissa Cardinals--DISTRICT 11-2A
MELISSA – Three straight nine-win seasons are nothing for the Melissa football team to be disappointed with, but more is expected in 2009.
A loss to Dekalb in last year’s bi-district round left a bitter taste in the coach’s and player’s mouths, but a large contingent returns to make a longer playoff run under new coach Seth Stinton.
“Our kids expect to win, and it’s what their work ethic has been like,” Stinton said. “They’re getting after the football and set goals for themselves such as winning district.”
The Cardinals are the favorite by most to win District 11-2A but must do it on the field.
Captain Cody Morgan (845 yards, 15 touchdowns) is starting his third season and has gotten bigger, faster and stronger for 2009. John Young joins him in the backfield.
Aaron Bush is nursing a slight elbow injury but is penciled in as the starting quarterback after playing receiver a year ago. Sophomore Wes McQueen is also expected to get some snaps, as both must replace Zach Williams, who is now at Army.
“They have some big shoes to fill,” Stinton said. “Aaron is the guy right now, but Wes has lived up to the hype he brought with him from last year throwing the football. He’s got a good arm and is really accurate. He’s still in the mix.”
Brodie Russell and Brandon Hunter are the top threats at wide receiver. Nathan Warren joins Hunter on the inside, while Dallon Bates is the other outside receiver.
The offensive line is an experienced group consisting of guard Dylan Ward and tackle Grant James on the left side, center Scott Stegal and guard Mitchell Rea and tackle Harry Perdomo on the right side under offensive coordinator Joe Williams.
“I think we’ll be improved offensively with more skill position players and the ability to spread the ball around,” Stinton said. “Our offensive linemen have improved their blocking, and we need to run the football and so some different things strategy wise.”
Nick Palmer (135 tackles) leads the defense at outside linebacker along with Leighton Wilson, with Young on the inside.
The defensive line is more than formidable with ends Dylan Parker and Rodney Reed, with Kelton Brewer starting at nose tackle for Mitchell Rea to give him some rest.
The secondary is led by left cornerback Will Litterer, who is joined on the right side by Hunter. Bates is the strong safety, and Bush is the free safety.
“I think we’ll be a lot faster than we were last year, and running the 3-4 will allow us to move around a little differently,” Stinton said. “Hopefully it gives us an advantage against spread teams.”
Connor Monroe will kick extra points, with Wilson handling kickoffs. Nathan Warren gets the nod at punter.
Several prognosticators had the Cardinals winning district in 2008, but a one-point loss to Gunter proved to be the difference.
“Gunter is probably the front runner to win district again, and Leonard is going to be much improved,” Stinton said. “Bells will be improved, and Whitewright will be much better, because Coach Stringer does an awesome job. All of the teams will be tough.”
Melissa 2009 Schedule
Aug 28- Nevada Community 7:30 pm
Sept 4 - @ Lucas Lovejoy 7:30 pm
Sept 11 - @ Anna 7:30 pm
Sept 18 - Open
Sept 25 - Honey Grove* 7:30 pm
Oct 2 - @ Leonard* 7:30 pm
Oct 9 - @ Whitewright* 7:30 pm
Oct 16 - Tom Bean* 7:30 pm
Oct 23 - @ Gunter* 7:30 pm
Oct 30 - Bells* 7:30 pm
Nov 6 - Howe* 7:30 pm
Bells Panthers
BELLS - Don't know how tough District 11-2A football is? All you have to do is ask anyone associated with the Bells football program.
Head coach Charles Boles received a rude welcome in his first year at the helm, and the end result was a 0-10 record and 0-7 mark in district play despite having plenty of individual talent in Cody Vaughn, Reid Klose and Ryan Klose.
Jordan Dabney and Josh Neal man the front line at defensive tackle along with ends Ross Brown and Kolby Milner. David Danes can back up any of the four up front and should see plenty of action.
Josh Fagan and Zack Wornhor surround middle linebacker Devin Bailey on the outside, with Pate Pritchard also seeing time.
Max Morris and Cody Stern are the Panthers' starting cornerbacks with Josh Copley and Nate Neal occupying the safety spots.
"We're a young, very enthusiastic defense," Boles said. "It's a very smart, intelligent group with not a whole lot of varsity experience."Boles is counting on his defense adjusting from week to week.
Bells suffered one significant piece of bad news after losing starting quarterback Brennan Haase to a broken femur during the first 15 plays of its scrimmage, forcing Boles to go to a platoon system of Milner and Bud Pedigo.
Fagan will line up at running back, and the Panthers have plenty of receiving options in Morris, Neal, Stern and Wornhor.
"We've had to change our philosophies on offense," Boles said. "Whereas we've always been under center, we're now a one-back spread out of the shotgun. It better suits the types of kids we have, because Brennan was a traditional quarterback with a big, strong arm. We now have to be more multiple, but we have a good mix of runners and receivers."
The offensive line is also young, but none of the starting five is a senior which should help Bells establish some form of continuity up front.
Tackle David Dane and guard Dillon Archer on the left side, center Dillon
Siimpson and the right side of guard Dabney and tackle Josh Neal give the Panthers a quintet averaging 255 pounds. Pritchard is the primary backup.
"The best part of our offensive line is the fact they're huge and incredibly smart," Boles said. "They're able to do a lot of things, but our main luxury is their intelligence."
Copley will handle Bells' kicking duties, and Milner is the punter.
"I think we have the potential to be very good offensively," Boles said.
"We moved the ball well in our scrimmages, and our first team offense averaged nine yards a play. If we can take care of the football, I feel we can be a hard group to stop.”
