iHSFAN - 10th Anniversary - Summer 2024

From the desk of the Publisher

WOW!!! 10 years ago, I pursued a dream of starting my own business. I thought long and hard about what kind of business I wanted to start: I had always heard; find something you are passionate about and you will never consider it a job. Well, I am definitely passionate about High Sc hool Football and I thought Austin is big enough to have this type of preview magazine.

I am fortunate to have had so many great advertising partners that wanted to support IHSFAN, with many who are still with us since our first magazine. What started as a magazine added our radio show in year two and then the IHSFAN Webcast Network a few years later where we have broadcasted over 300 games over the last 5 years.

I want to thank all of the area coaches for their amazing support over the past 10 years with each, unbelievably, always thanking me for shining a positive spotlight on area High School Football. I want to thank the amazing players that have appeared in our magazine many of which have gone on to amazing things.

It is my hope this magazine will provide every fan with their required summer reading assignment as they prepare for Friday Night Lights!

Once again, we have put together 40+ Team previews for your enjoyment.

Welcome to the 2024 IHSFAN MAGAZINE!

Rick Epstein Publisher of IHSFAN

AUSTIN AREA

DISTRICTS AND REGIONS:

4A D1

Region 4

District 13

Austin Achieve

Eastside

LBJ

Northeast

Travis

Manor New Tech

Taylor

5A D2

Region 3

District 11

Crockett

L ASA

McCallum

Navarro

Bastrop

Elgin

Liber ty Hill

Pfluger ville

Connally

5A D1

Region 2

District 8

Cedar Park

Georgetown

East View

Killeen Chaparral

Lake Belton

Leander

Glenn Rouse

6A

Region 4

District 25

Vandegrift

Vista Ridge

Hutto

Manor

Round Rock

McNeil

Stony Point

Westwood

Cedar Ridge

5A D1

Region 3

District 12

Anderson

Cedar Creek

Hays

College Station

A&M Consolidated Lehman

Loc khart

Hendrickson

Weiss

6A

Region 4

District 26

Austin

Akins

Bowie

Lake Travis

Westlake

Del Valle

Dripping Springs

25-6A

26-6A

8-5A

MCNEIL MAVERICKS

Coach Scott Hermes, 2023 IHSFAN Coach of the Year, enters his 5th season at the helm of the Mavs. Last season saw his squad make the playoffs for the first time since 2004 as they went two rounds deep and finished with the record of 7-5. Coach Hermes told IHSFAN, ”We had a good 2023 season and we hope to build on that success in 2024.

The Mavs return 8 starters on offense and 3 on defense. The offense will be led by IHSFAN Top 10 and 1st AD Sr. RB Josh Williams, Offensive Newcomer of the year Jr. WR Jarell Gary, 1st AD Jr. WR Zach Christie and returning signal caller Jr. QB Jaden Sultz.

The defense which boasted 3 shutouts last season will be led by Jr. LB Marshall Holland, Sr. DL Josh Abshier, and Jr. DB Aden Taylor.

Coach Hermes has established the blueprint for the Mavs success and things are looking bright at McNeil. A ton of talent was lost on defense through graduation which will allow a chance for some younger players to step up.

ROUND ROCK DRAGONS

Coach Cody Moore enters his 2nd season as the Dragons head coach. The Dragons, a perennial playoff contender, finished 2023 at 4-7 losing their first-round playoff game to Westlake 35-3. The Dragons started the season winless through their non-district schedule and needed some last-minute heroics against Westwood to get their first win.

The Dragons will return 5 starters on Offense and 7 starters on the defensive side of the ball. The offense will need to find a replacement for longtime starting QB Mason Cochran who graduated. Look for Jr. QB Jack Appl to take the snaps this fall. Other leaders on the offensive side of the ball will be Sr. RB Joaquin Maldonado, and Sr. OL Foster Wood.

The defense will be led by 1st AD Sr. DL Justin Lee, 1st AD Sr. DB Aiden Walker, and Sr. DB Noah Cocherham.

