lLa ,e raVIs-Judson: spirit, mutual respect

State powers colllde McAuliffe will see a very dif­ 2002. But even back then, In playoffs for second ferent Cavaliers program from a young coach just starting consecut ive season the one in which be briefly his high school career could coached in the early2ooos. sense something building in 8y Thomas Jones What year did you spend at the school's athletic program ljones@slatesm:m.com ~. Coach? Was it alongside the housing devel­ •01or'o2?Maybe'o3? opments and businesses that When Converse Judson "All I remember was that seemed to sprout up overnight renews its brief but spirited is was o-fer," McAuliffe said next to RM 620 and Texas 71. series with L.il.1: 1.__._ in the with a chuckle earlier this week. The Cavs' freshman team­ .,., , ,..15• Garrett Wison leaps high to puU in a touchdown pass over Class 6A Div:ision I Region "Wedidn'twinasinglegame." which included a precocious Judson's Kenyon Morgan, left, and Rashad Wisdom in a playoff game last IV championship Saturday To be specific, ".' ;_ I' Ti ,""':;' passer named Todd Reesing, season won by the cavs. The two power11ouses wiU meet again Saturday at the Alamodome in San lone winless campaign that in San Antonio's Alamodome. [RAlPH BARRERA/2017 AMERICAN-STATESMAN] Antonio, Judson coach Sean included McAuliffe came in SeePLAYOFFS, C3 Judson's Sincere Tale of the tape PLAYOFFS McCormick eludes the tackle of Lake Saturday's showdown between Convef'Se Judson and Lake Prum Page CJ ll'avis' Copeland Travis in the Class 6A Division I Region IV championship in Gothard during 5an Antonio's Alamodome is a matchup between two of the who became a collegiate a playoff game state's unquestioned heavyweights. Based on both schools' All-American at Kansas­ last season. The legacy of success, here's how the two teams stack up: was lighting up opponents teams will play and drawing crowds that for the sixth tane Lake ll'avis Judson often surpassed the var­ Saturday, seeking State titles 6 6 sity's on Friday nights. to advance to the Title game appearances 8 11 "You could see that state semifmals. Last state title 2016 2002 things were fixing to turn," LRALPH BARRERA/2017 Playoff wins 53 100 he said. "Lakeway was AMERICAN­ Playoff winning percentage 86.2 74.1 starting to blow up, that STATESMAN) Consecutive winning seasons 15 42 freshman terun was beat- ing everybody, and the JV staffs - which included team was pretty good. It McAuliffe as Smith's was one of those odd deals defensive coordinator - where Thursday nights bad mutual admiration were better than the main as well as plenty of game event. You could just tell film from Smith's prior job that this thing was going to at Kerrville Tivy, which be a pretty big deal" engaged Lake Travis in Seventeen years later, some memorable Class much bas changed for 4A games during Tivy both McAuliffe and the graduate Johnny Manziel's Lake Travis football pro­ high school days. When gram. McAuliffe bas been McAuliffe took over the the bead coach at bis alma Judson program, be took mater, Judson - one ofthe some lessons from bis pre­ dynasties in Texas high decessor and applied them school football history - to a nondistrict schedule since 2014, and the Cavs that included Lake Travis. have gone from a program "I learned from Coach with one playoff win in its Smith that if you want to first 19 years to six state be the best, you have to titles in the past 15 seasons. play the best," he said. "But Saturday will bring the I don't want to beat my sixth meeting between two chest too much; much like of the state's blue bloods; Lake Travis, this place bas Judson matches Lake Travis a bard time findmggames. with six state champion­ There's a lot of coaches out ships, and only seven other there looking more for the schools that play 11-man W than the challenge." football- Katy, Southlake Carter, whose team bad Carroll, Celina, Abilene, to make back-to-back Plano, Brownwood and nondistrict road trips to Aledo- have won more. the Metroplex to open this But for all their history, season, can empathize with the two teams have rarely McAuliffe's scheduling met, especially in the play­ cballenges. offs. Judson bolds a 3-2 "We both have similar edge in the series, and the scheduling issues," be said. Rockets are the only team "Sean is like Coach Smith; in the state to have played they will play anybody." Lake Travis multiple times But over the past twosea­ since the Cavs began their sons, the stakes have been streak of 15 consecutive much higher than nondis­ playoffs appearances and trict wins or losses. Judson, boast a winning record. wbicbbasastate-record42 The series began in 2012, consecutive winning sea­ when first-year Judson sons, bas long competed coach Mark Smith and in the playoff bracket for Lake Travis coach Hank the largest schools. Lake Carterworkedoutabome­ Travis, which bas grownin and-bome schedule. The enrollment by 76.2 percent two coaches and their over the past eight years, has gone from a Class 4A gods weren't kind to us. scary." Division!Ischoolin2007to And once we saw our align­ Things should get plenty a Class 6A Division I team ments (this year), weknew scary for both defenses in the past two years. that we'd probably meet Saturday's showdown. 11urt means the two pre­ up at some point (in the Judsonhad104 points in two eminent Class 6A football playoffs)." games against the Cavslast teams- with apologies to Carter also kept a close season, while Lake Travis Westlake and its one state eye on the postseason rolled up 92 cumulative championship-in Region ramifications ofFebruary' s points inthe two meetings. IV must now face each realignment. The pos­ The two offenses haven't other on what looks like a sibility of either the Cavs slowed down this season regular basis in the postsea - or Judson finishing as the despite both teams break­ son. Saturday's game will second Division I playoff ing in new quarterbacks; be a second playoffmeeting seed in their district created Judson (12-0) averages between the schools; last some anxious moments. 49. 3points and501. 5yards, year Lake Travis avenged "Judson was unequivo­ whiletheCavs (u-1) aver­ a 65-45 nondistrict loss cally one of the best teams age 46 points and 445.4 by rallying for a 47-39 win we played (in 2017)," said yards. Those numbers are a in the second round of the Carter, whose team isseek­ bit ironic, considering both postseason. "Itwasatougb ingafourtbconsecutive trip head coaches made their pill to swallow," McAuliffe toa state title game. "When bones on the defensive side said about facing bis stiff­ we saw bow the playoffs ofthe ball. est regional competition could work out and we saw "It's not going to be a in the second round of the that we could play Judson fun day to be a defensive 2017 playoffs. "The UIL in the first round?nurt was guy(Saturday)," McAuliffe said. "Forus, we really need to contain the explosive plays. Wecan'tletabubble screen go 50 yards, and we can't let (Lake Travis quar­ terback) Hudson Card tum a quarterback scramble into a40-yardgam." And bow to stop Garrett Wilson, the record-setting wide receiver for Lake Travis who will join the ObioStatefootballprogram inthespring? "Ob, Wilson will get bis," McAuliffe said. "In my 20 years of coaching, he's the best I've seen. There's a reason he's college-ready right now; if Ohio state doesn't play him as a freslurum, they've lost their minds." When it comes to trading points with the Rockets, Carter agrees with his friendly rival about the offensive firepower for both teams. "I would be shocked if it's a low-scoring game, just based on the style of offense we both play," be said. "And we know each otherso well that it's almost like an in-district game. The positives of that are, especially on defense, our kids nnderstand the tempo that they like to use. But at the end of the day, it's just football; it will be about blocking and tackling." ON THE AIR SATURDAY High school football rune TV Radio ·s vs. Converse Judson 2 p.m. KBVO 104.9 West.~ vs. SA Brandeis 6 p.m. KBVO 1300 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: GAMES OF THE DAV Class 6A Division I Region IV championship: l.,.\ - · ·s (11-1) vs. Converse Judson (12•0)

2 p.m. Saturday, Alamodome, San Antonio Quarterbacks: cavalier Junior Hudson cant has emerged as one of the best QBs in Texas. He has 45 ID passes and three INTs, and he's a big reason the cavs have averaged 52 points in three playoff games. •.• Rocket junior Mike Chandler is a dual-threat QB, averag­ ing 196 yards passing and 64 yards rushing per game. Judson is averaging 60 points in the playoffs- Edge: 'fr,n-~ other offense: Ohio State­ bound WR Garrett Wison is playing at an all-state level in the playoffs_ catching 24 passes ror 318 yards and six ms in three games. RBS Sean Nixon-Brown and Weston Stephens have com­ bined for 15 rushing scores. ... Senior Sincere McCormick has rushed for at least one ID in all U of Judson's game. Sophomore De'Antbony Lewis averages U yards a carry. Edge: ...,1 Defense: .....A I allows 20.6 points per game. Top players include LBs Nick Vilarreal (108 tackles}, Matthew Peterman (66 tackles. eight for losses} and Ma&lricio Trevino (107 tackles, five sacks).•.• Judson yields an average of 14.4 points per game. MLB Kevin Wood Jr. has 17 sacks. DE DeMarvin Leal has 85 tackles, 15 behind the line of scrimmage: Edge: Judson Special teams: Gavaliei­ sophomore Nathan Elisor has 10 touchbacks on kickoffs. PK Hays Mceannon has made both of his FG attempts and is 49 for so on PATs. ... Mccormick aver­ ages 36 yards per punt with 10 landing inside the 20. Two PKs are 74 for 80 on PATS. Edge:Even Intangibles: Last year ~

T ~ ·s beatJudson 47-39 in the area playoffs to jump-start its drive to the 6A DI championship game. The cavs have won at least 10 games in 12 of the past 14 seasons. ... Judson has more playmakers on defense, recording 73 tackles behind the line of scrimmage and 69 sacks. The Cavs are a-edited with 49 tackles for losses and 14.5 sacks. Edge: Judson RicllCantu 1:-:f wide receiver Garrett Wilson catches a touchdown pass in the cavs• win IM!f Weslaco in a third· round playoff game last week at the Alamodome. Wilson and the cavs will return to the Alamodome to face Converse Judson on Saturday. 1JOHN Gl!flEll!lEZIH)R AMERICAN•S'fATI'SMANJ Big recruiting weekend ahead for Longhorns By Mike Craven [email protected]

With less than two weeks remaining until the early signing period begins Dec. 19, every day is important. Mostofthenfootballplay­ ers who have committed to Texas plan to sign dUiing the three-day window, as was the case last December. This weekend provides another opportunity for the Longhorns to host the next batch oftargets and to reaf­ firm CUITent commitments. Texas expects pledges such as Peter Mpagi, Jared Wiley and Marques Caldwell in town, along with junior college offensive tackle Jay Williams and 2020 five-star cornerback Kelee Ringo. Williams is a three­ star offensive tackle from Grossmont College in California. The 6-foot- 6, 290-pound prospect expects to pick up an offer from the Longhorns on the visit. Texas faces stem competition from Florida State and must impress Williams to catch the Seminoles for his signature. He'll take an official visit to Florida State next week. Texas holds commit­ ments from two offensive tackles, four-star prospects TylerJohnsonandJavonne Shepherd. rt leads for Fort Bend Dulles offensive tackle Isaiah Hookfin, who will take his visit to UT next weekend. That would be a strong trio of pledges from the prep ranks for Texas, but Tom Herman and Herb Hand hope to add a junior college target to add instant depth to the offensive line. The Longhorns found another target at offensive tackle Thursday afternoon as three-star Dawand Jones of Ben Davis High School in Indiana reported an offer. The 6-8, 360-pound prospect is also considering Michigan, USC and Florida State. He plans to announce his decision Dec. 17, and the Longhorns would need to get him in town for an offi­ cial visit to stand a chance. Hookem.com

Let Mike Cravern keep you up on all the recruiting developments at hookem. com, our home for the latest Longhorns news and analysis.