Members of Bells’ 10-0 junior varsity team making the jump tothe varsity level as well.
"We have young kids who know how to win and some older kids who can provide us some tremendous leadership," Boles said. "They all have an incredible work ethic, and if we can find a way to put it all together, I feel we can be dangerous."
Boles also stressed what he feels is the most important aspect of his 2009 team - chemistry.
"It's something you didn't see here last year," Boles said. "I think the underlying factor is how we have such a tight group who cares about each other and will fight, bleed and sweat for one another. That's big."
One thing Bells also knows is the fact it's going to have to come to play each and every week in the competitive world of District 11-2A while at the same time keeping mistakes to a minimum.
"We have to play well every week and get through the season without any more injuries," Boles said. "If we can do that, we can be a tough team."
Bells 2009 Schedule
**Aug. 27 Savoy
Sept. 4 Chisum
Sept.. 11 at Era
Sept. 25 *at Gunter
Oct. 2 *Whitewright (Homecoming)
Oct.. 9 *Howe
Oct. 16 *at Honey Grove
Oct. 23 *Leonard
Oct. 30 *at Melissa
Nov. 6 *at Tom Bean
**Thursday game
Gunter Tigers
GUNTER – The Gunter football program has certainly made a name for itself in the area football circles.
Fumbles have sent the Tigers home in both 2007 (regional finals against Cisco) and 2008 (against Pilot Point). Only seven starters return in 2009, but the number was even less a year ago with the end result a 10-2 record, including a playoff win against Caddo Mills, who shut out the Tigers in the season opener.
“The kids are working hard with good attitudes and are ready to get back to work,” coach Jake Fieszel said. “We lost a couple of All-State players, but we have a good group coming back eager to learn and get better.”
Michael Baylie lines up at right end with Drew Hill on the left side. Taylor Lenzmeier, Ryan O’Hanlon and Brian Dodson are penciled in at the tackle and nose guard spots.
In the secondary, Chad Tucker is the free safety, Colton Hinson the left cornerback and Dalton Lee the right cornerback as well as the Tigers’ kicker.
Nicky Mixon is the middle linebacker, with Leo Castorena and Price Ferrell on the outside.
“We have a lot of holes to fill on defense, and anytime you lose two players like Bear Tamburin and Sammy Cisneros, it’s going to be tough,” Fieszel said. “We’re coming along well and look to continue to develop and grow as a group. These kids know their assignments and what they’re supposed to do.”
Gunter is known for its running game, and fullback Mixon, tailback Tucker (who ran the 100 at state) and wingback Castorena look to take charge. They’ll run behind the line of guard Lenzmeier and tackle Lincoln Harris on the right side along Harris’ younger brother Finley at center and the left side of guard Hunter Hinrich and tackle Hill.
Lee is the top returning receiver, with Ferrell at tight end.
The Tigers’ biggest concern entering camp was finding a quarterback, but Fieszel believes he’s found his man in Hinson, who is also the team’s punter.
“We talk every year about getting better offensively, because we have a tough non-district schedule with Caddo Mills, Boyd and Commerce before taking a week off to prepare for district,” Fieszel said. “Our kids have good attitudes and are making sure they get better every single day and prepare themselves to secure one of the playoff spots.”
Gunter is projected to grab one of the three post-season spots in 11-2A, but one aspect of the Tigers’ success has been playing hard each week and taking nothing for granted.
Strong sub-varsity play has benefitted the program in recent years as well, and it’s what Fieszel feels prepares his team to play under the Friday night lights.
“I told somebody the other day about parity being the key word in our district,” Fieszel said. “If you don’t come to play Friday night, you can get beat by anyone in this district. Melissa is definitely at the top of everyone’s list, and it’s going to be a dogfight for sure.”
Fieszel is a master at putting pieces together to form a winner. Don’t look for anything less, as the Tigers won’t sneak up on anyone this year, and it will be interesting to see what tricks Fieszel has up his sleeve this time.
Gunter 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Caddo Mills
Sept. 4 at Boyd
Sept. 11 Commerce
Sept. 25 *Bells
Oct. 2 *at Howe
Oct. 9 *Honey Grove
Oct. 16 *at Leonard
Oct. 23 *Melissa
Oct. 30 *Tom Bean
Nov. 6 *at Whitewright
Honey Grove Warriors
HONEY GROVE - It might be the smallest school in District 11-2A, but the Honey Grove football team hasn't needed any excuses once it hit the field.
The Warriors swept their three non-district games on their way to a 6-4 record in 2008. They very well could do the same thing this year, but head coach James Fuller is more concerned about squeezing at least two more district wins out of his team to ensure a playoff berth with a younger team minus 12 players lost to graduation.
“We’re going to do everything we can to win district, but we’re going to have to play hard and grow up fast,” Fuller said. “It’s important for us to get off to a good start and build some confidence entering district play.”
It didn’t help Honey Grove’s cause losing a pair of starters in Eddie Rodriguez and Sam Thompson, who both moved during the offseason, but seven starters return on defense.
Leading tackler and honorable-mention All-District selection Tre’ Goodwin (43 stops) and Sam Velio line up around returning second-team All-District nose guard Chris Gilbert. Austin Buford is also expected to see time.
Ben Caldwell, Chase Stoltenberg and Zack Patt will all see action at outside linebacker with Dillon Bloodworth and Jordan Mallicote (who both had older brothers in the program) on the inside.
The Three Cs of Chabon Williamson (21 tackles, one interception in 2008), Courtland Finney and Corwin Louis headline the secondary at cornerback in a secondary consisting of safeties Dijon Finney, Cam Brooks and Darious Brown.