In the Dragons 7 losses last year they scored an average of 12.1 points per game which will be something to watch as some new players get a chance to shine.

STONY POINT TIGERS

Coach Craig Chessher enters his 21st season as the head coach of Tiger nation. The Tigers finished the season with the record of 5-5. Coach Chessher told IHSFAN, “Last year we had a young football team and saw them handle adversity extremely well and finish a few close ball games, but our season did not end the way we liked. This year we are hopeful and expectant to see that team grow and become the best team we can possibly be, both on and off the field.”

The Tigers will return 6 starters on offense and 5 starters on defense. The offense will be led by Jr. QB Kinnick Kalbus who started last season, Sr. WR 1st AD Andrew Gomez, Jr. WR Trystin Rimes, and Sr. OL 1st AD Terrance Lackey.

The defense will be led by Sr. DB 1st AD Kaden Cook, Sr. DL 2nd AD Tristan Butler, and Jr. LB Joaquin Mendez.

The Tigers are no longer a “young” team and with the talent on the offensive side of the ball at the receiving position look for a lot of points to be scored.

VISTA RIDGE RANGERS

Coach Chad Scott heads into his fourth season as head coach of the Rangers. Last season Vista Ridge finished with the record of 7-4 losing in the first round to Dripping Springs 34-14. Coach Scott told IHSFAN,” We are looking to build on our success from last season. We expect to have a stingy defense and explosive offense this season.”

The Rangers will return 4 offensive starters and 3 defensive starters. The offense will be led by Sr. RB 2nd AD JD Jackson, Sr. WR Jake Pando, and Jr. OL Elijah Gonzalez.

The Defense will be led by Jr. DL Nate Cochren, Sr. DL Jason Handy, and Jr. LB Amare Jordan.

Ranger Nation will see a bunch of new faces that will step into starting roles in 2024. Vista Ridge got off to a red hot start last season winning it’s first 4 games and were 6-2 through the first 8 games.

CEDAR RIDGE RAIDERS

Coach Sam Robinson enters his 8th season as head coach of Raider Nation. After an amazing stretch of 10 straight playoff appearances Cedar Ridge failed to make the playoffs in 2023 finishing with the record of 2-8. The Raiders were winless in district play.

The squad will return 7 offensive starters and 4 defensive starters. The offense will be led by Sr. QB Jack Pippen, Sr. RB Malik Hamilton, Sr. WR Reece Brooks, and Sr. OL Connor Anderson.

The defense will be led by Sr. DL Johah Collis who will be a three-year starter, Sr. DB Davon Crank, and Sr. DB Eddie Corothers.

In last season’s 8 losses the Raiders averaged 8 points per game. Coach Robinson told IHSFAN,” The strength of this year’s team will be the offensive line where several Seniors who were injured last season will be return. We also have 3 running backs that can go and two returning receivers along with our QB who had three starts last season before getting injured.

MANOR MUSTANGS

Coach James Keller heads into his 5th season as the leader of Mustang Nation. Manor finished last season with the record of 4-6 just missing out on the playoffs. Coach Keller told IHSFAN,” We will be younger, especially on offense. The offense is replacing a lot of production, so the defense will need to carry the team until the offense comes around. Our kids are really buying in this offseason.”

The Mustangs will return 3 offensive starters and 7 defensive starters. The offense will be led by Sr. WR Johnny Buhendwa, Sr. OL Gracien Hall, Jr. OL Cedar Sanchez, and Sr. WR 1st AD Peyton Guyton.

The defense will be led by Sr. DL Damien Godley, Sr. LB DaRion Godley, and Sr.LB 1st AD Eddie Robinson.

The Mustangs lost 5 of their last 6 games last season after starting off strong.

VANDEGRIFT VIPERS

2024 marks season number 16 for Coach Drew Sanders as Vandegrift’s head football coach. The Vipers are a perennial powerhouse still glowing from their 2022 state runner-up finish. Last season the Vipers finished the season undefeated in the regular season losing a tough first round playoff game, quite possibly the toughest first round game in the state, where they lost to Lake Travis 13-10.