With most of the 2019 class locked up, Texas' focus will shift slowly to 2020. Ringo is considered the second-best comerback in the entire junior class. The 6-2, 192-pounder hails from Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, Ariz., a state the Longhorns have already dipped into for two com - mitments in the 2019 class. Ringo already has 32 offers. season ends for T'Vondre s weat

Three Texas pledges reached the state quarter­ finals. Only two remain heading into Friday after T 'Vondre Sweat and Huntsville succumbed to Fort Bend Marshall in the Class SA Division II Region III championship. Sweat is a member of the 2019 Fabulous 55 and a rising three-star defensive end who probably will end the cycle as a four-star prospect. He's dominated during a senior season that included a district cham­ pionship. He's in line for all-district honors and plans to sign Dec. 19. "I see myself play­ ing in a Charles Omenihu type role," Sweat said last week. "I'm excited to be a Longhorn. They're already doing big things in Austin, and our class will help lead Texas back to a national championship. Guaranteed." Four-star senior wide receiver Jordan Whittington of Cuero and junior quar­ terback Hudson Card of J;'Jk.; • ..t axe the lone Longhorns left in the play­ offs. Card and th.e Cavaliers will play Converse Judson at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Alamodome. Whittington plays Geronimo Navarro in San Antonio on Friday night. Pass rushing specialist Peter Mpagi will be in town for an official visit with Texas this weekend. The George Ranch senior is committed to the Horns. (MIKE CRAVEN/AMERICAN-STATESMAN) PREP FOOTBALL Cl:NTRAl. TEXAS PIAYOfF SCHEDULE am"-'...a. (lH).sComme-(11-0), 2 p.111. S41llnky. Alamodomc. 5all Mlaoio Cl&»~ Di'liiMI I ~(121)..._SanM--(ll· z~ 6 p& SllUnl.ly, A..._ Sia Antmio 0..4l-l Llber1yHil(ll l)vs.Ull

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He caught a 16-yard scor­ ing pass midway in the second quarter and raced bya Judson defensive back for a 60-yard touchdown on the fifth play ofthe third quarter. Both against single coverage, which is, well, just plain dumb. "Any time I have single coverage, I take that as a sign ofdisrespect," Wilson said. "I want to make them pay every time." More oftenthan not, be does. Defenders cannot cover him man for man, as Wilson hasshownrepeatedly,even ifbeisat about "8opercent" strength because of a nag­ ginggroin injury. He also has the Tony Romo slight back fracture, not that either injury has held him back. It shouldn't in 2019, either.He'shopingtocon­ tribute immediately to the Buckeyes, maybe even start. "It'd be nice jfit worked out that way," Wilson said. He admits Urban Meyer's surprise retirement shook him a little, but Texas never had a real shot at him. "I can't say it didn't have an effect on me," said Wilson, who will sign Dec. 19 and enroll at OSU in January. "But Coach (Ryan) Daywas my main recruiter, so it worked out OK." Card and Wilson were hardly the only athletes on theAJamodome field. Judson defensive end OeMarvinLeal,forone, will find himself in the top three ofnext week's Fab 55 state rankings andmight be a Myles Garrett starter kit. The 6-4, 280-pound Texas A&M pledge has a thick lower body - the upper torso isn't all that thin­ and he rudely introduced him­ selfto Card more than once. "He'll be great at the next level," Card said of Leal, who took Card down twice with punishing stops. Texas hopes Cardwill as well. He's veryskinny at 6-2, 175 pounds and knows he has to fill out more. But he has an eye-popping 49 touch­ down passes- seven shy of Charlie Brewer's and Garrett Gilbert's single-season school record-and only four picks this season. He's a very elusive runner and a skilled passer, although he's played only one season at quarterback. Card was an outstand­ ing receiver as .a sophomore before replacing current Ohio State freshman quar­ terback Matt Baldwin in last year's state champion- ship game against Allen. "He's had a phenomenal year," Carter said. "He's the best athlete we've ever had at quarterback. He can play four positions in Division I. Quarterback, cornerback,safety, wide receiver. Or return man." He'll be a Longhornquar­ terback in two years unless his versatility puts him at another position. Heck, be even handles the punting. Card'sbeenagreatdecision­ maker and has had to adapt to new terminology brought in bynew offensive coordi­ nator and former Longhorn GA Will Stein. Adapt? Last week he threw seven touch­ down passes in a half. "I'm beyond impressed bowhe'sbecomethemas­ ter of our offense," Carter said. "Hedoesn'tputthe ball in jeopardy, and he's unbelievablv accurate." Hewon'tbaveWilson next season, but he'll have a big weapon in tight end Lake McCree, who h.is Division I written all over him. For now the Cavs rise andfall with their two studs on offense to go witb a tenacious defense. But Wilson may just be the best football athlete to come out ofthe Austin area in modern times. "He's got a competitive drive like Baker Mayfield," Carter said. "That's what separates him from so many. He justloves to play." Lake lr.lvis' Garrett Wilson (5) and Hudson Card discuss strategy with their assistant coaches in the fourth quarter Saturday. (JOHN GUTIERREZ/FOR AMERICAN-STATESMAN] Defense lifts Ila ,e Travts to regional title cavs knock off opportunity. previously unbeaten "I was kind of surprised that Converse Judson they went for it," linebacker Mauricio Trevino By Thomas Jones said. "After we stopped them, [email protected] I was like, 'This is our game.' That was so exciting." SAN ANTONIO - With Judson coach Sean just two ticks left on the fust­ McAuliffe had more regrets half clock in a heavyweight about theexecution of the play battle between L""-" •• u. lb than the decision. and Converse Judson, both "We weren't playing to be tea.ms had a chance to send safe," be said. "Their style of a message to their oppo­ offense they run and the type nent, their fans and - most of players they have, we were important - themselves. going to play to win." The Cavaliers didn't miss The Cavs, specifically quar­ the opportunity. terback Hudson Card and his iw;;c Ti.....s' defense stone­ receivers, proved McAuliffe's walled Judson on the Cavs' point in the second half. 1-yard line to preserve a Garrett Wilson, an Ohio State halftime tie in the Class 6A pledge who bad five catches Division I Region N champi­ for 148 yards, had two of his onship game Saturday at the three touchdown receptions Ala.modome. Buoyed by the after the break. biggest stop in a game that Kyle Eaves also had a big featured plenty of pivotal receiving game for the Cavs defensive plays, f • with seven catches for 121 rodethat momentumtoa38-21 Judson's Sincere MCC:Crmick is swanned by the l.dk - yards and a 64-yard touch­ win and its fourth consecutive Alamodorne. (JOHN GUTIERREZ/FOR AMERICAN-STATESMANJ down reception. Card, a junior regional championship. pledged to Texas, had his The Cavs will next face entered the game averaging 60 "It's always a battle with to try for the go-ahead touch­ second consecutive 300-yard either Galena Park North points inthe playoffs mustered those guys. It's always so down from the Laird 1L.n1!l passing game, ending with 316 Shore or Cypress-Fairbanks, just three scores and 366 total physical a game with some 1-yard line. With defensive yards through the air. which battled for the Region yards against the Cavs. injuries on both sides. The end Matthew Peterman knif­ Judson had its opportunities m title Saturday evening. "That's a championship­ kids are going to wake up in the ing into the baclcfield, Judson to string together some drives, A fourth consecutive state level team, and we played morning and feel like they were quarterback Mike Chandler but 16 penalties for 125 yards championship berth remains championship-level football," in a car wreck. And maybe the III and De'Anthony Lewis didn't help its cause. Neither a possibility for said ~ T..wu coach Hank coaches, too." bad a bobbled exchange, and did an apparently blown call (12-1), which grabbed three Carter, referring to a Judson Neither team could grab Cav linebacker Charlie Cross by the officials that negated turnovers - including a program that is 3-3 against more than a one-score edge pounced on the loose ba!L a strip sack by Texas A&M forced fumble and recovery the Cavs but bas lost two con­ in a physical first half capped After the play, the Cavs recruit DeMarvin Leal and by Mauricio Trevino on spe­ secutive playoff games in the by the Cavs' goal-line stand. skipped into the locker room a scoop and score by Corey cial teams - and had three series. "Both defenses fought Judson had a chance to take a content with a 14-14 tie Parks that would have tied the fourth-down stops. A dynamic hardand for the most part lim­ three-point lead at the break while Judson trotted off the game 21-21 midway through offense for Judson (u-1) that ited the big plays. but bypassed a short field goal field frustrated at the missed the third quarter. HIGH SCHOOL SCOREBOARD PREP FOOTBALL CENTRAL TEXAS PlAYOff SCORES 0..."DMslo•I t. lS.~-21 QISS'-lDMslonl w.se...UH ) YS. SMAIIIMlioBraQde;s a...4,1-.1UHl.111• Llbc,tyTAPPS-n llil JS, I.A - 11 -(11-l}Y. -Cllristian (1).0). lltt ---,-iO.GaincMlci-SQrl 8 CENTRAL TEXAS PLAYOFF SUMM.lRIES LIBERTY Hill 35, LA VERNIA 17 LibMyHil 7 0 7 21 - lS I.A- f 11 0 7 - 17 Rnt.-11< UH - - •S""'(Slipoyklclc)

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Liberty Hill's Jacob Cearley races downfleld for a touchdown as la Vernia's Rain Wegehaupt dives in vain Saturday. [ROOOlfO GONZALEZ/f-OR AMERICA/I-STATESMAN] PREP FOOTBALL comw. TEXAS PUYOFF SCORES 0...Y-1 w.. 1>1N1s 38. con--11 0... Y llifflloft I --...26,sanM,_BrilldclsO 0...4ADmsloftl Ulffly Hil 35. II. - 17 tv,Sllmliooll n-nr, Clwlsdan 49, ..._1, TAPPS '-..... Olwbloo I Vl!rbs61, GaiMSVill' t.JlililltSta.r .38 t , I . , . ,, quarterback Hudson card, hurdling Converse Judson defenders in the state quarterfinals, will lead the cavaliers into the Class 6A Division I semifinals this week. [JOHN GUTIERREZ/tOR AMERICAN-STATESMAN! Future Homs Whi1!':fnon, Card reach state se · als Uy Mike Craven and fresh offan upset win over snaps. It feels like my team to [email protected] West Orange-Stark. lead, and we're excited about Whittington missed the the next challenge." Two future Longhorns are first half of the regular season Programs around the coun­ still alive in the state high with a groin injury. He's uow try, including Texas, hoped school football playoffs. two wins away from a title. the retirement of Urban Four-star wide receiver "The personal goals don't Meyer would put Wilson back Jordan Whittington is the matter muchanymore. I know on the market. He admitted lone 2019 pledge left. He and where I'm going to college, and that schools called and that Cuero trounced Geronimo I'll be an All-American in an he listened, but he still plans Navarro 48-23 Saturday night all-star game. It's all about the to sign with Ohio State during in San Antonio to advance team and winning this cham­ the early period Dec.19. to the Class 4A Division II pionship," Whittington said. "I'd be lyingifl said I didn't semifinals. Four-star junior "We're playing great football listen to a couple of schools," quarterback Hudson Card and relying on our co=unity he said. "I'm happy with the and ~ 'Ii.,... -" outlasted to push us through." direction of the Ohio State Converse Judson in a Class Card and Garrett Wilson, program, and that's where 6A Division I clash. the No. 1 player on the 2019 I'm signing." Whittington does every­ Fabulous 55, were too much That next challenge is thing for Cuero, which faced for Judson. Card passed for Galena Park North Shore. Navarro in the Region IV play­ 309 yards and four touch­ The two Class 6A titans will offs for the fourth consecutive downs, three of which were face off Saturday afternoon year. He starts on offense and to Wilson. The five-star wide in Houston's NRG Stadium. defense. He finished with 101 receiver, who is committed to North Shore is undefeated and yards and two touchdowns on Ohio State, finished the game knocked off defending state just five carries and had two with six catches for 137 yards. champion Cy-Fair behind catches for 24 yards. "He makes me look good," five rushi.ng touchdowns Cuero will face Silsbee Card said of having Wilson as from 2020 five-star running in the state semifinals. The an outlet. "Last year's play­ back Zachary Evans. He holds game will be Friday night in off run was special, but it is an offer from the Longhorns Katy's Legacy Stadium. Cuero different now that I'm the and is the most coveted player is 13-1, while Silsbee is 10-4 quarterback taking all the in the Lone Star State. HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: PLAYER OF THE WEEK AND GAME BALLS

t .•, $ wide receiver Garrett Wilson, left, caught eight passes for 149 yards and three touchdowns in a 38-21 victory over Converse Judson to earn the Statesman's Player of the Week honors. [JOHN GUTIERREZ/ I-OR AMERICAN-STATESMAN] PLAYER OF THE WEEK Gainesville Lone Star North and accounted for two touch­ to claim the TAPPS six-man downs in a 26-0 victory over Garrett Wi lson, WR, lllu state championship Thursday San Antonio Brandeis. TraotfS : The Cavalier senior in Hewitt. David Neil, DE, Westl,tke: The caught eight passes for 149 Kyle Harrison, RB, Liberty Hill: Chaparral senior had seven yards and three touchdowns in The Panther senior rushed for tackles, one for loss of yard­ a 38-21 victory over Converse 208 yards and a pair oftouch­ age, to help a defense that Judson on Saturday at the downs and caught a go-ahead limited San Antonio Brandeis Alamodome in San Antonio. 61-yard TD pass in a 35-17 to 60 total yards in a 26-0 The Ohio State recruit's scor­ victory over La Vernia. West' .. ~victory. ing plays were from 60, 29 and Tag Humble, DB/ LB, Lalt• Drake Oberpiller, LB, Liberty 21 yards. In four playoff games s: The Cavalier junior bad Hill: The Panther junior had he has caught 32 passes for 566 14 tackles, eight of them solo, 12 tackles and sacked the yards and nine touchdowns. and broke up a pass in the vic­ quarterback four times in the tory over Judson. victory over La Vernia. GAME BALLS Wilson Long , QB, Regents: Mauricio Trevino, LB, L ~ The Knight junior passed : The Cavalier junior Hudson card, QB, . •, ,: for 210 yards, rushed for 101 had 12 tackles, including The Cavalier junior completed yards and accounted for all eight solos, forced a fumble 19 of 36 passes for 316 yards three of bis team's touch­ and recovered a fumble in the and four TDs in the victory downs in a 4 9-24 loss to victory over Judson. over Judson. Cedar Hill Trinity Christian Cormac Warner, RB, Veritas John Carter, QB, Veritas in the T APPS Division II state Academy: The Defender senior Academy: The Defender senior championship game. rushed u times for 107 yards completed 14 of 27 passes for Kirkland Michaux, QB. Westl.ik.i: and two touchdowns in the 205 yards and three touch­ The Chaparral junior rushed for victory over Gainesville Lone downs in a 60-38 victory over 130 yards, passed for 101 yards Star North. Recent memorial scholarship honors Lake Tra·vis ISO student