“We’re working on a new 3-4 alignment, but it’s one I feel will fit well to our personnel,” Fuller said. “Our guys are taking great angles when it comes to tackling and will improve week by week. Once things fall into place, I feel our defense will be a very good one.”
Patt is the leading returning offensive starter at running back and has plenty of help up front with guard Gilbert and tackle Bloodworth on the right side, Austin Buford at center and guard Goodwin and tackle Stoltenberg on the right side.
Sophomore Dillon Baun is a newcomer at quarterback, and has plenty of receiving options at his disposal in Brooks, Caldwell, Courtland Finney, Louis and Williamson.
“Dillon is a talented young man who can run and throw the football well,” Fuller said. “It’s all about getting him some experience, and he’ll have some help. We want to utilize Zack in the backfield, because he’s such a multi-purpose threat who can run and catch the football. We want to move him around and take advantage of his skills offensively.”
Aaron Spann takes over full time at kicker with the departure of Rodriguez and was an honorable-mention selection a year ago.
“We have a great coaching staff and enjoy working with these kids,” Fuller said. “We want to go out and work hard knowing we have an opportunity for some great things.”
Honey Grove 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Cooper
Sept. 4 at Wolfe City
Sept. 11 at Chisum
Sept. 25 *at Melissa
Oct. 2 *Tom Bean (Homecoming)
Oct. 9 *at Gunter
Oct. 16 *Bells
Oct. 23 *Howe
Oct. 30 *at Whitewright
Nov. 6 *at Leonard
Howe Bulldogs
HOWE - IF there's one guarantee entering the 2009 football season, it's the fact Howe doesn't want to finish 3-7 for a fourth straight year.
In order for improvement to take place and for Stony Coffman and the Bulldogs to become serious playoff contenders, there needs to be a strong sense of urgency and fewer injuries that have reared their ugly heads in recent years.
“So far this year, knock on wood, we haven’t had any serious issues yet,” Coffman said. “Everything’s fresh and brand new, and we have a chance to make a statement as compared to the past. We hope to improve our record as well as our play on the field.”
Only four starters return on defense, but eight are back with at least some varsity playing experience.
Casey Davis is the left end with Jesse Hodge on the right side returning after missing 2008 after fracturing his skull in a four-wheeler accident. Kasy Havens and Jose Tapia will start on the inside. Zack Hill should also see time.
Cody Mercer is the middle linebacker with David Goucher and Jacob Zang on the outside. Dalton Harris and Tim Butler are the cornerbacks, while Phillip Wildman and Towner Bailey (rash of injuries last few seasons) are the safeties with Alex Torres also in the mix.
“Defense has been our sore spot, and we need to improve, because we’ve never been able to stop anybody throughout the years,” Coffman said. “We have experience and hope our new blood will allow us to be better. We’re a work in progress as the season goes along.”
Offensively, the running game is in good hands with Melvin Rodriguez and Tyler Ross, who combined for 1,350 yards in 2008 and are what Coffman said are the strength of the team. Davis is the lead blocker at fullback and will also get some carries.
They’ll run behind a line consisting of left tackle Michael Karry and center Mercer as well as the “Four H” club of left guard Hayden Huntsman, the right side of tackle Sawyer Hodge and guard Havens along with tight end Devin Hargrove.
Quarterback Chase Fountaine saw plenty of snaps last season after taking over for the injured Branden Crabb but is being pushed by Zach Hill. Their top two receiving options are Goucher and Russell Wortham as well as Butler, Harris and Torres.
“We expect our offense to get better as the season goes along,” Coffman said. “We have a lot of weapons to throw to and can run the ball. No one person can get the job done. It’s going to take a team effort from our entire group.”
The Bulldogs want to come out strong in 2009 and prove they have more bite than their bark as well as contend for a playoff spot.
“It’s a tough district, with Melissa definitely being on top and Gunter having to be respected for its playoff appearances and being one of if not the beset teams in the state the last two years,” Coffman said. “Leonard has a great amount of speed to contend with, and it will be a challenge from every team each week, that’s for sure.”
Howe 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Blue Ridge
Sept. 11 Van Alstyne
Sept. 18 Valley View
Sept. 25 *at Tom Bean
Oct. 2 *Gunter
Oct. 9 *at Bells
Oct. 16 *Whitewright
Oct. 23 *at Honey Grove
Oct. 30 *Leonard
Nov. 6 *at Melissa
Leonard Tigers
LEONARD – An overall winning and record and district record of above .500 still weren’t enough to lift Leonard into the playoffs despite winning only one game in 2007.
Head coach Shane Fletcher and his team found out firsthand it’s not always good enough, and one point on the scoreboard prevented his team’s season from continuing.
“You always talk about football being a game of inches, and we preached during the offseason of how important it is to work hard on every play and to prevent what happened last year from occurring again,” Fletcher said. “We’re ready to play football.”
A loss to Tom Bean prevented the Tigers from reaching the postseason, and they realize it will take even more effort to reach their goals this year.
Senior quarterback Will Cowan is a candidate for the District 11-2A Most Valuable Player after coming off a season in which he racked up more than 2,400 total yards and 31 touchdowns. He has plenty of options in the passing game with receivers Muntrell Titus, Jake Buchanan and Nathan Vale along with new tight end Matt Williams, who looks to make the same impact for the football team as he’s done on the hardwood.
“Muntrell is a speedy kid who isn’t very big but is fast and runs good routes,” Fletcher said. “Jake has played for us since he was a freshman and has great hands and speed. Nathan has grown a bunch (reportedly six inches) in the past year and has always had good hands. Matt Williams is going to be a good one for us on both sides of the ball.”
