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KICKOFF 2013 SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

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SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

OUR FUTURE DEPENDS ON THE CHOICE WE MAKE TODAY.


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class 5a

CREDITS
SPORTS EDITOR

Sinton 27 Kingsville 28
CLASS 2A

Carroll 6 King 8
CLASS 4A

Greg Rajan
STAFF WRITERS

George West Aransas Pass

30 31

Beeville 10 Gregory-Portland 11 Calallen 12 Tuloso-Midway 14 Port Lavaca 14 Alice 15 Moody 16 Miller 17 Flour Bluff 18 Ray 20
CLASS 3A

Jose Rodriguez Kenny Ryan George Vondracek


SPECIAL CONTRIBUTERS

Mathis 32 Bishop 33 Falfurrias 33 Odem 34 San Diego 35 Refugio 36 Banquete 37 Skidmore-Tynan 38 Santa Gertrudis 39 Riviera 40

Javier Becerra Stuart Duncan Matt Young


STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Todd Yates Michael Zamora


DESIGNERs

NATURAL GAS.

CHOOSE

West Oso Orange Grove

21 23

Taft 40 Hebbronville 41 Freer 41


TAPPS

Daniel Prekopa/Matt Weber


ON THE COVER

Ingleside 22 Robstown 24 Rockport-Fulton 26

John Paul

44

We salute some of the best players, coaches and things in South Texas football entering the 2013 season.

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SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

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SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS TOP THINGS TO KNOW


With another season about to start, here are some of the top things about South Texas football in 2013.

NON-DISTRICT GAMES

COACHES

1. Phil Danaher, Calallen: With 389 career victories, Danaher leads all active Texas coaches and is 11 away from joining G.A. Moore (426) as a 400-game winner. Danahers sixth win this season will tie him with Gordon Wood, and the seventh will put the Wildcats sideline leader in sole possession of second place. With 10 trips to the state semifinals and one trip to the final, Danaher has set a high standard for area coaches. And when you have a field named after you, its often for good reason. 2. Jason Herring, Refugio: He has earned a reputation nationally as a polarizing and controversial coach for running up the score. But Herring wins, and he wins big. Two years ago, his Bobcats brought home South Texas first state championship in nearly 30 years. Theyre once again on the short list for Class 2A Division II favorites this year. 3. Darrell Andrus, Flour Bluff: Entering his ninth season in Hornets country, Andrus led the team to unprecedented heights (13-1) last season. His job now is to build upon that success and make the program a year-in, year-out stalwart. 4. Wade Miller, Woodsboro: Andrus former assistant at Flour Bluff didnt exactly raise the dead, but taking the Eagles to the third round of the playoffs for the first time since 1980 in his first season was no small feat. That makes Miller a coach to watch moving forward. 5. Bo Ochoa, San Diego: San Diego is a little out of the way, but the Vaqueros have played some good football in recent years, and it starts with Ochoa. The program went 18 years without an outright district championship, and hes led them to two in as many seasons.

Steve Nurenberg/Special to the Caller-Times

When George West and Three Rivers get together, expect an intense, hard-hitting game. Weve already circled our calendars for Oct . 18, when G-Ps standout running back, Devin Bisby, goes against the stout Calallen defense. 2. Ray vs. Miller: This is more a nod to history than the current state of the rivalry, which dates to 1950. This rivalry was so great these teams packed 20,000 fans into Buc Stadium on Thanksgiving for must-see games. And dont forget that Ray (1959) and Miller (1960) are the only CCISD teams to win state football titles. 3. George West vs. Three Rivers: You know this is a heated rivalry when before a recent game, the PA announcer stressed the teams are friendly rivals, not enemies. In the early 1990s, things got so heated the teams stopped playing each other. But the towns located 10 miles from each other are back on each others schedules, and thats a good thing for South Texas football. 4. Refugio vs. the world: Youd be hard-pressed to find a South Texas team thats more notorious and disliked by fans and opponents than Refugio right now. Not that it bothers the Bobcats in the least. And their lopsided victories and methods dont go forgotten. Need proof? Just look at 2011, when Refugio QB Travis Quintanilla was the Class 2A player of the year yet was voted second-team QB by the other coaches in District 16-2A Division II. 5. Ingleside vs. Sinton: This is an underrated rivalry from the 3A ranks. And its an even rivalry, as each team has won twice in their past four meetings. The fact theyve been competing for District 30-3A supremacy only makes things better.

1. Calallen at Flour Bluff, Sept. 13: The Hornets won a squeaker at Calallen last year, so you know the Wildcats will want to repay the favor. This is the epitome of an early-season statement game, for Flour Bluff to show it is for real and Calallen to assert its alpha dog status. 2. Ingleside at Refugio, Aug. 30: If you go, plan on being there a while. Last years game only featured 89 total points and 839 total yards. Refugios Travis Quintanilla and Inglesides Tristen Barajas are two of the areas top QBs and should be chucking it all night. 3. Flour Bluff at King, Aug. 30: Zero week at Buc Stadium will bring a nice season-opening test for each of these teams. It also will be the first chance to see how the Hornets replace Kolton Mims at quarterback. 4. Lago Vista at Refugio, Sept. 13: Lago Vista provided Refugio its stiffest test of the regular season last year, a 28-12 game in Central Texas. Fox Sports Southwest tabbed this as its Game of the Week for Week 2. 5. Aransas Pass at Orange Grove, Sept. 20: This 2A/3A matchup went down to the wire last year, and this seasons matchup could be similar. Both teams will be replacing key personnel, so that should keep the playing field level.

worth the price of admission. 3. Gregory-Portland at Calallen, Oct. 18: This matchup late in the regular season is bound to have playoff and possibly 30-4A championship ramifications. The teams played an overtime thriller that Calallen won 13-7 at G-P last year, so the visitors will be itching for payback this season. 4. Ray at Flour Bluff, Oct. 25: Ray has District 31-4A championship aspirations, and the road to the league crown will go through defending champion Flour Bluff. Both teams have new quarterbacks, but they should be settled in by the time this game rolls around. 5. Carroll at King, Oct. 18: This makes the list because its a grudge match. King humiliated Carroll 36-0 last season, and dont think the Tigers have forgotten. Anyone who knows this rivalry understands King has no intention of giving up bragging rights.

knee injury in the spring that will sideline him this season. That leaves a big void in the secondary. 3. San Diegos RB: At 5-foot-8, 210 pounds, Luis Lopez wasnt exactly big, but he leaves one giant void after rushing for 2,792 yards and 41 touchdowns last year. Good luck trying to replace that production. 4. Millers QB: Tyrell Clay was a four-year standout for the Bucs, a dual threat who made the offense go. Miller will be hard-pressed to find an equivalent. 5. G-Ps offensive line: The Wildcats have arguably the best back in South Texas in Devin Bisby, but the line in front of him must be rebuilt. How that fares will go a long way toward how the team does.

GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

Carroll coach Tony Trevino and his team are trying to rebound from a 1-9 season.

PROGRAMS ON THE SPOT

DISTRICT GAMES

RIVALRIES

1. Calallen vs. GregoryPortland: Calallen has been involved in some good rivalries over the years, but the annual clash with G-P seems to bring out the best in both sets of Wildcats.

1. Port Lavaca Calhoun at Calallen, Sept. 27: District 30-4As championship game may come in the first week of the league slate. Calhoun coach Richard Whitaker was on the receiving end of lopsided losses from Calallen while at Kingsville, so you know he savors any victory over the Wildcats. Calhoun is the defending district champion, and what better way for Calallen to make a statement than with a victory in the 30-4A opener? 2. Ingleside at Sinton, Oct. 11: Fox Sports Southwest selected this as its Game of the Week, and we cannot think of a reason to dispute it. The teams have split their previous four meetings, and the quarterback duel between Inglesides Tristen Barajas and Sintons Tyler Handson will be

Steve Nurenberg Special to the Caller-Times

Former Flour Bluff QB Kolton Mims led the Hornets to the best season in program history.

BIGGEST SHOES TO FILL

1. Flour Bluffs QB: Replacing Kolton Mims is no easy task, particularly after a program-best 13-1 season. Sophomore Cody Brewer or senior Josh Solarek are vying to be the Hornets new field general. 2. Flour Bluffs CB: If replacing Mims wasnt hard enough, the Hornets were dealt another blow when cornerback Jalen Campbell, a Texas commit, suffered a severe

1. Carroll: When you are a team that went 1-9 and has a demanding fan base, that means a long offseason. The Tigers and coach Tony Trevino are out to rebuild from last years rubble. The brutal nondistrict schedule will test the patience of Carroll fans. 2. Ray: The Texans have 16 starters back and some nice skillposition talent. Can they turn that into a District 31-4A title? It may be time to turn the corner from just being a playoff team. 3. Flour Bluff: A 13-1 season and regional final appearances gets you praise. It also raises the bar for future seasons. The Hornets must prove they are not a flash in the pan, but an upper-echelon program for the long term. 4. Riviera: The Seahawks field house has been a revolving door, with three coaches in as many

See top things, 5

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

COVER STORY

top things
from 4
years. Former Bishop baseball coach and first-time football head coach Nathan Borden is trying to bring stability. 5. Robstown: After winning a playoff game in 2010, the Cotton Pickers have gone winless in consecutive seasons. The word out of Robstown is the program is ready to rebound. It has to happen soon.

G-P generally fields solid teams that will vie for playoff spots. The program has also been home to some stalwart coaches. 4. Ray: The Texans are one of the few local schools to win a state title, and their mantra Victory begins at Ray is well-known in the region. Toss in the old-time uniforms for even more tradition. 5. Alice: Football is king in the Hub City, and the locals can be a demanding lot. That only raises the bar for players and coaches, which is never a bad thing.

QUARTERBACKS

1. Travis Quintanilla, Refugio: It seems like he has been at Refugio for a decade, but that is what happens when you are a starter for one of the states top teams since your sophomore year. Quintanilla has posted eye-popping numbers and helped deliver a state championship in 2011. 2. Tristen Barajas, Ingleside: Another three-year starter, Barajas has thrown for a boatload of yards and once again should be one of the areas most productive QBs. Atop his to-do list is undoubtedly an extended playoff run. 3. Bronze Jackson, King: The Mustangs field general for three seasons, Jackson is a slippery playmaker. Coaches are effusive in their praise of him, and the offense has been his to command the past two seasons. 4. Michael Cantu, Moody: He has committed to play baseball at Texas, but the fiery Cantu loves football just as much. An intense competitor, he seems determined to get the Trojans into the playoffs his senior year. 5. Tyler Handson, Sinton: Another dual-threat QB who is just a junior, Handson figures to take on a bigger leadership role for the Pirates as they again vie to be the top team in District 30-3A.

PLACES TO WATCH A GAME

1. Buc Stadium: Its one of the oldest stadiums in the area, but the sightlines are terrific and the turf replacement a couple of years ago brought a much-needed upgrade. Plus, this stadium has lots of history to it. 2. Pirate Stadium, Sinton: The recent renovation makes this a great place to catch a game. Its clean and comfortable, and there is no lack of friendly people to help you. This facility is a frequent locale for playoff games, and for good reason.

Michael Zamora/Caller-Times

With 10 trips to the state semifinals under Phil Danaher, Calallen fans are used to going to the playoffs. 3. Memorial Stadium, Alice: They love their Coyotes in Alice, so you better get there early to make sure you have a parking spot. How early? Try a good hour before the game. The atmosphere is always among the best in South Texas for high school football. 4. Akins Wildcat Stadium, Gregory-Portland: The gamenight atmosphere is always good, and the stands on the home side are filled pretty well. The recent renaming of the stadium after legendary coach Ray Akins adds a touch of history. 5. Vaquero Stadium, San Diego: Theres just something enchanting about Friday night football in small Texas towns, and San Diego folks come out to support their Vaqueros. Last years district titledeciding game against Aransas Pass was an electrifying night.

HURRICANES! ROLL UP STORM SHUTTERS


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TRADITION-LADEN PROGRAMS

1. Calallen: The Wildcats have set the standard for Coastal Bend football with 10 trips to the state semifinals, one championship game appearance and countless double-digit victory seasons. 2. Refugio: The Bobcats wear the villains black hat well but have earned respect with their play during several decades. Long playoff runs are expected by the natives, and the players and coaches understand this. 3. Gregory-Portland: One of the areas flagship programs,

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Carroll on a mission in 2013


Tigers aim to earn back respect
By George Vondracek
vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731

district 28-5A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

GEORGE GONGORA/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

Linebacker Philip Franco (right) will be called upon to play a big leadership role on the Carroll defense this season.

No one needs to remind Tony Trevino of the chilling realities of coaching at Carroll. Losing equates with fanatical criticism. Losing doesnt cut it, period. Yet in the inner sanctum of the Carroll locker room, away from the furor, there was no despair, no frustration. There was no overloaded negativity from the Tigers after they checked in with a 1-9 record following the 20-15 win over South San Antonio in the 2012 season finale. Instead, a new resolve was fostered, one that a proud

Carroll program previously hadnt had to embrace. There are no givens, no guarantees. Returning to the top means earning you way back to the top. I think for a long time Carroll was at the top of the ladder, or was at least perceived to be at the top of the ladder, said Trevino, who begins his third season with the Tigers. And Ill admit this readily, sometimes at Carroll we perceive ourselves to be at the top of the ladder whether we are or not. But after what happened last year you cannot deny that, no, were not at the top of the ladder. So the climb to regain respectability begins this season. Despite being pummeled by some nasty point margins last season, the Tigers went into the spring and summer with a purpose. They want to show the Corpus Christi community what theyre made of, Trevino
See CARROLL, 7

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Head coach: Tony Trevino Career record: 27-36 (5-16 at Carroll) 2012 record: 1-9 Last district title: 2005 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 25 Returning off/def starters: 4/4 Base offense: Multiple Base defense: 4-3
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Isaiah Clay, LB, 5-8, 175, sr.; Herk Dennis, DB, 6-0, 175, sr.; Philip Franco, LB, 6-3, 210, sr.; Anthony Huerta, DL, 6-2, 262, sr.; Jesse Jones, QB, 5-10, 155, soph.; Michael Pompa, OG, 6-0, 250, sr.

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CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 28-5A

CARROLL
from 5
said. Theres a hunger there. I think theyre ready to go out and prove some people wrong. Theyre sick and tired or hearing people call them losers. There is a singular, conscious effort to remove that label and prove some people wrong. Youre asking me about a difference, I sat here last year and I (said) the attitudes different, and it was different. I think our attitudes different this year, too, but in a different way. Im pointing out what the difference is and theres a hunger there. Theyre ready for the competition and they want to sneak up on some people and beat some people and they think they can. The Tigers will make that attempt with eight starters and 25 lettermen returning to a squad that was the first in seven consecutive seasons to not earn a playoff berth. Were going to surprise some people, the 39-year-old Trevino said. I have a great

Andrew Auzenne, a starter at defensive tackle, shifts to the offensive side. Also returning are tight ends Ethan Englebrecht and David Page. Trevino also said receivers Andrew Wilson, Matt Salinas and T.J. Kassner have chances to contribute.

DEFENSE

GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

After a baptism by fire as a freshman, Carroll quarterback Jesse Jones (12) is in the mix to be the Tigers starter this season.

deal of confidence in this group of young men. Im not trying to sound cocky, but youre not going to get Woe is me out of me. Thats not going to do any good.

OFFENSE
The number of starters is negotiable. Michael Pompa is a

three-year starter at center but moves to guard. Senior Gerry Montelongo returns at running back, and he will be joined there by junior Neil Campbell and sophomore Noah Lisk. Charles Miles, one of the Tigers top runners a year ago, no longer is at the school. Junior Brian Mendez started

2012 at quarterback but was injured three weeks before district started and then-freshman Jesse Jones stepped in. The two shared the load late. Junior David Segura also is figuring in the quarterback mix. Another starter, lineman Anthony Huerta moves to the defensive side. In return,

In addition to Huertas move, first-team 28-5A end Philip Franco moves to linebacker for his senior season. We just felt like it allows Philip to be the quarterback of the defense, Trevino said. It puts him in the position to better lead our team on the field, and off the field, really, by moving to that position. Three other seniors, linebacker Isaiah Clay, lineman Zach Guerrero and defensive back Herk Dennis also return. Junior defensive lineman Devante Gibson, a backup on the Tigers basketball team, junior defensive back Josh Wilson and senior lineman Ricky Banuelos also are projected to make contributions.

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GEORGE GONGORA/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

Third-year starting quarterback Bronze Jackson (right) is a versatile dual threat for King and the Mustangs leader on offense.

King has strength in numbers


Success in RECENT YEARS BOOSTS turnout
By George Vondracek
vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731

A first look at the numbers, and one may be surprised that 190 King players reported for the opening day of preseason football drills.

Surprising, considering the Mustangs were a combined 2222 in coach Eddie Hesseltines first four years at the helm. But a glance at some other numbers has Hesseltine enthusiastic about this seasons prospects especially if being bigger, faster and stronger equates to coming home with a better record in a tough District 28-5A. I feel like were very blessed, Hesseltine said. Its so hard from one year to the

next, you know, but I do know were bigger, faster, stronger than weve ever been. This says nothing negative about the other teams weve had. But the proof is in the pudding. Ive got the stats, and we are faster and stronger than weve ever been. With that, and the amount of starters or returners we have and the lettermen we have, we have very high hopes and are very optimistic about it. Another number worth

considering is three as in the consecutive years the Mustangs have made the playoffs. King hasnt made it past San Antonio Brandeis in those seasons. But Hesseltine said making the playoffs has been a step toward molding the Mustangs outlook and fueling the increase in the aforementioned numbers. I feel good that weve been in the playoffs, Hesseltine said. Now, theres no kid in our program that remembers

anything else. They only know that getting into the playoffs is the only expectation. Before I got here, they didnt know what the playoffs were, because they hadnt been to the playoffs in 11 years. Now that we have that mentality that the playoffs is not something that were hoping to get to. Its the first step we have to get to to be a bi-district

See KING, 9

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 28-5A

KING
from 8
champion, to be an area champion, to play into December. The attitudes are changing. So is the Mustangs on-field approach. King switches to a no-huddle, spread/multiple offense under new coordinator Jake Escobar, who came from Midland Lee, and a multifaceted defense under coordinator Lamont Mayberry. The schemes may be changing, but the underlying message is one Hesseltine hopes steels his players. We have touched those guys, the juniors and seniors, since they were in junior high. So now theyve been in our program, Hesseltine said. Now were changing our offense and defense, but the mentality of our program is the same, and I think that this year is a real big key to us to see where we finally have evolved.

Up front, tackles Phuoc Mai and John Suarez and guard Anthony Ghillowe return. King also was counting on secondteam guard Garrett Garcia, but he tore a knee ligament in a pickup basketball game. Pennsylvania move-in Daniel Bonds (6-3, 250) will man that spot.

DEFENSE

GEORGE GONGORA/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

Running back Tristian Price (6) had an impressive varsity debut season for King and will be counted on to help carry the load for the Mustangs this year.

OFFENSE
Quarterback Bronze Jackson headlines the list of eight returning starters on offense.

Now in his third year guiding the offense, Jackson was close to a 2,000-yard total offensive performance in 2012, earning first-team all-district honors. Its pretty amazing when your quarterback might be your best blocker on the team hes that

unselfish, Hesseltine said of Jackson. He doesnt care whether he scores a touchdown. He doesnt care whether somebody else scores a touchdown. He just wants to do anything to make our team win. Thats a quality and a trait you dont find in many kids.

The fleet Jackson will have solid skill support in first-team junior running back Tristian Price, the All-South Texas Newcomer of the Year, and secondteam seniors Dominique Lane (receiver) and Kevin Dawson (fullback).

The six returning starters are paced by strong safety Davieon Boyer and end Nick Reynolds. Boyer was third on the team in tackles last season. The other returnees are tackle Angel Garcia (who started 11 games last year as a sophomore), tackle Jordan Matic, linebacker Ryan Zarate and nose guard Devante Price. A backup running back a year ago, Price moves to the defensive line to use his 4.4 speed against the swift offenses that the San Antonio schools possess. Hesseltine also likes the fact his place-kicker and punter, junior Justin Aminzadeh returns. Aminzadeh has held those positions for King since his freshman season.

KING

MUSTANGS
Head coach: Eddie Hesseltine Career record: 44-30 (22-22 at King) 2012 record: 5-6 Last district title: 2003 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 28 Returning off/def starters: 8/6 Base offense: Spread/multiple Base defense: Multiple
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SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

Beeville coach getting to know team


BEEVILLE
TROJANS
Head coach: Jimmie Mitchell Career record: 91-36 (first year at Beeville) 2012 record: 3-7 Last district title: 2007 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning off/def starters: 5/3 Base offense: Spread Base defense: 5-2-4
Top returnees

30-4A

CAPSULES
VICTORIA EAST TITANS
2012 record: 3-8 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning Off/Def starters: 8/9
TOP RETURNEES

By Coy Slavik
Special to the Caller-Times

QB Cameron Kremers, RB Tristan Pelitire, DL J.D. Cuevas, LB Jacob Flores

BEEVILLE Jimmie Mitchell is no stranger to high school football in the Coastal Bend, but he has spent much of the preseason trying to become familiar with his first group of Beeville Trojans. I got in here so late, and Im still getting to know the kids, Mitchell said. We still dont know whos going to be on the varsity and whos not. I do know our weakness will be experience. Were only going to have four or five kids who have ever played on a Friday night. They were a very senior ballclub last year. Mitchell compiled a 48-19 record as head coach at Sealy from 2007-12. Before going to Sealy, Mitchell was 43-17 in five seasons (2002-06) at Sinton. We had a lot of success at Sinton and Sealy, Mitchell

said. This job was open and I was looking for a change and a chance to get back into this area. Beeville was interested in me and we were able to get together and make it happen.

The line spots are up for grabs.

DEFENSE
Beeville gave up 30.2 points per game last season. Mitchell knows the defense will have to improve greatly if the Trojans are to compete. Its going to be a process, Mitchell said. Its going to take time, but the kids are responding well and working hard and doing everything were asking of them. Mitchell said he has been impressed with the play of lineman J.D. Cuevas and linebacker Jacob Flores. Beeville lost its first five District 30-4A games last season. Mitchell said he hopes his team can learn quickly and be able to compete for one of 30-4As postseason berths. Its one of the better districts in this region and maybe the state, he said. Weve got our work cut out for us.

