Thrall shows promise on and offfield
By Rick Cantu [email protected]
THRALL - Coach Rick Porter gathered bis players at midfield following a 35-6 loss to Lexington and told them they had a lot to beproud of. The Class 2A Tigers of Thrall High were simply beaten by a better team. Class 3A Lexington was too big and too strong and too skilled on a cool Friday night at Tiger Stadium. There were lessons learned that will benefit Thrall as the young football season continues. "We have to trust the pro cess," said Porter, beginnillg his first season as varsity ooachoftbeTigers. Theyjust bad no answer for Lexington running back Jarred Kerr, who rushed for 222 yards and four touchdowns on only 11 carries. While the players likely will reflect solely on the game, there was something about the small-town atmosphere that made the night special. Against the backdrop of a red sunset peeking behind the home bleachers, fans from both sides politely applauded for the teams, cheerleaders and both bands. After the game, both teams lined up in straight lines in Thrall quarterback Colter Hil looks to pass against Lexington on Friday. Later he said he would hold his head up after losing 35-6. the center of the field and [PHOTOS BY RICARDO B. BRAZZJELI/AMERICAN·STATESMANJ took a knee. Thrall's Bruce Poling, thelone player stand ing, led the Tigers and Eagles a face mask. Most of them player on the field, ripping in prayer. The players then practiced social distancing. off runs of85, 47 and35 yards. shook hands and wished During one break, public Among the top defenders for each other well therest of the address announcer Scooter the Tigers were Tyreke Irvin, season. Dubec reminded them to Brady Peterson and Keven "What I like most about adhereto the rules set forth by Blair. (small-town football) is the the University Interscholastic Thrall's Braden Howell was relationships you make here," League, adding the players particularly busy on Friday. Porter said. "You get thatwith deserve to play a fullseason. Not only did heplay the entire the big schools too. I know To make room for specta game, he played the marimba Hank (Carter) at Lake Travis tors, Thrall's band sat on the athalftime with the band. talks about it. In mycase I get track during the game. Some Thrall will be looking for to see these kids in the hall fans brought lawn chairs or its first victory of the season ways as an algebra teacher." lined the fences toget a better when the Tigers face Snook Quarterback Colter Hill view. next week. The schedule still said it's fun to play inThrall After the game, Dubec includes tough games against (population: 893). asked fans to give everyone on Hearne, Holland and longtime "It's a place where every the field a round ofapplause rival Thorndale. one knows everyone," said for a job well done. Despite Friday's loss, there Hill, who scored Thrall's "I can barely speak with will be better times ahead, lone touchdown, a two Thrall football fans set up on the track oval to watch tlhe Tigers play. a mask on, let alone play an said Hill, who has lived in yard plunge late in the third entire football game with Thorndale since he was in quarter. one," he said. kindergarten. It was a night ofreflection, in remembrance of Marilyn age 66. As for the game, Thrall's "I'm holding my head up too. At halftime, Thrall's Laffere, a beloved retired As for the topic ofthe year, Porter said his defense played high," Hill said. "It's going band played a splendid ren- member of the Thrall school COVID-19, almost everyone hard despite a few break to stay up high 100% of the dition of "Amazing Grace" district who died last week at in attendance was wearing downs. Kerr was the best time." Canyon Lake puts district on notice
Hawks wallop LaGrange, sendmessageto district favorites Lampasas, LBJ
ByTbomas Jones [email protected]
FISCHER - Just as he had done to La Grange defend ers for most ofFriday night, Canyon Lake's Jesse Homer dodged the question after his team's impressive 61-23 win at Hawk Stadium. Were the Hawks being overlooked in a grueling District 13-4A Division I that includes Lampasas and LBJ, the top two teams in the American-Statesman's Class 4A and below poll? "Maybe," Horner said. "It could be possible. But I'm not sure. Hopefully, Canyon Lake running back Jesse Homer races downfield during the season goes along, and the first quarter at the nondistrict football game between Canyon we keep pulling out these Lake and La Grmge Fridayat canyon Lake High School. Homer wins." had 213 yardsa.nd five touchdowns on the ground. Homer pulled off the kind [JOHN GUTIERREZ FOR STATESMAN] of performance that may makehima late-round draft pickin the various fantasy playoffs wider Drum, feels give the Hawks a 42 -23 lead football drafts this week that it should be the fourth enteringthe final period. end. Toe6-foot, 185-pound teamin the district tostart "The second half couldn't senior rushed for 213 yards 2-0. The Hawks let a lead havestartedworse," Drum andfive touchdowns on 19 over defending Class 4A DII said. "Two plays, a fumble, carries while spearheading a state finalist Wimberley slip then one play and a touch dynamic and diverse slot-T away in a season-opening down for them, and they're offense that amassed 637 24-22 loss. That setback backin the game. Then we total yards. Those types of was the primary topic of dominated the game. That numbers against a proud conversationathalftime for was nice to see, especially La Grange program with the Hawks, who entered the since we blew that fourth playoff expectations will break with a 28-16 lead. quarter lead last week certainly draw the atten "We were talking in the against Wimberley." tion of upcoming district locker room about how we Canyon Lake ended the foes, even though Canyon choked up in theWimberley game with 510 yards rushing, Lake coach Charley Drum game and how they were the but it's the passing threat quickly pointed out that better team in the second provided by McMullen district games "are not for half," Horner said. "We that has Drum particu- awhile." basically used the motto larly excited. McMullen But it's never too early to 'Finish, finiish, finish.' threw for 127 yards and two look at district play, espe That's what we tried to do touchdowns on just three cially since most schools tonight." completions and has 282 schedule nondistrict games Toesecond half couldn't yards passing through the in order to prep for district have started worse for first two games. Those stats competition. Lampasas, Canyon Lake. On the Hawks' wouldn't raise aneyebrowat a state semifinalist last second play of the third a..quarterback factory like season, has the look of quarter, Ryan Rivali bobbled lr.ake Travis or Westlake, a state contender after a pitch from quarterback but they are almost revolu dismantling historic pro Peyton McMullen and La tionary for a ground-based grams in Brownwood and Grange (0-2) pounced on attack like Canyon Lake. Stephenville bya combined the loose ball. One play later, "Peyton being a th.reat is 96-23initsfirst two games. running back D.J. Taylor big," Drum said. "We have LBJ, which dropped down burst around right end for a weapons in the air, and that from Cass 5A DivisionI, is 43-yard touchdownrunthat opens up our running game. still waiting for its chance trimmed Canyon Lake's lead In years past, people could to start the season against to 28-23. Suddenly, some just commit to the run, and Cornerstone Christian Sept. anxiety began to build on we'd be in trouble. And 25 becauseofhealth limita the Hawks' sidelines and Peyton can use his legs, too, tions imposed by Travis into the borne stands. as he showed (withSo yards County. Fredericksburg But unlike the season- rushingonfourcarries). It's has scored 109 points while opener, Canyon Lake never tough to stop." opening 2-0, and a resur gaveupcontrolofthe game. Stopping the Hawks will gent Burnet squad isalso 2 -o McMullen, a6-foot-3, 185- be theconcernofLampasas, after a hard-fought 29-21 pound senior in his third LBJ and the other dis road win over Gonzalez on seasonas a starter, found a trict schools soon enough. Friday. wide-open Jeremy Greene Canyon Lake will open Canyon Lake (1-1), a for au 85-yard touchdown District 13-4A DI play Oct. Comal school district pro pass on the next series. 9 against visiting LBJ, which gram that has made seven Horner added two more gave up an area-low 8.5 consecutive trips to the scoring runs in the quarter to points pergame last season. Playing fall sports worth the riskfor high school athletes
RickCaata
or Westwood quar terback RJ Martinez, Fthe risk ofplay- ing football thisseason is worth the reward. The black clouds that surrounded Central Texas on Wednesday carried more thanmuch-neededrain. We are reminded daily about a global pandemic that has changed everyone's lifestyle. That includes young people whose passion is football or fall sports such as vol - leyball and cross-country. Yet for afew hours each day this week, football fields provided sanctu ary for about 1,500 pub- lieand private schools throughout the state. "With everything that has been going on these past few months and tohearthat weare able to get back on the field and pieparefor the season is truly exciting, n Martinez said. "It's great thatthis year's senior class willhave the opportunity tocompetethis year." Momentslater,Martiuez showed that he's fully aware oftheserious- ness thatCOVID-19 has had on schools - and throughout society. "We realize thatfootball canbe taken away from us," he said. "So withthat inmind, we go out every practice with themindset that it could potentially be our lastpractice." Martinez might have been speaking for other areaplayers and coaches who know a full season is not guaranteed. Yet they are confidentthat enough precautionshave been taken togive them a fight ing chance when the season for mostteams inClass 6A and 5Aconvenes Sept. 25. Lake Travis, for example, has started to screen all campus visitors. Many
