H IG H S C HOO L FOOT BALL PR E S E ASON T O P 10
In central Texas, August means scorching days and heated preseason debates about the area's top high school football teams. Leading up to the season's kickoff Thursday, we unveil our Top 10, as selected by our high school reporting staff. No. 5 Cedar Park
Coach: Carl Abseck (47-7, championships. The fifth season) Timbcrwolves won a Class 2018: 8-4, Class SA Division 4A II title in 2012 and a I area finalist Class SA II title 2015. - Hello: DL Ben Bell, QB (Class 6A Division I, Ryder Hernandez, DB 2016) is the only other area Tammer Alzer team with a UIL champion Goodbye: WR Garson Neel, ship in that span. WR Brandon Breed, LB Jackson Rogers OURTAKE Returning starters: 7 offense, 5 defense Who is the team~s most 2018 stats: Averaged 27.1 indispensable player? ppg, allowed 23.8 ppg. Thomas Jones: Quarterback Will Udoye returns as Cedar Park's most experienced Ryder Hernandez. The QUESTIONS TO receiver and looks primed for a big season. (NICK WAGNER/ Wolves have evolved from PONDER AM€RICAN·SlATESMANJ a POwet running team to a more diversified offense, can Blac.k Rain douse DI. Hutto snapped cedar Tlmberwolves to pound and the mobile and smart 1 opposing offenses? Park's string of seven on defenses. Jonathan Hernandez keys that attack. The Tlmberwolves' fabled consecutive district Stockwell, a 5-10, 190· Rick cantu: Defense gave defense allowed almost 26 championships last season, pound senior, had 672 the Timberwolves an edge points a game through the but the Hippos' offense yards rushing last season lastyear, and DE Ben Bell first eight weeks of 2018 must rebuild after the loss and works well between helped create an aggres· before closing strong and of all-state quarterback the ta.ckles, and 5-10, 200· sive, spirited attack. giving up 14 a game in the chase Griffin. Keep an eye pound sophomore Kevin final four games. which on Manor, one of the most Adams looks like a future PASTTHREE included three playoff talented teams in the area. star. SEASONS teams. Which players will LINEINTHETURF THEY'RE SPECIAL 2018 (8-4): Hutto snapped 2 Herna.ndez target in Cedar Park's 37ilame dis· the passing game? The Cedar Park has earned Often overlooked until trict winning streak, but the leading returning receiver, its reputation ror consis exposed, special teams Timberwolves won at least Will Udoye, had Just 26 tently producing strong could give Cedar Park an one playoff game for the catches a year ago. but the offensive lines. This group edge in any tight game. ninth consecutive season. 6-foot-4, 185-pound senior looks ready to live up to Alzer returns as the team's 2017 (11-2): The looks ready for a breakout that brand; junior Luke punter, junior Justin Bohrer Timberwolves' two losses - season. Tight end Brock Williams, a 6·5, 270-pound made 38 of 41 extra-point the season opener to Class Johnson has impressed tackle, started 11 games as attempts in 2018 and has 6A waco Midway and a during the summer, and a sophomore, and 6-3, 250· collegiate range, and third-round playoff game versatile Majeston Haverda pound senior CJ. Blackmon Haverda gives the team a to Manvel - came against could play a bigger role is one of the top interior dangerous kick returner. teams that played for a in the passing game after linemen in the area. state championship. rushing lor 367 yards last DID YOU KNOW? 2016 (12-1): A 28-garne year. GETTING PHYSICAL winning streakunder can the Tlmberwolves Over the past seven second-year coach Abseck 3 reclaim the district Although Cedar Park had years, Cedar Park is the ended with a third-round title? They're the favor- more passes than rushes only Austin-area team playoff loss to Manvel. ite to win District 11•SA a year ago. e)(l)ect the to win two UIL state Thomas Jones Sizing up Texas' next recruiting class
By Mike Cr aven mcraven@$tatesU13o.com
Texas' 2020 recruiting class consists of 18 prospects and ranks sixth inthe nation. It's the top-rankedclass inthe Big 12. That wasn'ttrue in July as the Longhorns struggled to gain commitments while rivals such as Oklahomaand Texas A&M sprinted toward the early signing period. Tom Hermandecided to run the marathon, and the gamble paid off for the Longhorns in July and August. Here's where the class stacks up as pros· pects head into their senior seasons. Players are listed by overall national ranking in 247Sports' composite ratings:
Bijan Robin.son, RB, Tucson (AriL) Salpointe: He's urs top-ranked prospect, and it isn't even close; he's the No. 18 overall prospect in the coun• try, and Texas' next closest pledge ranks in the 60s. He's a legitimate five-star with back• to-back 2,000-yard seasons. He'll be Herman's highest-rated Bijan Robinson, a five-star running back from Salpoin te catholic High School in Tucson, Ariz., committed to Texas on Aug. 2, the same day the offensive recruit so far at Longhorns opened fall practices. He's the top-rated recruit in Texas' 2020 class. IKEllY PRESNELL/ARIZONA DAILY STARJ Texas. Hookem.com Ja'Quindtn Jackson, ATH, Duncanville: Jackson. No. 4 on Let Mike craven keep You up on the Statesman's fabulous S.S. the latest recruiting develop· is the 67th·ranked prospect in ments at hookem..com, our the class and its thlrd•ranked home for LOnghorns news and athlete. He led Duncanville to analysis. the Class 6A Division I state championship game. pass· ing for 1.580 yards and 15 Princely Umanmielen, DE. touchdowns with ;ust three Manor. It was a shock that interceptions. while adding Umanmielcn (No. 22 on the 1,497 rushing yards and ?J Fab 55, 229th nationally) chose rushing touchdowns. He wants Texas. He was always high to play qu.irterback In college, on the Longhorns, but he'd and he'll geta shot to compete maintained that he preferred to DuncanviUe1s Ja'Qui'nden with a talented group of play play in a fouHnan front. Texas J.ac.luon i5 considered an ers to take the reins from Sam spends halfits time in an odd athlNe by tterUiting services, Ehlingcr. man !root. which woold force but he wants a shot at playing umanmlclen to play closer to quarterback for Texas. [MIKE Hudson ta.rd, QB. anTtav,s: LaRll Uairis quarte
In central Texas. August means scorching days and heated preseason debates about the area's top high school football teams. Leading up to the season's kick.off Thursday. we unveil our Top 10, as selected by our high school reporting staff. No. 3 Vandegrift coach: Drew sanders (74-36. 10th season) 2018: 12·1, Class 6A third round Hello: QB Dru Dawson, OL Harry Wrtt, OB J.J Parker Goodbye: LB Spencer Jones, RB Isaiah Smallwood, WR/OB Reese Watson Returning starters: 7 offense, 6 defense 2018 stats: AvNaged 31 ppg, allowed 17 ppg.
QUESTIONS TO PONDER Who will fill the space 1vacated by Smaltwood, who now playS for West Texas A&M7 Smallwood. a productive player for three years, aver aged 108 yards per game on the ground last fall and scored 19 touchdowns. One possibility is Bowen l ewis, a backup last year who averaged 7.3 yards per carry.
Who becomes the vocal 2leader of the defense with the loss of Jones, who will play Quarterback Dru Dawson win lead a Vandegrift offense that returns at Army this fall? seven starters but lost a key contributor at running back. LAICAROO B. Jones ave-raged 12 tackles and BRAZZlEU/AMERICAH-STATESMANJ led the team with 12 tackles behind the line of scrimmage. injuries in the playoffs cost The Vipers should be fine them. because two or the area·s best Thomas Jones: comparisons defenders. LB Jax McCauley have been made between (team-high 105 solo tackles) Vandegrift and their power- and OB Tyler Mongauzy (128 house neighbors West and total tackles) are back. There have been a lot of simi- How close are the Vipers to --larities, but- the r. it'S have had 3becoming a traditional state blue-chip, Power Five quarter• power? back recruits. The Vipers have They need a signature vic- not. tory ora state championship appearance to be noticed state PASTTHREE SEASONS wide. The have won 11 games in three of the past five years 2018 (12-1): Injuries caught up and went to the state semis in Vandegrift coach Drew Sanders to the Vipers in the playoffs 2014. With 13 returning start• is 74-36 through nine sea.sons last season. The District 13·6A ers, this has the potential tobe and ho~s to make a bigger champions were unbeaten sanders· best team. splash In the plairoffs this until they lost to Longview year. (NICK WAGNER/AMERICAN• 56-26 In the third round. THEIR TURN TO SHINE STATESMAN) 2017 (7-5): By VandegrlFt stan dards. it was a mediocre year. When Sanders asked if some history, all five s Tell me something about history of the world, who the first time you played would they be? organized football. John F. Kennedy, Tupac, The first time I played my great -grandmother organized football was Mimi and Hellen Keller. when I was 8 for South Why did you choose Helen Austin Optimists. When I Keller? first startedI didn't really The reason why I chose get to play because the heris becauseI wouldjust coachdidn't know meand want to know bow she thoughtI wasn't good, soI did what she did, bowshe kind ofdidn'tlikefootball was able to be an author Once begot to know me, while being blind, deaf I started on both sides of and mute. the ball, at running back Tell me somethi ng about and D-end. I was making Bowie end Jayden York hopes to play college football. you that most people don't every play. Texas Tech, Tu.Isa, Baylor, Texas State, UTSA and other know. What has been your schools have shown interest. [NICK WAGNEIVAMERICAN· One thing that most favorite memory playing for STATESMAN] people don't know about Bowie? meis thatIbatespaghetti. My first varsity touch DeAndre is a speedy, long make itfour rounds into Do you have plans after down. It waslastyear, soI dudewhojustgoesup and the playoffs and to stay you graduate? was a junior, anditwas the grabs everything. I try to focused on that goal My My plan is to play col first game of the season have that mentality that personal goals are on lege football. I'vereceived againstPilugerville.The everything in the air is offense to have 50 recep interestfromTexas Tech, fans went crazy. mine. tions and at least 1,000 Tulsa,Baylor, Texas State, As a wide receiver, do l.s there a certain game yardsand15sacksandtwo UTSAandmore. you pattern your game after on your schedule this year touchdownsondefense. Is there something you anyone in the NFL? you're looking forward to? If you had a choice of refrain from eating during I like to use stuff I see I'm am looking for being valedictorian of your the season? JarvisLandryandDeAndre ward to the Austin High, class or aJl.•state in football, I eat whatever during Hopkins do. Jarvis is a West:..:..d and l...J:..t what would you pick? theseason. I just try not slower receiver, but be bas games. You're going to This is a bard question, todrink sodaortea. amazing field vision and have to play us for four butI would rather be vale What do you expect to be justa great route runner. quarters like every other dictorian because it bolds doing in 10 years? Also his leadership, be game. moreopportunitiesforme I expect myself to be makes sure to tell every Do you have team or per• in the future. playing in the league. one ofbis teammates to be sonal goals for this season? If you could have dinner great before every game. Our team goals are to with four people from the Rick Cantu HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PRESEASON TOP 10 In Central Texas, August means scorching days and heated preseason debates about the area's top high school football teams. Leading up to the season's kickoff Aug. 29, we unveil our Top 10, as selected by our high school reporting staff. No. 2 Wes .._l_ Tr..J won't be easy replacing All· double coverage. "That Coach: Todd Dodge (189-67, Central Texas center ~ would just open it up for 59-12 at West -1, seventh Webster. Connor Halverson the other receivers," season) is a rock-solid returning said Mangum, referring 2018: 13-2, Class 6A state lineman, but he'll need help to Coker and John Nicklos. semifinals to make the offense explo- Hello: WR Jackson Coker, sive again. NEWS AND NOTES DL Bobby Duncum, DB Leo 3 WIii the defense Lowin remain one of the Halverson, a senior, plans Goodbye: QB Taylor toughest units in Central to play in college next year, Anderson, LB Jake Ehlinger, Texas? The entire group and his options indicate he DL David Neil of linebackers, led by will attend a school better Returning starters: 6 Ehlinger, graduated. The known for academics than offense, 5 defense strength of the team is a football. Among the teams 2018 stats: Averaged 42.3 savvy crew of DBs led by that have made offers are Jackson Coker returnsas part of an experiencied corps of wideouts for the Chaparrals. ppg, allowed 9.3 ppg. Lowin and Sage Luther. the Air Force Academy, [SfO>HEN SPILLMAN/FOR SlATESMAN] Lowin is switching from Columbia and Bucknell. QUESTIONS cornerback to safety. Then there is Saint Anselm have won at least one game to graduation hurts. If magical year was high TO PONDER Dodge said. College in Manchester, in the playoffs 12 times. the new guys step up, the lighted by a 6·0 district N.H.•.. Dodge will have his Chaps have enough talent record, a victory over 1 With Anderson no CATCH OF THE DAY work cut out for him with OUR TAKE at other positions to go - .,... :; and a 14-game longer on board, the so many newcomers to the deep into December. winning streak that was Chaps have three capable The best receiver in starting lineup. "There's a What posltlon must step up snapped by Cy-Fair 14•6 in quarterbacks to open the the region is arguably deal called graduation, and for the Chaps to make a run PASTTHREE the 6A state semis. season. No matter who senior Mason Mangum, a they won't letyou stay for- at state? SEASONS 2016 (11·3): West'"tf was starts the season, Dodge member of the American- ever. You wish you could. Thomas Jones: 11-1 in games that did not could make change. So Statesman's All-Central We're challenging everyone Quarterbacks for coach 2018 (13-2): It was a great include .s. The who wins the job that Texas team else to step up.