The biggest surprise in district last year was the emergence of junior running back Reggie Robinson, who moved to Leonard during the season from McKinney and had eight touchdowns in only three games. He is also an MVP candidate and will create quite a force alongside Cowan.
“Will and Reggie are two explosive, talented kids who bring a lot to the table,” Fletcher said. “What I’m most impressed about with this team is the fact it went 3-6 as eighth graders but has worked hard and now has a chance to go out with a great season.”
Running back Tevin Daniels is a player Fletcher said must be mentioned in the same breath as Cowan and Robinson. The trio will operate behind a very experienced line of Jacob Riley (left guard), Sam Whisenhunt (left tackle), Mark Eastin (center) and Zack Bohannon (right tackle). T.R. Hodnett and sophomore Gavin Buckaloo are currently vying for the right guard spot.
“Our offense will be as good as our line,” said Fletcher, who wasn’t pleased with the group’s performance in the opening scrimmage against Rivercrest. “If those guys don’t step up and play, we’re not going to be good. If they do, then we’re going to be good.”
Leonard is stout on defense with the front line of tackles Daniels and Adam Clark on the inside, a duo Fletcher calls the unit’s heart. Eastin and Williams line up at the end spots.
The Tigers are equally strong at linebacker with three-year starter Alex Astello and Billy Martin on the inside with Landon Page and Christian Vaughn on the outside.
Daniels could also be a hybrid player on the line or at linebacker moving back without any substitutions.
Buchanan moves from outside linebacker to cornerback, where he will play beside Robinson, who is learning on the run with his first taste of defense. Cowan is the safety.
“I like our defense’s ability to run,” Fletcher said. “There isn’t a kid we’ll put on the field who can’t fly to the football.”
Cowan is also the team’s kicker, while the inaptly named Aaron Shanks is the punter, as the Tigers are chosen by many to finish third (some even second ahead of Gunter) in the tough District 11-2A.
Leonard 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Wolfe City
Sept. 4 Celeste
Sept. 11 at Como-Pickton
Sept. 25 *at Whitewright
Oct. 2 *Melissa
Oct. 9 *at Tom Bean
Oct.. 16 *Gunter
Oct. 23 *at Bells
Oct. 30 *at Howe
Nov. 6 *Honey Grove
Tom Bean Tomcats
TOM BEAN – It’s been more than five years since Tom Bean made a habit of reaching the postseason.
Some lean years followed, but head coach Tal Sanders has the spirits high with the Tomcats. They realize it will take the same workmanlike effort to get back to the playoffs and advance beyond the bi-district round where they lost to Paul Pewitt in 2008.
"We obviously want to try and repeat our success, but we'll have to do it with some different athletes," Sanders said. "Our goal is to make the playoffs again and improve from last year, but we have to get there first. Other teams in our district are better and much improved groups."
Tom Bean won four games by one point last year, all in the final 30 seconds and three of them in district play. Some might call it luck, but Sanders prefers to credit his players with never-say-die attitudes.
"It was an exciting run, and it was a good sign we were able to win games the way we did," Sanders said. "It was a good indication of our guys playing until the end."
The Tomcats rely on their running game led by Colby Pennell, with senior quarterback Hunter Hendry coming of age a year ago with more than 1,800 yards of total offense and 19 touchdowns.
Jake Trentman is the top returning receiver, with younger brother Mitch also figuring in the mix. Travis Counts and Rex Roberts are the other two projected starters.
"Hunter is back and did a wonderful job passing the football last year,"
Sanders said. "He can run and throw to force defenses to not key on stopping one part of our game. He's versatile and can throw on the run..
Our group of receivers has improved, and we're deeper at that position.
We're also pleased to have Colby, Harley Horman and Phillip Harris returning."
One key to Tom Bean's success is patching together an offensive line for what will be a highly-contested district race with Horman (moving from guard to center) and Harris (left tackle) the two key returnees up front.
Alex Hamilton is penciled in at left guard with twin brother Jack on the right side along with tackle Wyatt and Hormon, who moved from guard to center.
"I hope we're going to be better than last year on the line," Sanders said. "We're not as big, but we're a little faster and quicker. We lost three good-size linemen (to graduation)."
The Tomcat defense will also have to fill some holes on the defensive line with the exception of the Hamilton twins at end. Wyatt is on the inside.
Kyle West is back at linebacker after finishing second on the team in tackles last season. Horman joins him on the outside, while Harris is slated to start on the inside.
Trentman is back as a starter in the secondary and is joined by Dylan
Lillibridge, Pennell, Jordan Libine and Troy Minchey.
“They're all solid players, and we have six or seven back from last year along with some JV kids who moved up," Sanders said. "We look good so far, and although we're hurting in size, we make up for it with the ability to run fast to the football."
Josh Highlander returns at kicker and also takes over the punting duties.
Tom Bean 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Lindsay
Sept. 4 Anna
Sept. 11 at Blue Ridge
Sept. 25 *Howe
Oct. 2 *at Honey Grove
Oct. 9 *Leonard
Oct. 16 *at Melissa
Oct. 23 *Whitewright
Oct. 30 *at Gunter
Nov. 6 *Bells
Whitewright Tigers
WHITEWRIGHT – Jodie Stringer is back in a familiar position as Whitewright’s football coach and is expected to bring the program back to its playoff days of yesteryear.
Twelve starters return, and the Tigers hope all the hard work during the offseason will result in more wins this season.
“Our guys have put in a lot of hours in the weight room, and we’re eager to see how they respond once our first game rolls around,” Stringer said.