SeeCANTU, C2 space between lockers. trainers," said Vista Ridge playing Texas highschool teammates are required to Interscholastic League CANTU The school also provided seniorKyle Brown, Class football can llllderstand wear ama!ik at all times, gave school distri:!ts a additiouallockerroorn 6AAil-Statequarterbackin howirnportantitis.''the uruess theyaredrink- stemwarning after it From Page Cl space for dance/che& and 2019. "Thesafetyprotocols UniversityofTex:asbase- ingwater. Roose coaches became awarent that physical education classes. that they have putin place ballpledge said. "It's four sanitize allofthebaDs in the manyschoolswerenot How often are play- make us feel likethey are years of your life where middle and after ixactice. practicing ixoper social teams have purchased ers lectured about such doing everything they pos- you fonnfriemships and And the players utilizeboth distancinginthe bleachers. splash shields for their safetyixocedures? sibly can to keep us safe." create memories that will campusgyms tomai11tain AsLopezputit, we football helmets to "I bring it up at least 15 Speaking of All- lastyou throughout the proper social distancing. shouldalladheretoguide- help prevent the spread times a day," Huttocoach State quarterback, Ace remainderofyour life." "Sometimes itis hard lines because COVID-19 of germs. All players BradLaPlantesaid. Whitehead of Class 4A As for volleyball, tofocus because of the affectseverybody. have been instructed High schoolathletes are Lampasas said he is"grate- Rousesophomore masks," she said. "The "I thiuk this is all a to wear clothmasks being asked to walka diffi- ful" tohaveanOJl)Ortmrity KaylaLopez, the2019 mask makes itharderto great owc>rhmity for us as much as possible. cult tightrope. Take a busi- toplayhisfinalseason American -Statesman breathe, so when we are to realize how much we Cedar Park coach Carl ness-as-usualapproach ofhigh scboolfootball. newcomer of theyear, doing fast drills I have were takingfor granted," Absecknotedhis school has tothe sport while being Comingofftoa13-2season said she is more anxious tostop once in a while she said. "I never thought justputthefinaltoucheson mindful that the pandemic and trip to thestate semi- about having the season tocatchmybreath." about how much it mat- a refurbished locker room does not discriminate. finals, theBadgershave slntt down thancoming Parents and fans must tered to beableto breath that ilrludes a 50-inch "Ihave a lotofconfidence high expectationsil.12020. downwithCOVID-19. take tbepandemicseri- freely w1til I had to put flat screen TVand ample inour coachingstaff and "Anyone who grew up Lopez said she and her ously, too. The University cloth over mymouth." HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW: DISTRICT 11·5A DIVISION I
FAVORITE 2019stats Averaged 24.8 ppg, allowed Cedar Park. The 28.2 ppg Tlmberwolves are among Trending: a three-year look a small group of Central 2019:6-4 Texas teams with a 2018: 5.5 legitimate chance to win a 2017: 1·9 state championship. With Overall: 12-18 13 starters back from a FYI team that went 11-2 last Replacing QB carsten year, coach Carl Abseck's Groos will be a challenge team is loaded. Look for after he averaged 175 a tight finish between yards passing a game while Hendrickson, Manor and tallying 21 passing and Georgetown for No. 2 in the rushing touchdowns. Look district. Cedar Park quarterback Ryder Hernandez, passing last for sophomore Fred Dale season agailst Vandegrift, enters his third season as a to get a shot at the posi PRESEASON MVP starter. As a junior last year he fired 34 TD passes and tion. The new QB will have totaled 3,049 yards. [STEPHEN :SPILLMAN FOR STATESMAN] capable receivers in Kiel Ryder Hernandez. Cedar (768 yards and 7 TDs last Park. The senior Is a season) 2019: 4-6 (3·5 district) year) and Hickerson (314· dynamic passer who can 2019: 8-6 (3·3 district) Postseason: none 1). MLB Aidan Thompson also run when he must. Postseason: After three Starters returning: 5 (54 tackles last season) Durable and accurate, he playoff victories, lost to offense, 5 defense leads the defense. Dropping averaged 235 yards pass Pearland Shadow Creek Players to -tch from a Class 6A district ing a game last year while 59-14 in state quarterfinals. WR/DB Jaden Williams, jr.. that included Westlake and completing 64% of his Starters returning: 8 5-11, 175 Lake Travis to SA, look for passes. offense, 5 defense RB Jasiya Demps, sr., 5-11, the Trojans to be athreat to Players to -tch 195 make the playoffs. GAMES TO WATCH RB Che Nwabuko, jr., 5-10, LB/DE Aidan Keith, sr., 6·1, PFLUGERVILLE 175 205 Coach: Charles Taylor (6-14, Hendrickson at WR Carl Chester, sr., 6-4, LB/DB Ethan Bell, sr., 5-10, third season) Georgetown, Nov. 6: 180 185 2019: 2-8 (1-5 district) Two teams expected to DE Desionee Rich, sr., 6-3, 2019stats Postseason:none score a lot of points will 210 Averaged 27.2 ppg, allowed Starters returning: 9 vie for playoff seeding. DB Devin Lemear, sr., 6-0, 23.8 ppg offense, 8 defense Hendrickson might surprise 170 Trending: a three-year look Players to watch some teams after dropping 2019stats 2019: 4-6 QB Jaylon Reeves, jr., 5-10, from Class 6A to SA this Averaged 31.6 ppg, allowed 2018: 7·3 (O·l postseason) 175 season. 30.5 ppg 2017: 10-4 (4-1) RB Elijah Oakmon, jr.• 5-10, Manor at cectar Park, Dec. Trending: a three-year look Overall: 21-13 (4·2) 195 4: The final game of the 2019: 8-6 (3-1 postseason) FYI LB Tony Cuturic, sr., 6-1, 200 regular season could have 2018: 5.7 (1-1) Hendrickson, which shifts FS Armon Fullman, sr., 6-2, playoff ramifications. Cedar 2017: 5-6 (0-1) from Class 6A to SA, should 175 Park drilled the Mustangs Overalt 18-19 (4-3) benefit around playoff 2019stats 49-24 in district last year, FYI time. A consistent winner, Averaged 18.1 ppg, allowed but Manor earned payback After losing their final three the Hawks had been to the 37.3 ppg when it mattered, beating regular season games by playoffs 11 straight seasons Trending: a three-year look the T-Wolves 17·14 in the a total of66 points, Manor before having a losing 2019: 2-8 third round of the playoffs. went on a playoff rampage, record in 2019. Four district 2018: 4-6 knocking off Dripping losses were by fewer than 2017:3-7 PREDICTED ORDER Springs, Porter and Cedar 7 points. Xavier Lucio, who Overall: 9·21 OF FINISH Park. For the Mustangs can play QB and WR, had FYI to have another shot at a more than 1,000 total pass With 17 returning starters, l. Cedar Park deep playoff run, they must ing, rushing and receiver this should be Taylor's best 2. Manor improve a defense that yards. Demps (925 yards, season to date. The pres 3. Georgetown allowed more than 30 points 12 TDs) became a breakout sure is on a defense that 4. Hendrickson in six of their 14 games. star In 2020. Williams had allowed at least 30 points In 5. Weiss Manor will have offen- 885 receiving yards. seven of 10 games in 2019. 6. Anderson sive playmakers such as WEISS on a positive night, they 7. Pflugerville Nwabuko (595 yards, 9 TOs) Coach: Steve Van Meter have experienced defend- &Leander and WR/RB Lavonte Benford (first season) er.; such as cuturlc, FUiiman (1,033 total yards, 4 TOs) to 2019: 9-3 (6-1 district) and LB Dalin Weeks to lead a SCOUTING keep them in every game. Postseason: Lost to Pioneer comeback. The team's most AREA TEAMS GEORGETOWN in an area playoff game. reliable player is Oakmon COach: Chuck Griffin (8-4, Starters returning: 8 (1,040 yards, 9 TDs lastyear). CEDAR PARK second season) offense. 2 defense He1I need support from dual- Coach: Carl Abseck (61-9, 2019: 8-4 (4-2 district) Players to watch threat QB Reeves to finish in sixth season) Postseason: After beating QB Tavian Cord, jr., 6-1, 175 the top half of 11·5A DI. 2019: 11-2 (6-0 district) LBJ 6-3 in bidistrict, lostto OL Diego Cruz, jr. • 6-1, 215 LEANDER Postseason: Lost to district Richmond Foster 52-14 in RB Devin Cross, sr., 5-8, 175 Coach: Kris Price (0-10, rival Manor 17-14 in the area round. WR Curtis Meeks, sr., 6-0, second season) third round. Starters returning: 8 155 2019: 0-10 (0-8 district) Starters returning: 7 offense, 5 defense 2019stats Postseason:none offense, 6 defense Players to watch Averaged 25.8 ppg, allowed Starters returning: 6 Players to watch QB Darson Herman, jr., 6-3, 14.1 ppg offense. 6 defense WR Josh Cameron, Jr., 6-2, 215 lh!ndlng: a two-year look Players to watch 190 OL Connor Heffernan, sr., 2019:9-3 (1-1 postseason) QB Garrett Landry, sr., 6-2, OL Luke Williams, sr., 6-6, 6-5. 250 2018: 0-10 185 290 DB Saul Delarosa, sr., 5-10, Overall: 9-13 (1-1) WR Caden Wheatley, jr., DE Hunter Hewitt, sr., 6-4, 170 FYI 5-11, 175 245 DB Trent Mcconnell, jr~ 6-1, Van Meter comes out of DL Major Maydon, sr., 6-1, MLB Shelby Battles, sr~ 6-2, 185 retirement for a second 220 215 2019stats time after earning a career DB Andre Burt, jr., 6-0, 200 2019stats Averaged 28.8 ppg, allowed mark of 187-101-1 in 24 2019stats Averaged 36 ppg, allowed 21.7 ppg years at Friendswood and Averaged 12.8 ppg, allowed 16.1 ppg Trending: a three-year look Hutto. Cord came on strong 46.9 ppg 1TI!ndl119: a three-year look 2019: 8-4 (1-1 postseason) as a sophomore (1,256 com- lh!ndlng: a three-year look 2019: 11-2 (2-1 postseason) 2018: 9-4 (2-1) bined yards, 16 TDs). Look 2019: 0-10 2018: 8-4 (1-1) 2017: 9-3 (1-1) for the WOives to establish a 2018: 1-9 2017: 11-2 (2-1) 0veralt 26·11 (4-3) running game early behind 2017: 1-9 Overalt 30-8 (5-3) FYI Cross (757 yards, 11 TDs). Overall: 2-28 FYI Herman established himself Defense was a strength last FYI Cedar Park has always as one of the top dual- year, but new faces will Perhaps dropping from taken pride in its defense threat QBs in the region as have to replace nine seniors Class 6A to SA will help but Abseck welcomes back a sophomore, passing for who graduated. This marks a struggling program. a solid nucleus, led by 1,465 yards, rushing for 868 the third straight year that The strength ofthe team Battles (115 tackles) and yards and combining for 19 Cruz will be a starter on the appears to be an offense Hewitt (69 tackles. 20 TFU.... TDs. It helps to have a bull- offensive line. that returns QB Landry. Hernandez has already had dozer guard In Heffernan, ANDl!RSON Me wfll get support from two phenomenal seasons: 56 who has committed to Coach: Daniel Hunter (11-9, returning RB Ray Egelsee TD passes, 13 INTs and 5,635 Baylor. Georgetown could second season) and WRs Wheatley and total yards as a sophomore lead the district in total 201.9: 6-4 (4-4 district) Aiden Perrott. The Lions and junior. With Cameron points with the return of Postseason: none also have the luxury of (80 catches. 1,127 yards, 14 talented senior receiv- Starters returning: 7 three returning offensive TDs) and WR Gunnar Abseck ers Brandon Bradford (41 offense. 4 defense linemen: Richard Holifield, (71-679-6) back to catch catches, 453 yards, 5 TOs) Players to watch Logan Davis and Tai Sewell. passes, Hernandez could and Kade Locklin (42-526- WR Grose Kiel, sr., 6-1, 195 For the Lions to improve on finish with 100 career TOs 3) and RB Ryan Eady (799 TE Kelby Hickerson, sr., 6-1, defense, they will need big if the Wolves make a deep yards, 6 TDs). 210 seasons from Maydon, DB playoff run. HENDRICKSON FS/PK Blaise Darbyshire, Burt and DB Jaylen Jammer. MANOR COach: Chip Killian (90-49-3, sr., 5-11, 165 COach: James Keller (first 13th season) DB Will Fonken. jr~ 6-1, 180 Rick Cantu HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PAESliASON POLL: NO, 3 LAKE TRAVIS
-rt I I • •
...