■'ti(iii:fMHM•i 1'he Lake Travis community recently created the Erik Kyle Hanson Memorial scholarship, member of the scholarship advisory board MJ Hurt said. It will be awarded annually to a Lake Travis High School football player not receiving a D1 or D2 offer. The first will be awarded this spring, and the ideal recipient, like Hanson, will exemplify selflessness, community service, leadership and teamwork, Hurt said. "It is our hope to open the dialogue in our schools and community that mental illness and anxiety are no different and should not be treated any differently than other diseases," Hurt said, adding people with depression and anxiety need to feel supported and safe, and those closest to them need to understand how to assist them in seeking treatment. The scholarship is funded by the community and private donors and administered by the Lake Travis Football Booster club. Unbeaten North Shore awaits cavs one win away from IF YOU GO Shadrach Banks graduate in playing In 4th straight 2021, the Mustangs outscore state title game What: Class 6A Division I state their opponents 54-11 on semifinal average. By JayPlolldn When/ where: Saturday, 2 p.m., Though the teams have American-Statesman Houston's NRG Stadium never met, they shared a field Correspondent Series history: First meeting in 2015. Playing in the Class 6A State titles: Lake Travis 6 (most Division I state championship As is almost always the recent 2016), North Shore 2 game, North Shore defeated case this deep in the play­ (2015) Westlake 21-14 in overtime offs, Lake Travis' reward for before Katy defeated Lake a Class 6A Division I Region Travis for the 6A Division II IV championship win over one title. Those Mustangs relied undefeated team is a date with an athletic, stingy defense another. "They haven't had to play a to bolster a methodical, run­ Following its win over pre­ lot of close games," said Lake centric offense. viously unbeaten and No. 3 Travis coach Hank Carter. Four seasons later, North Converse Judson, Lake Travis "They'veovermatchedevery­ Shore still plays punishing faces undefeated Galena Park one by a long ways." defense led by linebackers North Shore. The Region Led by a massive offensive Corey Flagg and Daymond ill champion Mustangs will line, explosive skill players Lewis. Opponents gain less Lake Travis Cavaliers head coach Hank Carter shakes hands with bring a 14-0 record and a No. and as many as 13 players who than 200 yards per game, and Judson Rockets players after the Cavs' playoff win Dec. 8 at the z ranking into Saturday's z couldearnFBS-levelscholar­ more than half have failed to Alamodome in San Antonio. Lake Travis faces North Shore in a Class p.m. game at NRG Stadium ships by the time quarterback 6A Division I state semifmal Saturday at Houston's NRG Stadium. in Houston. Dematrius Davis and receiver See PREVIEW• Alo [JOHN Gl!TIERREZ/ WR AMER1CAN-STATBMANJ yards with 36 touchdowns and and gritty performances from PREVIEW just two interceptions, show­ Card and Garrett Wilson, who ing a poise and ability beyond combined for a trio of touch­ 1'romPageAB his age. down passes in the win. "He is young, but you'd uWhat a performance that score more than a touchdown. never know if from watching was by Hudson," Carter said While the defense follows him on film," Carter said ofthe after his junior quarterback the same formula, North sophomore. "This will be one delivered four touchdown Shore's offense has exploded of the best passing offenses passes and protected the ball thanks to a line anchored by we've played against." in the face ofa heavy pass rush tackles Dameion George and Davis' accuracy isn't a result by a big Judson defensive line. Damarcus Thomas, both of of throwing short passes. uHe stood in there, took the whom resemble college line­ When the Mustangs throw, hits and delivered the ball. men already. they pick up big chunks of That was kind of a coming­ "Their offensive line is yardage. Receivers Banks, out party for him, not that he bigger than Judson's, n Carter Chance Pillar, Charles King needed one." said of a group that averages and AT Carter all average Wilson's dominating per­ more than 300 pounds per better than 18 yards per catch formance - eight catches for man. 11The tackles are the big­ and have combined for 30 149 yards and three scores gest we've seen all year." touchdowns. while battling a sore groin and George and Thomas help "This is the best collection bruised back - made Carter pave the way for running back of skill players we've faced," smile as well. Zach Evans, another junior Carter said. "They aren't as "He never ceases to impress that Rivals ranks as the top tall as Judson's receivers, but us," Carter said of the Ohio running back - and player - they are strong, fast and great State-bound receiver. "That in Texas for the class of 2020. with the ball after the catch." was as gritty a performance Evans has rushed for 1,489 While the Mustangs have as I've seen." yards and 25 touchdowns, beaten the likes of Katy Carter hopes his team has including all five of his team's (twice), previously unde­ one more gritty performance scores in last Saturdays' 38-21 feated Dickinson, 2017 state in it. That's what it will take win over Cy-Fairbanks. champion Cy-Fair and for the Cavaliers to topple the As impressive as Evans 2018 Division II semifinalist state's second-ranked team. has been, he's far from the Beaumont West Brook, it's uThis will be a challenge," Mustangs' only weapon. Davis likely that veteran coach Jon he said. "But we've got a col­ has been equally as accurate Kay has similar observations as lection of tough-minded, as Lake Travis quarterback he surveys the Cavaliers, who mentally tough kids, and Hudson Card, completing 71.6 pulled away from the Rockets that's what it takes to win at percent of his passes for 2,811 using an opportunistic defense this time of year." Resurgent defense key to Lake Travis win Dy Jay Plotkin American-Statesman Correspondent

Lake Travis proved an age-old football philoso­ phy Saturday afternoon in the Alamodome. Offense does indeed sell tickets - nearly 20,000 turned out to watch Lake Travis and Judson battle for a spot in the 6A, Division I semifinals - but defense wins cham­ Judson's Sincere McCOnnick (3) is brought down by Lake pionships, at least of the Travis cavaliers defensive tackle Kaleb Wenson (33) regional variety. Lake during the first quarter at the Class 6A Division I Region Travis got a game-chang­ IV championship Dec. 7 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. ing goal-line stand to end [JOHN GIJflERREZ / FOR AMERICAN · STATESMAN) the first half, forced three turnovers and held the Judson rushed for 224 Carter said. "The tempo Rockets 40 points below yards but never managed that Judson plays with their playoff scoring aver­ a momentum -changing and how strong their skill age in a 38-21 win. gain. Once Lake Travis guys are and how good "The defense played opened up a 24-14third­ they are in space, I'm outstanding," said quar­ quarter lead, the Rockets proud that we held them terback Hudson Card, opened up their attack down." who played a fair game a bit more without the Tag Humble led the himself, shredding desired results, complet­ Cavaliers with 14 tack­ Judson's defense for 316 ing just three passes that les. Maui Trevino made yards and four touch­ gained more than seven 12 tackles and recovered downs through the air. yards. a fumble. Nick Villareal "I don't know what they Lake Travis coach Hank battled a pair of injuries held [Judson] to, but they Carter, a defensive coach and contributed 10 tack­ did great. They gave us by trade, loved what he les. Copeland Gothard the opportunities to go saw. had eight tackles and down and score. 11 "They fought hard," intercepted a pass for the second straight week. Julon." to go for it at the Lake Knowing Judson Chandler proved elu­ Travis 1-yard line on the wanted to run the ball sive at times but often final play of the half. The with the combination of came up short when he Cavaliers not only stuffed Sincere McCormick and scrambled - on five of the play, but they forced a Mike Chandler Ill, the bis 18 rushes, he came up a fumble that Charlie Cross Cavaliers crowded the yard short of a first down, recovered and left the line of scrimmage, shut­ including a fourth-down field on a high. ting off McCormick's run late in the game. Confident coming out rushing lanes and daring "Our coaches bad of thelockerroom,the Chandler to throw the a good scheme," said Cavaliers took a lead ball. While McCormick Gothard. "It wasn't hard. they'd never relinquish rushed for 109 yards and We wanted to load the box when Card caught the a touchdown, he gained and make them throw the Rockets in a blitz early in just 47 yards after half­ ball." the third quarter. Judson time. Chandler ran for Though Chandler hit tipped its hand early, 84 yards, which was well Anthony Shelton for a and Card connected with short of the 361 yards pair of touchdowns, he Garrett Wilson in the that former Judson quar­ completed just 10 of 25 space vacated by a blitz­ terback Ju1on Williams passes for 140 yards. ing safety for a 60-yard rushed for in two games "We stopped the run touchdown and a 21-14 between the Cavs and game because we knew lead. Judson in 2017. they were a nmningteam," The quick score further "We wanted to stop Gothard said. "We knew energized Lake Travis' their back, Sincere," said that their quarterback had defense. defensive tackle Kaleb to scramble so we had to "We took a lot of con­ Wenson, who teamed put pressure on him and fidence from that," said with Raleigh Erwin to lead make him throw the ball." defensive end Matthew the Cavaliers' defense After trading touch­ Peterman. "It was a long, at the point of attack. downs in the first half, tiring game but it gave us "He was their explosive the Rockets appeared a lot of energy watching player. The quarterback poised to take a lead into our offense score like it was good, but he's not the locker room, electing did in the second half." Wilson gets All-An1erican jersey for all-star game

By Thomas Jones [email protected] Lake Travis senior wide Lake Travis senior foot­ receiver ball player Garrett Wilson Garrett received his official All­ Wilson, American Bowl jersey during with mother a celebratory assembly candace Wednesday morning at Lake Wilson, Travis High School. receives his Wilson, a 6 -foot-1, 182- jersey for the pound receiver pledged to All•American Ohio State, is the No. I player Bowl on Jan. on the American-Statesman's 5. [PHOTO Fab 55 recruiting list for the COURTESY OF class of 2019. AU-AMERICAN Wtlson is his school's career BOWlJ leader in touchdown recep­ tions with 56, and he has 59 The 19th annual All­ nationally televised on NBC, catches for 965 yards and American Bowl will t ake will feature the nation's top 15 touchdowns this season place in San Antonio's I oo high school football play­ despite missing four games Alamodome Jam. 5 at noon. ers separated into East and with an injury. The game, wbiich will be West teams. UPON FUIRTHER REVIEW Lake Travis legacy growing under Carter

ake Travis cel­ ebrates its football Llegacy while keep­ ing an eye on its future. The campus field house is decorated with black-and­ red banners to celebrate the six state championships that have been won over an 11-year span. Framed jer­ seys of iconic Cavaliers such as Garrett Gilbert, Baker Mayfield, Michael Brewer and Charlie Brewer hang from the office walls. Even the Lake Travis logo is decked with six stars - one for each state title - while the cur­ rent team aims for a seventh. The Cavaliers (u-1) play Galena Park North Shore (14-0) on Saturday for a trip to next week's Class 6A Division I champion­ ship game. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers' JV Black team justfinisheda10-o sea­ son with a district title of its own. Those players will be tomorrow's stars. Ona busy Wednesday morning, Cavaliers head coach Hanle Carter retreated to his office to put the final touches on a defen- sive game plan for the most important game yet of the season. Saturday's game will be played at Houston's NRG Stadiwn; some describe North Shore as "bigger and more ath­ letic" than the Converse Judson team that Lake Travis dispatched 38-21 in last week's state quarterfinal. The state championship game is Dec. 22 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Carter, in bis ninth sea­ son as the Cavaliers' head coach, routinely deflects individual praise, saying it's "all about the kids." "When I played high school football (at Eustace)," he said, "the coaches made it about me." During a 30-minute interview, Carter praised defensive coordinator Ryan Luedecke several times for his role with the unit. Carter also said he was fortunate to learn some schemes from TCIJ defensive coordina - tor Chad Glasgow dur- ing spring seminars. Still, there's a reason why Carter is the highest paid football coach in the state.