Head coach: Roland Gonzalez

OFFENSE
Mitchell will use the same spread offense that brought him success at Sinton and Sealy. Kids are kids, Mitchell said. We ran the same offense at Sealy as we did at Sinton and will run here. Whatever you do, as long as kids work hard and buy into getting good at it, you can make it be good for you. Most starting spots are wide open. Cameron Kremers, who passed for 786 yards and six touchdowns last year, appears to be top candidate at quarterback. Tristan Pelitire, who rushed for 410 yards and four touchdowns last season, should again get plenty of carries.

Bo Pullin, OL, 6-4, 300; Deondric Lofton, WR, 6-0, 175; Brian Hickner, DE, 6-0, 200; Steven Carreon, DE, 6-1, 195; T.J. Cleveland, LB, 5-11, 200; Jonathan Ortega, QB, 5-10, 160
OUTLOOK

While their record was unsightly, the Titans rallied to make the playoffs. Ortega is a dual threat under center, and he has a talented wideout to throw to in Lofton, who snagged 10 TD passes and also is dangerous on kick returns. The defense needs an upgrade, though.

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Armstrong figures to be a force on both sides of the ball and will be leaned on to lead the way. Bryant (13 TDs last year) knows how to find the end zone and should get his fair share of touches. With a healthy amount of returning starters on both sides, West should be in the playoff mix.

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CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Bisby a big building block for G-P


By Kenny Ryan
kenny.ryan@caller.com 361-886-3747

district 30-4A

11

Fueled by 17 returning starters, the Gregory-Portland Wildcats had a monster season last year, winning 10 games and advancing to the regional round of the playoffs. This year, they return only seven starters, but theyre not about to let that be cause for lowered expectations. Among the returners is Devin Bisby (2,302 yards, 29 rushing touchdowns), Class 4As top returning tailback according to Texas Football. With Bisby in the backfield, the Wildcats feel they have the potential for another deep playoff run. When you can give a ball to a guy and he gets three yards if theyre blocking or not, its big, coach Matt Anastasio said of Bisby. Hes an extremely hard worker on and off the field, in academics and everything else he does, but hes also a guy that will make even an old coach sit back and go wow with the things we can do with the ball in his hands. For the Wildcats to get better, Anastasio said greater consistency must be found on offense, which averaged 45 points per game in the teams 10 wins, but only 10 points per game in its three losses. Those three games we lost were pretty dang good defensive teams: Calhoun, Calallen and Leander, he said. You just have to be consistent to both run and throw the ball and in the losses we couldnt do one or the other. Ive been here two years but the kids are still learning the offensive system and the coaches are still learning and getting better at it, so well find some more ways and well get smarter.

GREGORYPORTLAND
WILDCATS
Head coach: Matt Anastasio Career record: 16-8 (16-8 at G-P) 2012 record: 10-3 Last district title: 2009 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning off/def starters: 2/5 Base offense: Two-back gun Base defense: 3-4
Top returnees

Devin Bisby, RB, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Tanner Geiser, QB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Marco Navarro, LB, 6-0, 165, sr.; Albert Barrientos, DE, 5-10, 223, Sr.; Tristen McCormick, LB, 5-9, 173, sr.; Gilbert DeLeon, LB, 5-10, 187, Jr.

GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

Gregory-Porltands Devin Bisby (4) often left a slew of fallen defenders in his wake last season.

OFFENSE
While Bisbys return is a cause for optimism among the Gregory-Portland faithful, the departures of nearly everyone

else on offense is cause for concern. Only one other listed returner is quarterback Tanner Geiser, who spent most of 2012 at the receiver position, but if a passing game emerges to balance the offense out, hell be a big reason why. The bigger question about

the passing game is who Geiser will throw the ball to. In the spring and fall, (receivers are) going to be the group Im really watching to see who steps up and wants the ball thrown to them, Anastasio said. Were working on the passing game (and) it should

be better. The offensive line must also be rebuilt, which Anastasio said will lead to some bumps and bruises along the way.

DEFENSE
Five starters return on defense, including most of the

Wildcats linebackers, which is just where Anastasio likes to see experience showing its head in his 3-4 alignment. Marco Navarro (106 tackles), Tristen McCormick (84) and Gilbert DeLeon (137) returning this year really brings some stability to that side of the ball, he said. Just having that presence out there of having those guys starting a lot of games games we won and games we lost it brings back that they wont panic if something doesnt go right. Navarro will spin down to play defensive end this year, where hell line up opposite returner Albert Barrientos (73 tackles). The secondary will need some work, but a solid front seven should make Gregory-Portland a nightmare for opposing running backs to go up against. Well be young, Anastasio said. But well be good.

12

Calallen looks to bounce back


Calallen quarterback Derek Scheible will be looked to for leadership during his senior year with the Wildcats.
Michael Zamora/ Caller-Times

district 30-4A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

By Kenny Ryan
kenny.ryan@caller.com 361-886-3747

Most programs would be happy with a 9-3 record. Not Calallen. Last year was a little disappointing, Wildcats coach Phil Danaher said. We didnt win 10 like we normally do. Thats the break. Sometimes weve had those years you expect big things (and dont get there) and the next year you think youre rebuilding and you have a great year, you never know. This year, Danaher is holding his expectations close to the vest, but hes not shy about where hed like to be. State championship, Danaher said. We played for the title in 2005. We went to the semis 10 times. So you see, last year was not a real great year

for us, especially coming off two back-to-back state semifinals years. While Danaher feels last seasons defense was good enough to carry his team a long way toward that goal, his offense wasnt up to snuff. He knows thats where the Wildcats must show the most improvement if theyre to reach the semifinals an 11th time in Danahers 28-year tenure at Calallen. To be honest, we got whipped quite often on the offensive line, Danaher said. I dont care how great a running back is, if theres no holes, youre not going to go anywhere. Im not putting the season on them, its just we need to execute better offensively and block better and throw the ball better. The backs have to block, too, so they have to get better, too. Its a matter of executing.

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CALALLEN
WILDCATS
Head coach: Phil Danaher Career record: 389-94-4 (321-60-2 at Calallen) 2012 record: 9-3 Last district title: 2011 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning off/def starters: 4/7 Base offense: Spread/Wing-T Base defense: 50
Top returnees

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Kade Young, LB, 6-0, 220, sr.; Trevor Moses, LB, 6-0, 185, sr.; Austin Revels, LB, 5-11, 210, sr.; Sheldon Bammert, LB, 6-1, 210, sr.; Creyton McDermett, NG, 5-11, 215, sr.; Ricky Martinez, OG, 6-3, 310, jr.; J.D. Savanich, CB, 5-4, 148, jr.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 30-4A

13

CALALLEN
from 12
They made too many mental mistakes last year.

OFFENSE
While the offensive line returns only one starter from 2012, the skill players that surround it are in place. Quarterback Derek Scheible (68 for 127, 773 yards, 5 passing touchdowns), running back Robert Maldonado (80 carries, 402 yards, seven rushing TDs) and receiver Triston Crossland (32 catches, 469 yards, 3 TDs) all return. (Scheible) is just a good athlete all-around, Danaher said. Hes smart, throws the ball well, rushes well, has pretty good speed, he understands the offense a lot better this year. We need more leadership out of him and, as a senior, hell lead the team offensively. Good leadership is very important. While a rebuilt offensive line is Danahers chief concern on offense, he said

theres work to be done across that side of the ball to reach the level of play he wants. Its execution on the offensive line and backs and receivers, he said. We just need to execute better than last year.

DEFENSE
If the offense was Calallens Achilles heel last year, the rest of the team was, well, like the rest of Achilles elite. Seven starters return from a defense that held 10 opponents to fewer than 20 points in 2012. Our linebacker crew is probably the heart of our defense, Danaher said. Our two inside linebackers and two outside linebackers, all four of them are great football players and we feel like theyre good leaders and they have a good-sized young men. The defensive line also returns a trio of stout starters, but the secondary will be a fresh crop of new faces.

GEORGE GONGORA/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

Running back Robert Maldonado (left) should be a central figure in the Calallen ground game once again.

Go Calallen Wildcats

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14

T-M hopes to keep Sandcrabs looking to reload again trending upward


By Coy Slavik
Special to the Caller-Times

district 30-4A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

By Kenny Ryan
kenny.ryan@caller.com 361-886-3747

When Brian Boone was promoted from offensive coordinator to head coach of the TulosoMidway Warriors on the heels of a winless 2011 campaign, he said he saw potential in the program, comparing it to the Texas A&M of 2011, which had blown so many halftime leads. Boone didnt get Johnny Football and a Cotton Bowl win in his first season at the helm, but he did get a threegame improvement over the year before and a sense that the Warriors are pointed in the right direction. We attributed a lot of that last year to the kids having a new attitude, offseason preparation and the mentality that we were going to go out and play to win and not just to be in the game, he said. Coming into last year, it had been a long time since the kids won a ballgame, so winning two preseason games and winning a district game was big. It carried it through the year. In order for that success to carry though into this year will be easier said than done. Only nine players return and, because of low participation numbers, last years backups wont bring much experience
According to his coach, Tuloso-Midway quarterback Caleb Rozypal (8) didnt look like a sophomore playing his first year of varsity football last year.
GEORGE GONGORA/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

back with them. On the plus side, Boone feels very good about the new faces hes bringing up from a junior varsity program that went 9-1 in 2012. This class coming up is a group of kids thats won all the way through from seventh grade, he said. Theyre used to winning and excited. It will be a fun year.

TULOSOMIDWAY
WARRIORS
Head coach: Brian Boone Career record: 26-36 (3-7 at T-M) 2012 record: 3-7 Last district title: 1976 Last playoff appearance: 2009 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning Off/Def starters: 5/4 Base offense: Slot-T Base defense: 4-2-5
Top returnees

OFFENSE
The Warriors improved significantly on offense last year, upping their production from 14.1 points per game to nearly 25. Only five starters return, and most of them are skill positions, highlighted by junior quarterback Caleb Rozypal (47 for 108, 638 yards, five passing TDs). He started all 10 games as a sophomore and didnt really play like a sophomore, Boone said. He played above his head and didnt make a lot of mistakes. (Now with) another year of experience, hell be well-rounded and ready to take charge of the team. Fullback Matthew Dickson (119 carries, 620 yards, one TD) also returns, as does receiver Marc Reyes (16 catches, 269 yards, 2 TDs), but four of the offensive linemen must be replaced, putting a premium on quick learning in the trenches.

PORT LAVACA The Port Lavaca Calhoun Sandcrabs football program was supposed to take a step backward in 2012. The Sandcrabs lost virtually all of their top offensive players, including four 1,000-yard rushers, and returned only six starters from their 2011 team that reach the Class 4A regional semifinals. But all Calhoun did was run the table in the regular season en route to a District 30-4A title. Last year was amazing to us, Calhoun coach Richard Whitaker said. We graduated so many kids and really didnt know what to expect. We had a lot of youngsters who really stepped up for us.

PORT LAVACA

SANDCRABS
Head coach: Richard Whitaker Career record: 103-55 (70-26 at Calhoun) 2012 record: 10-1 Last district title: 2012 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning off/def starters: 6/2 Base offense: Double-slot option Base defense: 5-2
Top returnees

OFFENSE

Caleb Rozypal, QB, 6-0, 165, jr.; Matthew Dickson, FB, 5-8, 200, jr.

DEFENSE
Only one team in District 30-4A allowed more points per game than the Warriors last year, so T-M will look to new defensive coordinator Alan Witte to turn things around with his change to a split defense. Its like a 4-2-5, Boone said. Personnel-wise, it helps us out, especially with a lot of the offenses we face being spread (teams). In the secondary and at linebacker, Boone said he feels good about his starters, but he pointed to depth and defensive-line play as areas of serious concern. Weve only got two kids that started on the defensive front coming back so we need new kids in there, new blood, he said. Were not where we want to be yet, but were heading in the right direction.

Calhouns lone question mark offensively is in the interior line. We graduated four offensive linemen, so were again rebuilding our line, Whitaker said. That has kind of been the topic around here the last couple of years. Calhoun has plenty of experience in the skilled positions. District 30-4A MVP Hunter Boerm returns at quarterback, and the Sandcrabs also welcome back their top running back, fullback Cory Williams, who rushed for 1,118 yards and 16 touchdowns last season, and all-district running back Brandon Smithwick. Tight end Colton Kveton and split end Cameron Boerm also received postseason honors. Skill-wise, we feel really good, Whitaker said. We just have to get some kids out in front of them who will come on and give us a chance.

QB Hunter Boerm, FB Cory Williams

DEFENSE

The Sandcrabs are almost starting from scratch again defensively.

We only have two returners on defense, Whitaker said. We have a cornerback and safety returning, so we have to remake our whole front seven. For us to have any chance to be successful, we have to have a lot of young kids grow up quickly, especially in that front seven area. Williams and Taylor Lee return in the secondary. Whitaker said he is expecting big things from inside linebackers Skyler Blinka and Garrett Wehmeyer. If our front seven does not play well, its going to be a long season for us, Whitaker said. Whitakers Calhoun teams have compiled a 68-18 record over the past seven seasons. The Sandcrabs open District 30-4A play Sept. 27 at Calallen in a game that could decide the league front-runner.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 31-4A

15

Alice looking to build upon strong season last year


By Kenny Ryan
kenny.ryan@caller.com 361-886-3747

ALICE

COYOTES
Head coach: Chris Soza Career record: 128-75 (27-19 at Alice) 2012 record: 9-4 Last district title: 2008 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning Off/Def starters: 4/3 Base offense: Slot-T Base defense: 50

excited about this next season.

Alice took a big step toward the top last year with a 9-4 season that ended at the hands of eventual state champion Cedar Park, but the Coyotes still finished tied for second in district with a 5-2 record. This year, they want to do better. It wont be easy, though, as the Coyotes return only eight starters, including kicker Alex Castillo. Every year is a challenge, coach Chris Soza said. Thats the beautiful thing about coaching high school football. You cant recruit kids; you have to coach the kids you have in your school district. For most programs, a diaspora of talent like that is cause for serious headaches. At Alice, Soza thinks his Coyotes are on the cusp of a youth movement thats more about reloading than rebuilding. Our subvarsity teams had good seasons, he said. Junior varsity was undefeated, and so were freshmen, so thats a thing you look forward to. Were real

OFFENSE Four of Alices returning starters hail from the offense. All-district fullback Robert Ramos (130 carries, 730 yards, 7 rushing touchdowns) highlights the bunch, but Soza likes to spread the ball around, so there will be plenty of carries for the rookies in the backfield. Even better news, the Coyotes return several starters on the line to block for them. Our tight end, B.J. Gonzalez he was a starter last year, (and) we have a guard in Kevin McKelvey and another guard, Isaul Arismendez, back, Soza said. Thats three linemen we feel good about, and we have kids to step up and fill the rest of the shoes nicely. The truth is our offensive line, theyve done a good job in the offseason. Theyre stronger and agile, and that will be the key to any offense, especially in our case. DEFENSE The bigger challenge for the Coyotes will be rebuilding a stifling defense. We lost a lot of our secondary,

photos by TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES

Top returnees

Bruising Alice fullback Robert Ramos (44) is back to dole out more punishment to opposing defenders.

Alex Castillo, K, 5-6, 140, sr.; Victor Soliz, DB, 5-8, 165, sr.; Mark Alaniz, DB, 5-11, 175, sr.

(and) we lost our linebackers, but we have our front five linemen for the most part they played quite a bit theyre back, Soza said.. Among those familiar faces looking for an increase in playing time in the secondary are Victor Soliz (16 tackles) and Blake Starr (25 tackles, 1 INT). The linebacker position will be a trickier fix, but the defensive line looks stout. Defensive line will be a strength, Soza said. Michael

Pena is back. We have John Rivera. We have the other tackle, Mike Castro hes back. Soza can name names he feels good about all up and down the Coyotes starting 22, but the greatest weakness, he admits, is depth behind them.

Just like anyone else, we have to stay away from the injury bug, he said. If we can stay injuryfree at key positions, the kids worked real hard, and I have a lot of faith in them so the kids are excited.

DISTRICT 31-4A CAPSULES


LAREDO CIGARROA TOROS
Head coach: Jesse Esparza 2012 record: 1-9 Last playoff appearance: 2006 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning Off/Def starters: 7/4
TOP RETURNEES

SUPPORTER
S E T O Y O C ALICE

PROUD

LAREDO MARTIN TIGERS


Head coach: David Charles 2012 record: 3-7 Last playoff appearance: 2006 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning Off/Def starters: 6-5
TOP RETURNEES

LAREDO NIXON MUSTANGS


Head coach: Tommy Ramirez 2012 record: 5-5 Last playoff appearance: 2007 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning Off/Def starters: N/A
TOP RETURNEES

Jose Mosqueda, WR, 5-10, 185; Isael Claudio, DL, 6-0, 215; Jose Flores, OL, 5-9, 285; Julio Terrones, WR, 5-8, 165; Eddie Guzman, QB, 6-1, 210
OUTLOOK

David Reyes, LB, 5-10, 175; Albert Estrada, QB, 5-9, 145; Juan Valdivia, RB/DB, 5-6, 155
OUTLOOK

Ralph Perez, QB; Jorge Fraga, WR; Cristian Camarillo, LB; Cesar Cortez, LB; Nico Ramirez, K
OUTLOOK

Guzman, who threw for 880 yards and seven TDs in eight starts last season, figures to be more comfortable under center.

Anybody who saw Martin close the season last year wouldnt know the Tigers werent a playoff team. Martin shredded the defenses of Miller and Moody in slasher-film fashion en route to finishing the year with three straight road wins.

For the second straight year, Nixon couldnt get it done at crunchtime and missed the playoffs. Perez, who threw for 2,000 yards last year, returns to lead the offense and figures to connect often with Fraga.

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16

Defense top priority for Moody


By Kenny Ryan
kenny.ryan@caller.com 361-886-3747

district 31-4A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

The Moody Trojans were good for some district thrills last year but struggled to convert that to wins with a 2-8 finish. Luckily, they know exactly what it will take to get better: An improved defense. That was our weakness last year and well have to really improve there, second-year coach Mike Cantu said. Defensively, the core of our team is coming back but, well put the best players on the field. That means a lot of twoway players, said Cantu, but if it will give a unit that was torched for a district-worst 46 points per game a shot in the arm, then the team will just have to grin and bear it. Its all the learning process. Cantu said. Were just trying to build a foundation where the kids can be successful and enjoy playing football and other sports. Were working hard at it to improve every day.

TROJANS

MOODY

Head coach: Mike Cantu Career record: 2-8 (2-8 at Moody) 2012 record: 2-8 Last district title: 2004 Last playoff appearance: 2004 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning off/def starters: 6/8 Base offense: Spread, no-huddle Base defense: 50
Top returnees

Michael Cantu, QB, 6-4, 225, sr.; Isaiah Patterson, WR, 6-1, 175, jr.; Brandon Cantu, WR/S, 5-7, 155, jr.; Johnny Gonzalez, WR, 6-0, 170, sr.; Elizar Dana, DL, 5-9, 175. sr.; Juan Carrion, LB, 6-0, 180, jr.; Elijah Smith, DB, 6-0, 175, jr.

OFFENSE
The good news is Moody returns the triggerman of a successful offense in a district that graduated half its quarterbacks. Michael Cantu (2,600 yards passing, 25 TDs), the coachs son, again will lead the offense, where hell provide valuable experience. He makes a lot of the calls, the coach said. We just give him an opportunity to get out of a bad play and into a good play. Having someone who understands the system takes pressure off us because he sees things we dont see or feels things we dont feel and he has a lot of say-so in what we do. Michael Cantus favorite target returns in Isaiah Patterson (28 catches, 556 yards, eight receiving TDs), but other faces like Johnny Gonzalez and Brandon Cantu (no relation) will surely step up as Moodys quarterback showed a penchant for balanced distribution last fall.

Michael Zamora/Caller-Times file

Moodys Isaiah Patterson (right) brings a big-play threat to the Trojans offense after hauling in eight touchdown passes last year.

The bigger concern is retooling an offensive line that returns three starters but was hit-or-miss in 2012. Thats one of our

weaknesses, Mike Cantu said. Well probably use other sets to protect him more, (but) were not going to change our stripes, were going to throw

the football all over the place and see how it goes.

DEFENSE
Eight starters return from

Moodys beleaguered defense, where Mike Cantu hopes another year of seasoning will spice them up. Our biggest hole weve worked on all spring (was) putting emphasis on defense, Mike Cantu said. Were trying to improve our defensive team and give ourselves a chance to be in the ballgame at the end. Linebacker Elizar Dana, defensive linemen Juan Carrion and defensive back Elijah Smith will be looked at to anchor their respective units. If they can limit opponents trips to the red zone, Moody might be able to surprise some people. We feel well score points, but (we need to) come up with some more stops do a better job tackling and assignment football, Mike Cantu said. That right now is the top priority at Moody and were looking to get that fixed.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 31-4A

17

MILLER

BUCCANEERS
Head coach: Remy Rodriguez Career record: 21-41 (21-41 at Miller) 2012 record: 5-6 Last district title: 2001 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning Off/Def starters: 7/7 Base offense: Multiple Base defense: 4-2-5
Top returnees

Paul Iverson/Caller-Times file

James Whiteside, RB, 5-10, 165, sr.; Daitchoin Bryant, WR, 6-0, 170, sr.; Ellis Johnson, LB, 5-10, 185, sr.; Tray Grant, CB, 6-2, 175, sr.; Chris Thomas, DE, 5-11, 195, sr.; John Porter, RT, 6-5, 350, jr.; Juan Delgado, LB, 6-0, 210, jr.

Wide receiver Daitchoin Bryant (middle) is back and figures to be a contributor to the Bucs offense and kick-return game.