After two years on defense, Aden Nava should figure into Lake Travis' offensive plans at receiver this year. Coach Hanll Carter said this year's squad wll feature "a lot of versatle llids." [JOHN GUTIERREZ/FOR STATESMAN] Versatility the key for Cavaliers
By Jay Piotldn and every year since 2017, class to an unacceptable real until ours has seen it happen. American-Statesman they've fallen to the eventual ization. Since enrolling at the That is something we want Correspondent champions. Katy (2015) and high school in the fallof 2017, to be apart of. We want that Allen (2017) beat Lake Travis the Cavalier seniors have yet ring." For the last five seasons, in the title game, and Galena totakethat finalstep. To get thatring, a new group the roadto the state champi Park North Shore topped the "This group wants to win a ofplayers must stepinto vital onsltip has gone through Lake Cavaliers in the semifinals in state championship," defen - roles. Lake Travis graduated Travis. 2018 and 2019. sive tackle Raleigh Erwin said. 15 starters from last year's The Cavaliers last won Those last three losses have "We've never been a part of the title in 2016, but in 2015 brought this year's senior one. It feels like every class up SeePOLL, A8 he said. "I think we have POLL 7-8 guys in there who are starter-quality." FromPageA7 Defensively, Raleigh Erwin leads a group that will blend size and speed to slow oppos semifinal team. The cupboard, ing offenses. though, remains far from bare. "Our defensive line has "In no way is this a rebuild," really worked on our speed Lake Travis coach HankCarter and quickness," be said. isquicktopointout. "Webave "We're not going to be as a ton of great kids who are big as the line at say, North ready to roll." Shore, butthat doesn't mean "Even though we lost some we can't be quicker than great players, we have a lot of everyone." guysreadytostepup," quar It's no accident that Erwin terback Nate Yarnell said. mentioned North Shore and While returnees such as its massive offensive line. A Weston Stephens, Jackson third straight meeting may Scruggs, Lake McRee, Raleigh well be in the cards, but the Erwin and Ife Ohalete are Cavaliers aren't putting any known commodities, other carts before the proverbial familiar faces will find them horses. Players know there's selves in new roles as the work to be done, one painful coaches look to put their stepata time. best11 players on the field as "Obviously we want to win quickly as they can identify it, but we can't focus on it them. Lake 'D'aviscoach Hank Carter bas had a lot to smile about since taking over the head-coachlno duties 11 from the start," McRee, 100% "It will be really interest Jea'$ ago with three state titles and a 129-17 record. [JOHN GUTIERREZ/FOR STATESMAN) healthy after a preseason knee ing to see what our best 11 injury sidelined himfor all of is," Carter said. "It will be a 2019, said. "We need to take unique year for us with a lot the Cavaliers with new roles. Carter'sespecially focused running game. Three offen- it one day, one practice at a of versatile kids. We'll just After two years on defense, on the trenches. Offensively, sive line starters graduated, time. It's a process." throw them in the tumbler Nava should figure into the the Cavaliers want to give but Jacob Tracy and Judge "We're all preparing vig and see what comes out." Cavaliers' offensive plans at Yarnell time to find open Niland won't be wonting for orously," Yarnell said. "We Aden Nava and Wesley receiver. Wesley Erwinwillbe receivers and maintain the talented teammates. know the goal and we're Erwin have been varsity less likely tocarry the ball as balance they found last year "Our offensive line is working toward it harder than players since they were soph a running back thanhewillbe behind Stephens, Marcelo a bunch of big, strong, ever. We will make a run at it omores, but they'llbe among tohunt them as a linebacker. Alanis and au effective smart aggressive guys," audit will be exciting." HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PRESEASON TOP 10
Coach: Hank Carter (11th season, 129-17) 2019: 13·2, Class GA DI state semifinalist Hello: QB Nate Yarnell, TE Lake McRee, RB Weston Stephens. DT Raleigh Erwin, DB/WR Aden Nava Goodbye: QB Hudson Card, WR Grayson Sandlin, WR Kyle Eaves, LB Maui Trevino, DE Trey Sofia Returning starters: 3 offense, 4 defense 2019 stats: Averaged 45.4 ppg, allowed 193 ppg
QUESTIONS TO PONDER
With so many starters to 1 replace, can Lake Travis IIIU'ltul its high standards? Since ascending to the state's highest division in 2012, the Cavaliers have won a state title, reached two other finals Lake Travis running back Weston Stephens, carrying the ball again Lehman last season, heads what looks See TOP 10, A8 like the best set of rushers in years.for the Cavs. [JOHN GUTIERREZ/FOR STATESMAN] of spring or summer workouts, cavaliers will end up in dif Lake Travis starting quar With the streak ofquarter TOP10 Mangino installed his offense ferent divisions, so the game terback to earn a Football backs to earn scholarships, through Zoom and other online itself won't have much impact Bowl Subdivision scholar the Cavaliers have long been FromPageA7 meetings. The team impressed on seeding. Confidence, on the ship. Yarnell joins a list that known for their fast-paced the new coach with the speed other hand, is another story. The includes Hudson Card (Texas), passing attack. Could 2020 be that it grasped his concepts winner enters the postseason Matthew Baldwin (Ohio the year of the running back? and advanced to the semifinals and language. Beginning knowing it has beaten a team State/TCU), Charlie Brewer Seniors Weston Stephens three different times. They Sept 7, he'll put the offense most figure to be a favorite to (Baylor), Dominic Delira and Marcelo Alanis anchor a expect nothing less in 2020. through a hurry-up version of win l«!gion IV. Both Carter and (Iowa State/Texas Southern), deep backfield that may serve "This will be a talented team," the on-field install. Based on Westlake coach Todd Dodge Baker Mayfield (Texas Tech/ as a security blanket while a carter says matter-of-factly. their fast-paced history, the can only hope that the annual Oklahoma), Michael Brewer revamped receiving corps set With 129 wins in his first 10 Cavaliers should be able to slugfest doesn't leave either team (Texas Tech/Virginia Tech), tles in.Alanisbegan last season seasons, carter's more than getup to speed in time for the banged up for the beginning of Garrett Gilbert (Texa.s/SMU) as the starter before suffering earned the benefit of the doubt. opener against Westwood. the postseason. and Todd Reesing (Kansas). a season-ending knee injury With another FBS quarterback How will the regular The list can also include Colin against Westlake. Stephens and senior class driven to 3 season finale between NATEMAKES Lagasse, who started four steppedinandrushedfor 1,057 win an elusive championship, Westlake and Lake Travis NINE (ORTEN) games at quarterback and ofhisteam-high1,279 yards in don't be surprised to see the impact the playoffs? Through earned a scholarship to play th.e finaleight games and could Cavaliers in the final four again. a random draw, the annual Senior quarterback Nate receiver at SMU. Yarnell has finish his career ranked among Will Lake Travis' offense Battle of the Lakes will serve - Yamell has already continued posteda6-o recordas astarter, Lake Travis' career rushing 2 sputter out ofthe gate if things go according to plan one of the longest streaks in including a 3-0 playoff mark leaders. Gary Gordon, Watson without a spring to adjust - a regular-season finale that the cow1try. Withhis commit last year. Cusick and Wesley Erwin also to new coordinator Tommy will decide the District 26-6A mentto Pittsbwrgh, Yarn.ell will Mangino? Without the benefit championship. The Chaps and become the ninth consecutive RUNNING CAVS? SeeTOPIO, AIO Travis in 2006 and 2007 TOP10 and again in 2017 and 2018. Converse Judson once beat From Page AB Lake Travis three consecu tive times, in 2013, 2016 and 2017. Only Galena Park retum after carrying the ball North Shore holds an active last year. streak over the Cavaliers. The Mustangs have beaten JACKOFALLTRADES LakeTravisineachofthelast two seasons en route to 6A, Senior Aden Nava returns Division I championships. as one of the most versa tile Cavaliers. Entering his OURTAKE third varsity season, Nava is poised to start at his third Ifs never too late to look at different position. After the Battle of the Lakes. Who ya startingas a comerback and got tlis year? a safety, Nava figures to see Thomas Jones: Westlake extensive time onoffense as has more experience as well a receiver and special teams as a 2019 state title in tow, as a return specialist. Carter but don't forget that Lake sees Nava filling the role of Travis won last season's the graduated Kyle Eaves, meeting. The Chaps will who led the Cavaliers in enter the regular-season receiving but stepped in at finale as the favorite, but I'll cornerback when needed flip a coin and take LT for while also returning kickoffs a 12th time in the 16-game andimits. series. Rick Cantu: Westlake was DIDYOU KNOW? so shook up about losing last year, the Chaps went on Dating back to 2006, towinstate. Westlakewins when Lake Travis first met a close one this year. So the rival Westlake, only three Cavs must win state. teams have accumulated win streaks over the Cavaliers. Jay Plotkin, American Westlake defeated Lake Statesmancorrespondent H IGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PRESEASON TOP 10