Whitewright looks to go with a platoon at quarterback and running back. Hamilton Luper returns and will split time with Steve Spann. Mark Gudgel (20 carries, 130 yards, four touchdowns in 2008) and Blane Wortham will both see time at running back.
Wortham is also part of a group of receivers led by All-District performer Chris Bearden (65 receptions, 750 yards, nine TDs). Troy Worthy and freshman Tyrone Swoopes are the other receivers.
They all look to the front line to open holes for the running game and keeping the quarterbacks healthy and on their feet. Guards Scotty Harvey and Bo Tate, center Billy Brown and tackles Dylan Griffin and Jalon Rice will have the spotlight on them with expectations of helping sustain drives and putting points on the scoreboard.
“It’s all about getting our young kids to play hard,” Stringer said. “We want them to block hard and play the right way.”
Defensively, Bearden and Worthy are the cornerbacks, with Swoopes at free safety. Seth Hardin and Luper are the outside linebackers with Buck McFatridge and Wortham on the inside.
Not much experience returns on the line aside from end Dylan Griffin. Gerron Ballard and Micah Loftice are the tackles, while Robert Cooper lines up at the other end spot.
Defensively, three Tigers are back at linebacker (Stephen Crump, Justin Davenport and Taylor Robinson) and in the secondary (Kelby Dodson, Seth Hardin and Blane Wortham). Not much experience returns on the line aside from end Dylan Griffin.
One key for Whitewright will be keeping games close, as kicker Tim Dilworth could prove to be the difference in crunch time.
“We want our defense to execute the basic fundamentals,” Stringer said. “Our ability to tackle will go a long way in determining how well we do.”
Tim Dilworth is the Tigers’ kicker and punter and could be the difference if Whitewright is able to keep its games close.
Whitewright 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Aubrey
Sept. 4 at Cooper
Sept. 11 at Callisburg
Sept. 25 *Leonard
Oct. 2 *at Bells
Oct. 9 *Melissa
Oct. 16 *at Howe
Oct. 23 *at Tom Bean
Oct. 30 *Honey Grove
Nov. 6 *Gunter
Blue Ridge Tigers--DISTRICT 13-A
BLUE RIDGE - Experience can go a long way, and it's a factor the Blue Ridge football team hopes it can use to its advantage in 2009.
The Tigers didn't win a district game one year ago and know finding a way to win at least two games in 13-A could equal a post-season berth.
“Our guys are hungry, and it’s always exciting to go out and watch them compete, see what they’ve learned and how they’ve grown,” Blue Ridge coach Kevin Wiggins said. “We’re looking for leadership, and it is nice watching these guys grow into men.”
Zach Rainwater (154 tackles, 87 solo) leads the defense and is joined at linebacker by fellow junior Montana Baker (second-team All-District in 2008) and newcomer Josh Taylor.
Rainwater is the Tigers’ “hybrid” player who can play outside linebacker or double as a strong safety with Trevor Agan, who started the last four games of 2008 as a freshman. Junior Cody Mills is the free safety, while Jace Koonce (second-team All-District as a sophomore) and Jake Price are the cornerbacks.
Senior Tyler King and junior Kolton Dickerson are penciled in as the two defensive ends. Brennan Smith and Bradley White are back for their junior years at defensive tackle, with Alvah Johnson also seeing time in the middle.
“I know it is a common saying, but defense wins championships,” Wiggins said. “Everybody is familiar with the scheme I brought here as far as being an attacking defense that is multiple with a few adjustments here and there. We can use different looks at multiple formations, because you may see a spread offense one week and see a Wing T the next.”
The offense has a leader at each of the skill positions in quarterback Jake Price and will run the multiple I with running backs by committee.
Smith (461 yards in ’08) and Taylor are the two starters, with Rainwater and Dylan Ima also seeing time.
Jace Koonce (second-team All-District in 2008 as a sophomore) and fellow junior Cody Mills are penciled in as the wide receivers with King at tight end.
Blue Ridge is looking to guards White and Armando Vasquez, center Miguel Garcia and tackles Dickerson and Cameron White (also the team’s deep snapper) to shoulder the load up front.
“We’re making a key transition to a new offense and are three weeks into it,” Wiggins said. “It’s a work in progress, but we’re making new gains every day in practice and are becoming more comfortable with a lot of zone read and option. Things are coming quicker and more natural to our quarterback (Price) through repetitions, and we’re hoping to throw the ball a bit more with good, quality receivers on the outside.”
Blue Ridge is looking to build off the success of its baseball team, a group that fell one win short of reaching the state tournament. Grabbing a playoff spot is the goal this fall.
Blue Ridge 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Howe
Sept. 4 @ S&S
Sept. 11 Tom Bean
Sept. 18 Detroit (Homecoming)
Sept. 25 at Celeste
Oct. 2 at A+ Academy
Oct. 9 *at Collinsville
Oct. 16 *Muenster
Oct. 23 *at Era
Oct. 30 *Lindsay
Collinsville Pirates
COLLINSVILLE - A Week 10 date against Lindsay stands out on Collinsville's football schedule, but there's a long way to go for the Pirates, who are on a quest to better last year's 6-5 record and trip to the bi-district round of the playoffs.
The Pirates are inexperienced at many positions and are looking for a quarterback and running back. One area of expertise is on the offensive line with Turner Coulson, Justine Lemoine, Dalton Williams and Coty Worthington, but tight end A.J. Harris and split ends Tyler Ford and J.D. McCuistion need someone to throw them the football.
Junior Scott Ragsdale and sophomore Chase Medler (district's Newcomer of the Year in 2008) look to help pick up the slack on defense at linebacker until the offense catches up. The front line of Daniel Grubbs and tackle Jeff Polley return as does the team's top returning defensive back David Byrom.