Vandegrift always seems to reload no matter how many players they lose to graduation. This year the squad will return 4 offensive starters and 6 defensive starters. Coach Sanders told IHSFAN,” Vandegrift will continue to build upon its decade of winning tradition with another strong team led by a less heralded but strong senior class.”

The offense will be led by Sr. RB 1st AD Brendan Fournier, Jr. WR 2nd AD Brock Chilton, Sr RB Kent Sullivan and Sr. WR George Farley.

The defense will be led by Sr. DL 1st AD Daeshon Morgan, Sr. DL 1st AD Ian Witt, Sr. DB 2nd AD Aidan Jones, an Sr. DB 2nd AD Hollister Stephens.

The Vipers are our pick to once again with the district championship in 2024.

HUTTO HIPPOS

Coach Will Compton heads into his third season as head coach of the Hippos and finds himself in a brand-new district. The bus driver will get a break this year as Hutto will be playing its district games against Austin area teams. Coach Compton told IHSFAN,” Expectations don’t change at Hutto, compete for a district championship and make a playoff run. Replacing some great players will be tough but we have some great young players ready to step into that role.”

The Hippos will return 4 offensive starters and 6 defensive starters. The squad will have to replace IHSFAN Player of the year QB Will Hammond. The offense will be led by Jr. RB and Offensive new-comer of the year Keilan Chavies, Sr. RB 2nd AD Braeton Anderson, and Sr. OL Greyson Armstrong.

The defense will be led by Jr. LB 2nd AD Brayden Daniel, Sr. DB Cashton LaPlante, and Jr. DB Carlos Sorto.

With 9 teams in district 25-6A there will be several good teams that will miss the playoffs. Hutto should compete well against their new rivals.

WESTWOOD WARRIORS

Coach Anthony Wood enters his 21st season as the Warriors head coach. 2023 was a successful yet tough season as the Warriors may have been the best team in Texas to not qualify for the playoffs. Westwood finished the season at 7-3. A tough loss to Round Rock where the Warriors had controlled 3 quarters of football ultimately played a key role in their playoff hopes. Coach Wood told IHSFAN,” I expect the Warriors to be better this season. Our defense will be the key to our success, with multiple 3-year starters, size and speed is great and I look to see a lot of low scoring games.”

The Warriors will return 4 offensive starters and 7 defensive starters. The offense will be led by Jr. WR Drew Norell, Sr. RB Xavion Sutton, and Sr. OL Taylor Wofford.

The defense will be led by Sr. DL and defensive newcomer of the year Jacob Brown, Sr. LB Caius Coy, and Sr. DB Scott Uffelman.

Look for the young offense to have good success on the ground as the offensive line is steller.

WESTLAKE CHAPARRALS

The Chaps have only lost twice in the last 70 games they have played. Westlake is a perennial power in 6A Texas Football and arguably the best program in the State in the last decade. Coach Tony Salazar led Westlake to a 14-1 record in 2023, leaving him to tell IHSFAN,” We have some unfinished business this season.”

The Chaps return 8 offensive starters and 5 defensive starters. The offense will be led by Jr. QB and offensive newcomer of the year Rees Wise, Sr. RB 1st AD Grady Bartlett, Sr. WR 1st AD Grady Bartlett, and Sr. OL 1st AD Jared Risinger.

The defense will be led by Sr. LB IHSFAN Top 10 Team and Defensive MVP Elliott Schaper, Sr. DB 1st AD Payton Luther, Sr. DL Conner Vasek and Jr. DL Maddox Flynt.

With a full year of varsity starts under his belt look for Rees Wise to have an amazing season as the Chaps will be a favorite to make it back to Jerry World in December.

LAKE TRAVIS CAVALIERS

Coach Hank Carter led his Cavs to an 11-3 record in 2023 losing in the fourth round to archrival Westlake 21-14 that saw both teams scoreless until Westlake scored 20 seconds before halftime. Coach Carter told IHSFAN.” The sky is the limit for the Cavs this season, We return a solid group of key contributors that are leaders on and off the field. We look forward to taking the next step in growing and maturing in preparation for the season.”