In Central Texas, August position for the first six means scorching days and weeks of 2019. He's the heated preseason debates complete package for a about the area's top high signal caller iu 2020; the school football teams. blue-chip recruit has good Leading up to the season's size at 6-foot-2 and 175 kickoff, we have unveiled pounds, excellent speed our Top 10, as selected by and a knack for making our high school reporting off-schedule plays. His staff. continued development No. I Westlake and the presence of star Coach:ToddDodge(75- wideout faden Greathouse 12, seventh season) could make the Chaps even 20H): 15-1, Class 6A more explosive than last Divisionllstate champions year. Hello: QBCadeKJubnik, 2. Can the defense OL Aiden Kinnaird, WR continue its domi faden Greathouse, DB nance? Don't bet against Michael Taafe, DB Lucas defensive coordinator Mireur Todd Salazar, Dodge's Goodbye: QB Kirkland right-hand man since they Michaux, WR Mason worked together in Marble Mmgum, WRRyanLindley Falls. Going back to the Returning starters: 4 third round of the 2017 offense, 5 defense playoffs, the Chaps have 2019stats: only allowed more than14 Averaged 47.2 ppg, points five times in a span Westlake's defensive lineruns a drll early Monday at Westlake High SChooL Class SA and 6A teams were allowed 9 ppg of35games. They have nine able to begin preseason workouts this week in conjunction with UIL and local rules imposed because of shutouts in that stretch, the coronavlrus pandemic. [PAUL BRICK/FOR STATESMAN] QUESTIONS TO including last year's 24-0 PONDER win over Denton Guyer in the state championship 1. Will there be a quar game. Veterans such as last terback rotation? In a year's championship-game Westlake football teant word, nope. Junior Cade defensive MVP Michael Klubnik enters the year as Taafe, Lucas Mireur, Carter begins preseason workouts the unquestioned starter after rotating in at the SeeTOP10 , Alo Layne. Highland Park coach TOP10 Randy Allen ranks third on the state's all-time list with FtomPageA7 403 wins and bas won four state titles. Barksdale and Brady Lamme give the Chaps the best sec DODGE'S CITY ondary inthe area this side of LBJ. By leading Westlake to its 3. What e ffect will second state championship realignme n t h a v e? and its first since Drew Brees Westlake will likely remain quarterbacked the team to in Class 6A's Division II a title in 1996, Dodge only based on enrollment, but the strengthened his case to playoff path certainly got join the Texas High School rockier. Perennial contender Football Hall of Fame. He Converse Judson will drop won four statetitles in seven into the Division Il playoff seasons at Southlake Carroll bracket this year, and the in the 2000s, and since 2015, arrival of the Williamson the Chaps are 67-9 with five County- based 6A dis straight trips to the regional trict into Region IV will add finals. another challenge. Beating, say, a Vandegrift team that DID YOU KNOW? hasn't lost a regular-season game h1 more than two years The last time Westlake willbe a tougher task than any missed the playoffs was in other game the Chaps have 1987, when the Chaps were faced in Region IV over the in the second season ofClass past two years. Westlake quarterback Cade Klubnill fires a pass dumg a drill early Monday at Westlake High School. 5A, then the state's largest Class SA and 6A teams were able to begin preseason workouts this week in conjunction with UIL and local classification. That stretch MINOR THREAT rules imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic. [PAUL BRICK/FOR STATESMAN] of 32 consecutive playoff appearances is second inthe The combination of Zane gives the Chaps a potent back, which will help keep Dodge loves the versatility of state behind Corpus CbrisU Minors and Grey Nakfoor one-two punch at running the pressure off Klubnik. Minors, a 6-foot, 185-pound Calallen's 35 straight playoff se.nior who ran for 871 yards berths. Lake Travis, with 16 and 14 TDs a year ago and will consecutive playoff berths, likely show off his receiving has the next-longest streak skills this year. The 6-foot, among area schools. 190-pound Nakfoor thrives between the tackles and OURTAKE rumbled for 544 yards and nine TDs last season. Who - or what - will be the biggest challenge GREAT SCOTS to Westlake's state title defense? Dodge finalized his team's Thomas Jones: I think nondistrict schedule this this team can actually be week by scheduling the better than last year's cham Chaps' first meeting with pionship squad, but UIL legendary program Highland realignment did Westlake no Park. The game will take favors. Not only will Region place Sept. 26 at 3:30 p.m. at IV betougher, butClass 6A's Globe Life Park in Arlington, Division 11 will also include the Texas Rangers' sparkling perennial contender Katy and new domed baseball stadium a healthy Denton Guyer. that will be converted into a RickCantu: Westlake had football field for high school great tools on both sides of games multiple times this the ball, but it will be a chal - season. No team inthe state lenge to retool a defense that boasts a richer football legacy limited12 of 16 opponents to than Highland Park, a Class fewer than 10 points. They 5A program that leads Texas willespecially miss DBs Sage inall -time wins with843and Luther and Leo Lowin. has woo six statechampion - Westlake defensive line coach Brian Vasell instructs his players early Monday at Westlake High School. ships as well as produced Class SA and 6A teams were able to begin preseason wortlouts this week In conjunction with UIL imd legends of the game such Thomas Jones, local rules imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic. [PAUL BRICK/FOR STATESMAN] as Doak Walker and Bobby American-Statesman Preseason Top 10
The 2020 high school football season will kick off Thursday when private schools and UI L schools in Class 4A and smaller are allowed to be gin play. Schools in SA and 6A are not allowed to begin play until Sept 24 because of the coronavirus pandemic. The American-Statesman has been counting down our preseason Top 10, regardless of classification:
Aug. 17: No. 10 Wimberley Aug. 18: No. 9 Vista Ridge Aug.19: No. 8 Dripping Springs Aug. 20: No. 7 Liberty Hill Aug. 21: No. 6 LBJ Aug. 22: No. s Lampasas Aug. 23: No. 4 Vandegrift Aug. 24: No. 3 Lake Travis Aug. 25: No. 2 Cedar Park Aug. 26: No. 1 Westlake HIGH SCHOOL S:OOTBALL: PRESEASON RANKINGS
Burnet quarterback Jack.son Denton and the Bulldogs have opened the season2-0 in Class4A Division I. [LOLA GOMEZ / AMERICAN STATESMAN]
CLASS6A CLASSSA CLASS 4AAND BELOW
Team record votes (1stplace) Team lll!alld ¥Oles (1st place) Team recOld votes (1st place) LWestlake 1S-lin2019 20(4) L Cedar Panll-2 in 2019 20 (4) 1. Lampasas 2-f 20 (4) District 26-6A squad and defending Defending district champs from 11-SA Badgers have outscored first two foes aass 6A DH state champs open season DI open season Sept. 25 against 6A - both ranked - by cumulative 96--23. Sept 25 at Higiland Park. Vandegrift. 2. LBJ 8-3 in20l.9 16 2. Lalre Travis 13-2 15 2.1.iJerty H■ 7-6 14 Jags will open season Oct. 2 at aass Perennial state contenders from District 14-SA DHprogram opens SA contender Manor. District 26-6A open season Oct 1 season Sept 25 against visiting Killeen 3, Winbeltey 2-f 11 against Westwood Ellison. Texans picked up impressive 33-14 3. Vandegrift 11·1 13 3. Dripping Springs 9-2 13 road win over Cuero last week. Defending two-time districtcharT1)s Tigers from District 12-5A DI open 4. Burnet 2-f 7 in 25-6A open season Sept 25 against season against visiting Kerrville Tivy. Bulldogs fended ofGonzales 29-21 for neighboring rival Cedar Par1<. 4. Georgetown 1M 7 road win last week. 4. VISta Ridge 8-3 6 District 11-SA DI contender opens 5. 11lorndale 2-f 4 District 25-6A team opens season season Sept 25 against Belton. Defense, special teams have scored against possible playoff foe Hays Sept 5. Hendrickson +6 4 two TDs for team ttlat has al lowed 14 24. Hawks drop from Class 6A into District total points S. Round Rock 5-5 3 11·SA DI and open season Sept 25 Also receiving votes: Regents District 25-6A squad opens season Oct against Akins. Thomas Jones 2 against visiting Belton. Also receiving votes: Manor, Also receiving wtes: Del Valle, Hutto, McCallum, East View Westwood 'It's like yo11r first year of teaching all over again'
Dripping Springs High School senior Jaden Gardner, 17, tosses a flag into the air Thursday in the driveway of the f.-nly home during a virtual color guard practice. [PHOTOSBY BRONTE WITTPENN/AMERICAN-STATESMANJ Austin-area teachers grapple with unique challenges of teaching perfa rming arts online
By Melissa B. Taboada attempting the maneuver. [email protected] The video call stalls, showing the instructor in choppy and Dr ipping Sprin gs High stuttering movements. School senior Jaden Gardner "It's a huge difference tosses a rifle in the air, mim between being online and in i ckin g a choreographed person; you can't quite get move just displayed by the the same experience," says instructor. Jaden, 17, lieutenant capt ain Sixth grade student Thomas Inman practices with his French Jaden then squints back at of the school's color guard. horn ThursdAy from home in front of his onine West Ridge a laptop set up in the family Middle School class in the Eilnes district. h ome's driveway before again See TEACHING, A9 Sixth graderlbomas Inman speaks Thursday with his teacher while practicing A'ench hom virtually with his west Ridge Middle School class.
students on onevideo call TEACHING can make it difficult for instructors to hear them From Page Al play and give feedback. Students in dance might whirloffscreen. "Youhave to learnfrom While some students one angle on a screen. inseveral areadistricts - That's difficult because RmmdRock, Leander, Lake some ofthe moveswe do !fravis and Pflugerville - are complex." will return t o classrooms Still,Jaden staysengaged over the next couple of andwaits for the video call weeks, the virtual chal tonmsmoothly again, then lenges will continue for the Dripping Springs High School senior Jaden Gantner, 17, reacts out of frustration during an error in a ZOOm cal while begins spinning the rifle otherswho remainonline, practicing onlne Thursday with the color guanl team. [PHOTOS BY BRONTE WlTTPENN/AMERICAN-STATESMANJ again. somefortheentiretyofthe Since the coronavirus school year. Teachers in descriptive and provide to the screen t o examine classes." engaged and thriving. pandemic closed schools somedistricts simultane better analogies with what whether thestudents are Marianne Inman, "One ofthe reasons the last spring, educators ouslywillinstruct students she and the instructors holdingtheirmouthpieces Thomas' mom, said the kids are in any extracur across the country have in-personandremotely. wanttosee. correctlyastheyattemptto fineartshavekeptherchil ricularactivities is thesocial grappled with howto best "We'vebeenteaching a "We've been trying to blowandtellingthemthey dren, including a daughter interactions andconnec teachstudentsonline.But while,butthisisnewfor all pairourvisualization words should only feel thetipsof whotakesart, engagedand tions they get to have," those whoteachextracur ofus.It'slike your first year with the movements we their tongues touching it. haveserved as "agoodbrain saidThomasTurpin, head ricularactivities - band, ofteaching allover again," want them to execute," "Ithinkit'dbemorefun break" from otheronline band director of Westwood choir, dance orotherper said Holly Lyons, thedance said Lyons, whowill begin ifI was doing itin person," studies. High Schoolin the Round fonning arts - have had instructor at Vandegrift instructingsomestudents said Thomas, who said "These teachers blow my Rock district. "The kids to wade through unique HighSchoolintheLeander inpersonTuesday. another highlightofhis day mind. I can't believe their arelamenting lacking that challenges. Sowid delays district. Thomas Inman, a sixth is bisdramaclass inwhich creativity," Inman said. social interaction. through the computer have Lyons said that while grader at West Ridge heandbis classmates have Like those teaching core "Our philosophy is to caused disruptions for stu teaching remotely she Middle School in theEanes been performing skits. classes, the t eachers who keep this as funas we can dentswhoaresupposedto bas had to slow down the district, islearrring howto "Sometimes it cuts out, instruct extracurricular makeitwhile keeping our beplayinginstruments in pace in her classes and play theFrench horn. andI can'treallyhearthat activitiessaythey are doing curriculum and moving sync, and several dozen work harder to be more His teacher gets close much. That's in all my theirbest tokeepstudents it forward," hesaid. 'Happy.' 'Excited.' 'Relieved.'