See CANTU, C2 Villarreal, a linebacker CANTU who's averaging 8.4 tackles a game, is a FromPageCJ former running back. And linebacker Mauricio Trevino, He said he hasn't had who's 5-8 and 190 a full day off since July pounds, is one of the 30. And, his assis- toughest players on tant coaches have had team. He's averaging seven-day work weeks 8.5 tackles. The curly throughout the season. haired junior with a Carter has compiled constant smile hardly a 116-14 record in his looks like someone nine seasons. His teams who aims to dismantle have won at least 12 opposing players. games seven tinles. "Maui becomes a "(Carter) has one of different person once the greatest high school he snaps on the hel­ football minds in met," Peterman said. Texas," said 210-pound Carter, Peterman defensive end Matthew and Trevino said they Peterman, who leads still feel the sting the team with eight from a 35-33 loss to tackles behind the Allen in last year's line of scrimmage. championship game. Peterman is a prime "I can't exactly example of how Carter remember how Bill constructs his defense. Parcells put it," Carter A former linebacker said, "but the longer who missed the 2017 you play- especially season with a tom when you've succeeded ACL, Peterman is in at the highest level - his first season playing the losses hurt so much on the line. Similarly, more than the joy you Hunter Simo was get from winning." converted to defen - Win or lose, Lake sive end after playing Travis isn't going wide receiver last year anywhere. Carter in North Carolina. has an undefeated Defensive tackle JV team that's itch­ Raleigh Erwin is a con- ing to become part of verted tight end. Nick the varsity's legacy. Lake Travis coach Hank carter leads his team in giving thanks after a playoff win. The cavaliers are one win away from playing for this year's state tiUe. [JOHN Gt/TIERREZ/fOR STATESMAN) ON THE AIR SATURDAY High school football Time Radio Lake Travis vs. Galena Park North Shore 2p.m. 104.9 Westlake vs. Westbrook 4 p.m. 1300 North Shore loaded with FBS-level talent No. 2-ranked Region class of 2020. Evans bas Ill champs have rushed for 1,489 yards and •overmatched 25 touchdowns, including everyone• all five of his team's scores in last Saturdays' 38-21 win By Jay Plo lldn over Cy-Fairbanks. American• Statesman As impressive as Evans Correspondent has been, he's far from the Mustangs' only weapon. As is almost always the Davis has been equally as case this deep in the play­ accurate as Lake Travis offs, Lake Travis' reward quarterback Hudson Card, for a Class 6A Division I completing 71.6 percent of Region IV championship his passes for 2,811 yards win over one undefeated North Shore running back Zachary Evans has rushed for 1,489 with 36 touchdowns and team is a date with another. yards and 25 touchdowns this year, including all five of his just two interceptions, Following its win over team's scores in last Saturdays' 38-21 win over Cy-Fairbanks. showing a poise and ability previously unbeaten and lake lr.lvis faces the undefeated Mustangs in the state beyond his age. No. 3 Converse Judson, semifinals Saturday. [MIKE CRAVEN/AMERICAN-STATESMAN] ''He is young, but you'd Lake Travis faces unde­ never know if from watch­ feated Galena Park North outscore their opponents failed to score more than ing him on film," Carter Shore. The Region III 54-11 on average. a touchdown. While the said of the sophomore. champion Mustangs Though the teams have defense follows the same "Tb.is will be one of the will bring a 14-0 record never met, they shared a formula, North Shore's best passingoffenses we've and a No. 2 ranking into field in 2015. offense bas exploded thanks played against." Saturday's 2 p.m. game at Playing in the Class 6A to a line anchored by tack­ Davis' accuracy isn't NRG Stadium in Houston. Division I state champi­ les Dameion George and a result of throwing "They haven't bad to onship game, North Shore Damarcus Thomas, both short passes. When the play a lot of close games," defeated Westlake 21-14 of whom resemble college Mustangs throw, they pick said Lake Travis coach in overtime before Katy linemen already. up big chunks of yardage. Hank Carter. "They've defeated Lake Travis for "Their offensive line Receivers Banks, Chance overmatched everyone by the 6A Division II title. is bigger than Judson's," Pillar, Charles King and AJ along ways." Those Mustangs relied an Carter said of a group that Cart er all average better Led by a massive offen­ athletic, stingy defense to averages more than 300 than 18 yards per catch sive line, explosive skill bolster a methodical, run­ pounds per man. "The and have combined for 30 players and as many as centric offense. tackles are the biggest touchdowns. 13 players who could Four seasons later, North we've seen all year." "This is the best collec­ earn FBS-level scbol­ Shore still plays punishing George and Thomas help tion of skill players we've ars b ip s by the time defense led by linebackers pave the way for running faced," Carter said. "They quarterback Dematrius Corey Flagg and Daymond back Zach Evans, another aren't as tall as Judson's Davis and receiver Lewis. Opponents gainless junior that Rivals ranks as receivers, but they are Shadrach Banks gradu­ than 200 yards per game, the top running back - and strong, fast and great with ate in 2021, the Mustangs and more than half have player - in Texas for the the ball after the catch." HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PIC KS

How we see It ...

How American-Statesman staff members (listed alphabetically) are picking this week's top high school football games.

Chris Bils Rick Cantu Thomas Jones Last week 4-0 4-0 3-1 Overall 155-54 160-49 162-47 Percentage .742 .766 .775 Lake Travis vs. North Shore North Shore Lake Travis North Shore Westlake vs. West Brook Westlake Westlake Westlake Liberty Hill vs. Carthage Liberty Hi 11 carthage Carthage

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LAKEWAY - It's been almost four years since Lake Travis beat neigh­ boring nemesis Westlake on the hardcourt, but none of those nine con­ secutive losses have come with quite as much angst. Despite a brilliant game plan almost flawlessly executed by the Cavs, Westlake came up clutch in the waning moments Tuesday to claim a 57-54 win at Lake Travis High School. With the road vic­ tory, Westlake (13-2, 2 -o District 25-6A) becomes Westlake guaJrd Darius McBride, left, scores over Lake the early front-runner Travis point guard Ryan Bormann, center, and guard in a district race that will Bennett Moh111 during the Chaps' 57-54 win Tuesday. likely come down to the McBride had 1!4 points and hit a late three-pointer to No. 19 Chaps and No. 4 complete a late Westlake comeback. [STEPHEN SPILLMAN/ Lake Travis (16-1, 1-1), fOR AMERICAN-STATESMAN] who entered this week as the only Class 6A area basketball program who chipped away point by teams ranked by tbe Texas had 14 points and four point." Association of Basketball assists, also made big More like three by Coaches. plays down the stretch by three. Westlake made Westlake's Darius blocking a shot from Lake 11 of 22 three-pointers McBride, a 6-foot-3 Travis point guard Ryan against a Lake Travis senior who played at Vista Bormann and kicking out defense intent on slowing Ridge the past three sea- a pass to McBride for tbe down Chap senior Will sons, said his first foray game-tying trey. Baker, a 6-foot-n blue­ into the rivalry dubbed "They were sagging off chipper who signed with the Battle of the Lakes of me, and when! saw K.J. Texas last month. Seven regardless of the sport drive, I knew he'd kick it of those long-distance matched the hype. out," said McBride, who bombs came after half­ "Every time we play, we had 14 points and five time, including two from all know it's going to be rebounds. "I got my feet Jackson Arnette during like this," he said. "This set and got of the shot an11- 2Westlakerunthat is my first year here, and off." briefly tied the score at I wanted to get that win. The frenzied ending 48-48 midway through 'I'Mt's what we did; we for contrasted with the the fourth. sure are in tbeir heads." game's pace. Lake Travis Lake Travis' defensive McBride scored the committed just five strategy proved effective game's final six points turnovers while slow­ for much of the game. in a span of 75 sec­ ing down the game and Baker had just eight onds to secure the win limiting Westlake's dan­ points and six rebounds for Westlake. He tied gerous transition attack. while battling a swarm­ the contest on a three­ And how did McBride ing defense spearheaded pointer from the right and his teammates stay by the 6-3 Brett Baty, wing and made three of close enough for a final another future Longhorn, four free throws in the run despite a Lake Travis who will play baseball. final minute, including lead that ballooned to 14 "Brett muscled up," two clutch foul shots in a points witb 2 minutes and said Lake Travis coach 1-and-1 situation with 17 7 seconds left in the third Clint Baty, Brett's father. seconds left on tbe clock. quarter? "He knew he'd have a Sophomore K. J. Adams, "We got a little frus­ battle. He fought hard, another first - year trated, but we stayed and, really, the whole member of Westlake's together," he said. "We team fought hard. "It's tough when you have a big man like (Baker) to defend, because you have to defend him and blockhimout. You don't, and he'll just tip it in. The first half, they found the cutters and we made the adjustment. Then they fowid the shooters." The Cavs, despite play­ ing without injured big man D.J. Thorpe, raced out to a 19-7 edge in the first quarter and didn't relinquish that lead until the final minute. Thorpe, a 6-8 forward who signed a letter of intent last month with Cal, is one if the few players in the Austin area with the size and skills to match up with Baker in the paint, but he may miss the rest of the season with an injury, Lake Travis coaches said. The only Cavs who took the cotut Tuesday taller 6 feet, 2 inches were Bennett Mohn, a skilled but slight 6-4 wing, and the burly Baty, a starter as a sophomore who skipped basketball his junior year to focus on baseball. Baty, who looks as if he's spent as much time in the weight room as the batting cage, showed little rust from his year away from basketball while posting game-highs in both points (19) and rebounds (nine). Westlake remains the largest - and perhaps only - hurdle between Lake Travis and its first district title since the 2014- 15 season. The Cavs' nine-game losing st reak to their Hill Country neighbors includes playoff losses in 2016 and 2018. In that same span, Lake Travis is a combined 21- 1 against tbe otber teams in District 25- 6A, including Bowie, Lehman, Austin High, Akins, Anderson, Hays and Del Valle. HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL: FAB FIVES AND PLAYER OF THE WEEK

FABFIVES

Class6A 1. Westlake 13-2 2. Lake Travis 16-1 3. Hendrickson 11-3 4. Round Rock 10-4 5. Cedar Ridge 10-5 Class SA 1. LBJ 7-2 2. Connally 9-4 3. Cedar Park 11-3 4. Reagan 10-2 5. Dripping Springs 8-3 Class 4A and others 1. Liberty Hill 13-3 2. Thorndale 9-4 3. Taylor 12-1 4. Wimberley 8·2 5. Regents 10·4 Hendricllson center Dylan Disu , left, had a career-high 51 points in the Hawks' overtime win against Leander TUesday to earn the Statesman's Player of the Week honors. PLAYER OF THE WEEK [NICK WAGNER/AMERICAN-STATESMAN] Dylan Disu , senior, will not join the basketball Antonio Churchill at the first time, open District Hendrickson. The6-foot-8 team after finishing up his River City tournament in 17-5A play Friday against forward, who has signed prep football career. Lake New Braunfels before fall­ district favorite Cedar with Vanderbilt, scored Travis (No. 4) and Westlake ing to the host Unicorns, Park.... Cedar Creek's a career-high 51 points in (No. 19) are the only two 50-49 . ... Liberty Hill, No. Alfred Collins, a 6-5, 260- the Hawks' 82-73 over­ Class 6A area teams that 6 in Class 4A, won the St. pound junior who fields timewinagainst Leander on entered this week ranked Dominic Savio basketball football offers from Texas, Tuesday.Disushowedoff by the Texas Association tournament in Austin last Oklahoma andTexas A&M, his development as an out­ ofBasketball Coaches. weekend but lost to No. scored 23 points for the side shooter by making 10 Lobos howling for playoff 21 Lorena 59-51 Tuesday. Eagles' basketball team in three-pointers while help­ spot: Don't let Lehman's ... Thorndale, No. 9 in the a 70-65 loss to Lockhart ing Hendrickson remain 1 -2 record in Disuict latest Class 2A poll, lost Tuesday.... Thirteen play­ unbeaten inDistrict 13-6A. 25-6A deceive, because to Caldwell 51-47 in the ers scored for Wunberleyin the Lobos look like a team finals of its home tourna - an81-42winoverGonzales AREA ROUNDUP ready to pounce on the first ment last weekend and fell that lifted the Texans to 8-2 playoff spot in the pro­ t0Weimar58-52Tuesday. for the season. Thorpe could miss the gram's history. Lehman's Other notable scores: season for Lake Travis: While two losses have come Max Smith, a 5-10, 140- FRIDAY GAMES LakeTravisendureditsfirst against district favorites pound junior point guard TOWATCH loss of the season - and a Westlake andLake Travis, for Anderson (8-5 over­ ninth consecutive loss to but the team rebounded all), scored a game-high Mccallum at Taylor, 6 bitter rival Westlake - to with a resounding 74-55 20 points as the Trojans p.m.: Class 4A Taylor has the Chaps on Tuesday, the win over a solid Del Valle topped Akins 68-47 won 11 straight but are Cavs can gain some solace squad Tuesday. Jarek Tuesday. The win evened Ducks for real entering test that they still looked like a Salinas (20 points) and the Trojans' record at against Class SA Knights postseason threat despite cameron Jones (18) paced 1-1 in District 25-6A.... and high-scoring forward the absence of senior for­ Lehman in the win. For Vandegrift's struggles Norman Boyd? ward D.J. Thorpe . Lake the season, Lehman (8-5) continued with a 57-45 Hutto at East View, 7 Travis led for all but one has impressive wins over loss to rival VISl:a Ridge on p.m.: Teams are a com­ minute against a talent­ squads such as Westwood Tuesday. The Vipers, who bined 18-9 entering this laden Westlake roster led and Smithson Valley. The went 24-11 a year ago, fell District 18-SA opener by Texas signee WiD Baker, Lobos lost to state-ranked to 6-10 overall and 0-3 Connally at Pflugerville, guard Darius McBride and Lake Travis by just nine in District 13-6A while 7 p.m.: Don't be fooled super sophomoreKJ. Adams points. playing without injured all­ by uncharacteristic 2-14 even without the 6-foot-8 Other ranked local teams: state forward Greg Brown Ill. record from host Panthers; Thorpe, a Cal signee who LBJ, No. 9 in Class 5A, beat ... Point guard sam Martin five losses have been by could miss the entire Manor 69-59 Tuesday scored 19 points as Glenn five points or less. season with an injury. behind 18 points from picked up an impres­ Lake Travis will also play senior Brian Batts and 17 sive nondistrict win over Please send scores, sta­ the entire season without points apiece from Jordan Georgetown Tuesday, tistics, information and Garrett Wilson, last year's Teal and Antwan McMiUian. 52-44. The Grizzlies, a player ofthe week nomi­ leading scorer and an Ohio ... Connally, No. 11 in 5A, third-year program com­ nees to Thomas Jones at State football pledge who beat Eagle Pass and San peting in Class 5A for the [email protected]. HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL: FAB FIVES, NOTES AND PLAYER OF THE WEEK FABFIVES