• Todd Dodge have always year for the Chaps as Cavaliers embarrassed seniors Drew Willoughby in 2018. The numbers been productive, but the they won district with an the Chaps 49-7 during the and Kirkland Michaux and tell the story: 55 catches, DID YOU KNOW ? Chaps need a running back 8·0 record and beat i:a... regular season and ended sophomore Cade Kl ubnik 1,146 yards, 17 TDs. A who can punish defenders for the second their year with a 51-3 vic are battling to earn? breakaway threat, he Over the past 13 years, and break off the occa straight year, but they lost tory in the fourth round of 2 Who will step in to averaged 20.8 yards a West. ~ has won at least sional big play. to Beaumont West Brook the playoffs. ti II four open spots catch. The Arkansas 10 games seven times. Also Rick Cantu: Losing four 35-30 in the 61\ state semis. on the offensive line? It pledge said he welcomes during that span, the Chaps starting offensive linemen 2017 (14• 1): Another Rick Cantu Trevino to lead Cavs' athletic defense No.1 L. ~"CT.. $ opts toiling in obscurity? for speed over brawn ~ n:am:. middle line backerMaul Trevino, a senior By Thomas Jones entering his Ulird season as a [email protected]:u1.com starter for the Statesman's No. 1 team in tbe preseason \ _ WAY - Every poll,gives a slight shrugwben Cavaliers fan knows Garrett askedthat exact question fol Gilbert, who holds the r lowing a recent practice at u school record with $ Hig.11 School. 12,534 career passing yards. "lt'scool to seeourbuddies Old-timers recall Ben Reid, (on offense) get all thatmedia who still has the school's attention and stuff, but we are career rushing record with all working toward the same 3,805 yards in the mid -1990s. goal," he said. "We want a And while Jason Bird holds the championship , and every state record for receptions in a team that bas won a state High school single season with 153 catches championship here has had a football preview in 2007, plenty of folks that really great defense." fill Cavalier Stadium on a For the record, 2010 - The Statesman's preseason Friday nights will point out " graduate Quinton All-Central Texas selections, U1al Fred Robinson remains Crow holds the school mark tu.IJic;,•is linebacker Maul n-evino runs to the ball during a team-by-team previews and the school's career leader in for totaJ tackJes with 389. scrimmage against Cedar Ridge on Saturday. ll'evino. a three-year more in today's special section. receiving yards with 3,785. starter for the Cavs, is on pace to break the school's all-time tackles Inside today, Fl So why does defense keep SceCAVS, C2 mark. !JOHN GUTIERRfZ/l'OR STATESMAN} CAYS Tackling a record The top 10 players in tackles in L.l.r, .r;. .$ history: homPageC1 Player Y~rs Total tackles Quinton Crow 2008-09 389 Luke Hutton 2011 ·13 367 Trevino, who bas 273 Austin Williams 2009-10 334 total tackles, wouldbreak Zach Strculing 2009-11 328 that mark in the fourth Austin Hiller 2014-16 315 round of the playoffs if Mateo Lopez 2014-16 310 he continues at his career Ian Lazarus 2007-09 288 average of 8.8 tackles a Maui Trevino 20 17-19 213 · game. B"""' Burdette 20UH1 269 Trevino has delivered Aidan Estrada 2015-16 234 that kind of production · active player since be fustset foot on Statistics compiled by Jay Plotkin the '!' ..acampus as a running back. Cavs coach Hank Carter, who counting down statesman keeps a close eyeonplay preseason Top JO ers at all three middle The American-Statesman schools in the _-1-.. ':1-...v:~ completes its preseason 10. Regents school district, knew countdown of the best high 9. LBJ Trevino's mixture of schOol football teams in a Hutto toughness, instincts and Central Texas regardless of 7. Giddings speed would transfer to classification today with a 6. Cedar Ridge linebacker, nnd •wehag took at ~ li'ails, which 5. Ce In Central Texas, August means scorching days and heated preseason debates about the area's top high school football teams. Leading up to the season's kickoff Thursday, we unveil our Top 10, as selected by our high school reporting staff. No. I Coach: Hank carter (116-15, 10th season) 2018: l2·2, Class 6A Division I state semifinalist Hello: QB Hudson Gard, WR Kyle Eaves. LB Maui Trevino Goodbye: WR Garrett Wilson, OL Chad Wolf, DL Kaleb wenson Returning starters: 6 offense. 8 defense 2018 stats: Averaged 45.1 ppg, allowed 22.9 ppg. QUESTIONS TO PONDER What will the cavs• run 1 game look like? While Gard will draw the most attention from defensive coordinaLOrs because ofhis arm and legs. the Cavs have a triple threat in juniors Weston Stephens. Wesley Erwin and Marcelo Alanis. Uh'lt'liiis Cavaliers wide reoeiver Kyle Eaves runs in for the touchdown against Cedar That trio combined for Ridge Friday. Eaves returns as part of a talented receiving corps for the No. I cavs. [JOHN l,ln yards and 17 touch GUTIERRWfOSI STATESMAN) downs as sophomores. Who will replau Ciltl! as a converted receiver, BACK ONO Gilbert, who had one of the 2 McRee's production which he played on the best prep careers in state in the passing game? The Cavs' 2016 championship While carter and the coach history. But no one had a junior tight end and Texas team. Coaches will quickly ing staff acknowledge that better season than Charlie commit suffered a season point out that card is a the cavs must rebuild their Brewer in 2016. ending knee injury earlier true passer who had the defensive front, the back Cantu: I'm sticking with this month, but the Cavs athleticism to split out for seven looks impressive. Gilbert, the first to win a have plenty ofreceiving that loaded 2016 SQUad Trevino and Tag Humble lead state championship. He's options including sure. and rack up more than a speedy linebacking corps, still among the leaders for handed Eaves (1,045 yards 1,000 yards receiving. Last and Nick Villarreal will man several slate records. receiving in 2018). Keep season behind center, card the rover spot after amass an eye on 6-foot-4 senior threw for 3.571 yards and ing 124 tackles a year ago. PASTTHREE Grayson Sandlin, who can 50 touchdowns and added Defensive backs Aden Nava SEASONS play outside or line up at 619 yards and nine touch• and Copeland Gothard each tight end. downs rushing. The Texas had three interceptions last 2018 (12•2): A 51•10 loss to can the cavs snap pledge may be the best year, and 6-foot, 175-pound eventual state champion 3 a two-game losing dual threat quarterback sophomore Denick JOhnson Galena Park North Shore streak to Westlake? Roles ever at - .,;,, which looks like the next secondary marked the first time an have certainly reversed in is saying something for a superstar. opponent had scored 50 this rivalry. \1/es!laa has school that has had every points against the Cavs been bigger and stronger in quarterback since 2004 play 010 YOU KNOW? since aloss to Kerrville Tivy the trenches over the past FBS football. in 2001. two seasons and will serve ,.._ , is the only foot- 2017 (13·3): as a stem regular-season SNAP DECISION ball program in Texas history reached a third consecutive test for t . .s,which to win five consecutive UIL Class 6A state champion had won the previous 10 A revamped offensive state championships. The ship game, where the team meetings in the 14-game line got a boost when cavs pulled off thatfeat lost to Allen 35-33 after series. If t..-1 • can junior Jacob Tracy moved from 2007-11. To put that losing quarterback Matthew hold up against West.. over from the defensive achievement in historical Baldwin to a knee injury on on both lines ofscrim line and won a starting context. I. 7 had just its first offensive snap. mage, that bodes well for spot at center. A state· three winning seasons from 2016 (15-1): The cavs any playoff meeting with championship qualifier in their inception as a program added a sixth star to physical SQuads such as the shot put and discus, in 1984 to the beginning of their helmet - signify• Converse Judson or Galena Tracy is an athletic addi their current dynasty in 2004. ing the school's state Park North Shore. tion to a line anchored by championships - behind three-year starters Dawson OUR TAKE a senior class that had DEALINGTOS Weiss and Andrew Salem, a school-record 14 play- who's healthy after miss· Who do you consider ers sign college-football Want to raise the ire of ing a handful ofgames in the best cavaliers QB of scholarships. folks around the l~-~~N, 2018. Todd Moon and Judge all-time? field house? Refer to Card Niland also started in 2018. Jones: It has to be Garrett - Thomas fones - HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL II 2019 SEASON PREVIEW OFFENSE QB: Hudson Card senior, Ji · Dynamic athlete who had more than 1.000 yards receiv ing as a sophomore, the Texas pledge threw for 3,571 yards and 50 TDs in 2018 RB: Tahj Broob senior. Manor Workhorse tailback accu mulated 1,201 yards rushing and 20 TDs for a team that reached second round of Class SA DI playoffs, RB: Chris "Deuce" Vaushn senior, Cedar Ridge Kansas State pledge ran wild in his ftrst season as full-time back, compiling 2,196 yards Manor Mustangs running back Tahj Brooks avoids a tackle by Georgetown 6nebad 1. t...o!I rav,s, 60 (4): QB In Class 4A behind Coach Jeff district champion may have This poll was conducted Hudson Card, veteran defense Walker, explosive slot-T. program's best-ever defense. byAustin American- with eight returning starters Statesman sports reporters bolster 6A title hopes. S. Cedar Park, 47: Two-time 9. LBJ, 26: Speed, athletes Rick Cantu and Thomas state champions looked abound for traditionally tough Jones, who were joined by 2. Westlak STATE CHAMPIONS: OUR PICKS American-Statesman high school reporters Rick Cantu and Thomas Jones pick their UIL JJ-man football champions for the 1019 season: CLASS CANTU JONES Class 6A, Division I Lu.c l.....13 Galena Park North Shore Class 6A, Division II Longview Denton Guyer Class 5A. Division I Richmond Foster Alvin Shadow Creek Class SA. Division 11 Marshall Fort Bend Marshall Class 4A. Division I Waco la Vega Carthage Class 4A, Division II Giddings Jasper Class 3A. Division I Grandview Goliad Class 3A, Division 11 Canadian Newton Class 2A, Division I San Augustin Refugio Gidcfmgs quarterback Alex De La Torre himts for a receiver during footbaH practice at Giddings High SchooL The Buffaloes have a Class 2A. Division II Falls City Falls City good shot at a title run in 2019. (JOHN GI/TIERRfZ/fOR STATESMANI DAVE CAMPBELL'S TEXAS FOOTBALL PRESEASON POLLS Thisyear the Associated Press decided to not put out week.ly state polls and are using the staffofDave Campbell's Texas Football to compile them weekly. CLASS6A 1. Galena Park North Shore 2. Duncanville 3. LaMbvis 4. Allen 5.Katy 6.longview 7. Westin. 8. Denton Guyer 9. Humble Atascocita 10. south~ carroll CLASS SA, DIVlslon I I. Highland Park 2. Denton Ryan 3. Richmond Foster 4. Frisco Lone Star 5. Alvin Shadow Creek 6. Tyler John Tyler 7. Lufkln 8. San Antonio wagner 9. Cedar Park 10. Blrdville CLASS SA, DIVlslon II 1. Aledo 2. Fort Bend Marshall 3. Corpus Christi Calallen 4.Marshall 5. Huntsville 6.Manvel 7. A&MConsolidated 8. Frisco Reedy 9. Lubbock-Cooper 10. South Oak Cliff CLASS 4A, DIVlslon I l. Waco La Vega 2. Carthage 3. Argyle 4. Liberty Hill 5. Midlothian Heritage 6. sealy 7. Paris 8. Henderson 9.Lampasas 10. Decatur CLASS 4A, DIVlslon II l. Texarkana Pleasant Grove 2. Jasper 3. Silsbee 4. Cuero 5. West Orange-Stark 6. Waco Connally 7.Gilmer 8. Lorena 9.Graham 10. Lubbock Estacada CLASS 3A, Division I l. Grandview 2.Malakott 3. Atlanta 4. Cameron Yoe 5. Yoakum 6. Brock 7. Gladewater a. Goliad 9. Franklin 10. East Chambers CLASS 3A, DIVISlon II !.Newton 2.Canadian 3. East Bernard 4. Gunter 5. Daingerfield 6.Holliday 7.Cllfton 8. Abernathy 9.Cisco 10. Tidehaven CLASS 2A. Division I l. Refugio 2. Mason 3. Shiner 4.SanSaba 5. San Augustine 6. Panhandle 7.NewDeal 8. Garrison 9. Tenaha 10. Stinnett West Texas CLASS 2A, Division II l.Mart 2. Falls City 3.Hamlin 4. Stratford 5. Grapeland 6.Albany 7. Wellington 8. Burton 9. Gruver 10. Muenster SCOUTING AREATEAMS VANDEGRIFT coach: ll Players towatch LB Jax McCauley, sr., s- 10, 215 QB Dru Oawson, sr,, S-10, 175 OB Tyler Mongauzy, sr., S-10, 165 WR TreyMongauzy, sr .• 5·10.170 201sstats Averaged 31.2 PPG, allowed 17 PPG Trendlng: a three-year look 201s: 12-1 (2-1 POStSCasool 2017: 7-5(1·1) 2016: 6-6 (1-1) Overall: 25-12 (4-3) FYI Sanders has led the Vipers to six consecutive playoff berths and its first undisputed district title last season. He's helped malntaln the program's suc C<)SS as It jumped from Class 5A into a Class 6A district that included Westra.id! and ~ -U.....in 2016. ... Oawson. the son of former Texas kicker and recently retired NFl kicker Phil oawson. shared District13-liA's co•offcnsivc newcomer of the year honor last season after throwing for 2.386 yards and 23 touchdowns and rushing for another 427 yards and five scores.... The Vipers• defense led the district last season. and this year's unit could be even better. Vandegnft has all-dis· trict players at each level of the defense. including defensive end Trevor Harrison (46 tackles.JO sacks last scasool. MCCaulcY (156 tackles, 10 tackles for a loss) and Tyler Mongauzy (128 tackles. etght tor loss, six pass deflections). Favorite A talented and experienced offensive backfield giV1!5 ~ , 1& a slight edge over rival West , c. Senior Quarterback Hudson card,a Texas pledge, returns as one of the top signal callers in the state for the cavs, and junior Weston Stcptcns emerged as ver.atile threat at running back during last season's playoff run. But can the cavs match the muscle of Wes~ . which has won the past two games in the series? Preseason MVP card is the latest in a long line of gifted passers for the cavs. whose starting quarterback every yearsince 2004 has played Football Bowl Subdivision 00~ lege football. A dual threat who started al receiver as a sepho more, card threw for 3,571 yards and so touchdowns last season and rushed for another 619 yards and nine touchdowns. Gamestowatch Del Valle at Austin High, Oct. 3: Both programs look to have one of their stronger teams in years. and points should come fast and furious in this midseason shootout Bowie at Hays, Se!