Fourth grader Charlie Stanton,9, practices a social distancing technique on the first day of In-person classes Tuesday at Rough Holow Elementary School i'n the Lake Travis district. [JAY JANNER/AMERICAN STAITSMAN PHOTOS] School starts on 7 1l r ' I I' Eanes, Lake Travis, Leander campuses
By MelissaB. Taboada [email protected]
T RAVIS COUNTY Parents walked their children to the front door or waved from the sidewalk as a line of carssnakeddownthedriveway leading up to Rough Hollow Elementary Inside School in the Lake Tr avis Hispanic district. hospitaliza• In many First grade teacher Jessica Dever talks to sarah Single, 6, at Rough tion rates ways, it was Hollow Elementary School. improve. Bl a first day of school like any other, as parents took photos Signs around the campus cau be taken off. Even prekiu and yoWig students clWig to reminded students to main- dergarteners wore masks as their parents' legs. But inter tain social distancing and wear they entered school mixed with the familiarity a mask, with at:ewplaces away were notable differences. from classrooms where masks See FIRSTDAY, A5 Austin-area districts launched yearbefore reopening school "We're as ready as we can as the district gr adually FIRST DAY virtually, planning to bring buildings for the gradual possibly be," said Rough phases in various grades; on students back ontocampuses returnofstudents. Otherwise, Hollow Principal Angela Tuesday, special education From Page Al gradually. Small districts, the districts risk losing state Frankhouser, overseeing studentsandstudentsin pre like Thrall and Wimberley, funding. dozens of prekindergarten stu kindergarten through second reopened theirschools for in Some schools across the dents standing near an outdoor grade, sixth and ninth grades The Eanes, Lake Travis person learning starting onday country already have been playscape withtheir parents as were allowed to return to and Leander school districts onelast mouth. forced to close after wide they prepared tolineup togo campuses. welcomed students back to Health experts have cau spread coronavirus cases inside. ''I'm excited. It'sgoing At Vandegrift High School campuses Tuesday for the tioned not to reopen schools during the initial days of tobea great year. People have inthe Leander district, join first time since the pandemic untilthearea's positivity rate school. Starting Tuesday, been anticipating this day." ing freshmen on campus shuttered schools in March, - the percenta.ge of people the Texas Education Agency A sign on the wall of first were students participating making them thelargest dis testing positive for COVID- is requiring school districts grade teacher Jennifer Dever's in extracurricular activities, tricts to launch in-person 19arnongthosetested-isless reportall COVID-19 caseson 13- student classroom says includingdanceand football. learning in the Austin area. thau5 Lake Travis students extend the back-to-school who opted to return transition period (online to campus allowed learning) for some students todoso for no more than an addi tional four weeks. The waiver will mean that By Luz Moreno· Lozano students in prekindergarten [email protected] to fifthgrade were allowed to return to on-campus learn All elementary students ing if the family opted to do whose families have selected so in the student commit in-person learning at Lake ment form on Tuesday. Sixth Travis schools, and certain and ninth graders, special secondary level students, education and children of were allowed to ret urn to employees are also allowed, campus on Tuesday, fol ifthey chose the option, to lowing a decision from the return on Sept. 8. All other school board last week. students who selected in A waiver was approved by person instruction will CnMds of Lake Travis parents spoke out during a special caled the school board that allows board meeting Aug. 31 callng on the district to open schools as the district tbe option to See LEARNING, Ao planned on Sept. & (LUZ MORENO-LOZANQ/LAKETRAVIS VIEW] citing limited abilities to picking a decision and LEARNING social distance and imple none of them are good. ment safety protocols. Weare faced with trying From Page Al District officials said to protect our teachers teachers were able to because we have a duty request remote or in to do that but we also return on Sept. 21. person learning. Officials have a duty to educate The district beganthe said177 teachers applied our children. What is the school year Aug. 19 from to teach remotely, a11d balance?To me there is no a distance. Only remote only about 25% were right answer. But we are learning was available accommodated, mostly still a community, and we for students through in elementary schools, have to educate our kids Labor Day. Students because somesecondary but be cognizant of our were expected to return teachers have specialcer teachers and ourstaff." tocampus onTu.esdaybut tifications, like languages The option allows there was some concern otherthanEnglish or high elementary school stu among the community level math and sciences, dents, the majorityofthe that the district should that make it difficult parents who spoke out, to phase in the students to accommodate some return tocampus onSept. population. requests. 8 as planned, as well as A special meeting was "Teachers are people students in transitional called Aug. 31 to further too. They're human years sixth and ninth discuss the district's beings who have dedi grade students with options that could have cated their lives to us special education needs delayed in-person learn - thechildren,"said Lake and students ofteachers. ing for some students Travis High sophomore The additional time will through Oct. 13. Akshay Pradeep. "This allow the district time According to Austin is not fair to them. How to find substitute teach Public Health guidelines, will theymakeends meet ers for the high school, which applies to school ifthey lose their job? It's so that the district ca11 districts in Travis County, notfair to teachers in our accommodate more ofthe the district - under stage community to gothrough high school teachers who 3 - can allow up to 50% this." selected towork remotely students on campus as Norton said ifthe dis but were denied based on soonas Sept. 8. But health trict were to follow health certification. authorities recommend guidelines andbring back For those who have school districts begin 25% of students Sept. chosen to return to on-campus instruction 8, and then everyone campus, the school day at upto 25% capacity, for else Sept. 21, that could will look a bit different. atleast two weeks. help ease staff tensions Hallway directional sig Several parents spoke as well as give them the nage, socially distant out during the public opportunity to imple lunch rooms, classrooms forum pleading for the ment protocols, such as and buses and facial cov district to open schools cleaning and social dis erings willbe someofthe as planned on Sept. 8. tancing, and ina smaller new normals. The district was expecting environmentthatis more Students and staffare about 65% ofstudents to beneficial. required to self screen returntocampus. "If we do haveanout for the virus daily, prior "Iunderstand we've got break, having a smaller to arriving on campus. teachers insituationsthat number of students All campus visitors will are not thebest situation on campus would help also be screened before for themtobeoncampus, prevent the spread (of entering. and these hard decisions COVID-19) than if we Under n ew Texas you have to make," said had 50% on campus," Education Agency rules, Robyn Bagley, a parent Norton said, adding that campuses will berequired offour, "but you do have it doesn't me anit can'tbe daily to report any con to represent the con doneat50%. firmed coronavirus cases stituents that put you Finding a balance that among staff and students where you are and we are protects teachers but to theTexas Department all asking not to delay in allows kids Ito return to ofState Health Services. person school." campus was debated The agency will keep But several other com among the board meet a tally of the cases and m unity members and ing. Additio111ally, board publicly report the data teachers have ask ed members reminded the by school district on its the distr ict to consider communitythatno matter website. Districts also limited capacity, espe the situation., Lake Travis must continue to report cially for those teachers is a community made up such cases to their local who were denied abil of students, teachers, health agencies, which is ity to work r emotely. staffand parents. required bylaw. Superintendent Paul "Ther e is no clear P r ocedu r es, in Nortonsaid some teach choice that shows this is accordance with state ers are apprehen sive fair," said Board Member guidelilles, have been put about returning too soon, John Aoueille. "We are into place for Lake Travis schools should a student or teacher test positive for thecoronavirus. Norton said that stu dents, whose families have opted for remote at any time but can learning, can still con- only move from remote tiuue to do so. Students to in-person at end of can transition from in the nine-week grading person learning toremote period. Virtual learning has changed perfarming arts By Melissa B. Taboada Sixth grade instructors wantto see. Marianne I nman, [email protected] student "We've been trying Thomas' mom , said the Thomaslnman to pair our visualization fine arts have kept her Dripping Springs High practices with words with the move children, including a School senior Jaden his French horn ments we want them to daughter who takes art, Gardner tosses a rifle Thursday from execute," said Lyons, engaged and have served in the air, mimicking a home in front who will begin instructing as "a good brain break" choreographed move ofhisonine some students in person from other online studies. just displayed by the West Ridge Tuesday. "These teachers blow instructor. Middle School Thomas Inman, a sixth my mind. I can't believe Jadenthensquints back class In the grader at West Ridge their creativity," h1man