Class6A I. Hendrickson 19-0 2. West 11·5 3. San Marcos 15-3 4. Cedar Ridge 13-5 5. Bowie9-6 ClassS.A I. Crockett 16-2 2. Cedar Park 12-2 3. Pflugerville 10-5 4. Georgetown 10-7 5. Dripping Springs 8-8 Class 4A and o1hers I. Lampasas 14-3 2. Hyde Park 9-1 3. Bu rnet 10-3 4. Round Rock Christian 7-1 5. St. Dominic Savio 7-4 AREA ROUNDUP

Kaylee Cunningham scored four of her game-high 19 points in overtime, including two free throws in the final 8 seconds, to lead Westtib to a 59-55 win over host Georgetownonarainy, blus­ terynightinCentra!Texas. "Kaylee has played so well for us all season, and she really was clutch tonight. It was a wild game, and Georgetown is a really strong team. This was a good road 1 win," West' • coach Katie Hensle said. The Chaparrals led 47-44 in regulation after Jaelyn Knight hit a free throw for the Eagles to cut the lead to three with 6.72 seconds left and West" i' ,, inbounding the ball. After a timeout, the Chaps threw along pass that was intercepted by the Eagles and flipped to senior Samari O'Brien, whodrilleda40-foot 3-point shot at the buzzer to send the game into overtime. Georgetown had not led once in regulation. "That was just crazy, but I just saw the shot going in when she released it; the ball was in air, and the buzzer counted," Hensle said after the contest. Georgetown had its only lead ofthe night in overtime as junior post Mccan Hampton drove the lane and scored to tie the game at 50-50 and then cahnly converted the free throw for a 51-50 Eagles lead with 3:05 left in overtime. On the next posses­ sion, Emily Seghers nailed a 3-point shot, 'but Hampton hit another bucket to make it 53-53. Presley Bennett hit an NBA-length 3-pointer for a 56-53 Chaps lead. Grace Harris converted two free throws for the Eagles, but Cunningham's last two free throws and a Late free throw by Seghers providedthe final margin. Knight had 12 points and 10 rebounds for the Eagles (10-7), and Hampton bad 15 points and eiglb.t rebounds. Seghers finished with 16 points, and Bennett added six points. Omningham and Seghers had eight rebounds each. West'! fa, (12-5) was playing without standout Shay Holle, who turned her ankle in last Tuesday's win overLebmanandisquestion­ able for the Chaps' district showdown Tuesday night at home against ~- "Emily has done a great job,andwereallyneededthat effort tonightwithoutShay," Hensle said. In other District 25-6A action, Austin beat Del Valle 50-41 and Bowie beat Hays 59-38. Wesfi ,~ and Bowie are both unbeatenin district, with Austin and Hays one game back and t - l'.1-.. nnd Del Valle two games back in the loss column. In District ll 3-6A, Taryn Wils scored22 points as Cedar Ridge raced to a u-2 first­ quarter lead and then cruised past Leander 57-37. Kierstyn Rossow added 11 points and Jordyn Marshal I had nine for the Raiders (15-5, 4-0), who are tied with Hendrickson for first place. Sarah Majek led Leander with 14 points. Hendrickson improved to 19-0 witha47-38winover Vandegrift. Westwood lost at borne to Vista Ridge 56-48. Toe Warriors are 13-4overall but 1-3 in district after losses to Cedar Ridge, Hendrickson an~:"JStaRi~e. . __ ,., _ Class SA Crockett fell to state-ranked 6ASan Marcos 56-42 despite 14 points by Ani Villarrubia!. The teams were tied at 14 after the quarter, but ·the Rattlers used a 22-9 second-quarter scoring run to take control of the contest. Hutto slammed Cedar Creek 70-27, and Elgin had a late rally to edge Glenn49-48. Victoria Baker bad a tre­ mendous week for Vista Ridge as the Rangers beat McNeil 59-36 and banded Westwood its third district loss 56-48 F!l'iday night. Baker, a 5-foot-9 guard, bad team-high 13 points in the 59-36 win over McNeil and 18 in a 56-48 win at Westwood. TheWarriorsfell to 1-3 in district play after posting a 13-1 nondistrict record and winning a pair of tournament titles. Lampasas is 14-3 and next will face TAPPS 6A power St. Dominic Savio. Connally beat East View 36-35 in a district warmup game.

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Victoria Baker, junior guard, Vista Ridge: Baker scored 18 points as the Rangers defeated Westwood 56-48 Friday night. Baker has led the Raiders to an u -6 record, 3-0 in District 13-6A, and scored a team-high 13 points Tuesday night as VJSta Ridge raced past McNeil 59-36.

Butch Hart, AA-S correspondent Vi.sta Ridge's Victoria Baker joclkeys for rebounding position with P11ugerville's Taylor Govan last month. Baker scored 31 points in two games last week to earn the Statesman's Player of the Week honors. !JAMIE HARMIS/l'OR AMERICAI..STATESMANJ Cavs girls basl

Senior Madellne Fuchs Cavaliers during a dominant positions, and that opened tames double-double fourth quarter. up the floor for us. More than against Lehman "I go in with the mentality that, our kids just took care of that every rebound should be the ball." Dy Chris Dils mine," said Fuchs, a 6-foot After eight turnovers in the Amerlc:in -Statesman tall senior. first half, the Cavs only gave Correspondent She sealed her double-dou­ it away twice the rest of the ble by fighting several Lobos game. LAKEWAY-Ledbyadou­ for a loose rebound, then Jackie Cilliers finished ble-double by the one they fading away for her only field with eight points and seven call "Mad Dog," Lake Travis goal of the second half. rebounds, while Jackie survived a challenge from Lake Travis (11-5, 2-2 Jochum scored all seven of her Lehmanina45-29 winFriday District 25-6A) trailed late in points in the fourth quarter. at Lake Travis High School. the third quarter before out­ Freshman Raeven Boswell, Madeline Fuchs, who has scoring Lehman (5-u, 0-3) by who has been a consis­ earned her moniker by play­ an 18-5 margin in the fourth. tent force for the Cavs this ing with a relentless style in "It's really just settling season, struggled early as the paint, scored u points, down and trusting each Lehman clogged the lane to Lake Tl'avis forward Madeline "Mad Dog" FUchs ( 15) shoots for the grabbed 10 rebounds and other," Lake Travis coach stop her from driving. She still basket as 1.A!hman Lobos forward Bridgette Ramirez (1) defends finished 8- for-8 from the Kevin Bussinger said. "We put during the District 25·6A girls basketball game on Dec. 7 at Lake free throw line to pace the some kids in a little different See HOOPS, Alo Travis High School. [JOHN GUTIEAAE2 / FOR AMERICAN-STATESMANJ Lake Travis cavaliers guard Jackie Jochum (12) dribbles the ball around Lehman Lobos guard Kayla Presley (3) during the District 25·6A girls basketball game on Dec. 7 at Lake Travis High School. [PHOTOS BY JOHN GVTIERREZ / FOR AMERICAN-STATESMAN]

in the fourth quarter that HOOPS led to free throws. "We have to remember FromPogeA8 that she's young and this is a totally new experience for her,nFuchssaid. "Wewere finished with six points, all in the same boat last and received encourage­ year. She's a great player ment from her teammates and asset to our team, so after drawing a couple fouls we're excited to have her." Lake Travis cavaliers guard Raeven Boswell (14) dribbles the ball agai nst the Lehman Lobos during the District 25·6A girls basketball game on Dec. 7 at Lake Travis High School.

Cavaliers guard Shelby Devin (20) dribbles the ball as Lehman Lobos center Devorah Urea (12) defends. Chaps girls survive OT thriller

Eagles t ie nondlstrlct Georgetown High School. swished a 40- foot three­ game on buzzer-beater "Kaylee has played so well pointer at the buzzer to send for us all season, and she the game into overtime. By Bu tch H art really was clutch tonight," Georgetown had not led once American-Statesman Westlake coach Katie Hensle in regulation. Correspondent said. "It was a wild game, and "That was just crazy, but Georgetown is a really strong I just saw the shot going in GEORGETOWN - Kaylee team. This was a good road when she released it," Hensle Cunningham scored four wm,• n said. of her game-high 19 points Westlake led 4 7-44 in regu­ Georgetown claimed its in overtime, including two lation after Jaelyn Knight had only lead of the night in clutch free throws in the final hit a free throw for the Eagles overtime when junior post eight seconds, as Westlake's to cut their lead to the three McCall Hampton drove the girls basketball team grabbed points with 6.72 seconds left lane, scored, and calmly con­ a 59-55 win over host in be game. Following a time­ verted the free throw to give Georgetown in a nondistrict out, the Chaps threw a long the Eagles a 51-50 lead. Westlake Chaparrals guard Kaylee Cunningham (10), dribbling the matcbup between two of pass that was intercepted On the nert possession, ball against the Smithson Valley Rangers during a playoff game last the most storied programs by the Eagles and flipped to season, helped Westlake beat Georgetown in an overtime thriller in Central Texas Friday at senior Samari O'Brien, who See GIRLS, Aq Dec. 7. [JOHN GUDERREZ / ~OR AMElliCAN-SfATBMAN) converted two free throws, Cunningham and Seghers Hensle said. one game back, while ;:;-­ GIRLS but Cunningham's final two had eight rebounds each. Georgetown falls to 10-7 on 'r:-.. r,. and Del Valle two free throws and a foul shot West; . 1 • (u-5) was playing the season. games back in the loss column. FromPageAB by Segbers accounted for the without standout Shay Holle, In other 25-6A action, In another high-profile final margin. who turned her ankle in a win Austin beat Del Valle 50-41 matcbup between two ranked Emily Seghers nailed a three­ Jaelyn Knight had 12 points over Lehman earlier in the and earlier Bowie beat Hays teams, Class 5A's Crockett point shot for Wes . , but and 10 rebounds for the week and questionable for 59-38. fell to Class 6A's San Marcos Georgetown's Hampton Eagles (10-7), while team­ the Chaps' district showdown West' · ·· and Bowie, which 56-42despite14 points by Ani answered to tie the game at mate Hampton had 15 points Tuesday at home against t 1- beat Hays 59-38 Friday, VillarrubiaL The teams were 53-53. Presley Bennet hit an and eight rebounds. -r ...... s . are both unbeaten entering tied at 14 after the quarter, NBA-length three-pointer Segbers finished with 16 "Emily has done a great this week in District 25-6A. but the Rattlers used a 22-9 for a 56-53 Chap lead before points while Bennett added job and we really needed that Austin, which beat Del Valle second-quarter scoring run Georgetown's Grace Harris six points for Wese ·e. effort tonight without Shay, n 51-40 Friday, and Hays are to take control of the contest. Lake Travis ISO dancers perform in annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

■iijijihf4"H~1•1 Select members of the Hudson Bend Alvarado said. Middle School Porn Squad and Lake Travis High School The dancers rehearsed with staff from ShowMakers of Red Rubies represented Lake Travis ISO in the 92nd Annual America, including Laura Truett- Hudson Bend Middle Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. School Porn director and Cavalette assistant- to perfect their The dance performance opportunity was organized for performance for NBC, Alvarado said. Along with rehearsals, award-winning individuals and teams that consisted of the students visited New York City landmarks, attended a dancers from middle schools, high schools and studios from Broadway show and the Radio City Music Hall Christmas across the country, LTISD Director of Communications Marco Spectacular, ice skated at Rockefeller Center and more.