>t. 27: It'll be tough to match last season's thriller, which HayS won 35-28 on a last-second tackle at the goal line. But the stakes could be even higher this ~ar. when two traditionally tough programs in rebuilding mode battle for a likely playoff spoL Westl.llu' at UM11:"'\ds, Oct. 11: Alter 10 consecutive wins by U... in this brief but SPiritcd series. the Chaps have pulled offback-to-back victories. But can some home cooking - Westl""e·s wins in 2017 and 2018 came at Chaparral stadium - helptal regain its edge? Predicted order offinish: 1...... 2.Wesua&ol 3. Del Valle 4. Bowie 5. Austin High 6. Hays 7. Anderson 8.Akins 9. Lehman SCOUTING AREA TEAMS LAKE'mA\llS ~ch: Hank Carter (116-15, 10th season) 2018: 12-2 (7•1 district) Postseason: Lost to Galena Park North Shore 51-10 in Class 6A, Division 1 state semifinals Starters returning:: 7 offense, 8 defense Players to watch QB Hudson Card, sr., 6-2, 180 WR Kyle Eaves. sr.• 5•11, 160 LB Maui Trevino. sr•• 5-11, 200 TE McRee, jr., 6--4, 200 201sstats Averaged 45.1 PPG, allowed 22.9PPG Trendlng:a three-year look 2018: 12·2 CH postseason) 2017: 13.3 (5-1) 2016: 15·I (6-0) Overall: ◄ 0-6 (14·2) FYI • , • has developed a recruiting pipeline to Texas in recent years. In addition to Card·s pledge at Quanerback. McRee will join the longhorns after receiving an offer follow ing a sophomore season that included 17 catches for 274 yards. Kicker Cameron Dicker and tight end cade Brewer. two fonncr cavs. currently play for Texas. ... No team in the Austin area has a better set of inside linebackers than the cavs· Trevino and Nick Villarreal, Who combined for 252 tackles last season. Look for Villarreal to man the cavs· rover POsition. which ls a hybrid SPOt that plays like both a linebacker and safety. .•. The future always look bright lorL. T s. Backupquar teroact< Nate Yamel. a junior. may ooly start ooe season at for the cavs but already holds offers from several FBS schools. and sophomore defenslVI! back Dfflidc Johnson coold hilVI! a breakout sophomore season. WESTl:AKI! coach: Todd Dodge (IS9·67 QVl!r• all, 59-12 at Wesl!il Players towatch WR Mason Mangum. sr. 6-1. 175 DB sage Luther, sr. s-11, 185 DB LOO Lowin, sr. 6-1, 185 WR Jackson Coker, sr., 6-1, 175 2018stats Averaged 42.3 PPG. allowed 9.3 PPG Trendlng;a three-year look ma,13-2 (4· l, pc)5ISeaSOO) 2011: 14-1 (4·ll 2016: 11·30•1) Clwfalt 38-G (11-3) FYl Graduation took a heavy toll on Westf.1'1e's offense, CSl)ecially in the offensive backflcld. Seniors Kirtdand Michaux and Drew Willougllbyand sophomore cac1e IOubnid< battled in the summer lo replace lhree-y,,ar starter Taylor Andefscn at Quarterback. and Dodge must lil1d anew tail• back that fits what's bccoo>c one of the area's top power-ruMing games.... The Chaps' newQuar leibad< will benefit from a deep receiving corps that includes Arkansas plC DI S TRIC T 2 5 ·6A : P REVIEW Favorite past two contests in a game that Overall: 17-16(1·2) always features plenty of speed. Powerhouse Converse Judson Clemen.sat Smithson VaUey, FYI shouldn't miss a beat despite sept. 20: Smithson Valley fans breaking in a new head coach in felt their team let Clemens steal Realignment in 2018 wasn't kind Rodney Williams, the team's former a 19-13 win last year that helped to San Marcos, whic.h moved offensive coordinator. Returning force the Rangers into a playoff• from an Austin•bascd district to Quarterback Michael Chandle' 111 opening loss to 'I' s. one centered around the north leads a potent offense, but can San Marcos atNew Braunfels, Oct. ern San Antonio suburbs last adefense with just one retum- 25: It's a battle for district sccoing season. The Rattlers tumbled to ing Sla!W' hold up in the playoffs as well as local bragging rights: their worst record since 2012, against teams like ~ Does the Comal or San Marcos which marked Coach Mark Soto's which has ended the Rockets· offer abetter river for tubing? first season.... Defense was the season in each ofthe past two primary culprit for last season·s years? Predicted order of ftnlsh collaPSe: after allowing 24 paints a game in 2017, San Marcos Preseason MVP I. Converse Judson gave up more than 44 paints per 2. Cibolo Steele San Marcos head coach Mark Soto hopes to lead the Rattlers to a contest a year ago. However. a Chandlergives the Rockets a 3. Smithson Valley rebound season after struggling in District 26-6A in 2018. LSTt.PHEN veteran secondary led by sale· dYnamic dual threatand looks 4. Schertz Clemens SPILLMAN/I OR STATESMAN) ties Kannon Webb (97 tackles) poised ror a stellar seniorseason. s. New Braunfels and Andres Alonzo (83 tackles) Last )'l:ar. he threw fur 2,582 yards 6. San Marcos 2018: 1·9 (IJ.7 in district) 2018 stats as well as gifted comert>ack and 26 touchdowns and added 7. san Antonio East central Postseason: none Quddus Ogunbase should help another 858yards and L2 scores a New Braunfels Canyon Starters returning: 7 offense, 6 Averaged 21.3 PPG, lower that number. ... Expect on tile ground while earning tile defense allowed 44.9 PPG versatile senior Takai Madgett to district's offensive MVP award. SCOUTING key the offense. He'll get plenty AREA TEAMS Players towatch nendlng: a of touches as a receiver and a Games to watch three-year look rusher for a team with a veteran SAN MARCOS DB Andres Alonzo, sr" S-10, 165 offensive front but limited expe Judson at Steele, sept. 20: After WR Takai Madgctt, sr"~.190 2018: 1-9 rience at the skill spots. seven straight los.scs to its north Coach: Mark Soto DB Kannon Webb, s," s-10, 170 2017: 10·2 (H postseason) ern neighbors, Judson has won the (3~-41. eighth season) OL Elijah Barrc By Rick Cantu football players have earned Noteworthy central [email protected] stateandteam records, too. Texasteam records Perhaps themost notable is When Jason Bird_bclped former Burnet, University of PK l(am Praytor set West/, • ~ claim its fuststate TexasandNFLwidereceiver records with 12 PATs in a single football championship, be had Jordan Shipley. He has owned game and 89 PATs in a season a reeord-breakingperfor the ~tale record for career in 1994. manceofhisown. receiving yards (5,424) since RB Brandon Reese set a Texas CoochedbyJeffDicus, a 2003. He also ranks No. 2 in School for the Deaf record with GaVlllier team with Garrett thestateincareer touchdowns 39 career 100-yard rushing Gilbert under center won the (73) andNo. 3 incareer recep games from 1996-99. Class 4A Division II title in tions (264). DB MaJ1< Green set a DelValle 2007. The cavaliers have gone Wes!Ulecan boast Drew record with a ! OS-yard blocked ontowina total ofsix state BreesandNickFolesas field goal return in 1982. championships, but Gilbert Super Bowl MVPs - joining WR Steven Ortiz of Akins set and Bird were among the trail Peyton and FJi Manning as a pair of school records - 320 blazers who created adynasty. theonly such quarterbacks yards receiving in a game and 19 Bird, though, can take extra Clle 111 receiver Jason Bird, left, makes a West , defensive to have gone to thesame high receptions in a game in 2004. safofaction for individual back miss during the team.s' game in 2006. Bird became the state~s school-buttheydon'town QB Clint Bricker of Westwood achievemenL The speedy single-season receptions leader with 153 catches in 2007. [JAV tbe school's bigge. American-State.~man was a first-team all-district JAHDAE BARR'ON Texas, Abilene Christian and fan of the Longhorns and made recruiting reporter Mike selection as a junior after CB, Connally Louisiana-Lafayette. He's a an earty commitment to Tom Crawn breaks down recording 45 tackles. Including College: Baylor dual-threat Quarteroack with Herman's program. CentralTezas' top high 21 for loss, and 55 sacks. Barron possesses all the traits an accurate arm and a good school recruits for the 2020, needed to be an excellent cor• understanding of when the ball ANDREWMUKUBA 2021 and 2022 classes. COLLIN SULLIVAN nerback in college. He·s long. needs to leave his hands. ATH,LBJ WR, Round Rock Quick and unafraid of physical- College; Undecided 2020prospects College: Purdue ity. He registered 68 tackles 2021 prospects Arizona and Arkansas are Garrett Wilson. Jaylen Ellis and two interceptions as a among the programs with HUDSON CARD and Elijah Higgins all garnered junior. Barron committed to LATRELL MCCUTCHIN offers extended to Mukuba QB, Ultti r. elite college attention during Baylor on June 22 and owns 15 DB, LBJ despite him missing 2018 after College: Texas the year of the wide receiver in total offers. He de-committed CoUege: Alabama transferring from Reagan. That card is considered among Austin in 2019. Sullivan is the from TCU in April. McCutchin is a supremely offer listshould grow with the nation's best dual-threat best wide receiver in Austin talented athlete capable of on-field taPe for programs Quarterback and is the ring- for the 2020 cycle. The 6-2, 190· DAJON HARRISON playing offense and defense. across the count,y. He's a 5-11, leader of Texas· 2020 recruiting pound prospect is e-nlering his WR. Hutto He was the District I2-SA 18I-pound prospect with the class. He ranks 15th on the 2020 fourth season on varsity and Coll@ge: Undecided Division I Offensive Newcomer versatility to play wide receiver Fabulous 55 after passing for should end his career with over The one-time TOO pledge of the Year as a sophomore or defensive back. 3.543 yards and so touchdowns 100 catches. backed off from his com- while simultaneously compiling to just four interceptions, while mitment in May to do more 27 tackles and an interception. CHARLES WRIGHT adding 619 yards and nine TAHJBROOKS research on his possible col· McCutchin is arguably the best QB, Austin High touchdowns on the ground. Not RB. Manor lege destination. Harrison plays comerback in Texas. He com- College: Undecided bad for a kld who played wide College: Texas Tech bigger than his S.·11 frame. milted to Alabama on June JO. The strong-armed Quarteroack receiver as a sophomore. Brooks makes up for his lack of famously landing ferocious from Austin High already holds height with power. His lower blocks in the run game. He LANDYNWATSON offers from Iowa State and Al>REOCOLLINS center of gravity is actually caught 49 passes for 695 yards DE, Hutto UTSA. He played sparingly as DE, Cedar Creek a positive for the Manor star. and six touchdowns as a junior. College: LSU a freshman before taking the College: Undecided He's the best running back in Watson is a pass rushing spe- full-time job as a sophomore. Collins is a grown man. There Austin and is now committed DEUCE VAUGHN cialist hoping to thrive in LSU's He passed for 2,862 yards and isn't a more phvsically impres• to Texas Tech after an early RB, Cedar Ridge attack-first defense. The 6-3, 26 touchdowns to just eight slve prospect in the Austin-area pledge to Tulsa. The 5-9 Brooks Co0ege: Kansas State 240-pound four-star is already interceptions. He also added than the 6--6 former basketball rushed for more than 1,000 The 5-6 playmaker from Cedar entering his third year as a seven rushing touchdowns. player who is approaching 300 yards in the past two seasons Ridge found a home in Kansas starter after earning accolades pounds as his senior season and has 34 career touchdowns State tllat overlooked his lack as a freshman and sophomore. 2022 begins. Collins was a late on the ground. of height There is no discount- He was a first-team all-dlstrlct bloomer in football, but now ing Vaughn's abilities and selection as a junior after CALEB BURTON he's one of the most sought MASON MANGUM production on the football recording 55 tackles, includ· WR, Del Valle after defenders in Texas. His WR,Westian field in high school. He was the ing 20 tackles for loss, and 7.5 Burton was a second-team all· mother, Benita Pollard, played College: Arkansas District 13·6A Offensive MVP as sacks. district selection after catching college basketball at Texas. The 6rst-team all-district selec- a junior, rushing ror 1.801 yards 32 passes for 609 yards and six tion chose Arkansas on April 6. and 19 touchdowns. LAKE MCREE touchdowns as a freshman. PRINCELY UMANMIELEN Mangum caught 55 passes tor TE, L1U n~,is The 6-0, I65-POund prospect PE. Manor 1,146 yards and 18 touchdowns WILSON LONG coOege: Texas already hold double-digit offers College: Texas as a junior. He picked up II QB, Regents The best football is ahead of entering his sophomore season Umanmielen is a dominant offers before committing to CoUege: Undecided McRee, who made the perma· and isin the debate for top force for a strong Manor former L,:.,..-e frJ•..is head coach Long led Regents to an 11·2 nent switch to tight end as a player at his posit ion in the defense. He can play defen• Chad Morrisat Arkansas. He's a record and a trip to the TAPP5 sophomore after growing up 2022 class in the entire state. sive tack.le ordefensive end speedy, elusive playmaker who state championship game a Quarterback. He caught 17 Texas offered on July 26. because of his combination of can contribute at slot receiver as a junior and holds offers passes for 274 yards and two size and strength. Umanmielcn and on special teams. from programs like North touchdowns. McRee grew up a - Mike Craven ST, MICHAEL'S coach: Jeff Dicus (llll-76-3 over all, first season a t St. Michael's) 2018: 2-7 (0·3 district) Postseason: None District TAPPS Dll-3 starters returning: 7 offense, 6 defi,nse Players to watch WR/DB Reece Anderson, sr.. 5-11. 