Miller hopes to build off playoff berth


By Kenny Ryan
kenny.ryan@caller.com 361-886-3747

The Miller Buccaneers were a lesson in the merits of tenacity last year when they rebounded from an 0-3 district start to narrowly clinch a playoff berth. With 14 starters returning, the Bucs hope to return to the postseason with a less dramatic flair in 2013. Its a great situation to be in, Miller coach Remy Rodriguez said of having so many returning starters. Were losing some great athletes, but the young cubs we have grew a lot over the summer. They want to build on what the seniors left them last year and not just be satisfied to reach the playoffs, but try to make a little run in the playoffs. What the seniors left behind is postseason expectations. Rodriguez pointed to the preseason publication Dave Campbells Texas Football picking the Buccaneers to reach the playoffs and joked he didnt see that one coming. I was hoping we could sneak up on people, he said. But that wont happen.

The element of surprise might not be needed, though, as the Buccaneers lean on a talented junior class thats brimming with potential. Were going to have a lot of juniors and some good senior leadership, but yeah, the last couple of years these guys have developed, Rodriguez said. They work hard and thats one thing we try to establish is a good work ethic. Whatever happens, happens, but lay everything on the field.

junior right tackle John Porter. We have four guys back on offensive line who played significantly for us last year and well be running behind Porter, hes 6-foot-5, 350 pounds and hes come a long ways, Rodriguez said. Hes really blossomed in this offseason.

OFFENSE Gone is four-year signal caller Tyrell Clay, setting the stage for a three-way quarterback battle between juniors Juan Alvarez, Chris Lucio and Carlton Canada that will be determined in fall camp. Competition is the best thing for us to get better, Rodriguez said. In the offense we run, we like a running quarterback, so were looking for an athletic QB who can run with the ball and be one of our main threats on offense. All three (candidates) fit that skill set. Whoever earns the nod at signal caller, their job will be made a lot easier by

DEFENSE While an offense that averaged nearly 30 points a game was a strength for the Buccaneers, a defense that surrendered 33 points per game was frequently their undoing. The bulk of the front seven returns, though, highlighted by linebackers Ellis Johnson (85 tackles), Anthony Evans and Juan Delgado (103 tackles). The good thing about those guys is all of them can run, Rodriguez said. Hopefully that will be our strength on defense is our speed. Three linemen also return as well as cornerback Tray Grant (two interceptions). For a team that saw five games determined by a touchdown or less in 2012, every ounce of improvement is a good omen for 2013.

GEORGE TULEY/CALLER-TIMES file

Ellis Johnson (right) and his Miller teammates will be looking to shore up a defense that found itself in a lot of highscoring games last season.

18

district 31-4A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

Flour Bluff looks to maintain following watershed season


By Kenny Ryan
kenny.ryan@caller.com 361-886-3747
Michael Zamora/Caller-Times file

Tommy Martin should be a go-to guy in Flour Bluffs ground game this season after rushing for 696 yards and six touchdowns in 2012.

Its often said that the only thing more difficult than building a successful program is maintaining one. This year, Flour Bluff coach Darrell Andrus will discover how difficult it can get. His Hornets are coming off their best season in school

history, a 13-1 mark and the programs first appearance in the Region IV-4A final. The standards are set considerably higher, which Im happy for, Andrus said. You want to set higher and higher standards. Theres definitely that sense of understanding and knowing that 5-5 and 6-4 is not something were looking to do around here. Playing consistently is part

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of those higher standards. Flour Bluff won the turnover battle in every game but one last year something Andrus is hoping to repeat to maintain the programs level of success but he said theres still room to get better. One thing we worked real hard on this spring is mental toughness, he said. There were times in games we were winning by a touchdown or two and dropped off our focus and execution. Mental mistakes led to negative plays. Were looking for solid execution and consistency through the game. No possessions should cost you a game.

OFFENSE

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Twelve players return from last years team, six on each side of the ball, but among the missing is quarterback Kolton Mims (3,533 total yards, 43 touchdowns), the man who made the engine go. Competing to replace him are sophomore Cody Brewer and senior Josh Solarek. Theyve both had good springs and are working hard this summer in conditioning, but to say one has a spot, no sir, Andrus said. Both quarterbacks are very similar, (possess) sound decision-making, (but) not the same running ability weve had in the past. The teams most-productive running back returns in Tommy Martin (696 yards, six rushing TDs), and Andrus

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CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 31-4A

19

FLOUR BLUFF
from 18
praised the returning offensive linemen, but the Hornets also graduated their top five receivers. Martin and the offensive line will have to carry the load as the passing game coalesces around them.

FLOUR BLUFF
HORNETS
Head coach: Darrell Andrus Career record: 76-30 (76-30 at Flour Bluff) 2012 record: 13-1 Last district title: 2012 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning Off/Def starters: 6/7 Base offense: Multiple Base defense: 4-2-5
Top returnees

DEFENSE
Everyone knew Mims would leave the team because of graduation, but elite-level cornerback Jalen Campbell was a defensive linchpin the Hornets were looking forward to having back for his junior year. Instead, Campbell tore his left anterior cruciate ligament in the spring game, and the Hornets will have to truck on without him. As a team we have to collectively regroup and pick up for missing him and get guys to step up, Andrus said. I know Jalen will be there and be supportive and hes doing everything he can to be back and ready to go his senior year.
CM CM

Adrian Hynson, S, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Mason Carrell, DT, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Tommy Martin, RB, 5-10, 155, Jr. LEFT: Adrian Hynson (12), a UTEP commit, will be even more important to Flour Bluffs defense after secondary mate Jalen Campbells season-ending injury.
TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES file

Safety Adrian Hynson, who committed to UTEP in July, will be counted on to help hold the secondary together, and the Hornets return most of their players

who load the box. On our defensive line, pretty much returns everybody but one player with numerous guys who rotated in, so our line should have good

depth, Andrus said. Mason Carrell is a three-year starter, first team all-district two years in a row, so he has a good chance to lead a front four as good as weve had.

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20

Ray poised for big things in 13


By Kenny Ryan
kenny.ryan@caller.com 361-886-3747

district 31-4A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

On paper, Ray appears poised for a breakout year. Coming off an 8-4 season in which the Texans lost three games by a combined 15 points, Ray welcomes back more starters than anyone else in District 31-4A. Sixteen are coming back, including the districts most productive receiver and running back. I dont think we have a lot of question marks as far as our team is concerned, Ray coach Cody Simper said. A number of these guys have started since their sophomore year, so theres a lot of experience on the team. Thats probably our strength. Despite boasting the largest enrollment (2,058) in the district, Simper said depth will be a concern this year. But, if his team can stay healthy, watch out. I think we have a chance to be, if not as good, better offensively than last year, Simper said. Last year, we scored around 43 points per game, (but) our focus is winning games. Well score as many as it takes to win and I think well be improved on defense this year. Improving the defense is a good idea. Ray gave up 30.5 points per game last year and was torched for 72 in a seasonending loss to Gregory-Portland. We put a lot of focus in spring football patching up those holes, Simper said. If we do that, we can score some points and slow some offenses down this year.

Michael Zamora/Caller-Times file

RAY TEXANS
Head coach: Cody Simper Career record: 17-16 (17-16 at Ray) 2012 record: 8-4 Last district title: 2006 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning Off/Def starters: 8/8 Base offense: Spread, no-huddle Base defense: 4-2-5
Top returnees

Rays Ben Brooks provided a gamebreaker element to his game last season and will be counted on again this year.

OFFENSE
The Texans bring back the districts leading receivers in Matthew Merino (75 catches, 1,334 yards, 13 touchdowns) and Ben Brooks (51, 1,207, 19), plus its top returning running back in Tristan Barrera (148 carries, 884 yards, nine TDs), but they dont bring back their quarterback. Thats prompted one of the most closely watched moves of

Ben Brooks, WR, 6-3, 185, sr.; Matthew Merino, QB, 5-10, 175, sr.; Collin Breckenridge, OL, 6-2, 250, sr.; Eric Estrada, DB, 5-8, 160, sr.

at wideout thanks to the return of Brooks, who was a surprise sensation last year. Anyone who lines up next to Ben will have a good year because hell draw so much attention to himself, Simper said. It really leaves spots open in the defense for other receivers to slide in.

DEFENSE
While the Texans offense was among the top 20 in all of Class 4A, the defense was lackluster. With eight starters returning, Simper says its time for that side of the ball to take the next step. Im excited about our defense this year, he said. We

the offseason as Merino transitions from pass catcher to pass thrower to try his hand at running the Texans prolific offense. He has big-play potential, Simper said of Merino. It will be his first season as full-time

quarterback, so there will be a little learning curve well have to minimize, but hell also make his share of big plays and move the ball down field. Simper isnt too concerned with losing Merinos production

have a lot of experience coming back, a lot of seniors in the secondary. Our middle linebacker Ivan Flores is a threeyear starter, weve got a couple all-district linemen coming back, our strong safety (Eric Estrada) was honorable mention all-state last year and I think its about time for us to put it together defensively. Estrada, who scored three defensive TDs last year, will be a pivotal piece of the Texans puzzle in a pass-happy district. He as a great nose for the ball and is always around it, Simper said. When given an opportunity to make a big play, he does, and that doesnt happen by accident it happens by effort.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 30-3A

21

BEARS

WEST OSO

Head coach: Eric Luster Career record: 7-13 (7-13 at West Oso) 2012 record: 4-6 Last district title: 1999 Last playoff appearance: 2007 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning Off/Def starters: 6/5 Base offense: Two-back set Base defense: 4-3

Top returnees

TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES file

Christian Lopez (right) and West Oso will be looking to play stingier defense after foes feasted on the Bears in 2012.

DeQuillian Lindsey, RB/DB, 5-8, 160, sr.; Ruben Saldivar, QB, 5-8, 160, sr.; John Tijerina, QB/DB, 5-5, 135, sr.; Cory Davis, OL/DL, 5-10, 230, sr.; Ishmael Ramirez, WR/DB, 5-6, 140, sr.; Rolando Gutierrez, OL/DL, 5-6, 195, sr.; Christian Lopez, OL, jr.; DeQuinten Perry, RB/DB, soph.

Coach hopes to bring new Luster to D


By Jose Rodriguez
jose.rodriguez@caller.com 361-886-3745

One statistic from last season remains fresh in Eric Lusters mind. His West Oso defense allowed 38.6 points per game during district play, which has forced the third-year head coach to do something about it himself. When that stat is staring you in the face, theres something you have to do, Luster said. So, I took over the defense myself. Im going to call the defense myself. If we give up 40 points, theres nobody else at fault but myself. The Bears surrendered at least 21 points in every district game, beating only Robstown. District tri-champions

Ingleside, Orange Grove and Sinton each scored more than 40 points on West Oso. It was like playing Tecmo Bowl last year, Luster said. You could just score at will on us. But this year, the defense is trying to take some pride in not letting up and just getting after it.

It was like playing Tecmo Bowl last year. You could just score at will on us. But this year, the defense is trying to take some pride in not letting up and just getting after it.
Eric Luster, West Oso head coach

OFFENSE Coaching will be of utmost importance this season, as the Bears lose a lot of speed at skill positions. To counter that, Luster looks to lean on a veteran offense line to make things easier for the influx of new running backs and wide receivers. Cousins Christian and Jacob Lopez, along with Rolando Gutierrez and Cory Davis, all have experience up front. Sophomore DeQuinten

Perry is one of the more experienced returnees at running back, where he faces the task of replacing the 1,584 yards Justin Perez rushed for last year. Perry has 25 carries and 100 yards to his name. West Oso also has to replace its top two receivers from last season, a challenge Luster said his players are making easy. Theres no egos, theres no guys who think hes a superstar, that he has to have the ball, Luster said. Theres no

animosity between quarterbacks and receivers. This year, the kids have all come together. They all have a common goal. Its not about the stats. Ruben Saldivar returns at quarterback, where he will command a new two-back set Luster has installed to replace the I-formation the Bears ran in 2012.

DEFENSE Juan Martinez returns at middle linebacker to give Luster an on-field coach, leading

what Luster expects to be a much different unit. Man, my middle linebacker, hes my glue on defense, Luster said. He really doesnt say much, but when he does, the kids listen. He leads by his play. Martinez has John Tijerina, who also spends his time as the No. 2 quarterback, to rely on in the secondary. Davis returns on the defensive line, where Gutierrez could also see some action. DeQuillian Lindsey should see time at running back and defensive back. Luster said the size of his roster makes it difficult to avoid starting some players on both sides, but he and his players dont seem to mind. This is the most fun Ive had coaching since Ive been here, Luster said. The kids just bought in and theyre just

22

district 30-3A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

Michael Zamora/Caller-Times file

ABOVE: Ingleside quarterback Tristen Barajas, a three-year starter, figures to once again be one of the Coastal Bends top signal-callers. LEFT: Spectacular catches like this one make Inglesides Terrance Robinson (20) a go-to guy in the Mustangs offense.

INGLESIDE
MUSTANGS
Head coach: Graig Hesseltine Career record: 98-42 (70-29 at Ingleside) 2012 record: 9-4 Last district title: 2012 (three-way tie) Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning Off/Def starters: 5/7 Base offense: Shotgun spread Base defense: 4-2-5

GEORGE TULEY/CALLER-TIMES file

Prolific Mustangs should contend again


By Jose Rodriguez
jose.rodriguez@caller.com 361-886-3745

Although his Mustangs earned a share of the District 30-3A title in 2012, Ingleside coach Graig Hesseltine is not ready to focus on being outright champion just yet. Such is the case not because he doesnt believe in his players, but because he wants to be sure they are in one piece coming out of a tough non-district schedule. That slate which features the likes of Refugio, Cuero and Beeville could rival the difficulty of district play. I dont know if its so much who you play, but about how healthy you come out of (nondistrict), Hesseltine said.

Sometimes, it can be a matter of whether or not you were tested in those games, and were definitely going to be tested. Theres no doubt about it.

OFFENSE Stopping Tristen Barajas has been a priority for opposing defenses for three years. Many teams have failed, and Hesseltine expects that to continue as the districts reigning Offensive Back of the Year embarks on his senior season and fourth as the starting quarterback. Barajas threw for 2,951 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2012 and will have a speedster at wide receiver in Terrance Robinson, who caught 22 passes for 593 yards and nine scores last year. Obviously, on offense, its

going to go through (Barajas), Hesseltine said. Hes a big part of that. I wouldnt say hes the only key. Hell, youve got 11 guys out there that have got to do their part. Among those anchoring the line will be Ross Porter and Bobby Salinas, who bring the most experience, along with Frankie Robles, who was a part-time starter in 2012. I think if we can fill those spots and add quality people to play those positions, we have as good a chance as anybody at winning the district, Hesseltine said.

DEFENSE While a lot of attention directed toward Ingleside likely will revolve around its star quarterback, linebacker

Christian Britt returns as the districts Defensive Player of the Year to lead a unit that brings back seven starters. Britt, Kyle Rodriguez and Steve Garza, among others, could form what is likely to be the strength of the defense. Hesseltine expects the back end of his defense to be stout but retains some concern about the state of his defensive line. Jolly DeLeon will be tasked with grooming a young line as the lone returnee with starting experience. I think weve just got to continue to do what weve done over the past nine years, he said. Just work hard at practice, continue to get better with each day. Winning seems to take care of itself when you take care of the little things.

Top returnees

Christian Britt, LB, 6-2, 180, sr.; Tristen Barajas, QB, 5-11, 155, sr.; Terrance Robinson, WR, 6-2, 170, sr.; Jolly DeLeon, DL, 6-0, 215 jr.; Kyle Hernandez, LB, jr.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 30-3A

23

Orange Groves Ricky Martinez ran for 1,100 yards last year and figures to be a go-to guy again for the Bulldogs.

Armed with past success, Orange Grove seeks more


By Jose Rodriguez
jose.rodriguez@caller.com 361-886-3745

Jerry Bomar, entering his third season as Orange Groves head coach, has not wasted much time redefining success. Bomar and the Bulldogs improved on their 8-4 record in 2011 by going 9-1 through the 2012 regular season, with its only loss coming in Week 7 at Sinton. Orange Grove proceeded to beat Devine and Raymondville in the playoffs by a combined score of 75-8, before exiting in the third round following a 42-0 loss to Bellville. Solid team, but were not a team full of superstars, Bomar said. Theyre just a bunch of good kids that play hard. They believe they can win. Theyve been a part of two really good years of success, so mentally, they really believe they can compete. But we know, on the other hand, how tough it is.

OFFENSE
That December playoff game

against Bellville was not what Bomar had in mind when deciding to throw then-freshman Hondo Harris into the fire. The Bulldogs lost Ruben Lopez to injury after one pass attempt, paving the way for Harris to make his debut at quarterback. His inexperience, given that he came straight from the junior varsity level, resulted in five interceptions. Any experience is positive for a young player, Bomar said. I think that hell build on that. Hes had the whole spring to work extremely hard, and summer. First-team all-district running back Ricky Martinez leads the way in the backfield after rushing for 1,100 yards last season, but may not be the biggest standout on offense. Wide receiver Matthew Priddy, a unanimous first-team all-district selection, comes off a 49-catch, 631-yard season to give Harris a potent No. 1 target. Because of the abundance of skill-position talent, Bomar said Harris will not be limited

to game-managing plans, even if he is just a sophomore. Were going to play like we always play, Bomar said. Hes going to have to perform and execute. Theres no managing to it. I think the kids will have rallied around him, so I expect him to play well.

PHOTOS BY Michael Zamora/Caller-Times file

DEFENSE
Josh Herrera is expected to lead the linebackers, where the losses of Julian Salas and Dylan Herschap are going to be felt the most. Now, those two areas, for us, would be the highlights, Bomar said. Everything else, we got enough people back that we can be solid. Herrera collected 92 tackles last season and should receive a lot of help from Gunner New, an all-district player on the defensive line. New will team with Kolton Kubala and Randy Gonzales to help form a sizable unit up front. Dolan Vollmering is an experienced leader in the secondary at free safety.

Acrobatic catches like this one make Orange Groves Matthew Priddy (right) a key cog in the Bulldogs offense, especially with a new starting quarterback this season.

ORANGE GROVE BULLDOGS


Head coach: Jerry Bomar Career record: 204-132 (19-6 at Orange Grove) 2012 record: 11-2 Last district title: 2012 (three way-tie) Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning Off/Def starters: 5/5 Base offense: Multiple spread Base defense: 4-2-5
Top returnees

Matthew Priddy, WR, 6-1, 170, sr.; Correy Wallace, OT, 6-4, 220, sr.; Myles Rodriguez, OG, 5-10, 300, sr.; Gunner New, DT/DE, 5-11, 215, sr.; Ricky Martinez, RB/DB, 5-10, 160, jr.; Garrett Gallagher, OG, 6-3, 280, jr.; Randy Gonzales, DT, 6-4, 280, jr.

24

After growing pains, Pickers hoping this is the year


COTTON PICKERS

district 30-3A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

ROBSTOWN

Head coach: Ricky Gonzalez Career record: 0-20 (0-20 at Robstown) 2012 record: 0-10 Last district title: 1966 Last playoff appearance: 2010 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning Off/Def starters: 9/9 Base offense: Spread Base defense: 3-4
Top returnees

By Jose Rodriguez
jose.rodriguez@caller.com 361-886-3745

Winning immediately was not a talking point of Ricky Gonzalezs after he took over as Robstowns football coach in 2011. Having lost 32 seniors to graduation, Gonzalez began laying down the groundwork for a long-term plan. A plan that now, two winless seasons later, is primed to come to fruition. Weve been hanging our hat on, This is the year for us, Gonzalez said. Right now, our kids are actually really excited and so is our coaching staff.

This is a really resilient group. The plan, though, exceeds just winning a game. After all, one victory in 2013 would technically be an improvement. Gonzalez and the Cotton Pickers have their eyes set on something grandiose. We want to finish with a winning record, and we want to finish in the playoffs, Gonzalez said.

OFFENSE
A glaring example of Gonzalezs patience in developing his program was his will to start three freshmen on the offensive line last season. Physically, we had a bunch

GOODLUCKTHISSEASON!

of 15-year-olds trying to block 18- and 19-year-olds, Gonzalez said. We couldnt get it done. We couldnt get a push on people. Thats going to change this year. Quite a bit. The interior will be anchored by center Andrew Pena and guard Eduardo Silva, leading a young group that is set to improve after taking a beating last year. Riley Ramos and Luis Rodriguez return to battle for the starting quarterback job, as the two try to put an end to any lingering controversy that may have surfaced after both received time as starters in 2012. Ramos, Gonzalez said, has the edge to this point, but the coach would not rule out the possibility of Rodriguez winning the job. Luis is our big arm, Gonzalez said. He throws a pretty ball. Hes more of our pocket passer. Riley is our athlete that well get out of the pocket and run the ball with. He does

more of that (Robert Griffin III) type of stuff. The trio of Jason Mungia, David Molina and A.B. Rubio return at wide receiver with their combined total of 21 catches and 715 yards.

DEFENSE
Although the defense has experienced its fair share of growing pains, Gonzalez is excited about the progress it made last season. One of the things we did last year from two years ago was cut the amount of points in half that we gave up, Gonzalez said. Still wasnt enough for us to get in the win column, but we closed the (gap) on our opposition. An even more encouraging prospect for Gonzalez is the fact that two of his best defenders are not seniors. Defensive tackle Kasey Hosey, a starter as a freshman, joins 6-foot-4, 300-pound junior Lance McDonald to serve as strength of the defense.

Riley Ramos, QB, 5-8, 160, sr.; Rodney Mungia, LB, 5-8, 195, sr.; Lance McDonald, DT, 6-4, 305, jr.; Jason Mungia, WR, jr.; Kasey Hosey, DT, soph.; Pete Hernandez, DB, soph.; Andrew Pena, C, soph.

Kind of what were going to try to hang our hat on is that were going to play tough defense and stop the run, Gonzalez said. Just like everyone else.
After two winless seasons, Robstown is looking to take a big step forward this year.
CALLER-TIMES FILE

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26

district 30-3A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

PHOTOS BY Michael Zamora/Caller-Times

ABOVE: Rockport-Fulton quarterback Anthony Resendez (18) is back after missing most of last season with an injury. LEFT: Domingo Gonzalez (right) will be counted on to be a defensive leader for Rockport-Fulton.