at a laptop set up in the Eanes district. Middle School in the said. family home's driveway [BRONTE Eanes district, is learning Likethoseteaching core before again attempting WITTPENN/ how to play the French classes, theteachers who the maneuver. The video AMERICAN• horn. instruct extracurricular call stalls, showing the STATESMAN) His teacher gets close activities say they are instructor in choppy and to the screen t o exam doing their best to keep stuttering movements. ine wheth.er the students students engaged and "It's a huge difference pandemic closed schools instructorsto hear them students in-person and are holding their mouth thriving. between being online last spring, educators play and give feedback. remotely. pieces correctly as they "One ofthereasons the andin person; you can't across the country have Students in dance might "We've been teaching a attempt toblow and telling kids are in any extracur quite get the same expe grappled withhowto best whirl off screen. while, but this is newfor them they should only feel ricular activities is the rience," says J aden, 17, teach students online. But While some students allofus. It'slike your fust the tips of their tongues social interactions and lieutenant captainof the those who teach extracur in several area dis year ofteaching all over touching it. con nections they get school's color guard. ricular activities - band, tricts - Round Rock, again," said Holly Lyons, "I think it'd be more to have," said Thomas "You have to learn from choir, dance or other per Leander, Lake Travis and the dance instructor at fun if I was doing it in Turpin, head band direc one angle on a screen. fonning arts - have had Pflugerville - will return Vandegrift High School person," said Thomas, tor of Westwood High That's difficult because to wade through unique to classrooms over the in the Leander district. who said another high School inthe Round Rock some oft he moves we do challenges. Sound delays next couple ofweeks, the Lyons said that while light of his day is his district. "The kids are are complex." through the computer have virtual challenges will teaching remotely she drama class in which he lamenting lacking that Still, Jaden stays caused disruptions for stu continue for the others has had to slow down and his classm ates have social interaction. engaged and waits for the dents who are supposed to who remain online, some the pace in her classes been performing skits. "Our philosophy is to video call to run smoothly be playit1g instrwn.ents in for the entirety of the and work harder to be "Sometimes it cuts out, keep this as fun as we can again, then begins spin sync, and several dozen school year. Teachers more descriptive and and I can't really hear makeitwhile keeping our ningthe rifle again. students on one video call in some districts simul provide better analogies that much. That's in all curriculum and moving it Since the coronavirus can make it difficult for taneously will instruct with what she and the my classes." forward," he said Community at odds over reopening schools BY AMYRAE OAO\MO and social distancing. and now we're asked to go for more than 20 years, Carol Creel hasserved in into the trenches in the classrooms where social Lake Travis lSO as a French teacher, tennis coach distancing is impossible,"' Creel said. and mother. As she put it, her family has •Jived Of the I n LTISO teachers who requested to and breathed~ LTISOculture. However, for the first work remotely, Superinte ndent Paul Non on said time in two decades, Creel said she feels like he r approxjmately 70 had legitima te health concerns. community haslet her down. LTlSO did not indicate how man y overall requests Du ringan Aug. 19 board meeting, Creel spoke on were a ppro,..ed, but Norton confirmed the district behafformore than 30teachers who were denied is continuously working to find a solution. theoption to teach remotely for the 2020 -21 school year. Her husband, a kidney cancer survivor, is at "'The issue with it is, at the endof the day, it'sall a higher risk of suffering serious complications driven by student requests: Nonon said during a should hecontract the corona.virus. special called Aug. 31meeting, CONTtMXOONJIS "We as teachers have been sheltering in place Approvl~ teachers' requests w:ts: parua,brly dullengjog .i tho hich school It-vet dae to a groter DMd for sp,o,l.ud,nstruction, Norton A>d. About ~ of f:a.milts offioally requn:tcd in-person learningonAug. 2s. and Creel said the communlly"s de.rrwid to open schools put tduca • Aug.~8: IOO%mnoi. • Ckt.S-9: 25~0,moreremcc.e.upto torsina dlfficuh position. Pt:rtonally, • Sipe. :Z,.Oct.2: 5°"OI rncff 75"in-,penon sheAid Wisstt'Igrappling With the ,..,._I \Ct105°"•PfflO" • ()a.8.1',:;Up IDKIO'II. it-person clecisionioteachooc:ampu-. ,_,,..._....-s.,,,., V..tuwww..,._,_.-,--. Lnso. ~ with surroundmg Trnll County districts, prtv,ously suspend«i in-person learning until LAKE TRAVIS ISO Sept, 8 in accordance with dly of Austin and Travis County ordets. and_d_ri_ Afwr that date, LTISD said 1t would ·-·~fflltv°'9' fifth ~Sludeals'Ufra&IIN be pennttal. p,ov,do p>ffflts with tho - ol .,_1eammga .5ep1.21,_,_ eitbe:r I®"remote or 1c,o,o,. In.pet· ikw19•thsath.n:tNDC119.tn Da'f"5WIN'•....-leifnnJif son 1nai:rucrion. Sbdlnt)'Kl!Mn9specat0Qtdl Howt't'f'r, with the 2020-21 IChool yea, already underway, officials - shifted their approach to reopening Shlftl111plans Prior to LTlSD'-1 decision to limit cbssrooms. fKed W'lth challenges asaod· capacity, sewnl dozen L1150 fam~ Tho MW plan to g,.du,1lly phSM ated with m1.t~ing the coronavt• ilies asbd I.ht district to rec,pe, ~ bade: on campus. was rMt 1 ~ LTISO U'll$IMS passed ~ ~~, campuses dun,_ public comme.nt with public aiticism, but Norton prov;ded by tho Tens F.ducot,on ses:sioo that ,panned nearly two su:l1lw hmiled c.a.pacrty m-sht allow Agency, wh,c:h e-n3bled lhedistrict co hours. Many ated difficulties W1th more u~achers to work ftom home. e xtend remote lea.ming for an add,. virtual le:am1ns, panic.u]arly at tht He 1-aid II would also give admlnis• tional four weeks without riskfn& a elementary se:hool h•vel. trators more time to implemtnt ne w lossoffundin&, "'Our children need to be back m safety 1,udelines and conlfol potcm• Students will now resuaw in,.pu• school~• LTISO parent Melissa Whit• mlcoro~Yirm outbreaks. soo lorni,_ in stages. Pre---kioder• said. •11omc wtth • texhu on • Tn.tH Bob Dotsett Jr. enph:a• g;anm thlO Students in the Lake Travis•Westlake region attendthree school districts. Eanes lSOserves ct.Ldren in theWesttake area; Lake Tr.MS ISO serveschildren in the Lake Travis area; and Leander ISO serves children in the FourPointsand Steiner Ranchareas. 5£Ull':IS:lt.l5TINISO, F.ANfSISD, I.AKE llWISISD, l.UJCDISI), JICUfOROCKISIXCMUfTYIWIW:fHl?NSPAFU STUDENTENROLLMENT •Estimated 2019·20SUPERINTENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT STATS ANNUAL SALARY TOTAl NUMBEROf TEACHERS NEIGHBORING DISTRICT - 611.40 COMPARISON 630.43 NElGHBORING DISTRICT COMPARISON AVERAGE BASE PAY FOR TEACHING STAFf FROM2016·17 +0.9% +11.81% I I 2019-20 ECONOMICALLY 2019-20 ENGUSH DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS LANGUAGE LEARNERS NEIGHBORINGOISTRtCTCOMPARISON -150,$54.107 3.32% 2.06'¼ TOTAl NUMBEA:OF EMPLOYEES 12.64¾ 6.2% 19.35% 7.05% 20.26% 1% ·'{£: ) •F9Jreindudes1xJ1t♦timeempwyees.. STATE AVERAGE STATE AVERAGE lAK£TRAVIS · Y4SlUK£WTION•SEPTEMB£R1020 25 Paul Norton Q&A: Get to know Lake Travis /SO's newsuperintendent BY AMYAAE DADAMO Paul Norton officially became Lake Travis lSD's new superintendentin August ahead ofthe unprecedented 2020-21 school year andamid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Norton, who previously served atTexar\ana ISO, 6Ued the job left vacant by Brad La ncaster, who served at L11S0 for more than eight years. WHAT INITIAUYATTRACTED WHAT ISONETHINC.YOU HOPE WHAT HASIIEEN YOURBK YOUTO UUIE TRAVIS ISO? TO ACCOIIPLISH IN YOUR FOIST c.EST ACCO..USIIIIENTSERV· LakeTravis lSO hasan incredible YEAIIATTIEDISTRICTI •c.IN PUBUC EDUCATION? reputation for excelle nce in all I want to accomplish a lot of I havea loto f accomplishments of areas. From academicsto at.hJetics things inLTISO because we ha•;e an which 1am very proud. The biggest to fine ans toevery category you can incredible board oftrustees> staff and accomplishments th.at I ha..-e been a imagine, Lal:e Travis ISO excels. To community that have \·ested a lot part of focusaround studentsuccess. be.a part ofthis school district was an oftime and energy in to thegrowth Seeinga studentmaster a concept opportunity Icould not resist. Also, ofthisdistricL In a year oftransfor or seeinga studentget accepted to the opportunity for my children tobe mation becauseof COVl0-19, I want a college they a.lways dreamed of :s. part ofthis school district wasan to spend this year e nsuring we have befogaccepted into> it doesn't matter. opportunity wecould not p.assup. a great academic program for our Studentssettinggoolsand reaching students andcontinue tobuild trust them is always an accompHshme nL YOUIIOVED,-TEXAIIXA· within ourcommunity. NALSD.WHICH SERVUOVER WHOINSPIRED'IOUTOWORI< 8.000STUDDITS.TOA GllOW TIECOIIOflAWIUSPAIID ..PUIIUCEDUCATION? INC.DISTIICTOF IIORETHAN NAS CREATED UIIPIIKEDENT· My mom isa retired teacher and 11.