165 RB/lBstone sears, Jr.. 6-1, 205 OL/Ol Will Germond. sr.. IH, 275 2018stats Averaged 23.1 PPG, allowed 28.9 PPG Trendlng: a three-year look 2018: 2-7 2017: 3.7 ZO l ij:J-7 overall:8-21 FYI A veteran who has soent almost four decades in coaching, Dicus is best known locally as the arehltcct olthe :W football program. Before the 2003 season. he took over a team that had won one game in the previous two seasons. and it made the playoffs in 2004. In 2007, Dicus led l!le Cavaliers to the first of five consecu- tive stale championships. He left_.._after the 2007 championship and spent seven years as Duncanville's head coach before moving back to the Austin area to be closer to family.... Defense may carry the Crusaders while they learn Dic Mccallum vs. be solid after earning Anderson playing time last year as a sophomore. Mathew 7:30 p.m. Thursday, House Segovia will contribute on Park punt and kickoff returns. QUARTERBACKS: .•• Mccallum special Anderson should have a teams played a major part leg up on many opponents last year in successive because Carsten Groos victories over Reagan. returns. The 6-3 QB passed Lanier and "11.5. The for 7 TDs and rushed for Knights will need a similar 700 yards as a junior... liltcompeting in District Cole Davis returns for 12·SA against heavy Mecallum after a solid weights such as LBJ and junior year. With him at Dripping Springs. Edge: Mccallum quarterback Cole Davis kisses the Taco the wheel. the Knights Anderson Shack Bowl trophy following Mccallum's 21-20 win averaged 32 ppg. Edge: INTANGIBLES: Anderson over Anderson last year. The Knights seek a fourth Mccallum should improve under ¢Onsecutlve win In the series Thursday. Jl n gameclay, thelocal barsand restau- 0 rants werealready packed with patrons eat ing paella and toasting with glasses ofsangria. Itwas the first week of Septemberin1974 and wewere preparingto play our first high scboolfoot ball gameoftheseason. Wedressedin a cramped locker room atTorrejon Air Force, about 15 miles east ofMadrid. Red jerseys. Red pants. Red helmets.Twas a fearless5-7, 130-pound sophomore swizzle stick who proudly worejerseyNo. 32. Itwasopeningday- a sacred timefor anyboy who aspires to taste foot ball glory- and our team wasloadedwith talent. By Texas standards, we would havebeen designated a Class 2Aschool. Roughly 300 military brats filled the three-story brickbuilding, which was a renovatedbase barracks that usedtohouse youngairmenbasics who were stationedin Sp:tin. Yet we wereno different thanthe 1,300or so high See PREVU:W, C2 clash witha Rota player PREVIEW still resonates in my mind. Daily practices FromPageC1 ondirt fields- there wasnosuchthingas artificialturfover1ieas - school football teams seemed totoughenus that will open their up, eventhoughelbows seasons this weekend andknees were per throughout thestate. manentlyscarred. For us, everygamefelt Butthere wasnoth- like West'i:Kc vs. L-:ir! ingmorespecial than n- s . Cheerleaders Saturday afternoons in painted banners to thefall. Webadspirited decorate the balls.The cheerleaders, a drill team, monringpublic address a pepband. Cassette announcerencour players would play songs agedstudentstosup Members of the 1974 Royal Oaks football team ham it thntbecamethe tapestry port thelocal teams oa up for photos after a victory over Rota. The two mifrtary ofourlives. Elton John. Saturdayafternoons. base teams were rivals. [HANDOUT Pt .....~atWirlberky,lbanSUlll,n.1'"..llp.1a . Drippolg....,,.11-r..,....,..~il~.Rocil!lf"IC.'kt..1".Jtp.111,. SQlfun.1".llp.a ~il~1:JOPA. .Widoatlf'OW',CMadctSbdium.7:JOp.m.. East:SidtM.SrMtwlk'.11,vry,W.7'.)0p.,a. Cidclngsat~T'ig«S~?-..Jljl.lll. U.Grlnge•LRll5hou".J:JOp.111. - ..- ••.30,un. ~i.1M.lmrNcw'kl\Mt5bngS'bdun...... 7:lOp.&_.,...... _____ ,,.,_..... 7:lOp.& TlnlMRitsd.7'.JOP,lll. ~-Butltlt.BLldogst)fllffl, 7:lDPA Jl'.MSOltOlyUS¥1s.tli..1".Jtp.m...... Lli!JO'&ta.aletaaa,Plt'ff!N'SUdul\7'.JI -~-...-C,..,Qt -.-31Msl~atHUUO.~ISO.IIU\. 1-.W....al•. wtsllmtast.Bobl.dt:ySlMfult, Card, Cavs deliver in scrimmage QB throws tor unofflclal In three series of plays, physical, and they do some 264 yards, 4 TDs against including a four-play Louch- things that give usproblems." cavaners wide Cedar Ridge down drive in n live quarter Card didn't have too mnny receiver Sterting of action, Hudson Card and problems. Unofficially, he Hupp loses his Kyle Eaves looked mid-season completed 13 of IQ passes helmet while By Jay Plotkin sharp. Card found the senior for 264 yards and four being brought Amerielln· St.ntesman receiver five times for 145 touchdowns. down by Cedar Correspondent yards and two scores as part "We still have a lot to Ridge Raiders ofasolid1CID ..,,,.. effort. work on, but I think we did defenders at the If Friday's scrimmage "For a scrimmage , it pretty well for our first time scrimmage held against Cedar Ridge at seemed like there were times out against different com- at Kelly Reeves the Kelly Reeves Athletic thatwe executed things pretty petition," Card said. "We Athletic complex Complex is any indication, well," [ ~ . coach Hank just need to do what we're on Aug. 23. [JOHN i! ,'offense will keep Carter said. "Cedar Ridge is a GUTIERREZ/FOR humming right along. good football team. They are SeeCAVS, A.10 STATESMAN) olsomade m impact inLake Robinson kept Kansas as Ceda.r Ridge looks t o times that we did, l saw that, we knew theywould CAYS Tolvis'passing game. State-lx>und nmningbaclc replace the production of some good sparks, and I expose some things for "I think that's the way Deuce Vaughn's touches to receiver Jaylen Ellis, now a think we've got a chance us,"besaid. "Butlalsosaw FromPageA8 that we're going to bethe a minimum. He carriedthe freshman at Baylor. to bepretty good:" some young guys step up most letll.'.ll offensively," ball just seven times but Robinson liked most of Robinson saidclosingthe md find themselves some Cartersaid. "Hudson has gained at least five yards what he saw as his team preseasonagainstateamof more playing time. Weplay coached to do, andI need an amuing command of onfive of them. wrapped up its preseason. Lake Travis• calloer - the a really good Temple team to makesure I getevery- our offense right now, and "We know what be can "At times, whenwe did Cavaliers enter the season [to open the season Aug. one involved." he's going to get the ball do,"Robinsonsaid. "We're what we were capable ranked third inthestate - 30), so this is going tohelp Grayson Sandlin and whereitneeds togo. We've just tryingto find outwbo of, we ~1ood up to [Lake letsbim know exactly what usouta lot." Max Foil added touchdown got a lot ofguys wbo can can contribute for us." Travis) pretty good,• bis team needs to work Lake Travis opens its grabs, andJackson Scruggs, catchitanddothings with Quart erbacks Jalen Robinson said. "l wish we on as the season- opener season Friday at home Sterling Hupp, Wesley itafterthecatch." Brown and Jack Turner had played witha little bit approaches. against Arlington Martin. Erwin and Marcus Hanania Cedar Ridge coach Sam spread the ball around more energy, but on the "Playing a team like Cedar Ridge hosts Temple. Bacl< seven strength of Cavs' defense Deep set ofLBS, DBS bolsters hopes of unit Uy Jay Plotkin Amdic:1n•St:1tf!ffll3Jl Corresponw!lll Watching his defen se battle againstCedar Ridge's offenseinlastFriday's scrim magealKelly Reeves Alhletic Complex, t ~ Jr. . coach Hank Carter saw plenty of reasons to be encouraged headingint (> this w~k'ss<:,1- son-opener against Arlington Martin . "I thought our defense flew axound to the football, and we tackled pretty well," Carter said. "I think lhere1 s a Jot of things that we are happyabout with theway we ployed." Heading into preseas on practice, Carter and dcfe.n • sive coordinator Rya n Luedecke liked the depth thatbasemergedat keyposi · lions, especially in the back seven - the linebackers, rovers aod defensive backs. During Friday's scrimmage, coaches rotated multiple player groupings in during the first·teamsessions, and Carter hinted that the rota· tion will continue, making the designation of "starter" lessrelevant. uoutside of (senior line· backerJMauilTrevinoJ, we've got a lotofltidswboare really close to one another with their skill level," Cartersaid. "We're going to send play• ers out there with t he first SeeD EFENSE, Al O becomes a long season. mainstay of the defense leaders and one of our upon toplay a comer spot. asolidsummertbat'sseen DEFENSE Junior Raleigh Erwin for two seasons and will betterplayers. We'rejw.1 Carter says: "It seems him improve bis range, and returns after starting as use his experience and tryingtoputthese guys in like alotofthese guys have qwu-terback Hudson Card fromPageAB a sophomore, leading a explosiveness to lead spots where we can best been with us for a while willcontinuetohandlethe group that includes Riley by example. An intelli tLSe theirskill-sets." and know our system. punting chores. Senjor Colliau, Jayden Nyguen gent and athJetic group Someofthemareplaying Knleb Hnlfmann enters group, butwe'regoin,gto and Austin Spille. On the will play alongside, led DEFENSIVE BACKS differentspots, but I think bissecondyearas the long rotate regularly unless we outside, Carter expects by seruors Tag Humble, their experience will help. snapper, where Carter see that someone iscon• a trio of Treys to make Nick Villareal andCharlie Like Trevino, Copeland I feel like we have a solid said he's developing into sistently making a lot of things happen. Seruors Cross. Humble and Gothard will be a three two-dcepwitbtbeguysat a college prospect. Eaves, plays and then we'll stick Trey Wright and Trey Villareal have swapped year starter atcomerback, outside linebacker, safety Johnson and Max Foil are with thehot band.• Sofia have given oppos roles in 2019 with Humble and starting safety Ue and corner." theearly front •runners to Here's a position-by ing blockers fits with playingalongside Trevino Obalete also returns. return kicks andpunts. position look at how their size and speed. as an inside linebacker They're the most expe SPECIAL TEAMS Carter says: "I hated the defense shakes out Sophomore Trey Dorsett while Villarenl moves to rienced players among a losing Ellisor in the beading into Friday's providesdepth. the hybrid rover posi versatile group ofplayers Juruor Hays McCannon Spring Jamboree because season-opener: Carter says: "We've tion. Sophomore Watson that include sophomore returns after a solid he'd had a great spring got four or five guys who Cusick, whoalso figures Derrick Johnson, who's sophomore season, but and I fell like we'd have DEF£NSIVE LINE we're going torotate quite in the mix at running expected to start along - classmate Nathan Ellisor, the same set-up we bad a bit at defensive tackle, back, has been a pre side Ohalete, Aden Nava, who bandied lhe kick last year, plus those guys Developing depth probably even more than season bright spot as well. Cyrion Morrison, Jacob off and longer field goal would be pushing each alongthe line, andespe wedid in thescrimmage." Carter says: '1 We moved HopkinsandCam Correa. duties, was lost during the othereachweek in prac cially the interior, has Nick totake better advau· And ifinjuries crop up or team's spring game with tice. But Hays has gotten been a primary focus LINEBACKER tageofbis speed,andTag the team finds itself in a knee injury. Mccannon bigger, and he's kicking as the Cavaliers plan is justtoughas nails. He's a big spot, receiver Kyle will continuetohandlethe the bnll further than he for what they hope Trevino's been a developed into oneofour Eaves could also be called place· kicking dutie.< after did last year." r.ille Trav1S cavaliers Card at quarterback quarterbacll Hudson card no passing fancy looks for a pass receiver against the Cedar Ridge Raiders at a Despiteall-state practice, Carterspoke glow scrimmage on season at WR In 2017, ingly about bis University Aug. 23. (JOHN cav seniorproves of Texas-bound quarter GIJTIERIIEZ/f()!I hlmselfbehlnd center back who'd just comeoffan STATESMAN! eye- opening - to some - performance in the finals of Dy Jay Plolldn the Elite 11 competition. Card the hardest pass, clocked at positionatanelite level. American· Slole&11.m turned heads with his arm- 57.5 miles per hour, and also "Atsomepoint ,Pm think oorrespondenl strength, accuracy, overall hadthesecond-best spin rate. ingthatpeoplewillrealizethat abilityandcompetitiveness. What do those numbers we've had some prettygood Want to wipe the smile off "I wasn't surprised at all mean? players !play quarterback) of t.c.Kco lru4is coach Hank thathewentthereandcom The velocity indicates that around here," Carter said, Carter's face? Ask bim if petedthe way hedid," carter Cardcanzipa ball intoa tight "and whenwesay Hudson's Hudson Card, who passed for said. ''Bullguess somepeople spot, leaving a defensive back goingtobe inthatgroupwith morethan3,5ooyardswith50 were." little time toreact.Andifnoth those guys that have come touchdownsasajunior,might Followingfourdaysofcom ingelse, itmeansthatCardcan through here, thereally good be better suited somewhere petition with 10 of the other definitely - as quarterback ones, I would hope theywould else onthefootball field. topclassof2020quarterbacks, coaches andgurus like tosay listen.