After injury-ravaged 2012, R-F looking to stay healthy


By Jose Rodriguez
jose.rodriguez@caller.com 361-886-3745

ROCKPORT-FULTON PIRATES
Head coach: Huey Chancellor Career record: 136-100 (10-11 at Rockport-Fulton) 2012 record: 4-6 Last district title: 2000 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 21 Returning Off/Def starters: 7/4 Base offense: One-back formation Base defense: Odd stack
Top returnees

If coach Huey Chancellor had his way, Rockport-Fulton would skip nondistrict play altogether. At least that way, he would have his No. 1 quarterback healthy enough to play against district opponents. Our big goal is to come through (nondistrict) healthy, Chancellor said. Last year, from scrimmages and our predistrict (games), we came out of that just so beat up. We had lost so many kids. It was tough for our kids to continue. Our kids did a great job of staying together and continuing to fight the fight. In district play, the Pirates were without the services of

quarterback Anthony Resendez, who suffered a broken collarbone in Week 5 against Vanderbilt Industrial. Chancellor believes his team has a chance to make significant strides if it can steer clear of injuries. If we can just stay healthy and continue to progress from Week 1 to Week 2 to Week 3, I think well be in the hunt at the end of the season, he said.

OFFENSE Resendezs 2012 season may have been cut short, but that did not prevent him from making a good impression as the starting quarterback. In limited action, the junior passed for 455 yards and three touchdowns. His impact was so great, in fact, that Chancellor has decided

to mold the offense around Resendezs dual-threat abilities. Were going to run it a little bit more, I would say, with zone-type stuff, Chancellor said. Were going to use the quarterback a little bit more, make people account for the quarterback, and thats something that weve done little of in the past, but because of Anthonys abilities, were going to really try to do that factor him into the offensive scheme a little bit more. The Pirates have a chance to pose one of the districts faster attacks with Resendez in the backfield. He will have Alex Fahrenthold, a state qualifier in the hurdles, available at wide receiver.

Alex Fahrenthold, WR, 5-11, 165, sr.; Domingo Gonzalez, RB/ LB, 6-0, 195, sr.; Marcelino Barajas, DB, 5-11, 180, sr.; Matt Berckmoss, 5-11, 185, sr.; Anthony Resendez, QB, jr.; Logan Jasek, RB/ LB, jr.

DEFENSE With only four returning

starters on defense, RockportFulton could have its hands full in a district that features some of its most productive players at skill positions. It will be trial by fire for some of the newcomers. I think we got some good athletes that can jump out there and fill some spots, Chancellor said. Theyll have to grow up, technique-wise, responsibility-wise, that you have to have on defense. Because of the lack of returning experience, Chancellor is

tapping into his best players, regardless of other responsibilities, to try and fortify the defense. The best example of this will be the linebackers, where runnings back Domingo Gonzalez, Logan Jasek and Brandon Ngo all will start. When on offense, the three will rotate in and out. Chancellor said he could have up to five players start on both sides of the ball. The secondary will be spearheaded by Marcelino Barajas.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Pirates success will be decided in the trenches


By Jose Rodriguez
jose.rodriguez@caller.com 361-886-3745

district 30-3A

27

SINTON
PIRATES
Head coach: Tom Allen Career record: 52-18 (52-18 at Sinton) 2012 record: 9-3 Last district title: 2012 (three-way tie) Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning Off/Def starters: 5/7 Base offense: Spread Base defense: 4-2-5
Top returnees

Rebuilding phases have had little effect on Sintons ability to get in the win column in recent campaigns. This season is different. Not different in the sense that the Pirates should brace for a downward spiral, but different as far as the rebuilding goes. Well, the old saying, Youre only as good as your offensive line is, is pretty true, Sinton head coach Tom Allen said. You can be a dynamic player, like our quarterback Tyler Handson is, but if you dont have good enough protection up front and youre not creating some seams and holes, then hes just a good player with the football thats getting tackled. If Sinton is going to repeat as a district champion and keep

pace with co-champions Ingleside and Orange Grove, the Pirates will need to successfully replace four starters from last years offensive line. It may or may not be easy, but Sinton returns enough talent to allow it to keep its wave of success going.

OFFENSE
Tackle Jacob Brown is the lone returning starter on the offensive line, but is a solid piece to build around coming off a second-team all-district selection in 2012. (Brown) will be the one we lean on for a while, Allen said. But like I said, theyre only as good as they are together. It doesnt matter if youve got one really good lineman. If youve got a couple beside him that arent very good, (the entire line is) just not very good. Its going to be important that they learn how

to jell together. Handson, a District 30-3A Co-Offensive Player of the Year, led the district in rushing last season with 1,502 yards to go with 19 touchdowns. Through the air, Handson lit up defenses for 1,877 passing yards and 23 scores. At running back, Sinton welcomes back John Gabriel Guzman for his fourth year as a starter, who rushed for 552 yards and five touchdowns while playing on defense as well. Wide receiver Nick Zepeda helps create a formidable trio for the Pirates, which have to make up for the losses of Keith Garcia and Derek Shedd to graduation.

leader for a Sinton defense that will lack some depth. I think our defense has a chance to be good, Allen said. Were going to be pretty thin at some key positions. A kid that hasnt taken a Friday night snap is a kid that doesnt exactly know what it is like. Defensive tackle Homer Sepeda looks to improve on a 2012 season that rewarded him with a selection as a secondteam all-district player. When not on offense, Zepeda and Guzman will lend themselves to the linebacker and defensive end spots, respectively, where the two earned all-district honors.

John Gabriel Guzman, RB, 5-10, 215, sr.; Nick Zepeda, WR/LB, 5-8, 165, sr.; LB Tracker Conn, 5-8, 170, sr.; Jacob Brown, OT, sr.; Tyler Handson, QB, 6-0, 175, jr.; Mike Huerta, DE, jr.; Colton Cohea, RB, soph.

DEFENSE
As one of two players selected as District 30-3As Most Valuable Linebacker, Tracker Conn assumes the role of

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28

district 31-3A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

Brahmas hope depth trumps losses


By Jose Rodriguez
jose.rodriguez@caller.com 361-886-3745

KINGSVILLE
BRAHMAS
Head coach: Robert Wilcox Career record: 115-93 (12-21 at Kingsville) 2012 record: 7-5 Last district title: 2012 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning Off/Def starters: 7/7 Base offense: One-back spread Base defense: Odd-man front, 3-4

Kingsville coach Robert Wilcox knows replacing John Bam Houston III at quarterback is easier said than done. But by investing in the development of several young quarterbacks, the Brahmas know things could always be worse. You cant lose kids like Bam Houston and not have it affect you, Wilcox said. But, the one thing weve tried to do since Ive been here is develop quarterbacks in our system. Even though hes not here, hopefully well be OK filling that. The unexpected part of the equation comes with the absence of Mason Copeland, the junior who was slated to fill the void left by Houston. Hes not here, Wilcox said, declining to elaborate. Copeland, who spent the majority of last season at running back, completed 27 of 52

passes for 507 passing yards in two starts at quarterback. But with 15 returning starters in tow, Wilcox isnt letting any concern surrounding one position take hold of his outlook on 2013. I think the strong point is the fact that we have a good number of returning starters that are experienced with winning.

allow us to run the football, were going to run the football. If they try to put a bunch of people near the line of scrimmage, then were going to throw the ball. Thats just what we do.

OFFENSE Of the numerous gunslingers at his disposal, DeAndre Bergen is at the front of the line to take the starting job. Despite being a linebacker in the past, Wilcox expects Bergen to make his transition to quarterback a smooth one. Hes been a quarterback in our system now for three years, Wilcox said. This will be his fourth year. So, he knows our offense. He knows how to run it. He has a very strong arm. Bergen will be accompanied by David Cavazos, a returning starter at running back, while

TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES

Defensive back Darius Wallace again will be counted on to be a reliable presence in the Kingsville secondary.

commanding a scheme that shies away from complexity. Were one of those teams where we take what the defense gives us, Wilcox said. If they

DEFENSE Returning to the core of the defense is Rey Ferrer, a junior linebacker who missed significant time because of an injury. (Ferrer suffered) a ruptured spleen in practice and was out for the year, Wilcox said. We expect to have good things out of him this year. Ferrers return is one of many Wilcox said he hopes to see. Hopefully, were a lot healthier, Wilcox said of his defense, and I feel like weve got a chance to be a lot better because of that. Defensive backs Andre Wilson and Darius Wallace return to the secondary from last years squad. Justin Wickham and Michael Rodriguez are expected to be major contributors on the defensive line.

Top returnees

David Cavazos, RB, 5-3, 140, sr.; Justin Wickham, DE, 6-3, 200, sr.; Andre Wilson, DB, 5-3, 140, sr.; DeAndre Bergen, QB, 6-0, 190; Darius Wallace, FS, 5-10, 165, jr.; Adrian Rivera, WR, 6-0, 180, soph.

DISTRICT 31-3A CAPSULES


RGC GRULLA GATORS
Head coach: Abel Gonzalez 2012 record: 3-7 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning Off/Def starters: 6/5
TOP RETURNEES

LYFORD BULLDOGS
Head coach: Jaime Infante 2012 record: 5-6 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning Off/Def starters: 3-5
TOP RETURNEES

RAYMONDVILLE BEARKATS
Head coach: Joe Gonzales 2012 record: 6-6 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 25 Returning Off/Def starters: 7/6
TOP RETURNEES

ZAPATA HAWKS
Head coach: Mario Arce 2012 record: 2-8 Last playoff appearance: 2010 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning Off/Def starters: 7/8
TOP RETURNEES

Brandon Solis, OL, 6-0, 230; Troy Trillayes, WR, 5-6, 155; Aaron Barrera, OL, 6-1, 260; Rey Penablanca, QB, 5-9, 170
OUTLOOK

Scot Arnold, QB, 6-1, 165; Edgar Cepeda, C, 5-10, 210; Jorge Reyes, LB, 5-9, 175; Michael Cervantes, OL, 5-7, 235; Andres Infante, WR, 5-11, 160
OUTLOOK

Jesse Vallardes, RB, 5-10, 185; Romeo Rosales, FB, 5-10, 185; Edward Chavez, LB, 6-1, 185; Christopher Trevino, QB, 5-10, 165
OUTLOOK

Miguel Alvarez, FB, 5-8, 165; Roman Rodriguez, K, 5-10, 170; Eddie Sanchez, OT, 5-11, 295; Raul Ruiz, QB, 5-7, 155
OUTLOOK

Gonzalez, the former Texas A&MKingsville quarterback and Rio Grande City native, took his team to the playoffs in their second season before missing out last year. Solis and Barrera should provide ample protection up front for Penablanca, who has been an alldistrict selection two years in row. With four teams per district now in the 3A playoffs, expect Grulla to contend for the postseason.

The Bulldogs sneaked into the playoffs a year ago before being bounced in the first round. Lyford likes to fling it, and Arnold has a 2,000-year passing season under his belt. He has some sturdy linemen in front of him and a nice target in Infante. The expanded 3A playoff field gives the Bulldogs more than a punchers chance in this district.

No team in this district has more returning lettermen. They won a playoff game for the second consecutive year, no small feat considering Raymondvilles postseason woes of years past. Vallardes and Rosales each cracked 1,000 yards rushing last year and should provide a nice one-two punch for Gonzales to lean upon.

Its been two years since this border town saw playoff football, but there are enough experienced returnees coming back to help the Hawks get over the hump. Alvarez churned out more than 1,400 yards and found the end zone 16 times last season, making him a nice cornerstone. Arce must get his standout runner some more help, though. With the playoff field expanding, Zapata cant help but be in the playoff mix.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

statewide/district 15-2A division I

29

AP PRESEASON POLL
Class 5A Class 4A

Here is The Associated Press preseason high school poll, with first-place votes in parentheses, points based on 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-32-1, and the teams ranking in last years final regular-season poll:
Class 3A Class 2A Class A

School Points Prv 1. Allen (14) 227 6 2. Katy (6) 205 1 3. Cibolo Steele (2) 176 3 4. DeSoto 139 2 5. Southlake Carroll 129 7 6. Euless Trinity (1) 124 NR 7. Austin Westlake 75 NR 8. Galena Park N.Shore 62 NR 9. Houston Lamar (1) 49 NR 10. Coppell 34 4 Others receiving votes: 11, Cedar Hill 33. 12, Dallas Skyline 19. 13, Lake Travis 14. 14, Arlington Martin 7. T15, Converse Judson 5. T15, Arlington Bowie 5. T17, SA Northside OConnor 3. T17, Lufkin 3. T17, Tyler Lee 3. T20, SA Northside Brandeis 2. T20, SA Madison 2. T20, Abilene 2. T23, Abilene Cooper 1. T23, Longview 1.

School Points Prv 1. Denton Guyer (17) 224 7 2. Cedar Park (6) 211 NR 3. Aledo 136 3 4. S.A. Brennan 119 9 5. Lancaster 106 NR 6. Whitehouse 92 NR 7. Humble Summer Creek 73 10 8. Tyler 58 2 9. Georgetown 39 NR T10. WF Rider 38 NR T10. Texas City 38 NR Others receiving votes: 12, Dallas Highland Park 34. 13, Pearland Dawson 25. 14, Mesquite Poteet 15. 15, Leander 13. 16, Elgin 12. T17, Manor 6. T17, Nederland 6. 19, Leander Rouse 5. 20, Wolfforth Frenship 4. T21, N. Richland Hills Birdville 2. T21, Ennis 2. T21, Fort Bend Marshall 2. T21, Calallen 2 . T25, Amarillo 1. T25, Brenham 1. T25, FW Southwest 1.

School Points Prv 1. Stephenville (10) 203 3 2. Carthage (10) 202 9 3. Gilmer (1) 177 10 4. Navasota (1) 134 1 5. Argyle (1) 133 7 6. Kilgore 119 NR 7. La Marque 97 5 8. Graham 49 NR 9. Bellville 29 NR 10. Abilene Wylie 25 2 Others receiving votes: 11, Silsbee 19. 12, Celina 15. 13, West Orange-Stark 13. 14, El Campo 9. T15, Jasper 7. T15, Gatesville 7. 17, Henderson 6. 18, Shallowater 5. 18, Wimberley 5. T20, Port Isabel 4. T20, Gainesville 4. 22, Tyler Chapel Hill 2. 23, Kennedale 1.

School Points Prv 1. Newton (13) 205 3 2. Cameron Yoe (7) 195 2 3. East Bernard (2) 180 4 4. Refugio (1) 115 1 5. Canadian 95 NR 6. New Boston 93 5 7. Daingerfield 89 NR 8. Wall 79 NR 9. Tatum 55 NR 10. Cisco 38 9 Others receiving votes: 11, Franklin 25. 12, Hallettsville 17. 13, Sonora 16. 14, Callisburg 9. 14, Grandview 9. T16, Corsicana Mildred 7. T16, Lexington 7. 18, Rogers 6. T19, White Oak 5. T19, Elysian Fields 5. T21, Arp 3. T21, Hempstead 3. T23, Hughes Springs 2. T23, Lago Vista 2. T23, Littlefield 2. T26, Teague 1. T26, Godley 1. T26, Centerville 1.

School Points Prv 1. Mart (8) 197 10 2. Tenaha (10) 191 NR 3. Alto (1) 162 NR 4. Mason (1) 154 2 5. Stamford (2) 120 4 6. Wellington 109 3 7. Shiner 97 6 8. Stratford 40 8 9. Munday 39 1 10. Anson (1) 37 NR Others receiving votes: 11, Chilton 30. 12, Falls City 16. 13, Albany 14. T14, Pineland West Sabine 11. T14, Bosqueville 11. 16, Hubbard 9. T17, Muenster 8. T17, Burton 8. T19, Ganado 3. T19, Goldthwaite 3. T19, Italy 3. 22, New Deal 2. 23, Frost 1.

DISTRICT 15-2A DIVISION I CAPSULES


Goliad tigers
Head coach: John Mares 2012 record: 6-4 Last playoff appearance: 2008 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning Off/Def starters: 7/7
TOP RETURNEES

JOURDANTON INDIANS
Head coach: Wayne Johnson 2012 record: 4-6 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning Off/Def starters: N/A
TOP RETURNEES

LULING EAGLES
Head coach: Colby Hensley 2012 record: 7-5 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning Off/Def starters: 8-7
TOP RETURNEES

MARION BULLDOGS
Head coach: Bruce Salmon 2012 record: 6-6 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning Off/Def starters: 6/5
TOP RETURNEES

S.A. cole cougars


Head coach: Tim Duncan 2012 record: 1-9 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning Off/Def starters: 7/9
TOP RETURNEES

s.A. BROOKS bengals


Head coach: Eric Hernandez 2012 record: 0-10 Last playoff appearance: None Returning lettermen: 17 Returning Off/Def starters: 8/8
TOP RETURNEES

Dalton Sturm, QB, 6-2, 170; Austin Speed, OL, 6-1, 260; Trey Moya, DB, 5-5, 140; Joseph Burns, LB, 5-10, 160; Ty Ross, DE, 6-1, 205
OUTLOOK

Ricky Guerra, LB; Isaac Oropeza, FB; Nick Lopez, TE/LB; Ryan Everett, OL/DE; Enrique Lugo, OL/LB; Alex Aguero, DB; Chase Harrison, QB
OUTLOOK

Tyler Gibson, DT, 6-2, 250; Keeton Coe, DB, 6-1, 170; Zach Lawton, LB, 6-0, 185; Josh Alvarez, WR, 6-0, 160; Tryaden Station, QB, 6-0, 215
OUTLOOK

Rafael DeHoyos, RB, 5-10, 225; Jourden Stanley, QB, 5-10, 185; Lorenzo Washington, DE, 6-2, 220; Miguel Vega, LB, 5-10, 225
OUTLOOK

Joshua Jennings, OL, 5-8, 255; Jacob Kelly, FB, 5-8, 165; Armonis Russ, LB, 5-11, 165; Jerren Scott, RB, 5-8, 165
OUTLOOK

Robert Albury, LB; Damien Mellieon, DE; William Blohn, QB; Adam Chavez, DE
OUTLOOK

Golaid posted a fourgame improvement last year, but it wasnt enough to get the Tigers into the postseason. They should have a crack at the playoffs this year with the expanded field. Sturm can beat defenses with his legs or his arm, while Moya is a workhorse on defense.

Jourdanton suffered quite a fall, going from district champion to out of the playoffs. The Indians do have some talent, such as Guerra, the districts newcomer of the year last season. Hell be helped out by Lopez and Everett. Offensively, Harrison will be leaned upon.

Hensleys debut season in Central Texas went well, and he has enough pieces back to more than build upon it. Staton and Alvarez were a potent duo and again will be a handful for opposing defenses. Gibson, Coe and Lawton are some nice core pieces on defense.

Salmon is another coach who had a nice first season in his new digs, with the Bulldogs putting together a strong district campaign to make the playoffs. Stanley is a playmaker, as he ran for 1,000 yards and threw for 1,000 last year. Vega and Washington bring it on defense.

Basketball fans will find it amusing that Shaquille ONeals alma mater is coached by someone named Tim Duncan. There wasnt much else to laugh about last year for the Cougars. Cole will need its returning starters to turn a corner if it is to return to playoff contention.

Hernandez succeeds Gabriel Luna, who went 1-39. Clearly, there is plenty of room for improvement. The Bengals were shut out in their final seven games last season, so its safe to say improving the offense is a top priority.

Faces change, expectations still same for George West


GEORGE WEST LONGHORNS
Head coach: Jay Newberry Career record: 52-50-1 (16-16 at George West from 1998-2000) 2012 record: 8-3 Last district title: 2012 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 6 Returning off/def starters: 2/3 Base offense: Slot-T Base defense: Split
Top returnees

30

district 15-2A div. I

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

By Matt Young

Special to the Caller-Times

Eli Garcia, OT/DT, 6-2, 290, sr.; Trae Smith, TE/ DE, 6-2, 240, sr.; Avery Pawelek, RB/ CB, 5-10, 170, sr.; Josey Blevins, FS, sr.

Go George West Longhorns!


102 S. Front St. Mathis, Tx 361-494-0352
CAL236091

Jay Newberry has stepped out of the principals office and into what some outsiders might call a rebuilding project. Newberry would say theres no such thing at George West. When Tim Holt resigned from George West after last season, Newberry switched jobs from high school principal to the schools athletic director and football coach. Its a familiar job for Newberry, who coached Class A Falls City from 1989-95 and the Longhorns from 1998-2000. Hell be coaching in front of a fan base that has experienced just one district loss in the past five years and doesnt anticipate a down year in Live Oak County. At George West, the expectations are always high, Newberry said. We have high expectations for ourselves. Were going to work hard to win a district championship and win a playoff game or two or however many we can. That part hasnt changed.

OFFENSE
Nothing will change on offense either as the Longhorns will run the Slot-T they have perfected over the years. Gary Davenport, who left Aransas Pass last season, is back at George West as an assistant and will make sure the ground game is on point. The only two starters back on offense are tackle Eli Garcia and tight end Trae Smith. Fortunately, both of those guys are huge and will help pave the road for the ground game. Eli and Trae bring leadership, Newberry said. What they also bring is, on 3rd and 2, we know who were going to run behind. Avery Pawelek will be the beneficiary of those blocks as he moves into a full-time role at tailback. Mason Moore looks like hell get the call at quarterback and will use his legs to pick up plenty of yards on the ground for the Longhorns.

Micah DeBenedetto/Special to the Caller-Times

George Wests Avery Pawelek will see double duty for the Longhorns as the starting tailback on offense and in the secondary on defense.

DEFENSE
George West gave up just 13 points per game during district last year, but the Longhorns have plenty of holes to fill on that side of the ball.