Hudson Bend Pom Squad students Sierra Stewart, Michaela Graves. Ariel Davis and Kailey Eaves (back row) and Hayden Mid­ La ke Travis Rt.·d Rubies students Lii,an Gonzales Phoebe Brice, dlebrook, Maya Modur and Madison Macliver (front row). Jaylynn Bynes and f-a ,th Fl ,ck,nger Veterans Day in Lakeway The 2018 Veterans Day program took place Sunday, Nov. 11, at Lake Travis High Shoo!. The program included the Lakeway Police Department Color Guard, Lake Travis High School Choir and Lake Travis High School Brass Quintet. 0 Retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Rod Kelly led the program with opening remarks. 0 Members of the Lakeway Police Department Color Guard parade the colors. Lal

Merry Texmas!: 7 p.m. at the Lake Travis school district's Performing Arts Center, 3324 RM 620 s. The event will include performances by the Lake Travis Fiddlers, Lake Travis High School, Hudson Bend Middle School and Lake Travis Middle School Orchestras with special guests Javier Chaparro, John Mills and Beto and the Fairlanes. For tickets, visit ltisdschool.org/flnearts. CAVALETTES OF THE WEEK

The Cavalettes of the Week are Kassidi's squad. In the front, from left to right, are Emmie Clowe, manager Payton Janecek and Madilyn Mudd. In the back row from left are Madilyn Hendon, Piper Bellcase, Jr. Lt. Kassidi Bender, Jaden Ceshker and Lily Thornock. (CONTRIBlfTEO PHOTOS] The cavalette High Kick of The cavalette of the Week The Spirit Cavalette of the the Week winner is Audrey is Tori cartotti. Week is Adorah Hicks. Archer. EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

■i-m4¥1•1 I he district officially declared in mid-November that spring break during the 2019-20 academic year will be March lb-20. Eanes ISO was waiting on the University of Texas spring break dates to be released in order to align them, Superintendent Tom Leonard said. Spring break will not align with South by Southwest Conference & Festivals this upcoming year, which will be March 8-18 in 2019. 1f4:Jjjih\1HM•i Wireless network equipment upgrades and wireless switching equipment upgrades were purchased for Hudson Bend Middle School, Lake Travis Middle School and Lake Travis High School, according to documents from the Nov. 14 board of trustees meeting. In addition, w ired and wireless network infrastructure equipment was purchased to equip the new Bee Cave Middle School. The total cost was about $907,000, the documents said. Funding came from the 2018 bond program, which allocated money for the purchase of technology items. TEXAS COMPTROLLER GLENN School financing tops state wish list HEGARANNOUNCED IN JULY 1h ROBIN THE RICH A $2.8 BILLION TAX REVENUE learn other top priorities for upcoming legislative session SURPLUS, A MARKED The chart below shows what Texas school districts paid in recapture, or · Robin The 86th Legislature will begin in than they expected. That still leaves IMPROVEMENT OVER WHAT Hood• money, which is redistributed WAS EXPECTED. 2019 with a familiar set of particularly them short of what they would need from wealthy to poor districts. gnarly issues: public school finance, to continue the state's current pro­ ... property taxes and a tight state bud­ $38 grams and also account for inflation from Austin ISD in 2019. "'41 +11'6. get, to name a few. and population growth, but it is a The recovery from Hurricane Harvey ...>, 41 And the 150 state representatives marked improvement over what they is also expensive, but unlike school Q. $2.58 "'C and 31 senators working on those expected. finance, it is a one-time expense. If ..,0 u problems will be working in a new Two items stand out from a list of lawmakers choose to do so, some or .!! $28 0 political atmosphere, with Democratic things adding pressure for new state all of the money needed can likely ..,u spending: school finance and Hurri­ C gains in both the House and Senate­ be found in the state's Economic 41 $1.58 E which remain, nevertheless, in Repub­ cane Harvey. Stabilization Fund, better known as >, lican control-and a new speaker in State leaders have tried for several the Rainy Day Fund. They will also "'Q. ~ $18 charge in the House. legislative sessions to rebalance the be relying on the federal government 2 Shortly after November's elections school finance system, which relies for the brunt of the recovery money Q. "'u state Rep. Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton, heavily on local property taxes, to an needed because of that 2017 storm. ~ SSOOM announced he had commitments from extent that has made property tax Lawmakers also will talk about ~ vi"' 109 House members- far more than relief an important issue for office• property taxes outside school $0 ~" ~fo ~ ~., rf> the required 76- to succeed outgo- holders across party lines. finance- those levied by local govern­ ,.,o ,.,o 'I, ,.,o ,.,o ing House Speaker Joe Straus, R-San To lower pressure on those local ments and special districts- and how Antonio. The actual vote will not take taxes, legislators would have to cut much those taxes can rise before local place until the first day of the legisla­ overall spending on public schools, voters have a say. Legislative Limits 2019 RECAPTURE TOTALS tive session, on Jan. 8, but Bonnen's increase state spending to offset local failed to pass in 2017, but supporters announcement cleared the field of cuts or both. The situation is both have promised another attempt. BY SCHOOL DISTRICT other candidates. expensive and politically treacherous, Lawmakers will consider a wide School district Recapture total That introduces a new player into making the issue a hard and ~r­ range of other ideas, like new gun AustlnlSO li!J:IH•ltll what has sometimes been a conten­ sistent problem for Texas lawmakers. laws in the wake of school and church HoustonlSO tious Texas Capitol, where relations Further complicating the issue, shootings, getting rid of daylight sav­ - $294,119,181 PlanolSO between the House and Senate have Chapter 41 of the Texas Education ing time, slowing the growth of state - $209,401.299 been strained for the last couple of Code- more commonly referred to college tuition, marijuana legalization EaneslSO ■ $102,225,637 sessions. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, the as the "Robin Hood plan''- is also a and prison reform. Spring Brandl ISO I s,1,m .w presiding officer in the Senate, will be major topic of discussion for leg­ If previous sessions are any indica­ llldlandlSO I S61M1.1sa back, as will Gov. Greg Abbott. Bon­ islators. Property-wealthy districts tion, more than 6,000 proposed bills ~ ISS4.ns.m nen will complete that leadership set. affected by this provision are required could come before lawmakers to be Lallll navts ISO I sc,.11,.00, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar to share their wealth with other less­ considered before the end of the 140· CopplUISO I $45,012.111 wealthy school districts, according day session. Only a fraction will pass; announced in JuJy that the state's tax Alamo Heights ISO I $42,403,963 revenues were running higher than to the Texas Education Agency. For in 2017, 1,211 out of 6,631 bills passed, expected, meaning legislators will example, more than $628 million according to the Legislative Reference SOURCE TEXASlOUCATIONAGOICYI will COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPlR start with about $2.8 billion more be sent to the state and redistributed Library. The following timeline Cities' leaders mull provides significant dates in the recent strategies ahead history ofTexas' policies with regard to property taxes. of tax proposal For more in-depth information visitwww. BY BRIAN RASH comptroller. When the city of Lakeway texas.gov. increased its fund balance this year from 25 percent to 30 percent of its fiscal year 2018-19 annual operating .., 'V expenses, Lakeway City Manager Amendment to the Legislation reduces Travis County Steve Jones said there was a specific Texas Consti.tution school district District Court rules reason behind the move. Increases maintenance and current school The increase amounts to roughly homestead operations tax finance system is $700,000 extra in the fund balance, exemption from rates by one-third unconstitutional which equates to unrestricted cash $5,000 to $15,000 over two years the city keeps in reserve. Jones said ll llllllDllll.. [IIL'II., I!111111I.IIIIUllllDI in light of recent property tax caps proposed by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Gov. Greg Abbott is pitching property tax having that extra amount of money reform in the form of a 2.5 percent cap seems like a prudent strategy. in revenue growth year-to-year. As the "My understanding is the [Texas] proposal stands now, most taxing entities would be affected, but many officials say government wants to put a 2.5 cities would take the hardest hit. SOURCE; WWW.COMPTROLLER-TEXAS.GOV/ COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER CONTINUED ON 38 'S EV-IDENCE -

Rn ~o~~~:i~~~ct~~ ~rc~n~~~~~t~ee major 11!!1 taxing entities in Travis County as well as the percent increase of a ...... total tax bi...... ll on a median val ue Austin home from .2014 . -18...... Tota l tax bill increase on a 79.5% median Austin home Total tax bill increase by 72.3% Austin ISO ------Total tax bill increase by 57.2% city of Austin ----- Total tax bill increase by Travis County

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% CONTINUED FROM 1 and New Jersey as examples of suc­ percent limit on [tax] revenue, and if cessful property tax reform. that's the case it could be devastat­ But on the whole many city officials ing," Jones said, adding while it is diffi­ in Texas and statewide city advocate cult to predict where the state Legisla­ groups such as the Texas Municipal ture will fall on Abbott's proposal, city League decry Abbott's proposal as governments should take it seriously. unnecessarily crippling. The city of Lakeway is not the only According to its website the TML local government body making bud­ has more than 16,000 members con­ getary considerations in the wake of a sisting of mayors, council members, recently ramped-up tax cap proposal city managers, city attorneys and city from Abbott. Throughout the Lake department heads spread throughout Travis-Westlake area city officials have more than 1,150 Texas cities. TML Exec­ had to address potential drops in rev­ utive Director Bennett Sandlin said it enue and act or consider action, be it is important for groups such as his to through increasing savings or increas­ advocate against proposed state laws ing base tax rates. that diminish city revenue streams. "Of all the city concerns we work on ADVOCATING FOR CITIES behalf of our members for, this is prob­ Abbott's most recent iteration of ably the No. 1 issue," Sandlin said. property tax reform policy establishes Sandlin said the 2.5 percent cap is a property tax revenue growth cap of even more worrisome for city coffers 2.5 percent per year. As the law stands than the previously proposed 4 per­ now cities can adjust ad valorem tax cent cap for large cities in Senate Bill rates that raise revenue up to 8 percent 2 that made the rounds but ultimately from the previous year. did not pass in the 2017 state Legisla­ Abbott's proposal contains an ture.

"OF ALL THE CITY CONCERNS WE WORK ON BEHALF OF OUR MEMBERS FOR, THIS IS PROBABLY THE NO. 1 ISSUE." - BENNETT SAN DUN, TEXAS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ,: • \ ~ 'i O I exemption for new growth, which Citing one of TML's clients, Sandlin includes developments or improve­ said the city of Rockport had a third of ments to existing property, exempt its property tax base wiped out by Hur­ property returning to the rolls and new ricane Harvey. Abbott's proposed cap construction. Some exceptions to the would have been very destructive for cap are also factored into the proposal, Rockport in the wake of that disaster, such as compensation for emergency he said. workers, law-enforcement officers and teachers. DEALING WITH THE CAP There is precedent for this kind of For 2018-19, West Lake Hills City policy, and Abbott's proposal cites two Council ended up raising the city's caps implemented in Massachusetts tax rate 7.9 percent. One of the main ~ c~n't!~~~a~e~:~if ~n~~t~:ap~!;;;!vies from 2005-15 are compared against median household income • - growth for the same period.

Special92.6%~ district property tax

82.2%>-I--­ County property tax

70.9% ----~...a City total --=-~--:;------1 39.5% property tax -.s:,,~=~=- School total property tax

PJII HAREAND THE TORTOISE 200% ~ The percent growth in value statewide of single-family homes from 1998-2016 is compared against the increase in median household income over the same time period.