• As hetook a position-by Card placed fourth over - spinit. Carterdidn'tneedto Most do, but not all. They position look at the 2019 allbased on all evaluntions. seethenumbers toknowthat teamin advance ofpreseason When measured, Card threw his quarterback can play the SeeCARD, AIO badnever thrown a foot- starting quarterback only to Jet bis receivers break "I think beunderstands more year," Carter said. CARD ball, he'dstillbea Division strengthen Carter's belief. loose. And bebasreceivers that's an element of bis With similar numbers I player at cornerback, In 14 games, Card passed whocanbreak loose. Kyle game that makes him in 2019, Card will - from from Page AB receiver, safety or nmning for 3,528 yards with 50 Eaves, Grayson Sandlin, different than almost any- a statistical standpoint back. And he'sanamazing touchdownsanda 68 per- Max Foil, Jackson Scruggs body else in the country to - rank in the top three of kid." centcompletionrate. Only andSterling Huppallmade me," Carter said. most of L.i..e'Ti l,'i'pass- look at Card's2017 season Card's notthefirst L.... 1! twoother Cavalier quarter- key catches inlastFriday's ESPN's recruiting ingrecordbooks.And while - when he earned all- .,... i quarterback to hit backs - GilbertandCharlie scrimmage against Cedar analysts say Card is the thestatistical accomplish- state honors as a receiver thefield first as a receiver. Brewer - have thrown at Ridge, and Card's confi- country's second-best cluaJ ments will benoteworthy, while backing upMatthew In 2003, JeffDicus used least50 touchdown passes dent they'll continue todo threatquarterback behind Card would trade then1 all Baldwin - and wonder if then-sophomore backup inaseason,andtheyplayed soas the season progresses. Longview's Haynes King, to see his jersey framed he'sbettersuited catching quarterback Todd Reesing 16 ganies in those seasons. "Those guys make me a Texas A&M commit. alongside Gilbert, Baker passes ratherthanthrowing as a receiver while senior Card added 619 yards look good," Card said. ESPN also ranks him as Mayfieldand the Brewers them, that he's an athlete Nick Bird took the snaps. and nine touchdowns •same with our often- the 62nd best prospect outside Carter's office. who's simply slotted in al Reesing earned all-dis- rushing, and though he sive line. They protected in the class of 2020. He's That's the wall reserved quarterback. trict honors as a receiver possesses the ability to well [against Cedar Ridge) the 17th best prospect in for state championship- "People keep asking me before becoming the2005 scramble for big plays at and I know they'll dothat Texas, according t o the winning quarterbacks. ifhe's a quarterback or if 4A Player of the Year at a moment's notice - be throughout theseason." American- Statesman's • All those people with he's an atblete," Carter quarterback. In 2008, scored on a 48-yard dash On the chance that Fab 55. Rivals.com ranks their jersey on that wall, says, the smile suddenly then-sophomore Michael tbroughthebeartofAustin opposing defenses get pres- Card 117th in thecountry they are great players," gone. "He throws the Brewer saw time atreceiver High's defense and added sure on Card, the atbleti.c and fourth among dual- Card said. "They are the football as good asanyone while serving as Garrett a32-yard touchdown ona ability that those outside threat quarterbacks. legends. That would be in thecountry, andhejust Gilbert'sheir apparent. fourth-down run against the program - and those "He is a tremendous awesome to get up there, happens to bea greatath- Card's numbers in bis Bowie - he's content tostay insideit - rave about kicks talent,andPmlooking for- and I'm going to work lete on top of that. If he firstseasonas J:-l:..1:...0.s' in thepocket Jong enough in. wardtowatchinghimone hardtodo that." OUR TAKE Yaaawn: Clemson, Barna look poised to do it again two-touchdown win. 2. Name your top four College Football Playoff teams. Bohls: Joininguobeaten Clemsonandunbeaten lbtrBobls&CeddcGolden Alabama will be Ohio State (what was thename ofthat previous head coach again?) he 2019 college foot• and LSU, which will barely ball season is finally escape Austin with a win and T here, and American - thenget revengeonTexas Statesman columnists A&M in tbe regular-season Kirk Bohls and Cedric fina.le. Golden tackle some of Golden: Clemson, Alabnma, the most intriguing ques • Ohio State andGeorgia, tions and storylines: whichrebounds from that no-show al the Sugar Bowl Quarterback Trevor Lawrence could become the first Clemson player 1. Will anyone interrupt this to qualify for that ever to win a Helsman Trophy. He's one ofthe favorites heading Into the Clemson-Alabama run? elusive national semifinal season. (STREETER LECKA,l'.;ETTY IMAGES] Bohls: With much sadness, behindAll- America quarter I'll say no. This smacks of back Jake Fromm. 4. Give your top five Heisman by Tagovailoa, JerryJeudy Golden State II. I'd love a candidates and eventual and Fromm. Keep an eye new storyline or two, but 3. Which new head coach will winner. on Oklahoma quarterback few tenms are as stacked as have the biggest season? Bohls: It's alreadyTrevor Jalen Hurts, who will be n those two. AndtheTigers Bohls:Since I hnve the Lawrence's to lose, which muchbetter pnsser under willmnkeit threetitles in Buckeyes among thelast theSeptember favorite LincolnRiley than he was at four years, partlydueto a four teams, Ryan Day will almost always does. But Alabama. weak ACC, and whipupon show zero slippage from the he's got the press clippings, the Crimson Tide again. Urban Meyer Era and will the lack ofhair clippings 5. Pick adark horse outside Golden: Yes - whoever ride J.K. Dobbins and Garrett nnd tons ofgifted wide the Top 10 that could sneak persuades Dabo Swinney Wilson into the playoffs with receivers to talce the prize. into the Final Four. and NickSabanto leave a u-1record - ifThe Most The otherfour are Tua Bohls: I'm taking Utah. the planet immediate(y. Arrogant School doesn't slip Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert, The Utes will beone ofthe Since that's not happen up at Nebraska. Sam Ehlingerand Jonathan most complete teams with ing, expect Clemson to post Golden: Day. The schedule Taylor. My sleeper is Boston dynamic quarterbackTyler championship No. 2 inNew is friendly enough, but that College running back A.J. Huntleyandbull ofa run· Orleans, with Sabanserv Nov. 30 game at Michigan Dillon. ning back Zack Moss anda ingin the unfamiliar role will be the difference Golden: Clemson's stingy defense led by end ofbridesmaid again. And between a 12-0and an 11-1 Lawrencewill win it and will Bradlee Anae. this time, Clemson rolls to a regular season. be joined in New York City Golden: Give me Wisconsin. Rwmingback Jonathan Taylor will run for 1,800-plus yards, and the Badgers have home fieldadvantage in games against Michigan, Michigan State andIowa. Even ifthey lose atOhio State, there's still a chance towin the conference. 6. Texas will have a great year if ••• Bohls: ... theoffense produces a 1,000-yardrun ningback anda 1,000-yard receiver. Golden: ... Sam Eblinger SeeO URTAK.£, f'5 9. Which head coach gets 12. wm Texas State have OURTAKE fired this year? a winning record? Bohls: Howlonghas the Bohls: Call me an From Page Fi Cloy Helton Watch be<.'l1 optimist, but I believe going ou? Ibet he doesn't iu Jake Spavil al and a plays every game. Ile's make the full seasonal frlcudly schooule and lb.- the one player on the use. experience ofwhichever roster the Homs cannot Gojden:Chris Ashbad quarterback be chooses afford to looe. With myriad off-lbe-ficld aodcigbl senior tine- zero playing experience problemswithhisRutgers backers. They survive. behind him, Ehlingcr program last season, a tough nonconfercnce must stay clean for the and the r...,Jt was a 1-1 I slateofTOJraSMM, Ilorn.Ii: lo rise. rE.wrd. l!e's7-29inhis Wyoming and SMU and first lhrc:cse~and still fmlsh 6-6. 7. Will the nasty schedule 3-24 inconforcoccplay. Golden; Nol this year. derail Texas A&M? TheTu!k will pay him a ll's loo big ofa mess, Bohls: 1lbiolc it will visit byseasoo 's cod. and that starts at the lop and will cost them a with the administration, 7-5rocord. TheAggies JO. What kind of year will most notably athletic In happier times, Alabama coach Nkll Saban celebrates the win over aemson on Jan. 11, face as difficult a gant- Shane Buechele have? directorLarryTeis, who 201&. that 9ave his team the 2015 national champlotm'llp. But Clemson prevailed In last lei as any team, with Bohls: lfkarma i.~ finaJly made a decision season's title game. rcttRISTIAH PCTtRSCN/Gl'TTY MAGCSJ games against Clem.~, correct.. the former worth celebraUng. He Alabama, Gt.-orgia aud Loogllomsquarterback must allow Spavilal lo outlhcre lbalbclit,w 17. Which non-Power haw goodoptics and I.SU, finishing lbe will kill iiatSMU. Ho's build lbis lbing from the thcir ownsuperiority Five team will grab a New make it sec111asifsome- season on lhc.road gol lbc experience (19 ground up andgive him gives lbcm the right lo Year"s Six bowl game? one wasincharge,There against those last two starts al UTI, lbesavvy the resources be needs lo scheduleafourthnon- Bohls: l'mall in with isonly one true candidate., teams when they both (he"s a football geek) make that happen. I see oonfercooo opponent, Memphis, with returning and tbal's RickNcuheiscl. could be fighting for and the receivers (senior lbcm at 4-8 this season. ool theschcduling6cld quarterback BradyWhile Gojd Wesili.:11 quarterbac.ks Cade Klubnik, left, and Drew Willoughby throw on the ftrst day of fall practice for the Chaparrals. Klubnlk, Willoughby and Kirkland Michaux are all competing for westlakl!'s starting Job. tpAut. BRICK/FOR STATESMANJ Westr.o«i must replace players believe this is their with talent at every other counting down quarterback, four year. Of course, they've position. Mason Mangum offensive llnemen, beensingingthesameverse (55 catches,1,146 yards, 17 The American-Statesman con three llnebackers since Drew Brees brought touchdowns) leads anexpe tinues its prcseason countdown home a title all those years rienced group of receivers, of the best high school football By Rick Cantu ago. and Sage Luther (83 tack teams In central Texas regard rcantu@st:aletman.oom "Wearing these letters les, four interceptions) and less of classification. Today we (WEST' Ji.KU across my Leo Lowin (56 tackles, five look atWest 11!.C, which has won Despite a 39-6 overall chest puts the pressure on interceptions)anchoroneof at least one plavoff game in 12 record the past three years, andmakes me feel like I need thebest defensive backfields of the past 13 years. Who will illWes~ has to show is tobethebest that I canbe," in Central Texas. be No. I Monday? Here's a clue: heartache, heartache and senior offensive lineman "We have a standard to In 2011. this team became the more heartache. Connor Halverson said. uphold," saidMangum, who first football program in Texas Aschool Ihat captured a Halverson was probably is committed to play next history to win five consecutive state footb:tll champion speaking on behalf of his year for Arkansas. UIL state championships. ship in 1996 impatiently teammates when h e said Dodge said he has three waits for another ring. anything less than a state capable quarterbacks who Statesman preseason Top 10 The Chaparrals are tiredof championship would create have received equal reps 10. Regents coming close. Falling short more pain for theDecember during summer camp. 9.LBJ in the Class 6A state semis holidays. Seniors Kirkland Michaux 8. Hutto the past two years has Dodge, 56, has accepted and Drew Willoughby and 7.Giddings shown that West.lalt still the challenge. Despite sophomore Cade Klubnik 6. Cedar Ridge holds a seat at the state's losing four ofhis five start are skilled bu t haven't 5. Cedar Park table ofelite programs. But ing offensive linemen from proved they cancarry a team 4. Liberty Hill that's notenough. last year's 13- 2 team and yet. 3. vandegrilt ToddDodge, his staffand all three starting lineback 2. wcst,.... o roughly 60varsityfootball ers. the Chaps are stacked See FOOTBALL, AS I. t..il,tfr,l\;15 t. _, _ " . isaverybigdeal," FOOTBALL Lowin said. "We have a big plan for 11· • ·, every f'romPage/\6 year,and hopefully we'll con tinue that streak." As for Dodge, he's seeking "I've got three quarterbacks another state championship who can potentially win 12 after winning four times at games for us," thecoachsaid. Soulh....,iCarrollbetween2000 "It'smy job to figure out who nnd 2006. Winning one this cango farther than that." season would be extra special "I want to see a guy who's because Wesfl 11"• has opened confident and can lead us in its doors for its 50th year. 16games," Halverson added. "\Vben I was 15, I already On a positive note, the knew what Iwanted to do with Chaps have won two straight my life," he said. "I wanted games against longtime rival to be a high school football , - I!" , , , after losing the coach. After playing at the previous 10. Earning th e University of Texas, that District 25-6A championship never wavered. I had a stint a third straight year is the when I did the college deal (at team's first major goal, and a North Texas and Pittsburgh), few players are confident they but this is where rlove to be." willdo it ag;lin. Coaching high school "Wewanttogo10-o (inthe football players. Through regular season), and beating December, be hopes. Coach Todd Dodge's Chal)arrals have POSled a 39-6 record over the past three years with two appearances in the stale semifinals. [STEPHEN SPILLMAN/fOR STATESMAN) ON TH&: AIR FRIDAY Majorl.e.lgueBas Rouse's Grayson Schirpili: averaged a double~ouble with kills and digs and led the Raiders to a gold bracket finish at the Volleypalooia townarMnt to earn American• Statesman pl.ayer of the wee-k honors. (JAM1t. HAAMS/t-ORSl ArtSMANJ DIG, SET, SPIKE FABFIVES lo the Texas Showdown wit.b their records and All· lournamenl selec - Clus 6A finish: Liberty Hill, 15th, Uons Grayson S.:hiTpik ond 1. vanw.,rlft 18-5 J•6; Connally, 23rd, 4-5; Reilly Heinrich led Rouse 2. C<>dar Ridge, 22·8 La Grange, 28th, 3- 6; LBJ, to the gold bracket of the 3. t..d...... 20·10 29th and winner of the 64-team Volleypalooza 4. Round Aock.16·9 bronzeoonsobUonbraclcet, lnvitatiaoallilstweekendas S. Akins 11·4 3-b; andHutto,31st,2- 7. the Raiders tiedfor seventh, Clo555A Tournament action is thebest lini<;b forany local 1. Rouse 16-8 pretty much wrapped up teamin the ~d. 2. Dripping Springs l!HO for Central Texas teams, "I run very pleased with J. MCCallum 12·8 though the subvursity theplayofthegirls over the 4. connally s-1 squads have several tour- lastthreeweeks. Webave S. East View 13·ll naments this weekend. phtyed oneof the toughest Clo55 4A and othm District play will begin schedule.~ around," Rou~ I. Roond Rock Clu1stlan 16•3 across theareaFridaynight. coach Jacob Thompson 2. Thrall 12·5 Brinkley Barl!er slammed said. "Our defensive ploy J. Wimberley 16·6 sevena<:esand added eight continues to get better. 