-STIJDENTS.HOWWILL ED CHAll.DIC,ES FOIi SCHOOi. was the firsto ne to encourage me to YIU-ACTYOI.JaROLEAS DISTIIJCTS. WHATASS£TS go intoeducation. Iwas incollege at SUP£RIHTEND£Nn 00£5THE DISTRICT POSS€55 Texas Tech majoring in pre-physical Tenrkana ISO is an amuing school THATWU.LHEI.PITIIAYl"'TI lhmpy, •nd I hid ,ompltted my district that is growingand has THESE CHALLENGES? bachelor's degree in biology. s·he great opportunitiesfor the studen1s Ibelieve our biggestasset isour simply said, ""Have you e,,.er thought in Texarkana. Lake Travis ISO is staff. Ourstaffis passionate about aboutbeing a teacher?"' t truJy had growingata fasterrateand is a larger studentgrowth and to see how they noL But that day I did. Some people geographical area than TexaJ\a.na came together inthespring and this discouraged me. from going the ISO. The biggest impact this wilJ summer to prepare for this semester edu cation route, butI'm so proud ha•;e on my role asa superintendent has been impressive.. This past spring that Jdid. is ensuring we stay ontop of our this situation was thrown onus, as long-range planning for facility needs it was every school district in Texas, THERE AREIIANYCONCERNS whileconstantly reviewingour andour staff did thebestwe could do ANDQUESTI-SUIIJIOlne demographer projects for continued to make it a positiveexperience for ..c;THE2020-21 SOIOOl area growth. students and pare nts. l trulybelieve YEAR.WHATIS-THIIIC, our parents will seea significant YOU'DLIKETO SAYTOUUIE HOWHAVEYOUIIEc.UNTO difference inofferingssimplybecause TRAYISISDFAMIUESAND CONNECT WITHTHE LTISD the staffin LTISO is passionate about STAfFIIEMBUSWHOIIIGHT CO-UNITY? helping students. BE FEEUNG ANXIOUS? My wife and I have been to the I understan d their anxiety! I am La.ke Travis area several times WHAT HAS IEENTHE a pa.remwith two kids inthe school looking at houses prior to moving to c.RUTEST OUUJ.ENc.E YOU'VE system. Remote lea.mingwill look La.ke Tnvis. In thlt time we visited FACEDSERVINC. IN a lot different this semester as several restaurants and businesses PUIILKEDUCATION? compared to the spring, Our staff to get a fee.I for the area. Ialso met This is my 25th year as an educator. is here to he lp you in eve:ry aspect with several ofthe cabinet members I'veexperienced a lotofsituations from instruction to technology to in mid.July and then spentsome andopportunities that I will never academic suppon. We all wa.nt time with districtadministrators the forget. The greatestchaJlenge has studentsoncampus ina very safe last week ofJuly getting to know a]waysbeen meeting the. needs of environment>and I know that by them and hear about thegreat things each andevery studenL Student Yo'Ork.ing together with our parents we happeningin Lake Travis ISOand needsareso unique and transition can creale th.at opportunity for our theopportunities we have moving from year to year. Our goal is to have students. Safetyisour No. l priority, forward. We are also setting up as many opportunitiesas possible and I knowthat our families and staff meetings with other individuals and for students to experience. That membersaU want the same thingat groups to continue to meet the great movingt.arge-t isalways a significant theend ofthe day: successful and people in LTISO. chaDenge. posith·e programs for all students. tAI([TRAVIS •~mTIOH• SEPTEMB£R 2020 ACCOUNTABILITY RATINGS 2019RATING CAMPUS DEEP DIVE FOR2020ANDBEYOND Ul~sdl:d.tfistridsiPl~.al'l!D!lft AN INSIDE LOOK AT LAKE TRAVIS ISO .11"-t.ibbd-DN;bndSlm!af~li61!1.b_mJO___...... I "'~-_..,., ~ T....-.s~~Tft'.15~ba!the DATA AND DEMOGRAPHICS BY CAMPUS 5Cilb!,.Tr:-...~..~~ A COMPILEDBY A.MYRA£ DADAMO __.plif"ID~@~ill~_g;..____... ~-..n..~-socialstal!SU~ Lake Travis ISO seMS more than 11.000 student:s across 10campuses. lritiallya part _B of Dripping Springs ISO, LTISO was founded in 1981. In 2017, voters approved LTISO's - Largest bood todate. whidl led to the recentopening of LTIS0's seventh elementary -~ C - a campt.5, Rougll Hollow Elementary School Aldlaill!llltll!~~-C..-,tlllle... -!it.ilrla»Aiill.~willllr~IDliih - SOUIICES: lAICl'. TAAVIS ISO, tfXA.S EOIXAllON .IIGlfrf('.Y,IOMJNITY ..P.IO l«.WSPAPER ,._,..1 rille-5'DMt!Glmiin2QlJ..as- ..pre!i5tim!. ..._s____ _D n---..-rlaSM•~~ - ~ l -~...... F I _ -- ~1. j: ___ c~ ~ i• ; I ~i .. bj i r~i • , is •i • i iii .i ..... - h : :~ I -- ' ~. g s.,c,,. m ,.86% 01. tu8'l JO TI.01% .so J0-681' r, 20 18-19 STUDENT/TEACH ER II OK. lll1% 23 IUR r, o i...-. m ti!% °" U/%65.83% - D IA,Tr.ows an ~08% <10 l.1S% 2.171' l0.911' °"<10 ..tO ADJ-" 18 DEMOGRAPHIC BREAl(DOWN m 832% <10 9!Ii1' ~i •• ,.5 I ? ~ 52.6% HISPANIC ~ y.1% E•.; .. s I! ; j ii ..J; .jj. i :~i=: . j I ..i s . io ! . • ~ ~ MULTIPLERACES ~ ~ 3,40S X>.&9% <10 ~'°" 1.ia 19n <10 4.8.tll~ 9<.91' ~ ~ WHITE ..!!:!. ~ sooac:t: TEXAS EOJU.TlllH AGENCVICOMMI.Mtl' WJCfNEW51'1\f'U COMMUNllY IMPACT N£W51lAPCR •COMUUNITYWPACT£0M FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL Eanes ISO kidceclofftbe 2020--21 school yea, with remote teamingAug. 19. SuperintendentTom Leonard virtuaUy cheded in on classes throughout thefY'St day ofschool, according to a newsletter totheoomDU1ity Aug. 19. ·since I became a superir«endent Myears ago, I have had a year1y tracition ofdrifflg toevery campus and walling through thehatls and dassrooms, 17eetn] students and talking with thepmcipals," Leonard said "This is always oneofmyfavorite times of the year.· Though Leooard w.16 notphysicallyableto meet with students. hesaid hew.16happy tocontirue dis tracition. Allsttdentswit engage in remoteteamingmtil Sept. 8 inaccordance with orders from TravisCountyand thecity d Al.Ism:. All gradelevels haveaccess todistrict provided iPads ttwough a previoudy implemented iPadprogram. LAKE TRAVIS 15D 2020·21 DISTRICT BOUNDARY MAP AND FEEDER PATTERN ■ HIGH SCHOOL ■ MIDDLESCHOOL ■ £l.EMENTARY SCHOOL Lake Travis a BeeCave ~ Bend IIt ake Travis BeeC,.,. 1.akeTravr. West Cypress Hills Blake~~e Lakeway &Rough !:._follow"" 1Secene Hills TOTAL STUDENTS 11.,085* "'According to 20l9-20enrollment data SOUIICt:WETAAVISISOI CQMWUNIJ'YIMl',ICfNEWSf'N'O First COVID-19 cases reported at 3area schools By Luz Moreno-Lozano students expected to return West Ridge Middle School, monitor for symptoms as out among staff and students [email protected] this month. whichlies in West Austilloff lined in the Eanes ISD Health to the Texas Department of OtherCentralTexas school ofBee Cave Road. It was not Services Management Plan State Health Services. The Just two days afterlaunch districts also opened this clear if the personwas a stu and follow the CDC Public agency will keep a tally ofthe ing in-person lea.rning, two week, but had not reported dent of a staffmember. Health Guidance," the email cases and publicly report the area school districts are any cases at press time. Smee June 1, 13 positive stated. "There is a 14-day databy schooldistrict onits reporting their first COVID- The Austin school dis - cases have been reported incubation period for anyone website. Districts also must 19 cases. trict, which began the year among Eanes staff, result possibly exposed to the con continueto reportsuchcases FourpeopleatEanesschools remotely on Sept. 8 and has ing in 86 peopl e needing to finned case. Contact your to their localhealthagencies, and one at Lake Travis High limitedthe number of people quarantine for the 14-day primary care physician if whichis required bylaw. School have tested positive on campus, requires anopen incubation period, district you develop symptoms and Districts had to startreport for COVID-19, the disease records requests for case officials said. notify the school should you ing to the state on Tuesday linkedto the coronavirus. reporting. In an email to West Ridge or your child test positive for andthat data willbe released Bothschool districts opened Last week, three Westlake parents, Principal Dianne COVID-19." early next week. Some school its campuses - the first time High School students tested Carter said the known close Under new Texas Education districts have also committed since March - to teachers positive for the coronavirus. contacts have been notified. Agency rules, campuses are to launchmg dashboards that and a limited number ofstu On Thursday, Eanes reported "Out of an abundance of required to report daily any willupdatethecomnnmityon dents on Tuesday, withmore a new coronavirus case at caution, we advise you to confirmed coronavirus cases casenumbers daily. Holes, cleats to fill: A deeper lool{ at Texas' 2020 roster By Brian Davis Brayden Uebroct, Fr.,6-4, 234: [email protected] Won 3 straight state titles in hig, school, now waiting his turn. While Texas fans may not know who's going to break out this Offensive tackles season, they do at least have an ideaofwho's on the team, cour Offensive line coach Hern Hand's tesyoftheonllne rosters. Here's biggest offseason obstade ou r look at the Longhorns' roster was to figure out why his unit with thoughts on players and struggled at times in 2019.Texas what fans can expect from them allowed 36 sacks,the second this season. most in the Big 12. He's got a potential nrst-rou,d draft pick Quarterbacks in left tackle Sam Cosm, but it's unclear how the rig,t side will Th is room has aSQlid three-yew hold up. starter and a slew oftalented SamuelCOSmi,Jr.,6-7,319: LT backups. Coach Tom Herman has has 26 career starts - butcan focused on building up the depth, catch TO passes, too. and it shows. All will be working Dem.el Olliltor, Sr., 6-4, 317: with new offensive coordinator Starting RT is a fifth-year guy Mike Yurcich, who has a solid who almost transferred out track record of productiveoffen Christian Jones, so.. 6-6, 310: sive units. Under-the-radarOL will get Sam Ehinger, s,., &-3, 225: extensive time at tackle. ~ake product has 8,870 Reese Moore, SO., 6-7, 304: Hasn't career yards, 68 TDs, 22 INTs played in twoye.ars, buth as an C'asey ~ SO., 6-1, 197: intriguing frame. Herman said he's "more game Tyler Johnson, Fr., 6-6, 32A: ready" than the others. Redshirted in '19. ranked 5th on Hudson Card, Fr., 6-2, 193: the 2019 Fabulous 55. Dazzling QB threw for 2,288 yards Andrej Karie, Fr., 6-4, 294: Was as a Lake Travis senior. state's 26th-ranked prospect Ja'Qlmden Jackson, ft..6-2, 232: corning out of SOUthlake. It all starts with ·the qua-terbacll, right? Texas' Sam Ehlmger is the unquestioned face ofthe program as stil I rehabbing from ACL injury Isaiah Hoofkin, Fr., 6-5. 