The defensive backfield figures to be strong with Pawelek returning at cornerback and Josey Blevins back at free safety. The bulky Garcia and Smith also will get plenty of work along the defensive front to try to stop the run. Were going to need some guys to step up, Newberry said. We dont have a lot of starters returning, but we have some guys that played last year, and were hoping theyll be able to step right in and help us out.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

AP has different holiday plans in mind


By George Vondracek
vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731

district 16-2a Div. I

31

ARANSAS PASS First-year Aransas Pass coach Antonio Villalon isnt anti-holidays. But he surely would like to toss a wrench into the family dining plans of his Panthers come November. I tell the boys theyve got two goals, Villalon said. One is to be undisputed district champs, have a district championship that we dont have to share. The other is that I want to screw up Thanksgiving meal because we have football practice during Thanksgiving. So I want our Thanksgiving meal to have to be postponed because were in the playoffs. Though this will be his first head-coaching job, Villalon is no stranger to AP. He coached there from 1998-2000 and again last season as the Panthers offensive coordinator under Gary Davenport, sandwiched around stints in Fort Bend, George West, Van Vleck and Taylor. So he is familiar with the psyche and the players. While the cupboard hardly teems with experienced starters, Villalon said he thinks the Panthers have more than a punchers chance to turn the Thanksgiving season into more than just an occasion to line their bellies with turkey and dressing. I do believe that our kids have the work ethic and the talent and all the intangibles of community and all that other fun stuff that comes into it, Villalon said. I think everybodys pulling in the same direction right now, and if that happens, we could be playing past Thanksgiving. And I really hate saying that now that it comes out of my voice, because now thatll be everybodys expectation. The Panthers are seeking their second consecutive playoff spot out of District 30-2A Division I. They will have to

Aransas Pass Aaron Jongema (33) once again is expected to be a twoway stalwart for the Panthers.
TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES file

Aransas Pass Victor Gonzalez (12) is shifting from running back to quarterback this season for the Panthers. He was an all-district performer at running back last year.

ARANSAS PASS PANTHERS


Head coach: Antonio Villalon Career record: 0-0 (first year at Aransas Pass) 2012 record: 7-4 Last district title: 1998 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning off/def starters: 3/3 Base offense: Slot-T Base defense: Split
TOP RETURNEES

do it with just three starters returning on each side of the line including quarterback Victor Gonzalez, an all-district pick at running back last year.

OFFENSE Gonzalez rushed for 700 yards and 10 touchdowns a year ago but will be entrusted with operating APs Slot-T offense. He will be joined by senior returnees Steven Vela, who moves from tackle to guard, and first-team tight end Tyler Terry. The balance of APs projected starters logged time and some starts but werent considered full-time starters. The Panthers also should get

a boost from wideout Kiki Hill, who transferred from King and also will play in the secondary. The transition for them shouldnt be a big deal, because not only were they working hard in practice, (but) some times that transition is tough to go from middle school or from a JV game to a Friday night, Villalon said. Most of our boys wont go through that.

Jordan Cole, OLB, sr.; Victor Gonzalez, QB, 5-9, 175, sr.; Aaron Jongema, HB/ ILB, 5-11, 190, sr.; Tyler Terry, TE/S, 6-2, 185, sr.; Steven Vela, OG/DT. 5-6, 210, sr.

DEFENSE First-teamers Vela at tackle and linebacker Aaron Jongema the latter also is penciled in at fullback and senior Jordan Cole are back on a unit that allowed a tick fewer than 278 yards per game.

Villalon admits the Panthers are thin on experience in the defense especially in the secondary, where Justin Gallo, Terry and Jalen Hill are projected to replace three starters. But the talent pool gives Villalon hope.

One key injury to the wrong kid, and youre really scrambling, Villalon said. But if folks stay relatively healthy, weve got good enough ballplayers where we can compete with anybody on our schedule.

32

district 16-2A div. I

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

Holt not fazed by short turnaround


By Javier Becerra
Special to the Caller-Times

Tim Holts late arrival in Mathis doesnt exactly make for the ideal situation. A change in offensive and defensive schemes means the Pirates have some catching up to do before the regular season, but that doesnt mean Holt is going to speed up the process. Thats because the foundation is more important than the immediate outcome to Holt and the coaching staff. We got here so late there are a lot of things we didnt get to implement, said Holt, who spent the past four seasons at George West. Were still looking at setting up some foundational things. We didnt have the opportunity to go through an offseason, so weve been hitting the weights like its the offseason. Were just trying to be

pretty simple and let our kids grasp everything and not try to move too fast. The changes are pretty drastic, but its nothing that cant be achieved by working hard and being disciplined. Although the Pirates missed the playoffs each of the past two seasons, Holt believes the goal remains possible now that four teams from each district are eligible for the playoffs. Theyve done some pretty good things here before, Holt said. They just have some bad habits we need to get rid of.

MATHIS
PIRATES
Head coach: Tim Holt Career record: 168-105-5 (First year at Mathis) 2012 record: 5-5 Last district title: 2009 Last playoff appearance: 2010 Returning lettermen: n/a Returning off/def starters: 4/4 Base offense: Slot-T Base defense: Split
Michael Zamora/Caller-Times

OFFENSE
One thing Holt hasnt had to deal with is attitude, even as the offense tries to adjust from the Spread to the Slot-T. Its kind of like going from figure skating to the UFC, Holt said. Its just a timing kind of deal. The kids ran something similar in junior
Mathis Jason Gonzalez is slated to undertake an increased role in the Pirates offense after seeing limited action on that side of the ball last year. Hell also see time in the secondary.

Top returnees

Go Mathis Pirates!
CAL236089

high and have had success with it before. Its not what you run, but how well you run it. As of now, its really only been about eight days. We hope to get an accurate benchmark about our progress soon. We just have to see how much we improve so that maybe when district comes around, we can scare the heck out of somebody. We have the kids to be competitive, but still have a long way to go. Oscar Flores is the top returning rusher with 500 yards and three touchdowns, while Tim Esquivel returns to anchor the offensive line. Jason

Gonzalez will join Flores in the backfield and is likely to have a more prominent role after rushing for only 51 yards a year ago. We have the personnel to be successful, Holt said. Once we get past the bad habits and get the kids taught, itll just be a matter of getting better each week.

Jon Echavarria, TE/LB, sr.; Tim Esquivel, OL/DE, sr.; Oscar Flores, RB/DE, so; Jason Gonzalez, RB/DB, sr.

DEFENSE
Esquivel, Flores and Gonzalez are also likely to start on defense, with Esquivel and Flores up front and Gonzalez in the secondary. Jon Echavarria will lead the way at

linebacker while also playing tight end on offense. We have a good attitude on defense, Holt said. Well be able to play if we just show up. Still, the Pirates have some holes to fill and are likely to end up with a mix of old and new faces. Were still trying to evaluate what we have, Holt said. We have about 10 kids on the bubble between varsity and the JV. Its obvious we still have some questions, but hope to find the answers soon.

SANTA ROSA WARRIORS


Head coach: Arturo Garcia 2012 record: 1-9 Last playoff appearance: 2010 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning Off/Def starters: 5/4
TOP RETURNEES OUTLOOK

102 S. Front St. Mathis, Tx 361-494-0352

Orlando Garcia, OL, 5-11, 250; Wally Olivarez, RB, 5-8, 170; Joe Lara, OL, 6-1, 200

After last years struggles, Garcia is in as the new Warriors new coach. He has a handful of seniors to lead the offense, including linemen Garcia and Lara. Needless to say, there needs to be massive improvement across the board for the Warrors to be playoff contenders.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Badgers out to prove pundits wrong


By Stuart Duncan
Special to the Caller-Times

district 16-2a div. I

33

With a combined 15 returning offensive and defensive starters, Bishop coach George Lunas fourth season figures to be his best one yet. Finishing with a .500 record or better is almost expected in the Badgers camp this season, even if at least one statewide publication disagrees with that assessment. Were picked last (in our district) by Dave Campbells Texas Football magazine, and I love it, Luna said. (Our) guys are really motivated. They are on a mission. Bishop made strides last season by going 4-6 after winning a total of one game in the previous two campaigns combined. The Badgers won their season finale last year to stop a five-game losing streak in District 16-2A, Division I. Bishop is looking to carry that momentum into this season.

We want to make the playoffs it has been quite a while, said Luna, whose program last reached the postseason seven years ago. The kids want to get that gold ball, just like everyone else, and theyre shooting to win district. They want to finally get over that hump. Luna said the Badgers are prepared to put in the work to turn their program around. Theyre going to try to prove something and build a winning tradition while getting Bishop football back to where it used to be, said Luna, whose program last won its district in 1997.

OFFENSE Luna expects the Badgers Veer offense to flourish behind senior fullback Roy Saenz (first team all-district in 2012) and senior tailback Nate Gant (second team all-district). Luna said the speedy Gant the nephew of former Major League Baseball player Ron

Gant is determined to become a 1,000-yard rusher this season. He put on 10 pounds of muscle over the summer, and he has a great shot to do it, Luna said. According to Luna, sophomore running back Richard Caldera is another strong candidate to get some playing time in the backfield. Either senior Dillan Gonzales or junior Austin Munoz is expected to be Bishops starting quarterback this season. The Badgers also are stocked at wide receiver thanks to the return of seniors Montana Garcia, Jared Garcia and Jamin Lira. Sophomore wide receiver Mike Herrera and senior tight end Chad Hayes are expected to be other options for Bishop in its passing game. Junior tackles Erik Martinez and Jose Barrientos return to anchor the Badgers offensive line, which also will feature sophomore guard Lauro Garcia. Luna said sophomore

guard Nick Zapata also is expected to contribute up front after missing last season with a broken foot.

BISHOP
BADGERS
Head coach: George Luna Career record: 6-24 (6-24 at Bishop) 2012 record: 4-6 Last district title: 1997 Last playoff appearance: 2006 Returning lettermen: 21 Returning off/def starters: 8/7 Base offense: Veer Base defense: 4-2-5
Top returnees

DEFENSE Luna said Bishops biggest losses to graduation on defense were on the line and in the secondary. Safeties Garcia and Lira a second-team all-district selection and the team leader in interceptions last season and cornerbacks Jared Garcia and Gant will lead the secondary. The 6-foot, 250-pound Zapata is another two-way player who could help out at defensive tackle. Luna said junior linebacker Ray DeLaGarza may also see some playing time at defensive end to complement Hayes, the other defensive end. Junior Carlos Charles, DeLaGarza and Saenz a 2012 second-team all-district selection on defense should give the Badgers plenty of depth at linebacker again this season.

Nate Gant, sr., RB/DB; Jamin Lira, sr., DB/WR; Jared Garcia, sr., DB/WR; Montana Garcia, sr., WR/DB; Roy Saenz, sr. LB/ FB; Chad Hayes, sr., TE/DE.

FALFURRIAS
JERSEYS
Head coach: Max McGehee Career record: 84-85-1 (first year at Falfurrias) 2012 record: 6-4 Last district title: 2000 Last playoff appearance: 2003 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning off/def starters: 6/7 Base offense: Wing-T Base defense: Multiple/3-4

New coach looks to put Jerseys over hump


By Stuart Duncan
Special to the Caller-Times

Top returnees

Anthony Garza, sr., FS/WR; Gilbert Alegria Jr., sr., WR/ DB; Bobby Garza, sr., OL; Ryan Hofstetter, sr., OL; Bobby Pulido, jr., OL; Darren Saenz, sr., RB/ LB, Derek Sanchez, sr., LB; Mario Chavera, jr., QB.

New Falfurrias coach Max McGehee has a strong track record of taking programs to the playoffs. After previously guiding Class 5A and Class A teams to the postseason, McGehee now is looking to help the 2A Jerseys take that step. If last seasons 6-4 record is any indication, that is a highly attainable goal. McGehee, who was Falfurrias defensive coordinator the past two seasons, will attempt to help the Jerseys improve upon their 2-4 finish in District 16-2A Division I last year and make it to the playoffs for the first time in 10 years. We had things going our way the last couple of years, and were hoping to build on

that, said McGehee, whose Falfurrias program rebounded to win a combined nine games in 2011 and 2012 after going 0-10 in 2010. McGehee said the Jerseys are determined to make up for missing the playoffs last season. Any time you get close and dont get over the hurdle, its a little disappointing, McGehee said. At the same token, we did a lot of good (things). We asked (the players), What do we have to do to make up for those things and win one or two more games? That has to come from within.

OFFENSE Falfurrias will switch from the spread to the Wing-T offensive formation this season, as McGehee prefers using more than one running back in the backfield.

Running backs Darren Saenz, a senior, and Brandon Lopez, a junior, will try to help the Jerseys compensate for the loss of Marcus Cortez, a firstteam all-district running back last season. Senior wide receiver Gilbert Alegria Jr. another first-team all-district selection also is expected to see time at running back, McGehee said. Junior quarterback Mario Chavera, the teams backup last season, is expected to start this season, according to McGehee. He has a chance to be an outstanding player, McGehee said of Chavera. Senior tackles Bobby Garza (6-1, 230 pounds) and Ryan Hofstetter (6-1, 230) and junior center Bobby Pulido (62, 260) return to give the Jerseys plenty of experience up front. Juniors Andrew Garza

and Stephen Pena also are expected to bolster Falfurrias offensive line this season, McGehee said.

DEFENSE Falfurrias will lean heavily on returning first-team all-district senior safety Anthony Garza to lead its defense again this season. Alegria, another defensive back, also is expected to play both ways to complement Garza. Saenz and senior Derek Sanchez will be counted on to make plays at linebacker. Pena also is expected to see playing time on the Jerseys defensive line, McGehee said. In the secondary, weve got some kids back with experience, McGehee said. Our front seven doesnt have as much experience, but theyll be just fine.

34

Odem will need to get varsity newcomers acclimated quickly


By Javier Becerra
Special to the Caller-Times

district 16-2A div. I

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

ODEM OWLS
Head coach: A.J. Martinez Career record: 12-11 (12-11 at Odem) 2012 record: 6-5 Last district title: 2003 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning off/def starters: 2/5 Base offense: Spread Base defense: 4-2-5
Top returnees

The numbers dont necessarily look good on paper, but thats not where the game of football is played. It all comes down to what happens on the field, something the Odem Owls plan to learn before the regular season begins. We have to spend a lot of the preseason growing up and learning how to play football fast, third-year coach A.J. Martinez said. We have a lot of youth and a lot of inexperience. Thats the biggest obstacle right now. We have to get our younger guys used to playing at the varsity level. Although Odem returns 17 lettermen, only two starters are back on offense. That leaves several holes to fill, but Martinez is hopeful the success of an undefeated junior varsity squad translates into another playoff run.

Sammy Jasso, DT, sr.; Zach Morales, WR, sr.; Aaron Naranjo, RB, sr.; John Pesek, DE, sr.; C.J. Romero, QB, soph.

OFFENSE
Martinez said the offense is shaping up to feature more of a passing game, mostly because of sophomore quarterback C.J. Romeros progress. Since Romero is part of the influx of newcomers, the signal caller was set for a busy preseason. Those guys are going to be taking a lot of reps, a ton of reps, Martinez said. Our JV worked with us a lot last year so we could start developing them so that C.J. could be our guy along with the skill players coming up with him. Senior wide receiver Zach Morales and junior guard Ivan Rodriguez are the only holdovers on offense, but Martinez thinks Romero will be able to adapt despite all the inexperience. Hes a smart kid, more than anything, Martinez said. Not only is he a good runner, but throws a good ball, too. Hes a playmaker and an edge factor. Plus hes the first varsity quarterback thats been in our system for more than a year. That leaves the offensive line as the biggest concern. It really is, Martinez said. Our biggest question is, how fast can the line learn to work together? We have a senior lineman that started one game last year and the other guys are JV starters. Well just have to see how quickly we can develop.

DEFENSE
It helps to have five starters back, particularly senior defensive tackle Sammy Jasso. That dude is an animal, Martinez said of Jasso, who recorded 70 tackles a year ago. Hes a real hard-nosed player. He tells his teammates something if theyre not doing it right. Hes not afraid to get in their face, and they respect him for that. Jasso anchors a defense that returns four players up front, including John Pesek, who is back after notching 64 stops. Running back/defensive back Aaron Naranjo, meanwhile, returns after recording 83 tackles while also rushing for 269 yards and two touchdowns last season. Our whole front line is back and we have four pretty good ones, Martinez said. The question mark is middle linebacker. We have some guys in the secondary, but not middle linebacker. The good thing is weve been running the same system for three years, so theres a lot less thinking and more reacting.

TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES file

Odems Zach Morales (88) is one of only two returning starters on offense for the Owls, making him a cornerstone on a young squad.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

After personnel losses, San Diego looking for tradition to take over
By Javier Becerra
Special to the Caller-Times

district 16-2a div. I

35

SAN DIEGO
VAQUEROS
Head coach: Bo Ochoa Career record: 41-15 (41-15 at San Diego) 2012 record: 10-1 Last district title: 2012 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning off/def starters: 2/4 Base offense: Slot-T Base defense: 4-3
Top returnees

Tradition is a word that only recently has become associated with the San Diego football program. A string of three straight district championships helped make that happen. Although the roots arent very deep, Vaqueros coach Bo Ochoa hopes theyre strong enough to keep the team in the hunt for another title. Were hoping tradition will take over, said Ochoa, in his sixth year at the helm. We have a lot of young guys, but at least theyve been in the system for a while. We just have to play it a game at a time, and if we have the opportunity to play for the district championship, thatll just be icing on the cake. The Vaqueros will have to do it without running back Luis Lopez and a host of other key playmakers, including linemen Reno Perez and Zak Pizzini. Despite attracting most of the attention from opposing defenses, Lopez rushed for nearly 2,800 yards and reached the end zone 41 times. Even though Lopez, Perez and Pizzini were among the 14 lettermen lost to graduation, the trio spent part of the summer still leading the way for the varsity newcomers. During the summer a lot of those kids that graduated still came by to lift weights, Ochoa said. The young guys still look up to them and they still make sure the younger ones are still coming to the weight room.

Pete Guerra, OL, sr.; J.D. Lopez, OL, sr.; Rolly Torres, TE/DE, jr.; Johnathan Gonzalez, RB, jr.; Matt Valdez, RB, jr.; John Herrera, DB, jr.,

TODD YATES/CALLER-TIMES

San Diego running back Johnathan Gonzalez will see an increased role in the offense after the departure of standout fullback Luis Lopez.

OFFENSE
Replacing Lopez wont be easy. The primary back out of a multi-set scheme, Lopez finished with 2,792 yards and averaged a whopping 12 yards

per carry in helping the Vaqueros to a 10-1 record. Opponents will have to focus on more than one ball carrier this season, however, with the Vaqueros switching to a Slot-T offense. We hope its a more balanced attack, Ochoa said. Teams wont be able to focus on stopping just one guy. Now theyll have to focus on stopping four. A lot of guys are

going to get a lot of carries. We also want to be able to throw the ball, of course. The task is formidable considering the offense returns only two starters, linemen Pete Guerra and J.D. Lopez. The senior duo at the very least give San Diego two solid blocks around which to build a cohesive front wall. If you ask me if what our strength is on offense, its the

offensive line, Ochoa said. We still have quite a bit of work to do to get synchronized, but having those two guys definitely helps.

DEFENSE
The entire secondary returns from a year ago, which accounts for the four holdovers on defense. John Herrera is back after snagging three interceptions as a sophomore

and is also expected to take over under center on the other side of the ball. Mikey Gomez leads the way at linebacker, a player Ochoa is counting on to help the unit develop. We were pretty young on defense last year so having all the secondary back is a big plus, Ochoa said. Gomez is a guy were looking at to make plenty of tackles. Ochoa also wouldnt mind having the services of Rolly Torres for more than one game. The junior tight end/defensive end scored the teams first touchdown last year before missing most of the season with a knee injury. We really look forward to him being out there, Ochoa said.

Rare youth movement underway for Refugio


By George Vondracek
vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731

36

district 16-2a div. II

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

REFUGIO
BOBCATS
Head coach: Jason Herring Career record: 149-43 (80-5 at Refugio) 2012 record: 12-1 Last district title: 2012 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning off/def starters: 4/7 Base offense: Spread Base defense: 3-4
TOP RETURNEES

REFUGIO There will be few, if any, tears shed for the boys and coaches wearing orange and black. Refugio is a youthful team this season. That is especially true on the offensive line, the teams foundation the previous two seasons, when the Bobcats posted unprecedented point totals, drawing rage and disgust from their detractors. One must remember: Refugio is still Refugio. That means the Bobcats still have prolific skill players, an unforgiving defense and a coach that still believes that to prepare his troops for deep postseason runs, he must play his frontline players deep into if not the entire games. This time, though, coach Jason Herring is being forced to play his top players, especially the young offensive front, for four quarters by necessity. Im going to have to, hoss, said Herring, who begins his seventh season with the Bobcats. Were pups. We are young, young, young. Talented, but young, Were as young as Ive ever been as a head coach, no doubt, and for sure younger than weve ever been in Refugio since Ive been here. Its been a very rare talent that has started for us as a freshman. Now were talking about starting two or three in one season. The only way theyre going to be ready to play by Week 10 or 11 is theyve got to play. So play, they shall, and with the usual heightened bar of expectations. Refugio scored a state-record 891 points in winning the Class 2A Division II title two years ago, and followed that by scoring 789 points last

J.B. Brown, WR, sr.; J.R. Castellano, C, jr.; Tyler Castellano, WR/DB, sr.; Alex Coronado, LB, sr. Devon LaFrance, LB, sr.; Travis Quintanilla, QB, sr.

Villarreal and senior letterman Jonathan Cantu at guard.

DEFENSE

Michael Zamora/Caller-Timesfile

Alex Coronado (22) and Devon LaFrance (7) are among the seven returning starters on defense for Refugio, which once again has high expectations for its defenders.

season, which is tied for ninth all-time. Ironically, Herring said, there wasnt near the outcry from critics about Refugios scoring penchant last season, perhaps, he mused, because the Bobcats were run off the field by eventual state champ East Bernard 54-23 in the regional final. It should be noted, as well, that those select freshman that

will play didnt lose a game or allowed a point during their seventh- and eighth-grade seasons. That speaks to the talent, but doesnt supplant varsity experience.