4. Liberty Hill 16•ti kills with 12 a~sists as a '11ie senior leadership is 5. Brentwood Christian 7-3 very young St. Michael's strong, asis Ille team-llrst Academy learn gotitsllrsl mentality." win of the season, beat- Rouse and Dripping 15th, 4-4; Wes~ . 17th, ing Navarro 25 -u, 25-6, Springs were Uie only two 6-J; L '- , IV s, 18th, 25-7. FreshmrutSavannaJ, local teams to finish pool 5-4; Hays, 26th, 3-6; Joltnson tallied 14 kills and play with 3 - 0 records. Round Rock., 27th, 4- 4; junior Jufotn a. Rodriguez Rouse beat Waller 25-16, Westwood, 28th, 3-5; added 10 kills as Round 25-12 and Roel-wall·Heath Georgetown, 29th, 4-5; Rock Christian Academy 25-17, 2b-24and sbocked Cedar Park, J]Sl,1-7; Vista beat Brentwood Christian higherseedProspcr25• 1Q, Ridge, 53rd, :,-5; Leander, 25-18, 15-25,25-14, 25-13in 25-23- Dripping Springs, 55th, I·7; andGlenn 63rd, norulistrict TAPPS action. which finished second o-8. l,rdia Headley added 23 ~ toCanyon Randall in the While Volleypalooza and four service aces for silver bracket, was 3-0 attracted 64 teams, the Round Rock Christian, after the first day, beaUng 32-lemnTexasSbowdown which went 6·z in louma• Montgomery, Houston in Smithson Valley had a ment actlon last weekend. StratfordandVandegrift. higblycompetitiwfield that Local teams with 2-1 w:iswonbyl ., , Ridgeover Player of the week records after the first San Antonio:Brandeis in a day were m, mib, battleofstate-rankedfoes. Grayson SChirpik, senior, West ..c, Round Rock, Cedar Ridge bad another outside hiller, Rouse. WestwoodandVandegrift. strongshowing, finishing Schirpikledthe Raiderstoa Ou thesecond day, the inthe gold w:itb four wins gold bracket finish and was Raiders beat Cibolo Steele h1 nine matches, although named an• toumament at then A&M Consolidated theRaiders got stuckplay· Volleypal002a. SchirpikIsa and finally former three· ingBrandeis twice. three-year starterand was lime Cl ass 6A state Cedar Ridge stand• a mcmberof lhc2017state champ ion Lewisville out LAuret1 Pr'ltnde'iflle was finalist.~. She averaged a flower Mound, winning named all-tournament as double-double with kills all three matches two sets the Raiders were 2 • 1 tbe and digsatV0Dcyp.1Jooza. to none. first two days to earn a Advancing tothecbarn • berth inthe gold bracket. Matches to watch plonsblp rowxl, Ronse lost There they met Brandeis, to Flower Mound 22 -25 1 losing 25- 11, 25- 20 to Tuesday 25- 14, 25-15. flower fall into the consolation Cedor Ridge al Hays, Mound went on to beat bracket, where they lost 6:3op.m. lbe Woodlands and won toCypress-~-airbanks and BastropatCannally,6:30 thechampionship bybeat· host Smithson Valley. p.m. ingPcartand Dawson 25-14, "The experience was Hend.rickson at Weiss, 23-25, 25-15. great, but wereally wore 6:3op.m. Other Central Texas down byday three, andit Vandegrift ot teams in the event. with showed. The girls played .,...... , 6:J(l p.m. their records and finish: hard, but wearestilldevel· Westwood atW~ , Dripping Springs, second opingteaindeptb,"Rrudcrs 6:3op.m. tnsflvcrbracket and 10th coach M.>do - said. overall, 6-3; Vandegrift, Olilerlocalteamsplayi11g Butch Hart HIGH SQIOOl ST. MlatAEL'S DEF. ANDERSON SLMidlad'i 25 17 2S !5 Anc1cnon u zs n •• Sl-~--'- ls5ilts: 8'1W ZI. Digs:...... ,U. - CW..2.-2. Ac:os: l!all 1.iJettyHilDel.c.dar Or SeeCOURT, /\lo mentality." Stratford and Vandegrift. Lauren Prendeville COURT Rouse and Dripping Springs Final records among local of Cedar Ridge, were the only two localteams teams: Vandegrift fifteenth, hitting a shot frmnPageA9 to finish pool play with 3-0 4-4; Wesv- By LuzMoreno-Lozano lmoreno [email protected] Sixth grader Dylan Loomer anxiously waited for the doors of the new Bee Cave Middle School campus to open the morn ing ofAug. 14 alongside bis mother Valorie. The two got to the campus anhour early because Dylan was so eager tobe starting al a brand new campus. Principal Amanda Prehn greets sixth grader Kinsey Tramonte on "I'm excited but a little the first day of school at Bee cave Middle School . !JAY JANNER/ scared, too,n said Dylan, AMERICAN·STATESMANJ who wore a red T-srurt and shorts, and carried a black first new campus in five to meet students. backpack. years. "My goal for the first day The Loomers moved to As the bell rang to let in isto help everyone feel safe, the L::. fi:ihi school dis students, some parents secure and at home," Root trict last year from Florida. snappedaquick photo, gave said. Valorie Loomer said she a hug and sent their chi.ldren Principal Amanda Prehn grew up attending Leander off with well wishes for the and Assistant Principal schools, but moved to first day. Teachers, admin Laura Keogh spent their Florida about 20 years istrators and volunteers morning looking at class ago. After hearing voters greetedandguided students schedules and ensuring stu approved a S253 million as they walked through the dents were getting to class, bond in November 2017, front doors. especially the sixth graders. shesaidshe was excited to Karen Longhenry, a vol The pair welcomed students be able to to send Dylan to unteer with the campus' at the car drop-off line out what sheconsiders the best parent teacher organization, sideandinthelobbyas they schools - specifically the stood outside the school were directed to their grade new middle school campus. Wednesday morning offer level houses. Each grade "We moved back last ing directions andguidance levelis broken up intowings year while Dylan was in for families. and divided between two fifth grade so he could make "Wearevery excited tobe floors. friends and gowiththemto welcoming students today,• Each wing includes the new middle school,» Longhenry snid. "I know classrooms, collaborative Loomer said. some students are scared, so learning spaces and lockers. The new campus opened I'm here to help guide them "We are so excited to it doors Aug. 14, welcom as they bead inside .... It's create our own cultureand ing 905 new students. going to bea great first day community here," Keogh The $76.2 million facility, ofschool." said. "Staff bas been work which features a two-story, Teacher Erin Root, who ing bard to get the campus 240,000-square-foot stood outside ber classroom ready. It's nice to see the campus with a football field guiding children unW the kiddos here and enjoying and track, is the district's bell rang, was also excited their first day." Largest one-time anda 4 % increase for all other compensation In a staff. decade; average teacher "These salary adjust tosee $1,100 ments are possible because our district bas operated By Lu:t Moreno-Lozano conservatively, because we bnoreno•[email protected] have an outstanding staff and because of these fine A one-time salary com leaders before you on the pensation - the largest in a stage," Superintendent Brad decade - was awarded to all Lancaster said during a con ;:tn 'R':l school district vocation ofteachersand staff employees thls month, offi Aug. 7. "I have workedinfive cials said. different districts witha wide District staff worked over variety ofboardmembers ....! tbesummer to present various wantto be surewe give credit scenarios of compensation where credit is due today." increases for all employees. However, district employ After some consideration of ees will see a 7% increase in all its expenses, staff pre the cost ofinsurance benefits sented results to the school compared lo last year, he said. board earlier tbis month. "Our hope is that we can 1na special meeting Aug. 7, provide a one-time payment the school board approved a tostaffthat would completely 2%one-timepaymentofftbe andmore than cover thecost midpoint pay scale to allpro of insurance benefits, so the fessional and salaried staff, salary increase would be a including teachers, nurses, full raise," Lancaster said. librarians, counselors and "Often we give a 3%raiseand administrators. On average, some portionis offsetting the tbisis an additional $1,100 per insurance increase. Ideally the teacher, officials said. 2% and 4% would more than A4%one-timepaymentoff cover our employee-only high the midpoint pay scale was or low plan." also approved for all hourly The increase is also tar employees suchas aides, bus geted to help teachers offset drivers and other auxiliary expenses they incurred to set staff. uptheir classrooms and pre The total cost estimated pare for the new school year. $1. 4 million for theone-time Johnny Hill, assistant payments across the district. superintendent of Business, In June, the board also Financial and Auxiliary approved an average salary Services, said with the salary increase of 5.3% for all full compensation the district time teachers, librarians, plannedto finish the2018-19 counselors and nurses, or fiscal year with a $2 million about $3,000 per teacher, surplus. District adopts $180.4 million budget CikeTmlsseeks million surplus, which will communityInputfor be used to fund the open- new elementary name ing ofthe district's seventh and mascot elementary school next fall. The campus, which is By Luz1\lorcno-Lozano still under construction, [email protected] is located on Bee Creek Road in the Rough Hollow With an increase in neighborhood. employee salaries and the As construct ion pro opening of the Bee Cave The ru"irrav~ school board gresses, district officials are Middle School, the approved its budget and tax starting to thinkabout giving • .:; school district plans rate during a meeting Aug. thecampus an official name to finish the 2020 school 21. (WZ MORENO- LOZANQI and mascot. yearwitha surplus. VIEW] Marco Alvarado, director The district on Aug. 21 of communications, media adopted its 2019-20 budget, An adjustment to the dis and communityrelations for which takes effect Sept. I. trict's recapture payment the district, said the district The $180-4 million budget - required of districts with is seeking community input includesfundingfor the 5.3% high property wealth to sub for thename and mascot. ~alary increan~ for teach sidize the wst of education Residents can submit ers, nurses, counselors and indistrictswith low property their suggestions via librarians and a 4'lb increase wealth - decreased, saving Thoughtexchange, an online for allother staff, about$2.9 thedistrict about Slo.5 mil communication platiorm, million total. lion. The district will also through October. The budget all allocates save an additional $5 mil According to district money for 32 new staffing lion with an adjustment to policy, "facilities shall be positionsatBee Cave Middle the district's local optionru named for local residential or School, a licensed clinical homestead exemption geographic areas or regional, social worker and additional payments, which saves tax state or national landmarks bus drivers, and other staff. payers zo'lb on theirtaxbill. and/or historical events." Purchases for technology Johnny Hill, assistant The new middle school software, Bee Cave Middle superintendent for Business, campus, located inthe Bella Schoolathleticsupplies, and Financial and Auxiliary Collinas neighborhood, was other supplies and programs Services, said the budget saw named last year for its geo across the district were also a3'lbdecreaseon the general graphical proximity to Bee included in the new budget operating fund. Cave. ' wayElemeotary, cycle. The district also adopted located on Lohmans The school district netted its tnx rate of $1.3375 per Crossing was named for its an additional $8.3 million $100 oftaxable value. geographical proximity to from the state following "The good news this year I.,i,.way. the passage of House Bill 3, is the tax rate is decreasing A list of finalists will be which provided $11.5 billion by 7 cents, whi.chisgreat for presented to the school board for school finance, money our taxpayers," Hill said. in October. District officials that helped fund salary Hillsaid the district plans expect to select a name and increases. tofinishtheyearwitha $37.8 ma..