314: he enters his fourth season as a sta1er. Statistically, he trails only Colt McCoy on urs career passing during HS playoffs. Suffered a shoulder injury early in records list. [NICK WAGNER/AMERICAN-STATESMAN] preseason camp. Running backs Jaylen Garth, fr., 6-5, 299: Missed Defensive tackles his hig, school senior season If this !J'OLIP can stay healthy with a knee injury. Herman has changed the defen- all season, the top three should sive ali!J'lment. went back to a all be productive conbibu- Guards four-man front. hired another tors. Keaontay Ingram battled assistant to help Oscar Giles and through some injuries last year, Interior line play will be akey to wil I press forward under new and Roschon Johnson was the theLonghorns' running game. defensive coordinator Chris Ash. quarterback-turned-running Backs like Keaontay Ingram, Keondre Coburn, So., 6-2, 384: back. Bijan Robinson is the Roschon Johnson and Bijan Anchor in the middle, now a year all-world, five-star recruit from Robinson can burst through older, a year wiser. Tucson, Ariz. holes, but those holes have to Ta'QuOn Graham, Sr., 6-4, 294: Keaontay Ingram, Jr., 6-0, 222: be there. There's experience Played DE lastseason, now People sleep on him, but his at guard, just notgreat depth. moving inside to tackle. career average is 5.5 yards per Some Longhorns linemen have Moro <>;orno, So., 6-3, 276: Played carry. been cross-training at tackle and all season, had 13 tackles - Roschon Johnson, 5o., 6-2.m : guard. same as Sweat. His open-field hurdling abilities Tope lmade,Sr.,W,lSSc Starting Vernon~Fr.,6-4, 290: showed he's a gamer. LG is a fifth-year senior and on- Like Collins, Broughton has Blan Robinson, Fr., 6-0, 2.22: field tactician. impressed early. Herman will only play top fresh- Jumor Af91au, So., w, 294: PeterMpagi, Fr.. 6-5,260: 2019 men if they protect the ball Started almost all last year atRG early enrollee ended up redshirt- Daniel lbtaig,Sr., 6-0, 215: Opting but not well known. ing last season. 111is was a conwnon sight at last year's Alamo Bowl: Texas' Joseph outofthe season because of the Logan Parr, Fr., 6-4, 298: Was one Reese Leitao, Jr., 6-4, 248: Former OSsal malclng a big play, here lffti119 utah receiver Derrick Vicllers pandemic. of the nation's top guard recruits TE has moved to defense to off the ground. OSSili was moved to what is now Texas• new "Jacll" Derrian Brown, A'., >-10, 180: lastyear. bolster line depth. pass-rushing position for that game. and he responded by e;wning Redshlrted while recovering from Sawyer Goram-Welcb, fr., 6-4, defenslw game MVP honors with nine tacllles, 4.5 l.1lcllles for loss, 2019 brain surgery. Centers 295: Led a Longview defense that and three sacks. [ERIC GAY/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS] allowed 10.2 ppg. Receivers lach Shackelford was easy to take for granted, having com- outside linebackers For all the fans worried about manded the starting center spot replacing Devin Ouvernay, since his freshman year. But Herman has not held back his consider that nobody was really he has moved on and versa- concerns about the depth and talking about him lastAugust. tilelineman Derek Kerstetter, play-making abilities ofthis He switched positions and then who can playguard, tackle or group overall. Ossai has moved had a breakout season. This center, should provide that same to the hybrid Jack position. But year's group needs someone to veteran leadership up front that in the pass-happy Big U, nobody do the same. Who here has that Shackelford did. gets a break in the open field. Ul'Jordan Humphrey or Duvemay Derek Kerstetter, Sr.. 6-5, 293: Marcus Tillman, Fr., 6-1, 240: breakout potential? Moves to Cthis season but has 28 Played in 4 games last year, then Tri Blacll, Sr., 6-3, 217: Grad career OL starts. suffered a knee injury. transfer constantly battled foot Rafiti Ghilfflili, So., 6-5,291: Has hllen Hlilaby, Fr.. 6-2, 217: Was problems at Michigan. logged extensive time training as ranked as the state's No. 36 Brennan E.igles, Jr., 6-4, ~ Has the backup center. athlete prospect. incredible breakaway speed on JaJie Majors, Fr., 6-3, 298: "go" routes. Anchored Prosper offense that Inside llnebackers Al'Vonte Woodard, So., 6-2, 214: averaged 37.6points. Texas salefy caden Sterns was all over the field as a freshman in Had only 3catches in 8games WIieTyier, ~6-7, ns: Opting DeMarvion Overslhown and 2018, blocking klclls and picldng off passes as he claimed a starting last season. outthis season because ofthe Juwan Mitchell are known role. Another sold season as a sophomore has set him up to be Marcus Washington, So., 6-2, 191: COVI0-19 pandemic. quantities, but who else rs one of the team's defensive leaders this fal. [NICK WAGNER/AMERICAN Played 11 games last year, but is going to become a consistent STATESMAN] still an unknown. Defensive ends contributor? Joshua Moore,~6-1, 169: He's DeMaMOIIOVersllown, Jr.,6-4, year at West Virginia. the nation's No. 47 CB according back after being suspended for This group - the whole defensive 217: Converted safety switched Jalen Green, Jr., 6-1,197: Adislo toESPN. the 2019season. line, really - will be front and to LB for playing time. cated shoulder injury sfowed his Jenin 1hompson. Fr., 6-0, 190: Jordan Whitti1gton, Fr.. 6-1, 209: center this season. The defensive Juwan Mitchell, Jr., 6-1, 230: Had sophomore season. Was Rivals' No. 10 safety pros Lingering high school injury line couldn't get much consistent 39 tackles, 3.5 sacks in 11 games Anthony Cook, Jr., 6-1, 186: pect nationally. slowed. then halted, his first year. pressure on quarterbacks last last season. started six games last year, Jake Smith, So., 6-0, 200: Had a year. Ayodele Adeoye, ·So.,6-1, 251: forced a key fumble vs. OU. Nlckel backs big September, then faded into T'Vondre s-i.So., 6-4, 348: Started 10 games, had five tack- Kenyatta Watson II, fr., 6-1, 184: big September, then faded into T'Vondre S-..t, SO.. 6-4, 348: Started 10 games. had five tack- Kenyatta Watson II, Fr., 6-1, 184: the 2019 background Was ar~lar partof the DE rota- les in the Alamo win. Played Infour games last year, BJ. Foster - one of those highly- Kennedy Lewis, Fr., 6-3, 192: tion last year Prince Dorbah, Fr.,, 6-3, 220: and redshirted regarded 2018 recruits - is the Played in 2 games in 2019, with a Daniel carson. so.. 6-4, Z16: Dynamic freshman will get his Marques caldwel, Fr., 6-1, 197: heavy-hitting machine. 37-yard catch vs. Rice. Kansas City native played in four chances in his first year. Made hiscareer debut vs. Texas BJ. Foster, Jr., 6-2. 195: High on Kelvontay Dixon, Fr., H, 180: games lastseason. CortJaquess, k ., 6-1,239: Went Tech, and redshirted. coaches' radar, he's notched 13 Had 74 grabs for l,240yards his Myron Warren, Fr., 6-2. 290: from walk--On tostandout per- Kltan Crawford, Fr., s-11, 185: m and four sacks. last year atCarthage. Highly-touted recruit ended up former vs. Utah. w as the state's No. 38 prospect Josh 1hompson, Jr., H,198: Troy Omelre, Fr., 6-3, 230; redshirting last year. Da'llld Gbenda, Fr,. 6-0, 2.28: on our Fab 55. Former starter suffered a foot Aashed earlyatcamp, wt suf- Jacoby Jones, Sr., H,264: Coaches briefly moved him to RB injury last season. fered a tom ACL in August. Former JUCO transfer played in last year for depth. Safeties Chris Admora, So.,6-1, 214: Full- Da;oll Hanison, Fr., S-10, 170: 11 games lastseason. ~ Ford, Fr., 6-2. 223: Was a time reserve logged 10 tackles Hutto athlete has decided to opt Marqez Bimage, Sr., 6-2. 251: two-time all-state pick at Frisco This group was the driving force last season. out of the season. Opting out ofthe season because Lone Star. behind all the Longhorns' social of the pandemic. Luke Broclle~, So., 6-3, 226: justice push this summer. It's a Speclallsts Tight ends Alfred COiins, Fr., 6-5, 305: Third-generation Hom earned a group with some terrific think- Bastrop starisalready turning scholarship in '19. ers. Now, they need to play just Nothing like having steady one of the most important heads with his physic.ality. Jake Ehinger, Fr,. !S-11,227: The as hard Safety Caden Sterns performers on special teams. positions in Herman's offense QB's younger brother hasn't wi II be expected to patrol the Cameron Dicker, the kicker, and possibly one ofthe most Jackends appeared in agame yet secondary. can probably still get a free mis1J1clerstood The tight ends Jett Bush, So., 6-2. 2.35: Played in caden Sterns, k ., 6-1, 207:The lunch for his game-winning played a huge role in 2017 and This Isa new position to Texas four games last season, had one Wolf has 120career tackles, 4 field goal against Oklahoma In 2018, Herman's first two seasons. fans, butessentially it'sa hybrid fumble recovery. INTs in 22 games. 2018. He added a 57-yarder last But Injuries neutered this group linebacker and defensive end Montrell Estelle, k ., 6-1, 196: season. Australian-born Ryan last year. For quarterbacks, noth- spot that allows athletic players Cornerbacks Steady contributor was in on 26 Bujcevski has long since broken ing beats asolid over-the-middle to rush offthe edge. Joseph ossal tackles last season. outofcousin Michael Dickson's security blanket. showed what he could oo in the There's aslew of talented Chris Brown, Sr.,S-11, 187: shadow. cac1e Brewer, Sr., 6-4, 252: Burst Alamo Bowl, and the hope is options atcornemack, which the Started the first 6 games of'19 cameron Dicker, Jr., 6-1, 204: urs onto the scene in 2017 at use. Byron Vaughns can do the same. Longhorns have concentrated before aforearm injury. kicker was 14-18on FGs lastyear, can he finish strong? Joseph Ossai, k.,6-4, 253: One of on heavily in Herman's first few Tyler <>wens. So., 6-2. 205: Played with no blocks. Jared Wley, SO.. 6-7, 254: Ul's biggest defensive stars. had years ofrecruiting. His 2018 class all season, earned his first career Ryan Blicevsld.Jr., H, 183: Arguably one ofthe most versa• 14TFLln'19. alone yielded several top oes start vs. TCU. Averaged 41.1 yards on punts tile athletes on the roster. Byron Vaud,ns, So., 6-4, 225: that now highlight the second- xa~on Alford, Fr., 6-0, 190: before shoulder injury. Malcokn Epps. so.. 6-6, 2A4: Played in 10 games last year, ary's depth chart. Missed his final high school Justin Mader, k., 6-2. 238: Massive-bodied TE had 20 finished with 14 tackles. D'Shawn Jamison,. k., 5-10, 184: season with a first-game injuy. Veteran deep snapper has had catches for 232yards in '19. Had two incredible picks last Jahdae Barron, Fr., S-11, 183: Was the job for two seasons.