Collinsville has what it takes to win a district title, but head coach Danny David will spend the non-district portion of his schedule making sure he has the pieces to get the ball in the end zone and put points on the scoreboard in bunches.
Collinsville 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Goldthwaite (Pennington Field)
Sept. 4 at Prairiland
Sept. 11 Sacred Heart
Sept. 18 at Ponder
Sept. 25 at S&S
Oct. 2 Wolfe City
Oct. 9 *Blue Ridge
Oct. 23 *at Muenster
Oct. 30 *Era
Nov. 6 *at Lindsay
Era Hornets
ERA - It's the dawning of what it hopes to be a new era for the Class 13-A school of the same name, and the Hornets realize they were one win away from making the playoffs in 2008.
The 7-3 record was nothing to be ashamed of, but coach J.D. Henderson and his team attempt to turn the corner and take the next step toward reaching the postseason.
End Andrew Menge and sophomore lineman Derrick Ratliff lead the way up front on a defense also consisting of linebacker Justin Lance.
Wide receiver Trey Dunn and quarterback Nathan Metzler lead an offense along with linemen Dillon Hughes and Colt Henderson.
The Hornets' two concerns are their running game on offense and the secondary on defense, as putting them together will dictate their fate.
Era 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Celeste
Sept. 4 at Santo
Sept. 11 Bells
Sept. 18 at Sacred Heart
Sept. 25 at Detroit
Oct. 2 Millsap
Oct. 16 *at Lindsay
Oct. 23 *Blue Ridge (Homecoming)
Oct. 30 *at Collinsville
Nov. 6 *Muenster
Lindsay Knights
LINDSAY - Three rounds deep in the playoffs led to quite a successful 2008 for the Lindsay football team, but it's all about taking the next step.
The Knights have what it takes to make a return trip and are led defensively by linebackers Robert Arend (team-high 96 tackles in 2008) and Frank Cornett. Arend is a Defensive Most Valuable Player candidate.
Ryan Haverkamp and Ross Jones are a pair of dependable two-way players, with Haverkamp coming off a year in which he ran for 1,229 yards and 11 touchdowns while giving the team solid field position as its punter. Jones caught 49 passes for 635 yards and four touchdowns and is also the Knights' kicker.
Quarterback Dax Fleitman leads the offense along with tight end Madison Parkhill and linemen Blake Hunter and Greg Luttmer.
A date against Collinsville in Week 10 could possibly decide the district champion, but Lindsay won't be content with anything less than vying for a state title.
Lindsay 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 Tom Bean
Sept. 4 Windthorst
Sept. 11 Gainesville State School
Sept. 18 at S&S
Sept. 25 Archer City (Homecoming)
Oct. 2 at Petrolia
Oct. 9 *at Muenster
Oct. 16 *Era
Oct. 30 *at Blue Ridge
Nov. 6 * Collinsville
Muenster Hornets
MUENSTER - The feel-good story in District 13-A during the 2008 season was the rise of Muenster from a one-win team a year prior to a six-victory squad that clinched the final playoff berth and even went two rounds deep in the postseason.
The Hornets went two rounds deep in 2008 and are looking for even better things to come in 2009 and beyond. Fifteen starters return, including seven on an offense led by quarterback Levi Trubenbach (585 yards, 10 TDs rushing, 1,652 yards, 16 TDs passing).
Wide receivers Garrett Walterscheid (33 receptions, 525 yards, six TDs), Eric Hellman (16-160-2) and Jason Luke (20-140-1) are back, and sophomore Dalton Koelzer gives Trubenbach a fourth option in the passing game.
Jeremy Lutkenhaus, Dillon Bayer and Aaron Flusche are part of an offensive line looking to create holes for a running game the Hornets must have to keep opponents at bay.
Defensively, Corey Sicking leads Muenster up front, while questions remain on who will play at linebacker.T.J. Acuna and Steven Valliere look to compete and make big plays in the secondary.
Muenster 2009 Schedule
District games only
Oct. 9 *Lindsay
Oct. 16 *at Blue Ridge
Oct. 23 * Collinsville
Nov. 6 *at Era
DISTRICT 14-A
CELESTE - First-year coach James Fielden and his Celeste football team
grabbed the third and final playoff spot in 2008, and although they expect to
contend again this year, it will be a challenge.
“There’s always a sense of excitement with a new position, and I know the kids are excited to begin a new year,” Fielden said. “There is a lot of optimism and a lot of guys back from our playoff team of last year.”
The Blue Devils do have one thing lying in their favor with a stout offensive line of guards Dylan Floyd and Oscar Galvan, center John Callanan and tackles Denny Peterson and Willie King. They look to help offset the team's lack of experience at the
skill positions, as the entire backfield is new.
Sophomore Derrell Baker lines up at fullback in front of senior and four-year starter Joey Brock (479 yards, three touchdowns in 2008 as a fullback) taking over for Fritz Vale at tailback after a limited load last season due to injuries. Vale’s younger brother Kivin will also get some carries.
Cole Gilliam gets the nod at quarterback against Allan Cole, who will play tight end.
“We’re definitely a running team, and it’s no secret,” Fielden said. “We average six to eight passes a game, but it’s all going to be about clock management and finding a way to wear down our opponent. It’s no secret we’re going to predominately run the football. We’re not a homerun style of offense like we’ve had in the past and will grind it out.”
The Blue Devils run a stack defense with three linemen, three secondary players and five linebackers under coordinator Doug Samples, who spent the last four years at Omaha Paul Pewitt and the previous three at Wolfe City.