OFFENSE
The proven commodities are well-documented. Senior Travis Quintanilla threw for 4,005 yards and 57 TDs last season, setting a single-game state

record with 10 scoring tosses. He has a chance at setting alltime state career marks for passing yards and TD passes. He also has proved receiving targets in Dana Franklin, Tyler Castellano and J.B. Brown. Junior center J.R. Castellano is the lone starter returning on the line. Herring is looking at two freshmen tackle and son Kobie Herring and Trace Mascorro sophomore guard Nick

The defense is Refugios strength with seven starters back. Senior outside linebackers Devon LaFrance and Alex Coronado and junior nose guard Devin Tagle have to be the bell cows, Herring said. Also returning are Brown, the defensive quarterback at corner, Tyler Castellano and Dalton Klare in the secondary and end Jim LaFond. Two freshmen, lineman Kobie Herring and Jalon Mascorro in the secondary, will be part of the starting equation as well. And that defensive play is going to be key for the Bobcats early. Theres still going to be a learning curve. Losings not acceptable, rebuildings not acceptable and being average is not acceptable, so somebodys going to have to pick up the slack, Jason Herring said. Ive made no bones about it. Thats what I expect our defense to do. I expect our defense to keep us in games and our offense needs to be real opportunistic, especially early in the season until we grow up a little bit.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 16-2A div. II

37

BANQUETE
BULLDOGS
Head coach: Kevin Hermes Career record: 68-42 (68-42 at Banquete) 2012 record: 10-2 Last district title: 2004 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning off/def starters: 4/4 Base offense: Spread Base defense: 50
Top returnees

Smiley Almaguer, WR/DB, sr.; Roger Delapaz, TE/DE, sr.; Marcus Suarez, OL/DL, sr.; O.J. Ramirez, QB/DB, sr. LEFT: Banquete has set the bar high with three straight playoff trips and a victory in last years postseason.

CALLER-TIMES FILE

Plenty of fire in Bulldogs belly


By Javier Becerra
Special to the Caller-Times

Banquete isnt hurting for motivation. The Bulldogs reached the playoffs for the third straight season a year ago and made it one round further than the two previous trips. They also held defending district champion and state power Refugio to only a first-half field goal before eventually succumbing to the Bobcats. Kevin Hermes knows Banquete once again is in position for another solid campaign. Its just a matter of how quickly things fall into place. Were going to have to grow up and in a hurry, said Hermes, in his 11th year at the school. Were going to

be young in some spots. We have to really come together as a team offensively and defensively. Losing seven guys on each side of the ball leaves a lot of holes to fill. The preseason is the time to find the right guys and get everybody in the right position. We just have to grow up fast and start playing some varsity football. Last seasons achievements provide fuel for the fire. When you have some success, the kids start to expect it, Hermes said. Hopefully, it carries over into the season. The kids know the expectations. Theyre not satisfied being bi-district champs. They want more. The kids understand what they need to do and are

always working for it. We want to get better and get further than we have before and win it all one day.

OFFENSE
Graduation left a void under center, where Ben Benavides set some lofty standards after passing for 1,489 yards and 10 touchdowns and rushing for another 775 yards and 11 scores. Last years No. 2 signal caller, O.J. Ramirez, is the top candidate to take over at quarterback. Also gone is running back Jacob Gonzalez, who rushed for 1,326 yards and 18 touchdowns last year. Hermes isnt sure who might step in to carry the load, but does have a crop from which to pick from. The sophomore class is

a very athletic group and a great bunch of competitors, Hermes said. I feel comfortable with those guys. They just have to learn to play at the next level. The game speed is a lot faster than last year, so it might take a ballgame or two to get used to it. Theyre a talented bunch with great competitiveness. Its going to pay off for us in the long run once they figure it out. The return of four experienced linemen Brendan Breland, Jesse Cedillo, Daniel Herrera and Christian Leal should help. The line is going to keep us stable and might make us or break us, Hermes said.

DEFENSE
Hermes said its a familiar

tune on defense. Its going to be like always the defense is going to have to win some football games for us at first, he said. We pride ourselves on defense and the kids understand that. Theyre going to hit you when youre coming through. Its hard waiting for someone to adjust to playing at the varsity level, but the defense will probably have to be the backbone until the offense gets moving like we know their capable of. Linebacker Ross Sullivan is the top returning tackler with 129, including nine sacks. Marcos Suarez recorded 48 tackles last season, while Ramirez had 44 and an interception playing in the defensive backfield.

38

After revolving door, new coach hopes to return stability to S-T


By Coy Slavik
Special to the Caller-Times

district 16-2a Div. II

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

SKIDMORE John Livas plans on bringing stability to a Skidmore-Tynan football program that has seen three head coaches come and go the past two years. Livas was named the Bobcats head coach in May after Alice assistant coach Stephen Silva turned down the job. Livas follows Russell Joy, who was at the helm of the S-T football program last season and had replaced Dan Garza, who left after the 2011 season to be the coach at Class A Pettus. Continuity is very important for these kids, said Livas, who was the offensive coordinator last season at 2A Goliad and served as head coach at 4A Uvalde in 2011. Thats something theyve lacked the last couple of years. Theyve had some changes here for whatever reasons.

Michael Zamora/Caller-Times file

Running back Donavan Encina (44) is among the most experienced on the offensive side for Skidmore-Tynan.

OFFENSE
Livas is implementing the Slot-T offense. He has an experienced line consisting of center Jakob Martinez, guards Alex Acosta and Bobby Quiroga and tackle Ryan Jimenez. I feel like our offensive line will be our strength this year, Livas said. Were pretty big up front. Running backs Donovan Encina, Ryan Lasko and Nathan Magana should get the bulk of the carries. We are going to run a lot of misdirection, so timing in the backfield is very important, Livas said. Livas entered preseason with two quarterback candidates: senior Aaron Hughes and sophomore Wyatt Scott. Wyatt is looking pretty good right now, Livas said.

SKIDMORE-TYNAN BOBCATS
Head coach: John Livas Career record: 4-6 (0-0 at Skidmore-Tynan) 2012 record: 3-7 Last district title: 2006 Last playoff appearance: 2010 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning Off/Def starters: 5/4 Base offense: Slot T Base defense: 50
Top returnees

DE Seth Phillips, RB Donovan Encina, TE T.J. Amador, RB Ryan Lasko, OL Bobby Quiroga, RB Nathan Magana

Aaron hasnt played the last couple of years, so he is kind of behind, but hes very coachable and has a lot of leadership qualities that were looking for in that position.

DEFENSE
S-T returns four starters on defense. Livas expects outside linebacker Adrian Castaneda and defensive end Seth Phillips

to step up as possible all-district candidates along with Encina in the secondary. We have to establish things on both sides of the ball that we can hang our hat on, Livas said. The kids have to believe in it. The kids have bought in to what were doing. Theyre very coachable. The biggest thing is having to learn a new offensive system and a new defensive system. Were just taking baby steps right now and making sure they understand the base of our offense and the base of our defense. Livas is one of four new head coaches in District 16-2A Division II. He expects the Bobcats, who were 3-7 last year and missed the playoffs with a 3-4 league mark, to be in the race for second place behind perennial power Refugio.

Banquete is always tough, and we have teams like Taft, Riviera who look like theyll be good this year, Livas said. I know all the other new head coaches, and I know they will all do a good job. Refugio is No. 1, and everybody else will be fighting for everything else. I think it will be a competitive district this year. Livas hopes to have more answers about his Bobcats by their Aug. 30 opener at Three Rivers. The kids are looking for something they can have confidence in, Livas said. We all know that confidence breeds confidence. I believe the kids are really confident in what were doing offensively and defensively. Were just trying to put all the pieces of this puzzle together.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Lions hunting elusive playoff spot


By Stuart Duncan
Special to the Caller-Times

district 16-2a div. II

39

Santa Gertrudis Academy wants to do more this year than just set the school record for wins in a season. The Lions also want to accomplish another first for their program and make the playoffs. With the UIL expanding its Class 2A playoff format this season to include an additional team from each district, Santa Gertrudis is setting the bar much higher than just winning three games in a season for the first time since the programs inception in 2007. Theyre taking four teams to the playoffs this season and were shooting for one of those spots, said Lions first-year coach Stuart Burleson, who previously had head coaching stints at Rockport-Fulton and Palacios and also previously served as Carrolls defensive coordinator. Despite coming off a 1-9 season, Santa Gertrudis has good reason to be optimistic about the postseason. Thats because three of the Lions six District 16-2A, Division II losses this past season were by seven points or fewer. (The kids are) pretty excited about it, Burleson said of the season. They know how close they were last year and they want to get over that hump and finish games.

Michael Zamora/Caller-Times

Santa Gertrudis running back Nick Labanino (21) is back and figures to be a key cog in the Lions offense.

SANTA GERTRUDIS ACADEMY


LIONS
Head coach: Stuart Burleson Career record: n/a (First year at Santa Gertrudis) 2012 record: 1-9 Last district title: None Last playoff appearance: None Returning lettermen: 15 Returning off/def starters: 6/7 Base offense: Pistol/1-Back Base defense: 4-3
Top returnees

OFFENSE
Despite switching from the Spread to a one-back Pistol offensive formation this season, dont expect Santa Gertrudis to be pass-happy. Burleson said the Lions want to get their tight end, 6-foot-1, 190-pound senior Jacob Castro, on the field as much as possible while establishing more of a running game. Senior running back Nick Labanino, a first-team all-district selection last year, returns to lead Santa Gertrudis strong cast of skill position players. Run ning backs A .J.

Nick Labanino, sr., RB; Carlos Rocha, sr., WR; Ricardo Perez, jr., DL/OL; Jacob Castro, sr., DE/TE.

DeLaRosa, a senior, and Eric Garcia, a junior, also are back, as are wide receivers Carlos

Rocha a senior and a 2012 first-team all-district selection and Michel Orozco, a junior.

The Lions also have two starting quarterbacks returning in junior Adam DeLaney and sophomore Alvaro Saenz. DeLaney suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament injury last season, and Saenz started at quarterback in his place. Burleson said DeLaneys specialty is throwing, while Saenz is more of a running quarterback. DeLaney who appears healthy again after competing in 7-on-7 passing league competition this summer and Saenz will compete to be the starter. Both kids have experience, and they did a good job last season, Burleson said. Senior Colton Strubhardt (61, 280) and junior Ricardo Perez (5-11, 245) are back to bolster Santa Gertrudis offensive line.

DEFENSE

The Lions will play with one less defensive back this season, as they are moving from a 4-25 to a 4-3 defensive alignment. We wanted seven people in the box on defense, Burleson said. Were going to gear up and try to stop the run. Defensive linemen Perez and Strubhardt and end Castro are expected to play a big part in helping Santa Gertrudis try to contain its opponents. Labanino, a second-team alldistrict selection, and Orozco will lead the Lions linebackers, Burleson said. Senior Christian Garcia a second-team all-district safety returns to help solidify Santa Gertrudis secondary, which will also feature junior Angel Diaz and Rocha.

40

district 16-2a, division ii

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

Taft has high expectations


By Matt Young
Special to the Caller-Times

TAFT GREYHOUNDS
Head coach: Pete Guajardo Career record: 38-46 (38-46 at Taft) 2012 record: 6-5 Last district title: 1986 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 24 Returning off/def starters: 6/6 Base offense: Spread Base defense: Split
Top returnees

OFFENSE
A key piece of that senior class is missing as Trent Selby, last years third-leading rusher, transferred to Ingleside when his mom, Stacy, got the volleyball coaching job there in the summer. However, the linchpin of the offense still will be quarterback Jestin Flores. Flores led the team last year with 823 rushing yards and 1,027 passing yards. His seven interceptions a year ago came as a result of inexperience under center, and Guajardo expects to see an improved Flores as a senior. Hes grasped the concept of playing quarterback a lot better, Guajardo said. Last year, he was just being handed the ball and he was running with it. Now, hes understand that hes getting the ball and hes making choices with what to do with it. I think it was the second to last district game last year, he came up to me and said, Hey coach, I think I finally

After several down years, Pete Guajardo has Taft as a playoff mainstay. The Greyhounds have made the postseason four straight seasons, and with six starters returning on each side of the ball, No. 5 looks like a good bet. Taft was considered an extremely young group in 2011, when it finished second in District 16-2A Div. II. That group made bigger strides last season by rallying to win its final four district games. Now, the Greyhounds feature a core group of seniors with high expectations. We have a little more experience, so the kids have picked up on everything pretty easily, Guajardo said. This is one of the bigger senior groups weve had since weve been here. A lot of these kids played varsity as freshmen or sophomores, so theres a lot of consistency.

understand what it is Im supposed to be doing out there. Hes going to be a force for us. Selbys replacement in the backfield will be sophomore Josh Vasquez, who is only about 170 pounds, but has enough speed to break some runs. Flores will have familiar faces at receiver with 6-foot-3 Richard Nanez, Jon Montez and Phillip Martinez all returning. The offensive line will be anchored by returning starters Joe Castillo, Joe Saldana and Mike Flores, who all rank in the top 10 percent of their class.

Jestin Flores, QB/S, 5-10, 170, sr.; Richard Nanez, WR/DB, 6-3, 170, jr.; Phillip Martinez, WR/DB, 5-10, 170, sr.; Josh Vasquez, RB, 5-10, 170, soph.; Joe Saldana, OL, 5-10, 230, jr.

DEFENSE
Taft doesnt have the depth of some Class 2A schools, so the Greyhounds will rely on a lot of two-way players, but Guajardo hopes to find enough players on defense to give his offensive players some rest. Our defensive coordinator wants all our offensive players on defense, but we cant do

that, Guajardo said. We have talented kids, and we need to find ones that can fill in our defense and give us some depth. Flores has been a two-way all-district player since he was a freshman, but Guajardo took him away from the defense a lot last year to give him more time to rest and focus on his quarterback role. That wont be the case this year. Hes one of our best defensive players and a really good safety, Guajardo said. If you ask him what position hed rather play, hed tell you defense. Hes a senior, so I want him to

go out the way hed want to go out. Were going to turn him loose, and hes going to be on the field as much as possible. Juan Cantu, who could also see some time at quarterback to give Flores a break, will be another key defender in the secondary. Vasquez is just a sophomore, but he appears to be on the verge of a breakout season at linebacker. The big question for the Greyhounds will be along the defensive line, where they could be vulnerable to strong running games.

New Riviera coach catching up


By George Vondracek
vondracekg@caller.com 361-886-3731

RIVIERA SEAHAWKS
Head coach: Nathan Borden Career record: 0-0 (First year at Riviera) 2012 record: 3-7 Last district title: 1984 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning off/def starters: 4/4 Base offense: Multiple Base defense: 4-3
TOP RETURNEES

Hired in July, Nathan Borden has been scurrying to complete Rivieras coaching hires, move into different offices and coordinate the plethora of other administrative tasks facing a new athletic director. Borden barely has found time to learn the names of his football players and what kind of talent is on campus. What he has learned is giving him hope that the Seahawks can contend for a playoff spot out of District 16-2A Division II. Were pretty quick. We have some fast kids. They have a good work ethic, and theyve accepted change really well, Borden said. Weve got a bunch of good senior leaders. Theyve picked up a lot of things. The former successful

Bishop baseball coach returns to Riviera as the Seahawks third football coach in as many seasons. The deck is stacked against the Seahawks slightly, with only seven lettermen and four starters returning on each side of the line and only one player second-team senior middle linebacker Hunter Meyer who received alldistrict mention a year ago. The challenge will be more on offense, where Borden plans to shift to a more multiple set. Our work is cut out for us. I just want to be in the running for a playoff spot once district comes; thats what I want to do, said Borden, who coached at Riviera for nine years before moving to Bishop. We have Refugio thats our first district game. Once we get rolling into district, I want our kids to have an opportunity to be playing for a playoff spot.

I think if we can get through this rough patch at the beginning of our schedule and learn a lot of lessons and play a lot of kids and keep getting better week to week that we can be in the running for a spot. Thats what I think we can do.

OFFENSE Senior tackles J.D. Quintanilla and Michael Acevedo, junior guard Gabriel Rivera and senior running back Jay Garcia are the returnees. From there, the starting spots are tentative. Seniors Cody Gray and Meyer are battling at tight end, although Meyers time figures to be spent mainly on defense. Either senior Mike Montoya or sophomore Jon Dickey will start at quarterback, and Dickey will be the Seahawks place-kicker and punter, the latter two positions being ones that Rivieras

RB/S Jay Garcia; MLB Hunter Meyer; QB/CB Mike Montoya; OT/DT J.D. Quintanilla; OG Gabriel Rivera

holdover coaches told Borden were a cinch. Senior Tres Longoria and sophomore Haden Borden are at receiver, juniors Carlos Flores and Michael Acevedo Riviera has two players with the same name are at fullback and senior Luis Serna and sophomore Sebastian Lerma are battling Garcia at running back.

DEFENSE Besides Meyer, Montoya (cornerback), Quintanilla (tackle) and Garcia (strong safety) are

the returning starters. As is the case with most 2A programs, many of the starters will spill over from offense. Hunter Douglas (center) and Gray are expected to be at ends, joined by sophomore Jonathan Kolties at tackle. Junior Cody McFall and sophomore Zach Gonzales are tabbed to flank Meyer at linebacker, with Flores, Longoria, Serna, Borden, Garcia, Dickey and Andrew Edlin manning secondary positions.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district 16-2A, division ii

41

Rios comes home to reverse Hebbronvilles fortunes


By Matt Young
Special to the Caller-Times

HEBBRONVILLE LONGHORNS
Head coach: Joe Rios Career record: 32-48 (First year at Hebbronville) 2012 record: 0-10 Last district title: 2009 Last playoff appearance: 2009 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning off/def starters: 8/8 Base offense: Multiple Spread Base defense: 4-3
Top returnees

Joe Rios knows a little bit about rebuilding projects. This time, hes putting his hard hat on and working to rebuild his hometown team. Rios spent five years at struggling Premont, where he managed a respectable 23-27 record. After spending time as an assistant at Refugio, he took over a Falfurrias team that had won just two games in its previous three seasons. After a rough 0-10 debut, Rios went 3-7 in Year 2 and 6-4 last season. Then, home called. Rios, who played on Hebbronvilles 1986 and 1987 playoff teams, took the job of rebuilding the Longhorns in April. After a

long stretch of playoff appearances, Hebbronville went through three head coaches in three seasons and went 2-8 in 2011 before hitting rock bottom with an 0-10 thud last season. They were down, but everyones attitude is good now, Rios said. Our numbers are up (68 kids are in the football program), so thats a good sign. Our seniors are being leaders. We just have good kids here in Hebbronville. Theyre working hard, so were expecting a good season.

OFFENSE
Hebbronville fans will notice a big change in offense. After running the old-school Double Wing last year, Rios is bringing the same Spread

offense he used with success at Falfurrias. He thinks he has the perfect trigger man for the offense, too. Rios compares junior Elias Alaniz to the Washington Redskins Robert Griffin III. When a reporter chuckled at the comparison, Rios stood his ground. Im serious hes legit, Rios said. He can run it, and he can throw it. Hes for real. We just hope he doesnt break, since hes only about 5-9, 150 pounds. Rios will get some help in the backfield from sophomore Artie Huerta and junior Albert Alaniz. Rios says both underclassmen are excellent athletes who will play tailback but also motion out to receiver. The Longhorns offensive

Elias Alaniz, QB, 5-9, 150, jr.; Artie Huerta, RB/WR/FS, 5-7, 160, soph.; Albert Alaniz, RB/ WR/DB, 5-9, 180, jr.; Austin Garza, LB, 5-6, 200, sr.; Danny Barrera, DE, 5-11, 200, sr.

line features four seniors, which should benefit the younger guys on Friday nights. We have a lot of varsity experience on the line, so were hoping that will help, Rios said.

DEFENSE
Along with the new head coach comes a new defensive coordinator and a change in defensive philosophies. Defensive coordinator Kyle Freeman, who was an assistant at Snyder before moving to Hebbronville, is switching the Longhorns from

a 3-3-5 formation to a more conventional 4-3. We expect them to hustle to the ball, be hard-hitting and out-hustle and outwork their opponents, Freeman said. Were going to be a hard-hitting defense, but were also going to be sound. The new defense will be led by a pair of seniors with Austin Garza heading up the linebacker corps, and Danny Barrera getting a rush off the edge at defensive end. Huerta has locked down a spot in the defensive backfield at free safety.

Freer undergoes some changes


By Matt Young
Special to the Caller-Times

FREER BUCKAROOS
Head coach: Jake Hofstetter Career record: First season 2012 record: 5-5 Last district title: 2002 Last playoff appearance: 2002 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning off/def starters: 5/4 Base offense: Multiple I Base defense: 4-3
Top returnees

Jake Hofstetter never has been a head coach, but he spent the previous 11 years as the offensive coordinator at Port Isabel. When he was named the new Freer coach in May, he tabbed two of Port Isabels top two assistants to move with him and become his offensive and defensive coordinators. Now, hes hoping the Tarpons tradition of making the playoffs makes the move with them. The Buckaroos have made slow but steady strides in the past few years. After a 2-8 season in 2010, Freer improved to 4-6 the next season and went 5-5 last year. Although the Buckaroos are trending up, a new staff means new schemes and lots of learning before Freer can taste the postseason again. Things have been going

well so far, Hofstetter said. The kids are picking up on it, but we made a lot of changes, so its going to take some time to have everyone on the same page.

OFFENSE
This is where fans will notice the most change. Freer ran a spread offense last season, but Hofstetter is implementing the same Multiple I formation offense Port Isabel has run for years. We only have 44 kids on the varsity and junior varsity, so I just dont know that we have the depth you need to run a spread offense, Hofstetter said. No disrespect to the coaching staff or the players that were here previously, but I think this change will give us a better opportunity to be in the playoffs. Freer will have a familiar face pulling the new offenses trigger. Jacob Cantu, who

started at quarterback as a freshman in 2010 before being moved to receiver in the spread offense, will be back under center for his senior year. Hes picked up the offense quite well; hes doing a good job with it, Hofstetter said. Hes a real smart kid and a leader, and thats what you want out of your quarterback. Cantu will rely heavily on his backfield of Orlando Balboa and Jeremy Alaniz. When he goes to the air, Cantu will have a reliable target in 5-foot-11 Alfredo Zapata and a water bug target in 5-5, 135-pound Adrian Aguillon. The offensive line will be anchored by left tackle Cortland Cammer, who Hoffstetter said came in and immediately locked down the lines blindside position.