~cot in November. Connecting the community City working to construct trall system, connect neighborhoods and add recreation Dy Lu,: Morcno-LOzano Lmoreno..lcnano@statesm:m..com IncelebrationofBee Cave's connectivity plan, tbe team from the Hill Country Galleria and tbe city are hosting tbe inaugural Bicycles, Blues and Brews on Sept. 7. The event will feature live music, beer tastings from local breweries suchasTreaty Oak Distilling, Vista Brewing and Circle Brewing, and local bike vendors including Bicycle SportShop Bee Cave and MOD Bikes, which will be on-site to offer test bike rides, conductdemosandtalk toguests about bicycle safety. The city's parkstaff willalso be available to answer ques· tions and showcase the completed andfuture trails. Lindsey Oskoui, director for The Bicycles, Blues and Brews event will celebrate Bee cave's connectivity plan, which aims to build hike• planning and development, and-bike trails throughout the city. The newest portion ofthe trail between Fakonhead Boulevard and Central Park opened in the Sl)ring. I COUR1 ESY CITY Of BEE CAVE] SeePLAN, A5 Completed and upcoming PLAN connectivity projects f'romPQgeA1 said the city's compre ··•·•· hensive plan dating back to 2000 shows ideas of hike and bike trails running roughly paral lel to RM 620. It wasn't ••••••• Completed until 2015 when the Canyonside developers •· ···•· Soonto ~ under construction ~ J.. •······ Planned GAL ERIA ...!.. ' built a trailsystem in the .... Planned pcdcstnan bridge neighborhood that a city ~mue wide bike-and-bike trail Source: maps4news.corn/&tHERE GATEHOUSE MEDIA system started to gain momentum. Through efforts from Parker said. "It's taken Mayor Sandy Cox have local leaders, the city a while for word to get beencollaboratingon the developed nconnectivity around but I think more plan. plan, whichwas adopted people are getting accus TheTexas Department in 2016, with the goal tomedtogetting from one of Transportation's of adding recreational placetoanotherusing the improvements to RM opportunities for resi trail. n 620 will help accomplish dents as well as adding After opening the first that by adding a shared the ability to connect portion ofthetrail, Parker usepathfrom Texas 71 to neighborhoods to shops, said the city is working Hudson Bend Road. restaurants and other with property owners to A pedestrian bridge destinations. open additional trails to over Texas 71 and near The Bee Cave Central enhance the experience Sculpture Park is also Park includes just overa for residents. That effort planned. Oskoui said the mileofpaved trail around will include improving trails will be built out over its perimeter and has the the trail that connects thenext 10 years. ability to connect to the [ .,J , c . ., High School Having been rained out HillCountry Galleria trail to Falconhead Boulevard thelast two years, this is thatrunsalongtheperim and trails along Texas 71 thefirst event held in cel eterofthecomplex. connectingthe Shops at ebrationofthecity'spark The newest portion of the Galleria to Spanish system. The event will the trail, which connects Oaks. runfrom 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.. Falconhead Boulevard to Hill Country Indoor, witha bandeach hour: Bee Cave Central Park, the Backyard and the opened lo thepublicinthe Village at Spanish Oaks Music line-up and spring. The hike and bike are also expected to con schedule: path stretches .75 mile struct trails and tie in a and features a 10-foot whole new network to the 4 p.m. - Marcus wide stabilized crushed tr:ul system, Parker said. Morales granite trail. "Everytractoflandthat 5 p.m. - The Matters Residents can now hasyet tobe developed 6 p.m. - Jacqui run, walk or bike from as wellas ones that have Walker Falconhead Boulevard to alreadybeen developed 7 p.m. - Paul Oscher Central Park andontothe we've already agreed Band Galleria. to trails with,• Parker 8 p.m. - Mobley Mayor Monty Parker said. "But they've also "Any event that has said the connectivity agreed to keep (the trails) the potential to bring system received over in limbo until we know the community together whelming support from how we want them to in fellowship is a good residents and has beena connect." even," Parker said. "We focus for thecity over the Parker said the goal is are pleased the Galleria last year. to eventually connect the haschosentosponsorthe "We are seeing more Bee Cave trailsystem with event t his year and hope people using that new l""'"'lway's trail system. this is going to be a big portion of the trail," He said he and ~ cway success.'' t~ way Council Lak ,way tax rate stays same Member Sanfeev Kumar explains changes he City also tweaks thecityadoptedinfiscal 2019. proposed to the proposed animal Last year, thecity's property city's former ordinance, nixes valuation was just under $4.7 Animal Control microchip requirement billion, and property-values bave Ordinance during increased this year, account- the council's ing for a greater taxburden by special seuion By Lesl ee Bassm:in residents. Monday. [PHOTO BY Conlribuling writer According to Acting City LESLEE BASSMANJ Manager Julie Oakley, for an Wrth propertytax rolls calcu average •~ ;,way homevalued latedatjustunder $5 billion for at s550,296, the homeowner ssz7,427. past year. The rollback tax the city of way, the City wouldowe$905incilyproperty The effective taxrate iscal rate, or the highest rate a city Council unanimously adopted a taxnextyear, anincrease of$38 culatedat o .15 cents, meaning can charge without putting it maximumtaxrateofo.16cents annuallyoverthisyear'saverage this rateoftax would produce to the vote ofits residents, is for fiscal 2020onAug. 26. This tax rate that was calculatedon the same revenue for the city taxrate is identical tothe rate a lower average home value of inthe corning fiscal year asthe See l: \VAY, A b ProPosal tac,kles animal Nofinalactionwas taken, for variances; simplified and Jeffrey Garrett, who BuildingandDevelopment welfare buta third reading on the Jesidential lighting provi run anactiveranch. They ServicesDirector Charlotte proposalwillbe conducted sions;andmoved technical alleged drainage concerns Hodges said. However, she FtomPageAJ Onasecond hearing, the ata future meeting. specifications into a city exacerbated by theproject saidthespecialuse permitis council tweaked its former designmanual. would endanger their live only one step in theoverall AnimalControlOrdinance, Building ordinance gets The2019 state legislative stock when chemicals nnd buildingprocess that also 0.1693 cents. renaming it Animal overhaul changesgointoeffect Sept. otherrnatterwashontothe includes plan approval, Revenue for the city's Protection Ordinance, 1, - way CityAttorney property. a permit for installation, 2020fiscalyearisproposed and, followingpublicinput, In an effort to comply Cobby Caputo said. Coun cil M ember inspection oftheportables atabout $15,135,000, with loosened a former pro with new state statutes Sanjeev Kumar said he and, finally, theissuanceof proposed expenditures at posaltorequirepetowners courtesyofTexas' last leg Council gives green light received input from acertificateofoccupancy. about$15,133,ooofor atotal to microchip all dogs to islative session, thecouncil to special u.se permit for residents regarding the At thisstage, the council of about $2,000 positive insteadmandatetraceable considered and approved portables at school possible adverse impact wasonlyreqniredtodecide revenueoverexpenditures, identificationsuchas a dog an overhaul to its build of the project, and Vance whethertbeportablestruc Oakley said. tag, tattoos or microchips ing ordinance ona second With members Doug voiced continued con turesareanappropriateuse About $1.1 million will on the pets. The proposal reading. Howell and Gretchen cerns over the wat er of the property, Caputo be transferred from fiscal also obviates the need for The new law incorpo Vance opposed, thecoun quality of the project's said. 2019 to :r:" way's fiscal residentstoobtainalicense rated the changes within cil approved a special use nearby landowners. With the portable 2020 capital reserve fund for their pets and leaves House Bill 2439; set resi permit for portablebuild• Lm ••n• school dis buildings already on for city projects, she some situations involving dential building permits ings to be used for office trict agreed to construct the school grounds, said, along with another animals to the discretion to expire 18 months after space at the .,.;ii T' .1s a swale on the east side City Council Member $155,000 tofundthe city's ofthe police officer, such issuance, withasinglesix Educational Development of the portables to redi Laurie Higginbot ham local transportation study. as the welfare ofa pet and month extension possible; Center, 6o7RM620North, rect water runoff from admonished the district Fiscal20201s fundbalance whether an animal is con removed theCity Building during the item's second the school property, and for taking leeway at a is propooed at30%, Oakley sidered a nuisance. Commission's authority hearing. the small project permit time when the city had said. A provision wouldalso over issuing permits and The issue was con requested by the school changed its BDS philoso New staffingcosts are prohibitanimals inbuild certificates of occupancy troversial for adjacent district doesn't call for phyfrom issuing citations alsoamongthe expenses. ings wherefood is sold. while retaining itsdecision neighbors, Kathryn Allen water quality standards, to urging compliance. Reva1nped Liberty Hill aims for another title game Powerhouse DE Walker Baty switches sides to bolster offense By Thomas Jones [email protected] LIBERTY HILL When Coach Jeff Walker sat down at his desk after last season and began plotting for 2019, he couldn't ignore the obvious. His Panthers were losing 36 seniors from a veteran squad that reached the Class 4A Division I state cham pionship game, where the team fell to playoff SeePANTHERS, C2 Liberty Hill's Walker Baty, an all-district defensive end as a junior, is moving to the offensive side to strengthen the blocking in the Panthers' slot-T. [NICK WAGNER/AMERICAN· STATESMAN) PANTHERS fromPageC1 nemesis Waco La Vega. The losses on the offensive side looked par ticularly heavy, including the bulk oftheline as well as star runningbackKyle Hanison, who set an Austin-area single-season rushing record last season with2,875 yards. So Walker made a big decision - quite liter ally - withoneofhisbest players. Walker Baty, a 6 - foot- 4, 280- pound senior defensive end who has committed to play football at the University of Texas-San Antonio, will move from his spot on the defensive line to the strong side end onoffense. The position requires a player who can win one on-one battles in space, hold the edge and occa- sionally get downfieldon passing routes. "Quickness is a big part of what we do," says liberty Hill's Ryley Rosenbusch, a first-year "Our strong end is starter at center. (NIOK WACiNER/AMERlCAN•SfATESMANJ probably the one line- -. - . -. - man that we have thatwe rushing and 52.6 points juggernaut. offense, you have to be ask to block mano a mano pergame last season. "It's the best offense really quick. Between tbe most," said Wallcer, "Oh, we're not chang in the game,• Baty said. pulling and scooping whose team is No. 4 in ing much," Walker said. "Schematically, you different defensive line the Statesman's preseason "We're a little inexperi can't stop it, because our men, you have to do a lot Top 10. "He'sgot to be a enced (on offense), so it offense always has some of things in this offense. pretty impressive guy that maytake us a little longer thing to come back at Quickness is a bigpart of can win one-on-one bat toget going, but it will be you." whatwe do." tles. Weusuallyputoneof thesame." Baty, the cousin of So is winning, and ourbetterlinemen there. Baty says he's already former L..K.! ud u base Walker and his players "And Walker isthetotal looking forward lo ball standout Brett Baty, don't expect anything less package. He's got great "getting that ball and also plays for Liberty than reaching the play hands, and be can catch. running with it," but he Hill's basketball team, offs for the 18thtimein19 We're going to use him also understands that a which reached the state years andmaking another as a weapon and get him relentless ground game championship game last appearance in the state tbe ball. He can do some will always define the season. The quick feet titlegame at Arlington. thingsintbeopenfield." Panthers' offense under thatBaty usesonthebas "We figure we'll just Butdon't worry, slot-T Walker. If Baty can help ketball court have helped plug 'em in and keep aficionados; not even the the line spring tailback him transitionto his new playing andhopefullyget image of Baty rumbling Trey Seward, halfback position, said Liberty Hill thesameresults," Walker loose downfield against B ...J +Simpson, fullback center Ryley Rosenbusch. said. "We all want to be helpless safeties will cause Nash Robinson and the "It's about getting low back at AT&T (Stadium), Walker toabandon a run other Panther ball car and moving your feet, but we're focused on the based offense that rolled riers, then Liberty Hill and he'sbeendoingthat," Glenn game (Friday). We up more than 500 yards will remain an offensive Rosenbusch said. "Inour don'tlook too far ahead." One ofthese two players will be Oklahoma State's starting quarterback this ...,ek. But who? It'll be either redshirt freshman Spencer Sande The season is about to kick off, but therebavealre.ady been a bunch of develop ments in the Big u since lhe end oftMt season. Here's a quick c.atcl1-up: Nov. 18: Kansas hires Miles. Technically. the 2018 season wasn·t ovet. But Kansas intro• duccd new coach Les Miles after informing David Beaty that he'd be terminated at the end or the season. Miles. who had been out or football tor two years after getting dumped by LSU, signed a five-year contract worth si.1 million annually. He's in line for hefty retention bonuses in 2020and 2022. Miles also secured a promise from KU athletic: di=orJeff I.Ong th>I the S(.hOOI will Invest rnorc in the football program. Mov. 25: Kingsbury fired. A dav aftCf Texas Tcch's regular• season finale, a Joss to Baylor, K.a..nu.s runnlng back PGOkA Wi1Ji&m$ Jr. was wSpenoNI after a domestic violence arrest In Oecemb•r but was relnstattd in July. He'll miss lM the Red Raidor.. fired head Jay1,awks' season OJ)tlnH agalnst 1ndla.na Sta.tt. fJAYBK.GERSTAFF/\JSA TODAYI coach KJiff Kingsbury, an ottcnstve whit and tormcr Tech star quartert:iack. That tcr• rifle offense. however. djdn't translate to many wtns. Tech WCfll 35·"4-0 (19-35 in Ille Big 12) during l hC Kingsbury wars. He dtdn"t stay out of coach- ing for long. He was hired as USC's oHcnsiYC coordinator in December. And then. on Jan. 8. he abruptly left tllc Trojans to become the head coach of the Nfl's Arizona cardinals. Nov. 29: Tech hires Wells. Just lour days after dumpi.ng Kingsl>tuy, Tech h~cd Utah State's Matt Welts. a two-time Mountain West coaeh of the year. Similar to Kingsbury, wells was a rormcr Utah State Quarterback. But he didn'tmind k!aving for a Power f°lvc jOb. One or the aSSistants he hired In Lubbock was formTUa Tagovailoa after fashioning A 26--2 record AS the , ·tarter. (ALONZO SOOners., and quarterbi.d( Kyler Murra.y was the No. l OYerall pick of $tale. Bill Snyde<, a Kansas AOAMS/1\11.SA WORLOJ the 2019 NFl drafL (LO~SOELUC>J'TliE OAI.LASMORNIN The best player in the Big 12 could be Texas quarter buckSam Billinger, the b'UY who has been favorably compared to Tim Tebow, SEC royally, for his on• field passion and instinctive power. Or maybe it's Okloboma's Jalen Hurts, the one-time be...