62.5%

Increase in estimated Increase in median average taxable value household income of single-family homes statewide reasons for this is the looming threat to keep the numbers in perspective. of the cap, City Administrator Robert Raising to 7.9 percent may sound like Wood said. He explained that com­ a lot, but West Lake Hills is starting pared with larger cities the West Lake from such a low tax rate that even this Hills tax rate is low enough that a 2.5 year, the rate of $0.07 cents [per $100 percent cap could force some difficult valuation] is still one of the lowest in decisions from City Council. the state, Anthony said. u[City Council] raised the tax rate In Bee Cave the city draws substan­ about as much as they could. .. because tially more money from sales taxes they felt like they needed to prepare for than property taxes, but that does not the future because of this possibility of mean it is immune to Abbott's pro­ the rollback rate being dropped from posal. City Manager Clint Garza said 8 percent to 2.5 percent," Wood said. although the property tax rate in Bee "What you'll see is City Council kept Cave is at $0.02 per $100 valuation, [the tax rate] pretty steady, and they've the proposed cap still factors into reve­ pretty much kept the same number nue. Garza said revenue from property except for the last couple of years, and taxes from this year to last year, factor­ this tax cap proposal is the main rea­ ing out any new growth, was up about son why." 16.17 percent. West Lake Hills Mayor Linda uso I think we estimated $446,000 Anthony said even though the city's is what we would bring in this year," tax rate raised this year, it is important Garza said. upy 2017-18 would have NOT BUYING IT

SAVINGS MAY BE ~ LOWER THAN THEY APPEAR A similar version of Gov. Abbott's most recent property tax reform proposal went through the Texas Legislature in 2017 and was called Senate Bill 2. The bill did not ultimately pass and proposed to cap property tax revenue for large cities at 4 percent. The following graphic shows savings for the year for owners of a $250,000 home within five of the largest Texas cities if that version of the bill had been in place in 2016.

With Homestead With 65 & older exemption exemption

Austin $21 .53 $13 .81

Dallas $27.69 $18.83

Houston $0 $0

Fort Worth $0 $0

San Antonio $12.01 $8.89

1111111 1111111111111111 11 1111111111111 IIIIIIIII Ill Ill 1111111111111111111111111111111111 1

BY THE NUMBERS 'd: .33% 16% The percentage of average increase The percentage of an average in tax rates adopted by cities over a homeowner's annual tax bill six-year period ending in 2016. taken up by cities statewide. fE/i P. ERCEN iTAGE ~ Ohil m~ E Bll!l! Ttie following graphic snows wliat percentage eacli city in the Lake Travis-Westlake area, as a taxing entity, will take UR on a homeowner's bill for fiscal year 2018-19.

Percentage of tax bill ■ Remainder of tax bill taken up by cities

Lakeway

Rollingwood

West Lake Hills

Bee Cave been estimated at $384,000, so if salaries and equipment Jones echoed we were limited to 2.5 percent of Sandlin's sentiment. Were it not for that $384,000, then we would only the state's proposed cap Jones said get $394,000 in revenue and not he doesn't think Lakeway would have $446,000." raised its reserves by 5 percent. That amounts to a difference of more "We've had this 25 percent level for a than $50,000, which could have an decade, and it has worked very well," impact on some budgetary consider­ he said. "The only reason we went to ations, he said. 30 percent is we were afraid we could be hamstrung by this 2.5 percent cap, OTHER BUDGETARY CONSIDERATIONS and then something could come up, Sandlin said most citizens do not [like needing to] hire police or replace realize about 60-70 percent of the aver­ equipment. Cars can get in accidents. age city's budget goes to considerations You never know what might come up, related to police and fire departments. and we would need money for it." So even with the exemptions in Abbott's Lakeway has had to put more money most recent reform proposal for com­ in its savings account as part of a strat­ pensation for emergency responders, egy that otherwise might not have been the cap potentially diminishes what can necessary, Jones said. be collected and allocated for needed "And that's kind of the point with equipment. the state. They're doing this to try to In relation to essential city employee keep taxes down, but they're forcing us to raise taxes unnecessarily," he percent. said. "I don't think they've thought that But according to Sandlin, the pro­ through. I don't think that's their inten­ posed tax cap on cities would have tion, but it's certainly the outcome." virtually no effect on the average home­ owner. When factoring for what will SKYROCKETING HOME VALUATIONS dramatically change a property owner's Bee cave resident and homeowner yearly tax bill, Sandlin said school dis­ Andrea Willott says she is fine with the tricts make up the lion's share. cap as long as the state can find the While school districts account for money somewhere for needed improve­ between 55-60 percent of the average ments and services. homeowner's tax bill, cities only com­ One of the reasons she and her hus­ prise an average of 16 percent, Sandlin band moved to Bee cave is the low said. Essentially cities and counties are property taxes, she said. being the most vocal about the tax cap "I feel that this cap would certainly because they have the most to lose, he help younger homeowners who are try­ said. ing to maintain their expenses," Willott Johnny Hill, Lake Travis ISD assistant said. "We're wealthy enough to where it superintendent for business, financial wouldn't bother us, but I'm looking at and auxiliary Services said while he everybody." applauds Abbott for wanting to address In his Oct. 29 proposal framed property tax issues, he is concerned around "improving student outcomes right now the state's proposed policy is and maintaining affordability," Abbott still vague, and he wishes the governor states his plan would cap property would bring more stakeholders into the tax revenue growth year-to-year at 2.5 discussion. percent for cities, counties and school Hill said there are implications for districts. Impacted taxpayers would LTISD, as Abbott's cap does include have a right to vote on the matter if enti­ school districts, but it is much more ties seek to exceed the allowable rate, complicated and there are more reve­ according to the plan. nue guarantees for school districts. For The proposal points out in Texas cities and counties, the math is poten­ home valuations have increased faster tially much more detrimental. than incomes, and property taxes are Hill said his concerns for school rising faster than the economy. districts are warranted, but cities and "People are being taxed out of their counties will likely have to brace for a homes," the proposal states. "Gentri­ harder hit. fication and an overall housing afford­ "They're going to be cut on what ability crisis are significant problems they can actually bring into their cof­ across the state." fers," Hill said, regarding if the tax cap The proposal cites several instances passes. "And for [cities and counties), of taxing entities statewide that have what's scary is they may have to go up risen beyond household incomes in a more on the tax rate to compensate for IO-year period from 2005·15, including that." county tax levies that have increased by more than 82 percent and city tax /.,f) For more information, visit levies that have increased by almost 71 ~ communityimpact.com EDUCATION MATTER'S First halt of school yearsees successes It is difficult to fathom that we are ju.st about finished with the first half of the 2018-2019 school year. Already, it has been a busy year and we have much to celebrate. However, the second half of the school year is fast approaching, and there is much to do that will impact our staff, students and families. Let us begin with acco­ lades. In October, 37 seniors at Lake Travis High School received recogni­ tion by the 2019 National Merit Scholarship pro­ gram for their exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Also that month, Blake Ochoa, a senior at Lake Travis High School, earned silver finalist designation for his fifth-place finish at the 2018 National FFA Extemporaneous Public Speaking Leadership Development event. Blake is the first participant in the history of the school's FFA program to compete at nationals. An interest- ing fact about Blake is that he has never raised an animal in his life. He is an amazing public speaker who has proven that FFA offers our students much more than the opportu­ nity to raise livest ock. Most recently, we received word that Lake Travis is one of373 school districts in the U.S. and Canada being honored by the College Board with placement on the ninth annual AP District Honor Roll.Toedesignation recognizes sch.ool dis­ tricts for increasing access to Advanced Placement course work while main­ taining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on AP exams. Lake Travis is a multi-year recipient ofthis unique honor. According t o the College Board, reach- ing those goals :indicates the district is successfully identifying motivated, academically-prepared students who are ready for the opportunity of AP. Outside the classroom, students in our athlet- ics and fine arts programs have had much success at regional concerts, clinics and other performances. Last month, the High School tennis team finished its season with a semifinal appearance at the UIL state tournament. The Cavs concluded the team tennis season ranked third in state 6A, and they are looking forward to a hlghly com­ petitive individual tennis season in the spring. Also in November, members of the Hudson Bend Middle School Porn Squad and the Lake Travis High School Red Rubies represented the Lake Travis Dance program as Spirit of America danc­ ers in the 92ndAnnual Macy's Thanksgiving Day ParadeinNewYorkCity. Our attention now turns to football as our Cavaliers continue to make a deep run through the play- offs. If we can get past a very strong Galena Park North Shore, our Cavaliers will punch their ticket to another championship game. It would be our school's ninth appearance over the past u years, a truly remarkable run. Across our district - fromacademks, to athlet­ ics, to fine arts - students continue to excel The new yeru- will begin with a very appropriate and timely observance, especially for me as superintendent. With the theme "Planting Seeds of Success," the school dis­ trict will join others across the state to recognize and thank school trustees for their service throughout January as part of School Board Recognition Month. Our community benefits every day from the tireless work and countless hours conbibuted by the seven men and women who rep­ resent more than 10,600 students and tlbeir families. Led by board president Kim Flasch, these volun­ teers are elected by their constituents and receive no compensation for their work as public servants. In a climate of change and challenge, they develop policies and make tough decisions on complex edu­ cational and social issues that affect our community. And speaking of tough decision, members of the school board and senior staffwill join me at the Capitol this spring as we work to represent the district's best interest on critical issues during the upcoming 86th legislative session. Some of our leg­ islative priorities include supporting school safety and security measures while opposing unfunded mandates, see!kingto update the state's funding formula for special educa­ tion services and programs,

See SCHOOLS, Ao Thirty-seven Lake Travis High Sohool students were recognized as qualifiers for the 2019 National Merit scholarship program in October. [LAKE TRAVIS SCHOOL DISTRICT) on Elementary School there will be much more SCHOOLS lf,7inRoughHollow. to come on this process. The$33.1millioncam­ In the meantime, as FromPageA.4 pus is expected to open we head into the upcom­ inthefallof2020. ing holiday season, I Lastly, as is to be cannot think ofa more and opposing appraisal expected with the open­ appropriate time to pause or revenue caps on local ing of new schools, I and be appreciative of property valuations. often get asked about our teachers and sup­ As lawmakers begin the redrawing of school port staff for what they their work, we will con­ attendance zones. We do each day for our stu­ tinue ours as it relates expect to formulate and dents. I am both thankful to construction and our convene an attendance and proud to serve this 2018 bond program. Bee zone committee in early great district of ours. Middle School is approxi­ February. The commit­ Without a doubt, 2019 mately 50 percent com­ tee will be charged with promises to be another plete. Off Texas 71 and developing recommen­ exciting and reward­ Vail Divide, the $76.2mil­ dations for our Board of ing year for our staff, lion project is on sched­ Trustees that will provide students, families and ule to open in August. balance and continuity the greater Lake Travis Shortly upon return across our elementary and community. There is from the holiday break, middle school campuses. no place I would rather senior staff and! will We anticipate the be than LTISO. It is announce the selection committee will make its an honor to serve as of the school's principal. recommendation to the your superintendent. While we move toward school board in April, On behalf of the entire the completion of one with final approval by the school district family, I school, we will begin board expected in May. wish you the happiest of construction on another. New middle school atten­ holidays this season! Weare planning a dance zones will become groundbreaking cer­ effective in the fall 2019 Brad Lancaster is emony to in late January/ and the elementary zones the superintendent early February signaling will become effective in ofthe Lake Travis the start of construction the fall of2020. Again, school district. WAY~ l~ GIVf BA[~ INTHE I.AKE mms tJESTI.IE AREA_J