Brad Mayrell is the nose tackle with Nathan Horton and Denny Peterson at the end spots.
Justen Stark is the middle linebacker, with senior Carden Russell and junior Trey Moree flanking him on the inside.
Russell was a lineman in 2008 and led the team in sacks after moving from McKinney and becoming eligible just before district play. He was No. 2 on the team in tackles.
Seniors Callanan and Vale are the outside linebackers. Jose Amaro leads the secondary at cornerback along with Allen Lyday, with Tim Crane at safety. Brock can play either spot.
“We’ll lean heavily on our defense, and although we had the lowest scoring offense in the last six years with 19 points a game, we gave up the lowest in six years at 14 a game too,” Fielden said. “We have to manage the game, get first downs and control the front line.”
Amaro does double duty at kicker, with Moree handling the punting chores.
It’s all about grabbing a playoff spot, and Fielden knows it won’t be handed to his team.
“The championship goes through Quinlan, and Wolfe City is still one of the top dogs,” Fielden said. “Those two are definitely head and shoulders above the rest of us, and Cumby will compete for the final spot.”
Celeste 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Era
Sept. 4 at Leonard
Sept. 11 A+ Academy
Sept. 25 Blue Ridge
Oct. 2 Detroit
Oct. 9 *at Wolfe City
Oct. 16 *at Boles
Oct. 23 *Fruitvale
Oct. 30 *at Dallas Gateway
Nov. 6 *Cumby
Wolfe City Wolves
WOLFE CITY – A playoff appearance and runner-up finish in District 14-A are what Wolfe City hopes is just the beginning of another season to remember in 2009.
The intangibles are there for a successful year with 17 returning starters back for head coach Todd Palmer.
“All the potential is there right now on paper no doubt, but going out and going on the field and doing it is a completely different thing,” Palmer said. “Until we go out and prove it, it’s all speculation, but I’m definitely encouraged and hope it pays dividends.”
End Case Martin (16 sacks in 2008) is a strong candidate for the district’s Defensive Player of the Year and is complemented on the other side by Kory Wilkinson (a four-year starter with 120 tackles as an inside linebacker last year). They are joined inside by Darius Brown and Kody Woodruff at tackles, while sophomore Ryan Smith will also see time on the line.
The strength continues at linebacker, where junior Ryan Carrigan is one year removed from making 91 tackles and will play on the inside along with the likes of Brandon Ballard and Justin Roundtree. Two-year letterman Chris Reed returns on the outside and is joined by Dalton Law and sophomore Ryan Long.
Free safety Caleb Fuller and cornerback Nathan Rogers lead a secondary that also includes corners D.D. Wright and Devlon Wortham.
“Our kids have worked extremely hard, and we hope the experience pays off for us,” Palmer said. “We have a tremendous challenge in front of us every night, and I expect all of our games to be fought tooth and nail. There’s nobody to take lightly on our schedule.”
Fuller is also back at quarterback after attempting only 58 passes a year ago and is being challenged by Colt Herren. Both are adjusting to the team’s switch from a spread offense to a Wing-T formation, with Herren lining up at receiver alongside Nathan Rogers when he’s not under center.
“We feel good about our quarterback situation, but we must be able to pass the football,” Palmer said. “There’s no doubt people are going to try and stack the box against us, so we have to throw the ball and throw it well.”
All but one starter is back on the offensive line from 2008 on a group consisting of guards Martin (moving from tackle because of his pulling ability), and Roundtree, center Wilkinson and tackles Woodruff and J.R. Sanders. They are all seniors as well as tight end Chris Reed, and the line goes eight deep with Brandon Ballard, Joseph Tucker and Zach Griffin.
Junior running back Wright is back after compiling more than 1,000 all-purpose yards and scoring 15 touchdowns last year despite being a backup to James King. Brothers Dalton and Ryan Law and Carrigan line up at wingback, while Brown is the fullback.
“We have a bunch of starters back with a lot of experience at the key positions,” Palmer said. “We’re going to be stronger this year, no doubt about it.”
Two first-team All-District performers return on special teams in kicker Wright and punter Roundtree.
“We hope to challenge (Quinlan) Boles for the district championship, and most people are saying it will come down to the two of us,” Palmer said. “Cumby and Celeste will both bet better, and I feel Dallas Gateway’s players have more gears than an 18-wheeler. Coach (Brent) Hutto does a great job with his kids at Fruitvale and will also be a force.”
Wolfe City 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Leonard
Sept. 4 Honey Grove
Sept. 11 at Rivercrest
Sept. 25 Muenster
Oct. 2 at Collinsville
Oct. 9 *Celeste
Oct. 16 *at Fruitvale
Oct. 23 * Dallas Gateway
Oct.. 30 *at Cumby
Nov. 6 *Quinlan Boles
Cumby Trojans
CUMBY – The 2008 season wasn’t a normal one for Cumby football, and the Trojans expect to be back to their usual playoff ways in this fall.
Wide receiver Michael Morris (43 receptions, 606 yards receiving, 257 yards rushing), quarterback Timmy Cook (98 of 184, 1,237 yards) and running back Rodney Hobbs (564 yards rushing, 19 catches) give the Trojans a key returning player at each of the three offensive skill positions behind center and offensive line leader Taylor Gay.
Junior wide receiver Donnie Rodriguez and sophomore tight end Jordan Strickland give Cook another pair of options in the passing game.
Linebacker Tanner Gomez (51 tackles, two sacks, one blocked field goal) leads the defense behind linemen Shane Partridge and Josh Petty and in front of strong safety Alx Olker.