-t offensive player in the SEC who transferred to the Sooners inhopes that a sprinkle o!Big 12 magic can transform bim into the top quarterback in the country. At leastin the preseason, Ehlinger tops Hurts in the American·Statesman's annual Big 12of the Big 12, which identifies the dozen best players in the confer ence regardless or position. Ehlinger gets the preseason nod because the Longhorns star knows bow to thrive ina league featuring zany 1 aecelerated offenses. Hurts won 26 times as the starter at Alabama and reached three notional championship game.s. But this season willprove whether he wru;moreofagamemanager under disciplined Nick Saban ora big-play creator directed lwo of the top players in the Big 12 this year are Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger and Oklahoma linebacker Kenneth Murray. EhUnger was by the Sooners' Lincoln Riley. voted the Big 12•s preseason offensive player of the year, while Murray was tabbed preseason defensive player of the year. (RICAROO e. Eb.linger is ajunior who1s BRAZZIElVAMERtCA.N·STATESMANJ ~~elemenl,P!"~in__ his hometown of Austin. He scored three touchdowns to lead the Longhorns to a Sugar Bowl victory over C'.eorgia for the team's 10th winlast sea.son. Thispresensoo, the word uwe11 is heard often when Eblingerdiscusses what's ntread. uWhat excites me, every thing,• Eblinger said ofthe offense. "From the speed, the athleticism, the offensive line, the rwmingbacks, nearly every position on ouroffense l'mreallyexcitedabout. The talent is there. Every position has extreme talent. Nowtbat we have that talent, what are we goingto do with it? I think the sl-y is the limit.• UTfans haven't been this deJigbted with a quarterback in a decade, not since Colt McCoy directed Texas to the national title game after the 2009 season. Coincidentally, Ehlinger haspinnedapbotoofMcCoy and himselfon hisTwitter page., describingthe fonner Baylor quarterback Charlie Brewer~talking with coach Matt Rhule in the fmal moments of '-tst year's loss Longllom as his "childhood to Texas, wants no part of a discussion about how good he ls. (STEPHEN SPILi.MAit/FOR STATESMANJ heso." Meanwbile, Hurts is the senior, alsoa native Texan BIG 12 TRIPLETS: EVERY SCHOOL'S TOP QB. RB ANDWR and the son of a highschool co3Cb who was so confident suzanoe Halliburton·s preseason picks for every Big 12 school's and talented that he started top quancrbac.k. running back and wide receiver. as a freshman inTuscaloosa. Hurts graduated from high School Quarterback Running back Wide recelver school early toenroll for his Baylor Charlie Brewer JaMycal Hasty Denzel Mims spring semester at Barna. He Iowa state Brockl'llrdy Kene Nwangwu Deshaunle Jones turned down a last-minute Kansas Thomas MacVittic Pooka Williams Jr. Daylon Charlot recruitingpitcb fromformer Kansas State Skylar Thompson James Gilbert Dalton Schoen Texas 11&.M coach Kevin Oklahoma Jalen Hurts Trey Sermon CeeDeelamb Sumlin, who was trying to Oklahoma State oru Brown Chuba Hubbard Tylan wallacc replace Kyler Murray, who TCU Alex Delton Darius Anderson Jalen Reagor had transferred to OU. Tex.as 5am Ehllnger Keaontay Ingram Collin Johnson Hurtswa< the toast of the Texas Tech Alan Bowman Ta'2hawn H<>nry T.J. Vasher SEC for most ofhis fir•t two West Virginia Austin Kendall Kennedy McCoy T.J. Simmons sensons, keeping defenses offbalancewith hisrunning ability inSaban's disciplined consecutive Sooners quarter· you're strutiog fromscratch. whomorphed frombench offensiveopproocb. But after back towin the Heil,man after lt'safun process. He's a smort guy toBiletnikofffinalist. he lost his starting job to Balcer MayfieldandMurray? kid. He'seagerand works Or maybe it1s Oklahoma's TuaTogovniloa,last year's He'salready oneoftbe most veryhard al it, and web.ave CeeDeeL:unb, who previously Heisman Tropbyrunner-up, popular players in thecoun meshed together well." had tocarve outan identity Hurts graduated sohe could try, witb200,000Twitter Baylor's Charlie Brewer is opposite Marquise Brown, an spendhis finnlseason atOU, followers. TuealbJetemar lbethird quarterback onlbe eventualNFLfirst rounder. the school ofthe past two ketingoompanyOpendorse Statesman's list, coming in Ormaybe it'sTexas stand Heisman winners and No. l saidHurtsleads all college atNo. 10.The formerJ..a outCollin Johnson, who picksoftheNFLdJaft. playersonTwitterinactive Tl"" ,star wanted no partof at6 feet 6 and uopounds In a case offootbaU ser engagements and isfourth a discussion on how good he looks built for the NFL right endipity, Hurts is replacing overall for all ofsocial media. is. But his last game, a Baylor now. Ormaybeit'sTCU1s Murray. Riley hasn'tmadeany win over Vanderbiltin lbe JalenReagor, who man:iged Hurt:s1 two main wor- public predictions for post Texas Bowl,showcasedhis 1,000 yards receiving in 2018 ries wereab.5orbing the new se=ngrandeur for Hurts, skills, Hethrew for more than despite the Horned Frogs offense and winningover his Hesaid dealing with Hurts' 300 yards and rushed for 109 using four quarterbacks. OUteammates. Reports out innnenseexperiencehas been to earn the bowl's offensive lowaState'sJaQuanBmley, ofNonnausay he'salwoys the ''differenl." MVPhonors. at No. 5, is lbe highest-ranked final Sooner to leave thefield. "He brin~ game experi "l'm not too worried about Big u defender on the list. A recent digital clipposted ence that Baker andKyler did what anyone has to say about Bailey's 181/2 career sacks toESPN's college football not have when they got here," me," Brewer said.as Bay)or are tied for best inCyclones Twitteraccount tohype the Rileysaid. ''But also doesn't opened trainingcamp this program history. Iowastate upcoming season showed how have as much experience in month. ... I thinkaslongas coach Matt Campbell could much the OUpblyersadore the(OU) system.Ithasbeen my team is one, improlald, use Bailey's maturation Hurts. Ile'sseen lifting an quicker, butit'sbeenfun. (I'm)nottoo worried about he's a former three-star incredible amount ofweight He's been eager.Tberehave what a newspaper has to say prospect- as a microcosm as a dozen OU plnyers cheered been things that we dothat about me.• ofhisentire overachieving himon. Atlast count, the he's beenable totrace back ... Ifyou're looking forthebest team. IowaState is predicted video was seen close toahalf todifferent things that he's Bigu playerwho isn't a quar tofinish third intbec.onfer• million times. done atAlabama or even in terback, checkoutOidahoOl(l ence, just behindOklahoma Will Hurts be the third highschool.Soit's not like Stat e receiver TylanWallace, and Texas. Bailey i~ a former three stor prospect. Al Inst month's Big 12 media days event, he was asked how he envisionscelebrating wl1en he breaks the record. He's a team guy. "Iwill celebrate with my team and then run to the sidelines," Bailey said. uor line up and get ready for the next play.• BIG120FTHE BIG12:2019 Our initial list of the oonter ence·s 12 best players heading into the 2019scason. Only two plavers on it - Texas quarterback sam Ehlinger and Oklahofrk1 State wide receiver Tylan Wallace - are repeat picks from our final 2018 llsl last December: I. Sam Ehlinger. To>ilQB (third la.st year): His 16 rushing TOs were tops for Power five QBs. and he was part of 41 scores. 2. Jalen Hurts, Oklahoma QB: Alabama went 26-2 with Hurts as the starter. and he was lhe SEC's offensi\lC player of the year in 2016. 3. 1')'1.>n wallace, Oklahoma State WR (11th): Had 86 catches for 1.941 yards. Best stal line - 79% of his catches produced first downs or TOs. 4. Cttl>ee Lamb. Oklahoma WR: caught GS passes for 1.Iss yards. Averaged nearly 18 yards acatch, tops among returning Big 12 reccl\/CrS. 5. JaQuan Bailey. Iowa State DE: Notched eight sacks last year, the best of any returning league player. 6. Jalen Reagor. TCU WR: Posted 72 c.ilches for 1.071 ~-Also ran the wildcat and returned kicks and punts. 7. COiin Johnson. TonsWR: A huge target. Caught 68 passes for 98S yards and seven scores. 8. Adrian Frye. Texas Tech DB: Broke up 18 passes with five interceptions. Became the first Red Raiders freshman since Michael Crabtree to Mrn all conference honors. 9. Kenneth Mu.rray. Oklahoma LB: Generated double-digit tackles in nine games. includ· ing 28 in an OT win CNer Army and 15 in the semifinal loss to Alabama. 10. Charlie Brower. Baylor QB: Threw for 3,019 yards and rushed for 375 to lead the Bears· revival from 1-110 7-6. 11. Pooka Williams Jr., Kansas: The Big 12 offensive freshman of the year rushed for 1.125 yards. including 252 against eventuaJ Big 12 dlampion Oklahoma. 12. Kennedy Brooks, Oklahoma RB: Split time with Trey Sermon and still rushed for I .056 yards and 12 scores. How Ehlinger's first 20 starts stack up sam Ehltngcr has started 20 games at Texas, one oronly four quarterbacks to do that In the past 15 years, along with Vince Young, COit Mccoy and David Ash. Shane Buechele started 19 games before he transforred, A statistical look al those four QBs' numbers in their first 20 starts at Texas: Quarter1>ack W•l BIZ Home Road Bowts vs. rivals Vs. ranke Young: Texas fell to Young outrushcd Benson presiding over the last 2003 - a blowout loss to starting duties, but the Oklahoma 65·!3 the week in a game.) Notc: Texas five games of a 21-game OU sparked a change at job has been his since bef0tc. Young, taking over averogcd 39.l points In his Big 12 winning streak thal quarterback. Ash became 1he beginning of the 20I8 for Chance Mock (who first 20 starts. stretched back into the the first true freshman QB season. Highlights from was 4 of 9 for 21 yards and M Hero's where the Texas fwc-star athlete from year. but movfng him to showing at right tackle c,ntors (2) offc-nsc stands in term Cuero. has wowed his lil'Jordan Humphrey~s old last year. will move over to As he enters this fourth or roster and deptll. by teammates and coaches slot POsitkln. or H, will Opeacks, how- playing a steady rotation Tight ends (4) the offensive line. Ghlrmal Is stlll leaming ever. Tom HC!f'man has or rocclvCcrs last season. so Texas will miss Andrew Guatds (5) how to play the position. so S1Jng the praises of his two itwill be interesting lo sec Beck. a two-year caJJlilin In the past three v= al expect Kerstetter to slide freshman backups, but If that stays the same this who emerged as a viable Georgia Tech. Parker Braun over ifShackelford Is ever neither has ovi?r thrown a fall. The receivers' depth threat in the passing game earned all·ACC honors sidelined. pass in acollege game. chart. after au. Is the deep- last year. cade Brewer, twice. He came via gradu- Spedol teaJ11$: Kickers (1) Running backs (4) est on th1s offense. though., does have experf• ate transfer. But he wasn't camcron Dicker endeared Keaontay Ingram rushed Collin Johnson (68 catches cncc (24 games), and tho askc-d to do much pass himselfto fans last for 708 yards in his first ror98S yards and seven fomw r .... . High blod By Brian Davis "1bere are alotof kids in Austin [email protected] thatgrewupgoingtoLoogbomgames wtU, amom nod dad wboboth went t this point, Sam Elllinger to Texas," Dodgesaid."Andprobably is tired ofthequestion. wbeu they were little babies throwing But he"sdirect and hooest up tbe 'Hook 'em, Horus.' Bui IMl'S the Awithhisanswer. Notto one that it has come to bea reality fur.• mention tmfailiagly polite. Dodgebelieves llblinger is theright Whydkl U,cTexasquarterbackgrob persou ut tberight moment for themicrophone oo thatsugar Bowl UT. Just don'ttell him that stageand shout, "Lougbom Nation, "Il<:oowthatplayingthe we'rebaaack!" 1)()6ilionO[quarteibackis "Igive thesameanswer every time," geoeraJJy labeled kindofas £blingersaid. "lt was spur themoment the face of tbeprogram, ouddoesll'l really me:m anylhiug."' beeauseyou touch the ball Ehlingi,>-'s hig)l school coach, every play," Ehlingersaid. himselfa former lffquarteroock, just "But I don't really buyinto shrugged, that. So1'mnot getting used "Hey, that's what he fclt,"Todd toit,pcrsc.." Dodge said. "And frankly, it's gotten His faceiseverywhere, nlolofgood inlent, probably•lot of though. Ebliuger's mug Is IJullctinboard material. Sowhat? He featured on one oft.he team doesn'tcare. Idoknowonelbing. It's postersdistributedto kind ofgivensomehopeandsome fans. He's doneat least confidence to a fan base thatprobably five photo shoots this needs it." swmner, includingooe HismOl.her, Jena, said llml 28-21 for Sports lliustroted for victory ovcrC,rorgfa was amagical Kids and the Amcricnn moment. Statesman, andlanded "Nobody thought Texas was going ontbecover ofDuve to win, and they reaDy dldl>'t think CampbcD'sTCXJIS Ibey were goingto dominate," she t'oolbnll mag;,zine. 'lbat said. "I tbiukil wasoneoftbosenigbts ruouecan trigger weird that l know wewm never forget.• moments. Tounderstaudwhy llblinger said "When1was checkingoutof wl1'll bedldrequires adeepdive Ullo thegrocery store, JlookedoutofU,e hlsburnt ·orange background. It takes comerofmycyeandsawawhokrow anunderst.mdingof powerful fumily ofhis face,• Jena£hlingersaid. "'lbat's relationsWps, ayes•sir, no·1ua'am whealwen~ 'Wboo!'11Jat'scrazy," approach and an unflh>chingdesire to Thlsiswhathappcn.sat a place tumyour dreams into reality. likeTexas, where everyone expects "Our Longhorn Natiou, for lackof you lo lead lbeLonghorns toa Big12 a better tc.nn, probably couldn't hope cilampionshlp, maybe even become for a better person to have to~ the a Heisman contender in the process. faceof the program,• said Dodge, ll'swhat happens when you Uirow for who quarterbacked at Vl'from 1Q82 3,292 yardsand25 toud>downs and to 1985- He quicklyadds thatit'snot lead Texas to a 10 -4 record, as be did on enviable posiUou, consideringthe l:lstyear. Ehliugerisu-8asastartec. pressure that goes with it. "Sam's astud."trr de.fen.'rivc Ehlin#f grcwup practically~ coordinator Todd Orlando sakt tobeaLougbom. Hesatontbeeasl •srunruy, iu leans ofdiagnosiug the Som Ehhnger lwtt1ed out a photo ofhimselt as a Yollll9 stuff boy, flashing '"Hook •em'" hand signs, on the day he side of Royal-Memorial Stadium, near that we do, gcttIng our guys In committed to Texu. Enteriog his sec<>nd fuJJ season as theJO·y,,rdline. His parents went to the proper callc;, he's as good as any Ille starting quarterba~ h