COMPILED BY SAUYGRACE HOLTGRIEVE • DESIGNED BY TESSA HOEFLE

Help better the community in a variety of ways this holiday season and year-round at one of these local organizations. From helping families in need to caring for animals, this guide includes several volunteer opportunities. This list is noncomprehensive. lessons, job training programs, mental Volunteer requirements: none ANIMAl5 @ health services and a free 'RED -Y to Read' 3322S. RM620,Austin program. 512-533-5968 Happy Hooves Healing Hearts Volunteer requirements: volunteer www.ltedfund.org Rescue and Animal Sanctuary is opportunities are available for anyone located in Hudson Bend. The 501 (c) who is interested; no previous experience II Lake n-avts Youth Association, (3) works with local school groups and with horses or disabilities is necessary; an all-volunteer organization, provides organizations for educational purposes must be at least 14 years old (volunteers athletic programs to children in Bee Cave, and programs that support children with age 14 and younger must volunteer with a Lakeway, Spicewood and surrounding autism, PTSD and disabilities. Its mission parent or guardian) areas. The program offers children is to spread goodwill by incorporating 1601 Bell Springs Rood, Dripping Springs grades K-6 the opportunity to participate animal therapy with children and 512-807-6505 in sports regardless ofability , disability, supporting kids and animals locally and www.hillcountryconservoncy.org www.redoreno.org skill level or financial need. Volunteer globally. opportunities include coaching, serving Volunteer requirements: signing Lifelong Friends Pet Adoptions as a referee or an umpire for organized a volunteer form and waiver; the is a no-kill, privately run shelter located f□UCAllON l games, and administrative roles. organization will be looking for volunteers in Lago Vista. Dogs and cats looking for Volunteer requirements: background to come out and help after the holidays forever homes are housed at the shelter. II Eanes Education Foundation's check; obtaining a Positive Coaching 15603 Checotah Drive, Austin Volunteers are needed to assist with dog mission is to seek financial support for Alliance cert.ification through an online 512-814-0193 and cat ca retaking, fundraising, adoption Eanes ISD within the community to sustain program; completing a concussion www.hoppyhoovesheollngheorts.org counseling and off-site events. districtwide programs and help fund training course; reading and signing the Volunteer requirements: age 18 and teacher and staff positions. Donations organization's abuse policy B HIii Country Conservancy is a over; passion for animals and volunteer opportunities are available 2101 Lakeway Blvd., Ste. 115, Lakeway nonprofit dedicated to preserving natural 20803 FM 1431, Logo Vista throughout the year. 512-261-1900 areas such as rivers and scenic vistas 512-267-6876 Volunteer requirements: none www.ltyo.org as well as working farms and ranches www.lifelongfriends.org 601 Comp Croft Rood, Austin in the Texas Hill Country. Volunteer 512-732-9065 II Leander Education Excellence opportunities are available at various a RED Arena is a 501 (c)(3) with a www.eoneseducotionfoundotion.org Foundation funds innovative teaching events throughout the year. mission of empowerment through projects and professional development Volunteer requirements: none horses. RED Arena serves children and D Lake "n'avl1 Education Foundation opportunities. LEEF needs dedicated 5524 Bee Coves Rood, Ste. G4, West Lake adults with disabilities through physical, volunteers and donors provide financial individuals interested in serving the Hills occupational or speech therapy sessions resources to support Lake Travis ISD community as board members or 512-328-2481 while on horseback, therapeutic riding programs and initiatives. volunteers in any of the program initiative areas. 5:30-7:30 p.m . and Thursdays from 10 that organize a crisis response to a housing Volunteerrequlrements: none, though a.m.-noon. Nonperishable food donations emergency, Partners in Hope helps ~rC~MINb fVfNlS on-campus volunteers need to register as are also accepted. families by working to improve living Eanes Education USO volunteers Volunteer requirements: none; regulars, conditions, walking through a season of Foundation annual gala Physical: 204 W. South St., Leander drop-ins and students looking to obtain life, and empowering them to transform Feb. 23 Mailing: P.O. Box 218, Leander service hours are welcome overtime. JW Marriott Austin 512-570-0027. www.leeftx.org 107 S. RM 620, Ste. 114, Lakeway Volunteer requirements: all volunteers Contact the foundation for 512-266-9810 watch a training video series; sign a release volunteer opportunities www.ltcrisisministries.arg and waiver Lake Travis Education 15104 N. FlomingoDrive,Austin N~l6HHOR5 IN Nffl ~ Foundation 2019 Black & Mobile Loaves & Fishes is a social 512-751 -5877 Red Ball Ladles of Charity Lake Travis outreach ministry for the homeless and www.partnersinhopelaketravis.org March2 Thrift Shop, part of the Saint Vincent indigent working poor. Its mission is to JW Marriott, Austin de Paul charities, sells donated clothing, provide food, clothing and dignity to those housewares, linens, toys, jewelry, furniture, in need and accomplishes this mission by PUHllC 5Af HY ~ Leande,- Educational antiques and one-of-a-kind finds. delivering food each night of the week. Excellence Foundation Volunteers are needed to work in the store, Volunteers at the St. John Neumann mColin 's Hope raises water safety annual gala Jan. 26 where profits support charities in the Lake Commissary can help organize, prepare awareness to reduce drowning deaths Hilton Austin Travis area. and deliver meals. Opportunities at the through educational outreach. The Committee members and Volunteerrequlrernents: 18and up Community First Village may include nonprofit organization was formed in day-of assistance needed unless accompanied by an adult gardening, prepping micro homes, 2008 after 4-year-old Colin Holst drowned 1508 S. RM 620, Ste. 105, Lakeway working in the Art House and more. in a public pool. Year-round volunteer RED Arena Round-Up­ 512-263-0314 Volunteer requirements: vary opportunities at fund raisers and events annual chlldrens' horse www.laketravisthrift.com depending on role are available. show and fundralser 9301 Hog Eye Road, Austin Volunteer requirements: none; May 3, 4 Lake Travis Crisis Ministries is an 512-328-7299 organization works with families, young Dripping Springs Ranch Park ecumenical organization aimed at helping www.mlforg/ volunteer people, schools and universities and Volunteers are needed to individuals in need by providing food, anyone who wants to donate time and help with setup, day-of financial aid and other forms of support. Partners In Hope is a Lake Travis talent activities and clean-up The volunteer organization services those ministry that connects people who desire 3267 Bee Caves Road, Austin within the boundaries of Lake Travis ISO. physical, emotional and spiritual assistance 512-222-7591 The ministry meets Wednesdays from with people who can help. Unlike ministries www.colinshope.org Tell us what you t hink. q Comment at communltylmpact.com. Hutto quarterbacl< Griffin earns Texas player of year honor

Cedar Ridge WR Ellls Griffin certainly fits that Offthe field, Griffin is an all­ gets All-American description. The 5-foot -10, state academic honoree who Bowl Jersey 190-pound quarterback, a has maintained a weighted UCLA pledge, passed for 4,051 4.69 GPA in the classroom. By Thomas Jones yards and 51 touchdowns He is also a talented violinist [email protected] this season while leading the who was theTexas representa­ Hippos to an 11 - 1 record, the tive for the U.S. Marine Corps After the best season of his school's first unbeaten regular Semper Fidelis All-American record-setting career, Hutto season since 1966 and a spot in program. He has also volun­ quarterback Chase Griffin has the Class 5A Division I regional teered as a tutor in the Hutto been selected as the 2018-19 mnifinals. He completed268 of school district. Gatorade Texas Football Player 373 passes with just five inter­ Griffin is now a finalist for ofthe Year. ceptions and rushed for 415 the Gatorade National Football The award recognizes not yards and eight touchdowns on Player of the Year award, which only athletic excellence, but 82carries. For his career, he set will be announced later th.is also highstandards of academic school records invirtually every season. Kutto quarterback Chase Griffin (11) has been named the Gatorade achievement and exemplary passing categocy while amass­ As a part of Gatorade's cause Texas Football Player of the Year after his record-setting senior season. character demonstrated onand ingu,093 passing yards and.123 [STEPHEN SPILLMAN/f-OR AMERICAN•STATESMANJ off the field. passing touchdowns as a starter. See GRIFFIN, /\8 INSURANCE nsure carefully, dream learlossly.

AMERICAN FAI INSURAN

Cedar Ridge wide receiver Jaylen Ellis joins father Mike Ellis and mother Karen Ellis during ,an All·American Bowl jersey presentation Thursday at Cedar Ridge High School. [PHOTO COURTESY O~ All-AMERICAN BOWL) essaytowinoneofu $10,000 2008 season. class of 2019. He had 46 Recruitingservice247Sports GRIFFIN spotlight grants for the organi­ E.llis gets All·Am.erican Bowl catches for 1,153 yards and 14 predicts that Ellis will sign zation of his choice, which will jersey: Cedar Ridge senior touchdowns this season for with Texas. J/romPageA6 be announced throughout the Jaylen Ellis received his offi­ Cedar Ridge, which reached The 19th annual All­ year. cial All-American Bowl jersey the second round of the Class American Bowl will take place Griffin is the second player during a celebratory assembly 6A Division I playoffs. in San Antonio's Ala.modome marketing platform "Play it from the Austin area to Thursday at Cedar Ridge High A former Baylor pledge, Ellis atnoonJan.5. Thegame, which Forward," Griffin can award received Gatorade's Texas School in Round Rock. reopened his recruiting earlier will be nationally televised on a $1,000 grant to a local or Football Player of the Year Ellis, a 6-foot, 180-pound this season and currently has NBC, will feature some of the national youth sports orga - honor, joining ~ ' ..,. · receiver, is the No. 29 player offers from schools such as nation'stophigbschoolfootball nization of his choosing. He quarterback Garrett Gilbert, on the American-Statesman's Texas, Michigan, Ohio State players separated into East and is also eligible to submit an who won the award after the Fab 55 recruiting list for the and Oregon as well as Baylor. West teams. Mayfield flexes rocket arm for Browns

By Tom Wilbers hear how tight the ball was Mayfield's aim strength The Associated Press coming out of his hand," isn't usually the first thing Williams said. "Itwas bringing mentioned when discuss­ BEREA, Ohio - As Baker a smile to my face when I saw ing the No. 1 overall pick's Mayfield threw long passes to him warm up and really the top attnbut es. More often his his wide receivers and short entire game he was zipping it." accuracy, leadership and, of ones to backs before Sunday's The former J.J..... ~ ''""' course, abundant confidence gameagainst Carolina, Browns High School star zipped it are brought up first. interim coach Gregg Williams all day long, completing a But Mayfield, whose "I woke knew his rookie quarterback 66-yard pass on Cleveland's up feeling dangerous" has wasgoingtohaveagoodgame. first play and whipping sev­ become a catch phrase around It wasn't any sight. eral passes into tight coverage Cleveland, has shown he can It was a sound. during a 26-2owin that gave rear back and fire the ball with The Cleveland Browns (5·7·1) have won three of four going into this "You can hear the ball come the Browns their fifth win and any quarterback. week's game in Denver - and in those victories. quarterback Baker out of the quarterback's hand kept their faint playoff hopes Mayfield has completed 79 percent of his passes (54 of 68) for 712 with a 'ssssssst' and you can flickering. See BROWNS, CS yards with eight TDs and no interceptions. (AP PHOTO/DAVID RICHARD] BROWNS

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After the Browns fell behi nd the Panthers 7-0, Mayfield quickly stripped Carolina of momentum by stepping up and throwing a laser down the field. The ball traveled more than 60 yards to receiver Breshad Perriman, who hauled in the deep pass to set up Cleveland's first TD. The play exemplified Mayfield's confidence, and the trust he has built with Cleveland's coach­ ing staff. "That was a rocket and that was a long throw, and it is a long throw on the money," Williams said. "In practices, we have seen longer throws, and we have seen even The Cleveland Browns (5-7-1) have won three of four more accurate throws going into this week's game in Denver - and in those that other people have victories, quarterback Baker Mayfield has completed 79 not seen yet." percent of his passes (54 of 68) for 712 yards with eight Mayfield showed off TDs and no interceptions. [AP PHOTO/DAVID RICHARD) his arm and accuracy a little later with a 51-yard outside was trying to and no interceptions. TD toss to receiver Jarvis squeeze it, and the ball Mayfield has also Landry, who appeared to literally went between shown remarkable resil­ be well-covered on the both of them. It was a hell iency by shaking off play. of a throw." a three-pick perfor­ Mayfield, though, Mayfield is bringing mance in the first half at squeezed his throw tbebeat. Houston to pass for 351 between two defenders, The Browns (5-7-1) yards in the second half showing both fearless­ have won three of four while standing in the face ness and faith. going into this week's of the Texans' tenacious "It was where it needed game in Denver - and passrushledbyJ.J. Watt. to be," Landry said. in those victories, he has Williams has been cau­ "The guy's back was completed 79 percent of tious to heap too much turned. The comer that hi<; passes (54 of 68) for praise on the 23-year­ was coming from the 7ll yards with eight TDs old, but lately he has gone out of his way to compli­ ment his young QB. Following Wednesday's practice, Williams said Mayfield's arm was "off the charts" in terms of its liveliness. "He had a live day on Sunday, but (snaps fin­ gers) came back today and it looked like it was even more live today," Williams said. "The first thing I thought was 'young.'" But beyond Mayfield's youth and the life in his high-velocity arm, Williams sees something special. "The good quar­ terbacks, some of the times when some of us may judge a throw that, 'Wow, that was not a very good throw.' Why? Because it was on his back shoulder?" Williams said. "It was on his back shoulder because that is the way that the guy throws the player open. Drew Brees and some of those guys - Joe Montana, Warren Moon, Peyton Manning and all of the guys that I have been wiith or gone against - will throw the guy open. "He is doing that. That is a natural thing. That is not something that can be overly taught at this level. If we have to spend a lot of time trying to teach that at this level, he probably will never ever get it."