Cumby 2009 Schedule
Aug. 28 at Como-Pickton
**Sept. 5 Union Hill
Sept. 11 at Detroit
Sept. 18 at Simms Bowie
Sept. 25 Maud
Oct. 9 *Fruitvale (Homecoming)
Oct. 16 *at Dallas Gateway
Oct. 23 *Quinlan Boles
Oct. 30 *Wolfe City
Nov. 6 *at Celeste
**Saturday game
Quinlan Boles Hornets
QUINLAN - Twenty-three wins in 25 games have the Quinlan Boles football team thinking nothing short of a state championship, especially after last year's 13-1 mark and Division I state semifinal appearance.
Seven starters return on both sides of the ball, including all the skill position players on offense.
Kailob Wallace is a two-way threat, passing for 1,032 yards and 11 touchdowns and rushing for 801 yards and 14 scores at quarterback while also recording 107 tackles and five interceptions on defense.
Running backs Lane Sutton (1,654 yards, 23 touchdowns), Stephen Hatchel and sophomore Cyle Monroe complete a dynamic backfield for the Hornets running behind an offensive line of Tyler Pettus (90 pancake blocks in 2008), Tracy Brockway (78), Taylor Duran and tight end Jon Lewis.
Brockway, Justin McLain and Tate Stevens lead a talented group of linebackers, while Pettus (13 tackles for loss) gives the Hornets bulk on the line. Safety Monroe and cornerbacks Andy Allen and Michael Jordan (insert pun here) lead the secondary.
Quinlan Boles 2009 Schedule
**Aug. 29 vs. Rice (at Canton), 7 p.m.
Sept. 4 Scurry-Rosser
Sept. 11 at Dallas LIfe
Sept. 25 at Union Hill
Oct. 2 James Bowie
Oct. 9 *at Dallas Gateway
Oct. 16 *Celeste
Oct. 23 *at Cumby
Oct. 30 *Fruitvale
Nov. 6 *at Wolfe City
**Saturday game
Fannindel--DISTRICT 9-6MAN
LADONIA -- After years of toiling in 11-man football and suffering from a lack of numbers, Fannindel is in the midst
of making a name for itself at the six-man level under head coach Randy Jones.
Corey Brown rushed for 3,178 yards and 31 touchdowns and is the early favorite to capture the district's Most Valuable
Player award. Jacolby Judkins gives the Falcons another solid rushing threat behind an offensive line led by center Daniel Lopez.
"He's a little short in stature but is very strong," Jones said. "He's says a grand total of three words during practice, but he plays hard."
Fannindel also has an impressive pair of split ends in Steve Brown and Brian Chennault along with wide receiver Justin Sims.
"Brian will get after you and had a good attitude during the offseason,"
Jones said.
The key will be quarterback Xavier Brown's ability to get them the football. Brown injured his leg during the summer, so the aforementioned
Steve Brown (his cousin) takes over behind center.
"I think one factor in our favor is having so much team speed," Jones said. "We're going to be able to out-run a lot of people."
The Falcons are led defensively by linebackers Brad Scott and Will Kent.
Scott was an All-District and honorable-mention All-Regional selection in
2008.
"Brad is the hybrid linebacker-cornerback type and really came through for us his junior year," Jones said. "He has a lot of strength and size and has made his mark on special teams as well."
Junior Zach Rose adds strength to the line, and although he was a wingback on the offense last year, he's a predominately defensive player this year.
"Zach is a big, strong kid," Jones said. "He's in the weight room all the time."
They'll play behind a line consisting of senior defensive end Tyler Franklin, with Lopez at nose guard.
"Tyler is a bull-headed guy up front and has made some plays for us,"
Jones said. "He was a frailish, skinny kid last year, but he's really bulked up and did a good job of picking himself up. He has long arms, legs and now has the size to go along with it."
One concern will be getting consistent play from the secondary, and it's where the likes of the Brown cousins, Judkins come into the picture.
"We've been placing an emphasis on developing a hard-nosed defense,"
Jones said. "You have to have a lot of help and make sure you don't commit a bad play. We're going to keep the defense basic and use team speed to our advantage. We had a pretty good group a year ago, and Coach
(Donald) Butler is in charge of our game plans in hopes of us giving upno more than 30 to 40 points, which is good in the six-man game."
Ricky Ashmore gives the Falcons another solid two-way player at center and defensive end.
It took some time for Ashmore to adjust from having played 11-man football in the past, but he's one of six seniors Jones is relyingheavily upon for leadership in 2009.
"Ricky has his motor going 1,000 miles an hour, and we call him the
Energizer kangaroo, because he's too big to be a bunny," Jones said. "He has plenty of skills, but it's all about adapting to a new game."
The rules of six-man vary from its 11-man counterpart including everyone being eligible, including the center. Teams must advance 15 yards for a first down instead of 10, and the quarterback can't run with the football until it is pitched.
Punts are different due to a lack of blockers, and a field goal is worth four points instead of three. An extra-point is worth two points instead of one, while a successful conversion pass is worth one point instead of two.
Fannindel's opportunity to capture another district championship could once again come down to a Week 9 meeting at Gold-Burg. Byers is limited in numbers with 10 games and hosts the Falcons in Week 8, while the regular season ends with a home game against Forestburg.
Fannindel 2009 Schedule
Sept. 4 Duncanville Christway
Sept. 11 Lucas Christian
Sept. 18 at Wichita Falls Notre Dame
Sept. 25 Greenville Phoenix (Homecoming)
Oct. 2 at Leverettes Chapel (Laird's Hill)
Oct. 9 Saint Jo
Oct. 23 *at Byers
Oct. 30 *at Gold-Burg (Ringold)
Nov. 6 *Forestburg