Jacob Cantu, QB, 5-8, 170, sr.; Orlando Balboa, RB, 5-9, 150, jr.; Jeremy Alaniz, FB/LB, 5-10, 200, sr.; Alfredo Zapata, WR/DB, 5-11, 165, sr.; Adrian Aguillon, WR/DB, 5-5, 135; Cortland Cammer, LT/DT, sr.; Robert Arredondo, LB, jr.; Arnold Bednorz, LB, 5-8, 160, sr.

DEFENSE
Freer is changing from a 4-2-5 alignment to a more aggressive

4-3 that will be led by a strong corps of linebackers. When Alaniz isnt serving as a wrecking-ball fullback on offense, hell lead the defense at middle linebacker. Robert Arredondo will line up as the strongside linebacker with Arnold Bednorz on the weak side. Jeremy is a vocal leader on defense and kind of came in and has taken charge of things, Hofstetter said. Robert has done a really good job and is a hard-nosed type of

player. Arnold is a really good linebacker that has us pretty excited about that part of our defense. The Buckaroos plan on fixing a defense that gave up 33 points or more in four district games last year by becoming more of an attacking unit. Were going to be aggressive and attack on defense, Hofstetter said. Were going to try to go hit you before you ever get started. Were going to hit you and play hard-nosed football.

42

Class 1A

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

DISTRICT 15-A, DIVISION I CAPSULES


GANADO INDIANS
Head coach: Jimmy Thompson 2012 record: 8-4 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning off/def starters: 7/7
TOP RETURNEES

KENEDY LIONS
Head coach: Lin Havron 2012 record: 5-4 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning off/def starters: 6/5
TOP RETURNEES

SHINER COMANCHES
Head coach: Steve Cerny 2012 record: 12-2 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning off/def starters: 7/5
TOP RETURNEES

THREE RIVERS BULLDOGS


Head coach: Randy Palmer 2012 record: 6-5 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning off/def starters: 6/6
TOP RETURNEES

YORKTOWN WILDCATS
Head coach: Trey Alexander 2012 record: 6-4 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning off/def starters: 6/6
TOP RETURNEES

RB/DE Brayden Andel (5-11, 205); RB/DB Billy Jones (5-7, 160); OL/DL Will Malek (6-1, 275); QB/LB Ray Salazar; FL/ DB Kameron Smith (5-11, 160); RB/DB Clay Vesely (5-11, 165)
OUTLOOK

QB/DB Dominic Cruz (5-10, 170); C Ray Jay Garza; OT/DT Robbie Gutierrez; RB/LB Graham Lawrence; RB Cedric Mejia
OUTLOOK

DE Caleb Kalich (6-2, 215); P Hunter Mraz (5-10, 165); WR Tyler Patek (5-5, 145); MLB/OB Jacob Stafford (6-0, 210)
OUTLOOK

RB Paul Almendarez (6-0, 165); PL Tanner Johanson (6-0, 240); QB/DB Hagan Johnston (6-0, 180); Jesse Perez (5-7, 200)
OUTLOOK

QB Jacob Garcia (5-10, 160); OL Caleb Lemke (6-0, 240); OL Joe Ragusin (5-10, 240); LB Trever Reed
OUTLOOK

The Indians return the districts top statistical passer in Salazar (745 yards, 11 TDs), rusher in Vesely (1,405-16) and receiver in Smith (635-6), so they could make a strong bid for another playoff spot. Malek and Vesely were honorablemention all-state picks.

Dont be fooled. Half of the Lions offensive returnees are up front in Garza, Gutierrez and G Devyn Schultz. That should help facilitate Cruzs efforts as he moves under center after earning alldistrict honors as a wideout. The defense has holes to fill, but Lawrence provides a steadying influence.

The Comanches made another deep postseason run in 2012, losing in the semifinals to eventual runner-up Mart. That snapped an 11-game winning streak. With a healthy cast of returning starters, including four offensive linemen and allstate honorable-mention picks in Stafford (district defensive MVP) and Mraz, the Comanches should be playoff-bound again.

Almendarez and Johnston were offensive and defensive firstteamers in 15-A a year ago, with Almendarez and Perez providing ample production in their freshman and sophomore years, respectively. Johnston will be in his third year of running TRs Slot-T offense, which averaged almost 31 points per game.

The Wildcats string of postseason appearances ended at four with last seasons 1-3 district finish. Garcia steps into the QB role after rushing for 600 yards. He and RBs Logan Romans, Caleb Schendel and Brandon Smith will have some big boys up front leading the blocking in Lemke and Ragusin.

DISTRICT 16-A, DIVISION I CAPSULES


BEN BOLT BADGERS
Head coach: Jeff LeFevre 2012 record: 8-3 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning off/def starters: 4/7
TOP RETURNEES

LA VILLA CARDINALS
Head coach: Jose Salinas 2012 record: 9-2 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning off/def starters: 6/4
TOP RETURNEES

MONTE ALTO BLUE DEVILS


Head coach: Cesar Castillo 2012 record: 4-6 Last playoff appearance: None Returning lettermen: n/a Returning off/def starters: n/a
TOP RETURNEES

SANTA MARIA COUGARS


Head coach: Rolando Aguirre 2012 record: 4-6 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: n/a Returning off/def starters: n/a
TOP RETURNEES

CB Scott Gafford (5-6, 170); QB/DB Ryan Galvan (6-0, 160); OL Matt Garcia (5-7, 200); WR/DL Nick Gonzalez; DE Louie Lopez
OUTLOOK

LB Ramiro Cantu; MLB Arturo Garza; DT Ramon Serna; QB Robert Serna; WR Adrian Trevino
OUTLOOK

WR/LB Jorge Guajardo; RB/LB Angel Oseguera; OL/DL Omar Reyes


OUTLOOK

TE/CB Jose Carreon; DB/WR Felix Cantu; OL/DE Alan Gonzalez; WR Orlando Gonzalez; QB Isaac Ortiz
OUTLOOK

A district runner-up finish pushed the Badgers to their fourth consecutive playoff berth a year ago. An all-district pick in the secondary, Galvan takes on the QB role as well in place of graduated all-district first-teamer Albert Gonzalez. Gafford and DLs Steven Pena, Lopez and Christian Del Real anchor BBs strength on defense, which lost district MVP Eric Salinas to graduation. Garcia was a firstteam all-district pick.

The Cardinals have reached the playoffs in seven of the previous eight seasons. With the district offensive MVP returning in Serna, LV is a good bet to make it eight of nine. Serna accounted for nearly 2,000 total yards in his junior year. Cantu, Garza, Ramon Serna and Trevino were honorable-mention district picks.

The fledgling program didnt win a district game but managed four wins against private schools and JV programs. Castillo comes in from an assistants role at PSJA. Guajardo was a two-way, all-district first-team selection, while Reyes and Oseguera were first-team picks on defense and offense, respectively.

One district win will get you in the playoffs these days, and the Cougars did just that, earning a postseason spot for the second time in school history and first after two seasons of fielding only a JV team. Cantu and Carreon were firstteam all-district defenders, and Orlando Gonzalez was a first-team offensive pick.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

class 1A

43

DISTRICT 14-A, DIVISION II CAPSULES


FALLS CITY BEAVERS
2012 record: 11-3 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning off/def starters: 5/3
TOP RETURNEES

LOUISE HORNETS
Head coach: Danny Villanueva 2012 record: 1-9 L ast playoff appearance: 2009 Returning lettermen: 24 Returning off/def starters: 9/10
TOP RETURNEES

PETTUS EAGLES
Head coach: Dan Garza 2012 record: 0-10 Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning off/def starters: 9/6
TOP RETURNEES

Head coach: Steve Marbach

RUNGE YELLOWJACKETS
Head coach: Matt Wright 2012 record: 9-3 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning off/def starters: 6/4
TOP RETURNEES

WOODSBORO EAGLES
Head coach: Wade Miller 2012 record: 10-3 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning off/def starters: 8/9
TOP RETURNEES

DB/KR Austen Camber (6-0, 165); WR Stephen Harlos (6-0, 170); WR Dean Gaskamp (6-1, 175); DL Devon Lyssy (5-10, 185); LB Eric Wiatrek (6-1, 170)
OUTLOOK

DT Raul Gonzalez (6-4, 225); QB Chris Kutac (5-8, 155); RB Noe Puentes (6-1, 190); LB Will Siemens (5-10, 180)
OUTLOOK

RB/DB John Constante (5-8, 170); DE Diego Delgado (6-0, 225); OL/ DL Connor Fox (5-9, 185); OL/ LB Matt Gonzales (6-0, 245); WR Anthony Mendoza (5-9, 150)
OUTLOOK

LB Jeric Esparza (6-2, 225); OT Richard Ramirez (6-5, 270); OT/ DT/PK Ryan Saucedo (5-7, 180); TE/S/P Darren Torres (6-0, 220)
OUTLOOK

The defending regional semifinalists boast all-state talent in Wiatrek, Camber and Gaskamp. The Beavers will use that base to restock a defense that allowed 11.4 points per game and tossed six shutouts. Falls City has some skill-position players but needs to find a replacement for QB Cameron Soto, last years district MVP.

It has been dim for a dozen years in Louise, with only one winning season (2007) and seven different head coaches. But in his second season, ex-West Oso assistant Villanueva has a large cast returning, headed by 2012 top district newcomer Kutac. The prospects are brighter, especially with the return of LB Jacob Bill from an ACL injury.

It was a tough year for the Eagles, who surrendered 43.5 points per game. Their closest game was a 20-18 loss at Agua Dulce. Yet the returning number of players, led by Fox, Gonzales, Delgado and Samuel Cano on the lines, should help. Pettus will have to groom a new quarterback.

Runge has a lot of skill-position players to replace from the team that ended a 15-year playoff drought. The Yellowjackets will have a solid base on which to build with all-district firstteamers Esparza, Ramirez, Saucedo and Torres returning.

FB/LB Robert Arriaga; DL Mike Barraza; QB/CB/P Lionel Brown (6-0, 170); CB David Carmichael (5-11, 165); OL Justin Fierova (6-1, 250); S Jonathan Flores (5-9, 140); TE/DE Jacob Nesloney (6-2, 240); OL Brian Wigington
OUTLOOK

The talent pool is deep on a squad that reached the third round of the playoffs under Miller. The All-South Texas Coach of the Year. Barraza, Brown, Carmichael, Fierova, Flores and Nesloney all earned first-team all-district honors a season ago.

DISTRICT 16-A, DIVISION II CAPSULES


AGUA DULCE LONGHORNS
2012 record: 5-5 Last playoff appearance: 2005 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning off/def starters: 6/7
TOP RETURNEES

BENAVIDES EAGLES
Head coach: Celso Olivera 2012 record: 0-10 Last playoff appearance: 2004 Returning lettermen: n/a Returning off/def starters: n/a
TOP RETURNEES

BRUNI BADGERS
Head coach: Arturo Lozano IV 2012 record: 9-2 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 21 Returning off/def starters: 5/3
TOP RETURNEES

Head coach: Robert Beard

CHARLOTTE TROJANS
Head coach: Jerry Dominguez 2012 record: 2-9 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning off/def starters: 8/8
TOP RETURNEES

LA PRYOR BULLDOGS
Head coach: Justin Stephens 2012 record: 5-6 Last playoff appearance: 2012 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning off/def starters: n/a
TOP RETURNEES

DL Johnny Cavazos; OLB Jose I. Baltazar (5-11, 205); RB/CB A.J. Jiminian (5-8, 145); FB/MLB Trey Mann (5-10, 220); S Josh Quinney; C Juan Ramirez
OUTLOOK

OB/DB Noe Guzman; OL Rey Ruiz; QB/DB Scott Sanchez; FB/S Fernando Zavala
OUTLOOK

RB-S Derly Carrizales (5-11, 170); WR Joel Lopez; OL/LB Joe Valderas (6-1, 220); OL/LB Bryan Vela (5-11, 215)
OUTLOOK

A 20-14 loss to Charlotte in the finale cost the Longhorns their first playoff berth in seven years. But Agua Dulce has enough returning starters to possibly end that drought this season. Baltazar was an honorable-mention allstate pick. Jiminian topped the 1,000-yard rushing mark, but AD must have a QB step forward.

A boatload of returnees didnt translate into success last year for the Eagles, who are riding a 12-game losing streak and have won just 12 district games since their last playoff appearance. Guzman gives Benavides some hope for the future, as he was the district Newcomer of the Year in 2012, while Sanchez was as firstteam defensive pick and Ruiz, Zavala and Sanchez were secondteamers, Zavala both ways.

The defending district champions may not have the numbers but can build off successive postseason appearances. Carrizales rushed for almost 1,100 yards in earning district offensive MVP honors. Valderas was a two-way, first-team all-district selection, and Lopez was a first-team offensive pick. Abraham Gonzalez will be among the newcomers expected to help on the offensive front.

OL/DL Eric Diaz; WR/FS Cesar Estrada (6-0, 162); OL/DL Isaiah Garcia (5-10, 261); RB/SS Preston Hohenstein (5-10, 170); OL/LB Adrian Martinez (5-10, 198); WR/ CB Brandon Rivas
OUTLOOK

DL Robert Castillo; RB/CB Chris Gonzalez; DE Miguel Luna; DE Nathan Martinez; C Carlos Perez
OUTLOOK

The Trojans won only two games, but they were enough to get them into the playoffs. Sixteen returning starters should give Charlotte an edge, with Hohenstein earning two-way, first-team all-district honors and five others earning first-team nods. Dilan Weigag will get the call at QB.

Stephens inherits a program that has successive playoff appearances. Gonzalez was firstteam offense and second-team defense on the all-district squads. Defense will be the Bulldogs strength, anchored by firstteamers Luna and Perez.

44

John Paul II has young lineup


By Stuart Duncan
Special to the Caller-Times

tapps district 2, division i

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

After graduating 18 seniors from last seasons 2-8 team, no one really knows what to expect from John Paul II this year. That could work to the young Centurions advantage, as they look to sneak up and surprise some teams in coach Mario Vasquezs first year at the helm. We want to have a winning season, said Vasquez, who coached the quarterbacks and running backs at John Paul the past four seasons. With the dedication that (these kids) have, we should be (able to do that). Despite having just one returning starter on each side of the ball and five seniors, Vasquez said the Centurions plan to work around that inexperience. Theyre excited, Vasquez said of his players. They worked real hard this summer. Were getting there. With a freshman- and sophomore-laden team this season, John Paul II must overcome any fear factors associated with playing at the varsity level once the season starts. They cant be afraid to step out on the field and play with the big boys, Vasquez said of his teams younger players. Theyve got to be prepared and they have taken that first step by working hard this summer.

Hes a natural-born leader, Vasquez said of Morgan. The kids have started to rally around him. Hes already making an impact on the team. Vasquez is hoping two transfers from King also can immediately become difference-makers for the Centurions. Sophomore running back Jacob Musil and sophomore wide receiver Nwokedma Jackson could also be a big part of John Pauls plans on offense this season. Vasquez said the 6-foot-5 Jackson will make an ideal target for Morgan, particularly when the Centurions try to lob the ball up to him and use his height advantage over opposing defensive backs. Freshman running back Matthew Sanchez is expected to help John Pauls running game as well this season, Vasquez said Junior 5-foot-10, 220-pound offensive tackle Rupert Lujan, the teams lone returning starter on offense, gives the offensive line a veteran presence.

DEFENSE
The Centurions will look to build around senior 5-foot-9, 220-pound defensive tackle Manuel Lopez, who is the teams returning starter on defense. Vasquez said John Pauls secondary should be the units strength this season thanks to the return of junior cornerback Andrew Serna and senior safety Josh Gomez, who saw spot duty last season. Morgan and Musil are also expected to play in the secondary, Vasquez said. The Centurions will need additional underclassmen to step up and help replace the 10 defensive starters lost to graduation. Weve never had a young group like this, Vasquez said. If we can keep our freshmen together, well be able to build for the future. Thats where most of our talented athletes are.

OFFENSE
Vasquez plans to run the same offense at John Paul II that he used when he coached at Zapata. The Centurions are switching from a Spread to a Wing-T offense this season and will turn to some transfers to help them run it proficiently. Flour Bluff transfer Andrew Morgan, a junior, is expected to start at quarterback for the Centurions. Vasquez said Morgans ability to run and throw the ball effectively on the run makes him the perfect fit for John Paul IIs offense.

GEORGE TULEY/SPECIAL TO THE CALLER-TIMES

Senior safety Josh Gomez (bottom) is part of an experienced defensive backfield for the Centurians this year.

JOHN PAUL II CENTURIANS


Head coach: Mario Vasquez Career record: Firstseason 2012 record: 2-8 Last district title: None Last playoff appearance: 2011 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning off/def starters: 1/1 Base offense: Wing-T Base defense: 4-3
Top returnees

Rupert Lujan, jr., OL; Manuel Lopez, sr., DL; Andrew Serna, jr., DB; Josh Gomez, sr., DB.

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

predictions
JOSE rodriguez
Sports writer

45

greg rajan
Sports editor

John allen
caller.com

Kenny ryan
Sports writer

george vondracek
Sports writer

District 28-5A

District 28-5A

DISTRICT 28-5A

District 28-5A

District 28-5A

1. Cibolo Steele 2. S.A. East Central 3. King 4. S.A. Southwest


DISTRICT 30-4A

1. Cibolo Steele 2. S.A. East Central 3. King 4. Carroll


DISTRICT 30-4A

1. Cibolo Steele 2. S.A. East Central 3. King 4. S.A. Southwest


DISTRICT 30-4A

1. Cibolo Steele 2. S.A. East Central 3. King 4. S.A. Southwest


DISTRICT 30-4A

1. Cibolo Steele 2. S.A. East Central 3. King 4. Carroll


district 30-4A

1. Calallen 2. Port Lavaca 3. Gregory-Portland 4. Victoria East


DISTRICT 31-4A

1. Port Lavaca 2. Calallen 3. Gregory-Portland 4. Victoria East


DISTRICT 31-4A

1. Calallen 2. Port Lavaca 3. Gregory-Portland 4. Victoria East


DISTRICT 31-4A

1. Calallen 2. Port Lavaca 3. Gregory-Portland 4. Victoria East


DISTRICT 31-4A

1. Calallen 2. Gregory-Portland 3. Port Lavaca 4. Victoria East


district 31-4A

1. Flour Bluff 2. Ray 3. Alice 4. Miller


DISTRICT 30-3A

1. Flour Bluff 2. Ray 3. Alice 4. Moody


DISTRICT 30-3A

1. Flour Bluff 2. Ray 3. Alice 4. Miller


DISTRICT 30-4A

1. Flour Bluff 2. Ray 3. Alice 4. Miller


DISTRICT 30-3A

1. Flour Bluff 2. Ray 3. Alice 4. Miller


district 30-3A

1. Sinton 2. Ingleside 3. Orange Grove 4. Rockport-Fulton


DISTRICT 31-3A

1. Sinton 2. Ingleside 3. Orange Grove 4. Rockport-Fulton


DISTRICT 31-3A

1. Ingleside 2. Sinton 3. Rockport-Fulton 4. Orange Grove


district 31-3A

1. Ingleside 2. Orange Grove 3. Sinton 4. Rockport-Fulton


DISTRICT 31-3A

1. Sinton 2. Ingleside 3. Rockport-Fulton 4. Orange Grove


district 31-3A

1. Kingsville 2. Raymondville 3. Lyford 4. RGC Grulla


DISTRICT 15-2A Div. I

1. Kingsville 2. Raymondville 3. RGC Grulla 4. Lyford


DISTRICT 15-2A Div. I

1. Kingsville 2. Raymondville 3. RGC Grulla 4. Lyford


DISTRICT 15-2A Div. I

1. Kingsville 2. Raymondville 3. RGC Grulla 4. Lyford


DISTRICT 15-2A Div. I

1. Kingsville 2. RGC La Grulla 3. Lyford 4. Raymondville


district 15-2A Div. I

1. Luling 2. Marion 3. George West 4. Goliad


DISTRICT 16-2A Div. I

1. Luling 2. George West 3. Marion 4. Goliad


DISTRICT 16-2A Div. I

1. Luling 2. Goliad 3. Marion 4. George West


DISTRICT 16-2A Div. I

1. Luling 2. Goliad 3. Marion 4. George West


DISTRICT 16-2A Div. I

1. Luling 2. George West 3. Marion 4. Goliad


district 16-2A Div. I

1. San Diego 2. Aransas Pass 3. Odem 4. Mathis


DISTRICT 16-2A Div. II

1. Aransas Pass 2. Odem 3. Mathis 4. San Diego


DISTRICT 16-2A Div. II

1. Aransas Pass 2. San Diego 3. Falfurrias 4. Odem


DISTRICT 16-2A Div. II

1. Aransas Pass 2. San Diego 3. Falfurrias 4. Mathis


DISTRICT 16-2A Div. II

1. Aransas Pass 2. Odem 3. Mathis 4. San Diego


district 16-2A Div. II

1. Refugio 2. Banquete 3. Taft 4. Freer


DISTRICT 15-A Div. I

1. Refugio 2. Banquete 3. Taft 4. Hebbronville


DISTRICT 15-A Div. I

1. Refugio 2. Banquete 3. Taft 4. Freer


district 15-A Div. I

1. Refugio 2. Taft 3. Banquete 4. Freer


DISTRICT 15-A Div. I

1. Refugio 2. Banquete 3. Freer 4. Taft


district 15-A Div. I

1. Shiner 2. Ganado 3. Three Rivers


DISTRICT 16-A Div. I

1. Shiner 2. Ganado 3. Three Rivers


DISTRICT 16-A Div. I

1. Shiner 2. Ganado 3. Three Rivers


DISTRICT 16-A Div. I

1. Shiner 2. Ganado 3. Three Rivers


DISTRICT 16-A Div. I

1. Shiner 2. Ganado 3. Three Rivers


district 16-A Div. I

1. Ben Bolt 2. La Villa 3. Santa Maria


DISTRICT 14-A Div. II

1. Ben Bolt 2. La Villa 3. Santa Maria


DISTRICT 14-A Div. II

1. La Villa 2. Ben Bolt 3. Santa Maria


DISTRICT 14-A Div. II

1. La Villa 2. Ben Bolt 3. Santa Maria


DISTRICT 14-A Div. II

1. Ben Bolt 2. La Villa 3. Santa Maria


district 14-A Div. II

1. Woodsboro 2. Falls City 3. Runge


DISTRICT 16-A Div. II

1. Falls City 2. Woodsboro 3. Runge


DISTRICT 16-A Div. II

1. Woodsboro 2. Falls City 3. Runge


district 16-A Div. II

1. Woodsboro 2. Falls City 3. Runge Yellowjackets


DISTRICT 16-A Div. II

1. Falls City 2. Woodsboro 3. Runge


district 16-A Div. II

1. Bruni 2. Agua Dulce 3. Charlotte


Offensive player of year

1. Bruni 2. Agua Dulce 3. Charlotte


Offensive player of year

1. Bruni 2. Agua Dulce 3. La Pryor


OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF YEAR

1. Bruni 2. Agua Dulce 3. Charlotte


Offensive player of year

1. Bruni 2. Agua Dulce 3. La Pryor


Offensive player of year

Devin Bisby, RB, G-P


Defensive player of year

Tyler Handson, QB, Sinton


Defensive player of year

Tristen Barajas, QB, Ingleside


DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF YEAR

Tristen Barajas, QB, Ingleside


Defensive player of year

Devin Bisby, RB, G-P


Defensive player of year

Trevor Moses, LB, Calallen

Austin Revels, LB, Calallen

Adrian Hynson, DB, Flour Bluff

Trevor Moses, LB, Calallen

Trevor Moses, LB, Calallen

46

district schedules
DISTRICT 28-5A CARROLL TIGERS DISTRICT 30-4A Beeville Trojans

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

8/29 Port Lavaca % 9/6 at Flour Bluff 9/13 Gregory-Portland% 9/20 at Calallen 9/27 at Converse Judson* 10/11 at S.A. East Central* 10/18 at King*% 10/25 S.A. Southwest*# 11/1 at Cibolo Steele* 11/8 South San*#
KING MUSTANGS

7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 at Kingsville 9/6 Ray 9/13 Cuero 9/20 at Ingleside 9/27 at Gregory-Portland* 10/4 Victoria West* 10/18 at Victoria East* 10/25 Port Lavaca * 11/1 at Calallen* 11/8 Tuloso-Midway*
Calallen wildcats

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30

9/20 at Bay City 10/4 at Beeville* 10/11 Victoria East* 10/18 at Port Lavaca * 10/25 Calallen* 11/1 at Tuloso-Midway* 11/7 Gregory-Portland*
district 31-4a Alice coyotes

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7

10/11 Laredo Martin* 10/17 Flour Bluff* 10/25 at Miller*% 10/31 at Ray*% 11/7 Moody*
Laredo martin tigers

7:30 7 7:30 7 7 7:30 7 7 7 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7 7:30

10/25 Sinton* 11/1 Ingleside* 11/8 West Oso*


Sinton pirates

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 Flour Bluff% 9/6 at Moody# 9/13 at Ray# 9/20 at Victoria East 9/27 Smithson Valley# 10/11 at Cibolo Steele* 10/18 Carroll*% 10/25 at South San* 11/1 S.A. Southwest*# 11/8 at S.A. East Central*
CIBOLO STEELE KNIGHTS

8/30 Mercedes 9/6 at Weslaco East 9/13 at Flour Bluff 9/20 Carroll 9/27 Port Lavaca * 10/11 at Tuloso-Midway* 10/18 Gregory-Portland* 10/25 at Victoria West* 11/1 Beeville* 11/8 at Victoria East* 8/30 at Laredo L.B.J. 9/6 Alice 9/13 at Carroll% 9/20 Rockport/Fulton 9/27 Beeville* 10/4 at Victoria East* 10/11 Port Lavaca * 10/18 at Calallen* 10/25 Tuloso-Midway* 11/7 at Victoria West*
port lavaca sandcrabs

8/30 Laredo Alexander 9/6 at Gregory-Portland 9/13 at Kingsville 9/27 Flour Bluff* 10/4 at Laredo Cigarroa* 10/11 Ray* 10/18 at Moody*# 10/25 Laredo Nixon* 11/1 Miller* 11/8 at Laredo Martin*
Flour Bluff hornets

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7 7:30

8/30 at Roma 9/7 at Eagle Pass Winn 9/14 Laredo United South 9/26 Miller* 10/4 at Flour Bluff* 10/11 at Laredo Cigarroa* 10/17 at Ray*% 10/25 Moody* 11/2 at Laredo Nixon* 11/8 Alice*
Laredo Nixon mustangs

8/30 at Tuloso-Midway 9/6 Yoakum 9/13 Rio Hondo 9/20 at Raymondville 9/27 at Laredo L.B.J. 10/11 Ingleside* 10/18 at Orange Grove* 10/25 Rockport/Fulton* 11/1 West Oso* 11/8 at Robstown*
west oso bears

Gregory/Portland wildcats

8/30 S.A. Madison 9/6 at Converse Judson 9/12 Kerrville Tivy 9/20 Austin Westlake 9/26 at San Marcos 10/11 King* 10/18 South San* 10/25 at S.A. East Central* 11/1 Carroll* 11/8 at S.A. Southwest* 8/30 at S.A. Jay 9/6 at S.A. Marshall 9/12 at S.A. Brennan 9/20 Converse Judson 9/27 at New Braunfels 10/11 Carroll* 10/18 at S.A. Southwest* 10/25 Cibolo Steele* 11/1 at South San* 11/8 King*
s.a. southwest dragons

8/30 at King% 9/6 Carroll 9/13 Calallen 9/27 at Alice* 10/4 Laredo Martin* 10/11 at Miller*% 10/17 at Laredo Cigarroa* 10/25 Ray* 11/1 at Moody*% 11/8 Laredo Nixon*
miller buys

9/6 at Eagle Pass 9/13 Eagle Pass Winn 9/20 at Zapata 9/27 Laredo Cigarroa* 10/4 at Ray*# 10/10 Moody* 10/18 Miller* 10/25 at Alice* 11/2 Laredo Martin* 11/8 at Flour Bluff*
district 30-3a Ingleside mustangs

8/29 at Moody# 9/6 at Riviera 9/13 Miller 9/20 Tuloso-Midway 9/27 John Paul II 10/11 at Robstown* 10/18 at Ingleside* 10/25 Orange Grove* 11/1 at Sinton* 11/8 Rockport/Fulton*
district 31-3a Kingsville brahmas

S.A. EAST CENTRAL HORNETS

8/29 at Carroll% 9/6 La Vernia 9/13 at Somerset 9/27 at Calallen* 10/4 Tuloso-Midway* 10/11 at Gregory-Portland* 10/18 Victoria West* 10/25 at Beeville* 11/1 Victoria East* 8/30 Sinton 9/6 at Miller% 9/13 Mission 9/20 at West Oso 9/27 Victoria East* 10/4 at Port Lavaca * 10/11 Calallen* 10/25 at Gregory-Portland* 11/1 Victoria West* 11/8 at Beeville*
Victoria east titans

8/30 at Robstown 9/6 Tuloso-Midway% 9/13 at West Oso 9/26 at Laredo Martin* 10/4 Moody*% 10/11 Flour Bluff*% 10/18 at Laredo Nixon* 10/25 Laredo Cigarroa*% 11/1 at Alice* 11/8 Ray*%
moody Trojans

8/30 at Refugio 9/6 at George West 9/13 Odem 9/20 Beeville 9/27 Cuero 10/11 at Sinton* 10/18 West Oso* 10/25 at Robstown* 11/1 at Rockport/Fulton* 11/8 Orange Grove*
orange grove bulldogs

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 Beeville 9/6 at Rockport/Fulton 9/13 Alice 9/20 at Hidalgo 9/27 Somerset 10/4 at Robstown 10/11 Zapata* 10/25 at Raymondville* 11/1 Lyford* 11/8 at La Grulla*
lyford bulldogs

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

TULOSO/MIDWAY WARRIORS

8/29 9/6 9/13 9/20 9/27 10/11 10/18 10/25 11/1 11/8

at Laredo United 7 at S.A. Central Catholic 7:30 S.A. Lee 7:30 S.A. Brennan 7:30 New Braunfels Canyon 7:30 at South San* 7:30 S.A. East Central* 7:30 at Carroll*# 7:30 at King*# 7:30 Cibolo Steele* 7:30
SOUTH SAN BOBCATS

8/29 West Oso# 9/6 King# 9/13 at Rockport/Fulton 9/27 Ray*% 10/4 at Miller*% 10/10 at Laredo Nixon* 10/18 Alice*# 10/25 at Laredo Martin* 11/1 Flour Bluff*% 11/7 at Laredo Cigarroa*
ray texans

8/30 at Odem 9/6 Raymondville 9/13 at George West 9/20 Aransas Pass 9/27 at Lyford 10/11 Rockport/Fulton* 10/18 Sinton* 10/25 at West Oso* 11/1 Robstown* 11/8 at Ingleside* 8/30 Miller 9/6 Aransas Pass 9/13 Banquete 9/20 Odem 10/4 Kingsville 10/11 West Oso* 10/18 Rockport/Fulton* 10/25 Ingleside* 11/1 Orange Grove* 11/8 Sinton* 8/30 Ray# 9/6 Kingsville 9/13 Moody 9/20 Gregory-Portland 9/27 Vanderbilt Industrial 10/11 Orange Grove* 10/18 Robstown*

8/30 Bville St. Josephs 9/6 at Port Isabel 9/13 at Santa Rosa 9/20 at Progreso 9/27 Orange Grove 10/4 Rio Hondo 10/18 at La Grulla* 10/25 Zapata* 11/1 at Kingsville* 11/8 Raymondville*
raymondville Bearkats

Robstown cotton pickers

8/30 S.A. Harlandale 9/6 at S.A. McCollum 9/13 at Victoria West 9/19 at S.A. Burbank 9/27 S.A. Central Catholic 10/11 S.A. Southwest* 10/18 at Cibolo Steele* 10/25 King* 11/1 S.A. East Central* 11/8 at Carroll*#

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 Gonzales 9/6 at San Marcos 9/13 at S.A. Brackenridge 9/20 King 9/27 at Tuloso-Midway* 10/4 Gregory-Portland* 10/11 at Victoria West* 10/18 Beeville* 11/1 at Port Lavaca * 11/8 Calallen*
Victoria west warriors

8/30 Rockport/Fulton# 9/6 at Beeville 9/13 King# 9/27 at Moody*% 10/4 Laredo Nixon*# 10/11 at Alice* 10/17 Laredo Martin*% 10/25 at Flour Bluff* 10/31 Laredo Cigarroa*% 11/8 at Miller*%
Laredo Cigarroa toros

8/30 Hidalgo 9/6 at Orange Grove 9/13 Port Isabel 9/20 Sinton 9/27 at Rio Hondo 10/4 at La Feria 10/11 La Grulla* 10/18 at Zapata* 10/25 Kingsville* 11/8 at Lyford*
rgc la grulla gators

rockport/Fulton pirates

8/29 Lockhart 9/6 at Cuero 9/13 South San

8/30 Zapata 7:30 9/6 at Laredo United South 7:30 9/13 at Roma 7:30 9/27 at Laredo Nixon* 7:30 10/4 Alice* 7:30

8/30 at La Villa 9/6 La Feria 9/13 at PSJA Southwest 9/20 Rio Hondo 9/27 at Port Isabel 10/4 Hidalgo 10/11 at Raymondville* 10/18 Lyford* 11/1 at Zapata* 11/8 Kingsville*

CALLER-TIMES

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

district schedules
7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 9/27 Odem* 10/11 at Aransas Pass* 10/18 Falfurrias* 10/25 at San Diego* 11/1 Mathis* 11/8 at Bishop*
district 16-2a, division ii banquet bulldogs

47
7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

Zapata hawks

8/30 at Laredo Cigarroa 9/6 Laredo Alexander 9/13 at Mission Vets 9/20 Laredo Nixon 9/27 at Crystal City 10/4 Port Isabel 10/11 at Kingsville* 10/18 Raymondville* 10/25 at Lyford* 11/1 La Grulla*

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

9/6 Robstown 9/13 at Palacios 9/20 at Orange Grove 9/27 Bishop* 10/4 at Odem* 10/11 Santa Rosa* 10/25 at Falfurrias* 11/1 San Diego* 11/8 at Mathis*
bishop badgers

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

10/18 Banquete* 10/25 at Skidmore/Tynan* 11/1 at Refugio* 11/8 Riviera* 8/30 at Three Rivers 9/6 at Mathis 9/13 Kenedy 9/27 at Hebbronville* 10/4 Riviera* 10/11 Banquete* 10/18 at Freer* 10/25 Santa Gertrudis* 11/1 at Taft* 11/8 Refugio*
Taft greyhounds

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

11/1 at Runge*
runge yellowjackets

skidmore/tynan bobcats

district 15-2a, division i George West longhorns

8/30 at Bandera 7:30 9/6 Ingleside 7:30 9/13 Orange Grove 7:30 9/20 at Three Rivers 7:30 9/27 at Marion* 7:30 10/4 S.A. Brooks Academy* 7:30 10/18 at S.A. Cole* 7:30 10/25 Goliad* 7:30 11/1 at Jourdanton* 7:30 11/8 Lulling* 7:30
Goliad tigers

8/30 Riviera 7:30 9/6 at Santa Gertrudis Acad. 7:30 9/13 at Bloomington 7:30 9/20 Benavides 7:30 9/27 at Aransas Pass* 7:30 10/4 Falfurrias* 7:30 10/11 at San Diego* 7:30 10/18 Mathis* 7:30 11/1 at Odem* 7:30 11/8 Santa Rosa* 7:30
Falfurrias jerseys

8/30 Mathis 9/6 at John Paul II 9/13 Robstown 9/27 at Taft* 10/4 Hebbronville* 10/11 at Skidmore/Tynan* 10/18 at Santa Gertrudis* 10/25 Refugio* 11/1 at Riviera* 11/8 Freer*
freer buckaroos

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

9/6 at London 9/13 at Nueces Canyon 9/20 Leakey 9/27 at Medina 10/11 at Woodsboro* 10/18 Louise* 10/25 Yorktown 11/1 Pettus* 11/8 Falls City*
Woodsboro eagles

8/30 at Vic. St. Josephs 9/6 Yorktown 9/13 at Edna 9/20 Mathis 9/27 at Jourdanton* 10/4 Lulling* 10/11 at Marion* 10/18 S.A. Brooks* 10/25 at George West* 11/1 S.A. Cole*
Jourdanton Indians

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 Hebbronville 9/6 Freer 9/13 at Riviera 9/20 at John Paul 9/27 Mathis* 10/4 at Bishop* 10/11 Odem* 10/18 at Santa Rosa* 10/25 Aransas Pass* 11/8 at San Diego*
Mathis pirates

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 at Benavides 9/6 at Falfurrias 9/13 at San Diego 9/27 Santa Gertrudis* 10/4 at Refugio* 10/11 Riviera* 10/18 Skidmore/Tynan* 10/25 at Taft* 11/1 Hebbronville* 11/8 at Banquete* 8/30 at Falfurrias 9/6 Ben Bolt 9/13 at Cotulla 9/27 Skidmore/Tynan* 10/4 at Banquete* 10/11 Santa Gertrudis* 10/18 at Refugio* 10/25 Riviera* 11/1 at Freer* 11/8 Taft*
refugio bobcats

8/30 at John Paul II 9/6 at Odem 9/13 Crystal City 9/27 Banquete* 10/4 at Santa Gertrudis* 10/11 Refugio* 10/18 at Riviera* 10/25 Freer* 11/1 Skidmore/Tynan* 11/8 at Hebbronville*
district 15-a, division i three rivers bulldogs

8/30 at Bloomington 9/5 at Leakey 9/13 Santa Gertrudis 9/20 Kenedy 9/27 at Agua Dulce 10/4 at Benavides 10/11 Runge* 10/18 at Pettus* 10/25 Falls City* 11/8 at Louise*
district 16-a, division ii Agua Dulce longhorns

Hebbronville longhorns

8/30 Falls City 7:30 9/6 at Stockdale 7:30 9/13 at Dilley 7:30 9/20 Carrizo Springs 7:30 9/27 Goliad* 7:30 10/11 at Luling* 7:30 10/18 Marion* 7:30 10/25 at SA Brooks Academy* 7:30 11/1 George West* 7:30 11/8 at S.A. Cole* 7:30
lulling eagles

8/30 at Banquete 9/6 Skidmore/Tynan 9/13 John Paul II 9/20 at Goliad 9/27 at Falfurrias* 10/4 San Diego* 10/18 at Bishop* 10/25 Odem* 11/1 at Santa Rosa* 11/8 Aransas Pass*
Odem owls

8/30 Skidmore/Tynan 9/6 at Nixon/Smiley 9/13 at Natalia 9/20 George West 9/27 Falls City 10/11 Yorktown* 10/18 at Kenedy* 10/25 Shiner* 11/8 at Ganado*
Kenedy lions

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 at Ben Bolt 7:30 9/6 Bloomington 7:30 9/13 Monte Alto 7:30 9/27 Woodsboro 7:30 10/4 at Pettus 7:30 10/11 at La Pryor* 7:30 10/18 Benavides* 7:30 10/25 at Lasara 7:30 11/1 at Bruni* 7:30 11/8 Charlotte* 7:30
Benavides eagles

8/30 at S.A. Randolph 9/6 Rice Consolidated 9/13 Blanco 9/20 at Devine 9/27 S.A. Cole* 10/4 at Goliad* 10/11 Jourdanton* 10/25 at Marion* 11/1 SA Brooks Academy* 11/8 at George West*
Marion bulldogs

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 Orange Grove 9/6 Taft 9/13 at Ingleside 9/20 Robstown 9/27 at Santa Rosa* 10/4 Aransas Pass* 10/11 at Falfurrias* 10/18 San Diego* 10/25 at Mathis* 11/1 Bishop*
San Diego vaqueros

8/30 Ingleside 9/6 at Edna 9/13 Lago Vista 9/27 at Riviera* 10/4 Freer* 10/11 at Taft* 10/18 Hebbronville* 10/25 at Banquete* 11/1 Santa Gertrudis* 11/8 at Skidmore/Tynan*
Riviera seahawks

8/30 at Karnes City 9/6 Pettus 9/13 at Skidmore/Tynan 9/20 at Woodsboro 10/4 S.A. Hawkins 10/11 at Shiner* 10/18 Three Rivers* 10/25 at Ganado* 11/1 Yorktown*
district 16-a, division i ben bolt badgers

8/30 Freer 7:30 9/13 at Ben Bolt 7:30 9/20 at Bishop 7:30 9/27 at Monte Alto 7:30 10/4 Woodsboro 7:30 10/18 at Agua Dulce* 7:30 10/25 Bruni* 7:30 11/1 at Charlotte* 7:30 11/8 La Pryor* 7:30
bruni badgers

8/30 at Poth 7:30 9/6 Karnes City 7:30 9/13 at Austin St. Michaels 7:30 9/20 Navarro 7:30 9/27 George West* 7:30 10/4 at S.A. Cole* 7:30 10/11 Goliad* 7:30 10/18 at Jourdanton* 7:30 10/25 Luling* 7:30 11/8 at SA Brooks Academy* 7:30
district 16-2a, division i Aransas Pass panthers

8/30 at La Feria 9/6 Austin Eastside 9/13 Freer 9/20 Santa Maria 10/4 at Mathis* 10/11 Bishop* 10/18 at Odem* 10/25 Santa Rosa* 11/1 at Aransas Pass* 11/8 Falfurrias*
Santa Rosa warriors

8/30 at Bishop 9/6 West Oso 9/13 Falfurrias* 9/27 Refugio* 10/4 at Skidmore/Tynan* 10/11 at Freer* 10/18 Taft* 10/25 at Hebbronville* 11/1 Banquete* 11/8 at Santa Gertrudis*
Santa Gertrudis lions

8/30 Agua Dulce 9/6 at Hebbronville 9/13 Benavides 9/20 at Pettus 9/27 at Charlotte 10/4 Bruni 10/18 La Villa* 11/1 Santa Maria* 11/8 at Monte Alto*
district 14-a, division ii pettus eagles

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

9/6 at Monte Alto 7:30 9/13 Leakey 7:30 9/20 Lasara 7:30 9/27 La Villa 7:30 10/4 at Ben Bolt 7:30 10/11 at Charlotte* 7:30 10/18 La Pryor* 7:30 10/25 at Benavides* 7:30 11/1 Agua Dulce* 7:30
private school john paul ii centurions

8/30 Van Vleck

7:30

8/30 Rio Hondo 9/6 at La Villa 9/13 Lyford 9/20 at La Feria

8/30 Home 9/6 Bishop 9/13 at Woodsboro 9/27 at Freer* 10/4 Taft* 10/11 at Hebbronville*

8/30 Shiner St. Paul 9/6 at Kenedy 9/13 at Sabinal 9/20 Ben Bolt 9/27 at Yorktown 10/4 Agua Dulce 10/11 at Falls City* 10/18 Woodsboro* 10/25 at Louise*

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30

8/30 Taft II 7:30 9/6 Banquete 7:30 9/13 at Mathis 7:30 9/20 Falfurrias 7:30 9/27 at West Oso 7:30 10/11 S.A. Antonian* 7:30 10/18 Austin St. Michaels* 7:30 10/25 at SA Central Catholic* 7:30 11/1 at Brville St. Josephs* 7:30 11/8 St. Anthonys* 7:30 * district game # at Cabaniss Field % at Buc Stadium

48

SOUTH TEXAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CALLER-TIMES

Selection and prices vary by store.

Prices good August 25-31, 2013,

Get back on the field

31
799
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99

Mens Nike Landshark 3/4 Football Cleats


Style 511292
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49
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Mens Nike Vapor Strike Low D3 Football Cleats


Styles 511336-010, 11336-610, 511336-411
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79

Under Armour 99 Mens Run and Gun Football Cleats


Style 1235873-061
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Nike Chin Shield


Style 9350000001

999

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1999
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Nike Spiral-Tech Football

Nike Bicep Bands

Style 9307000001

Nike Amped Mouthguard

Style N.FU.08.001.OS

599

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1699
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1999
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Stadium Cushion
Style BP-38010

GCI Outdoor BleacherBack Stadium Seat


Style 10010

RIO Adventure MyPod Portable Padded Seat


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CAL236202

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