The Cavs return 6 offensive starters and 5 defensive starters. The offense will be led by Sr. QB Chaston Ditta who also earned 2nd AD honors at WR in ‘23, Sr. WR 2nd AD Dylan Cullers, and Sr. WR Josiah Thomas.

The defense is led by Sr. DB IHSFAN Top 10 Team and 1st AD Cam Brooks, Sr. DL Gus Cordova, and Sr. DB Walker Moore.

The district will once again be a three way race between Lake Travis, Westlake and Dripping Springs.

DRIPPING SPRINGS TIGERS

For the second straight year Coach Galen Zimmerman led the Tigers to the 4th round of the Playoffs. Dripping Springs finished the season in the tough 26-6A district with the record of 11-3. Coach Zimmerman told IHSFAN,” I think our expectations don’t change from year to year. We expect to compete in our district and in our region and to be a top tier program in the Austin area.”

The Tigers will return 4 offensive starters and just 1 defensive starter. The offense will be led by Sr. RB District MVP and IHSFAN Top 10 team Jack Tyndall. Other leaders on offense will be Sr. QB 1st AD Maddox Maher and Jr. WR 1st AD Cooper Reid.

The Defense will rely on 10 new starters who will get a chance to step up. The defense will be led by Sr. DL 2nd AD Clive Wahl, Sr. LB Chris Gustafson, and Sr. DB Jackson Mills. Look for Dripping Springs to once again punch their ticket to the playoffs in November.

AUSTIN HIGH MAROONS

Coach Bernard Riley heads into his 3rd season at the helm of maroon nation. Austin High finished last season at 3-7. Coach Riley told IHSFAN,” The majority of the years projected starters have started since they were sophomores. This group is more than capable of getting to the playoffs and making Austin High history.”

The Maroons will return 9 starters on offense and 9 starters on defense. The offense will be led by Sr. RB/WR Utility Player of the Year Bryson Sr. QB John Latham, and Sr. WR Dunaven Kurek.

The defense will be led by Sr. LB 1st AD Will Peeler, Sr. LB 2nd AD Lawson Stouse, and Sr. DB Kaleel Green. The Maroons will start the fall with one of the most experienced teams in the Austin area and should fight for that 4 playoff spot in 26-6A.

DEL VALLE CARDINALS

Coach Todd Patmon heads into his second season as head coach of Del Valle. The Cardinals finished last season with the record of 1-9. Coach Patmon told IHSFAN,” We have a strong senior class and are excited about the 2024 season.”

The Cardinals will return 6 starters on offense and 5 starters on defense. The offense will be led by Sr. RB/WR Donovan Douglas, Sr. RB Kenelle Hodges, and Sr. RB Joel Jordan.

The defense will be led by Sr. DB 1st AD Coleman Patmon, Sr. DL 2nd AD Jeremiah Robinson, and Sr. LB 2nd AD Michael Dent.

AKINS EAGLES

The Eagles finished last season with the record of 0-10 in the brutal 26-6A district. Coach Joey Saxe is optimistic about this season as he told IHSFAN,” With a lot of experience gained by many underclassmen last season we will be much more competitive this year. Realignment helps us out some and gives us the opportunity to play a few more non-district games to get ready for a competitive district schedule.”

The Eagles return 7 offensive starters and 7 defensive starters. The offense will be led by Jr. RB/QB Dylan Cagle, and a pair of 3-year starter lineman in Sr. OL Eloy Espresion, and Sr. OL Jamarion Carter.

The defense will be led by Jr. DB Pablo Espinoza, Jr. DL Chris Heard, and Jr. DB Jayden Tovar.

BOWIE BULLDOGS

Coach Jeff Ables heads into his incredible 23rd season as head coach of Bulldog nation and 37th overall season leading young men. The Bulldogs once again qualified for the playoffs last season finishing with the record of 4-7 losing to McNeil in the first round. Coach Ables told IHSFAN,” We return 35 lettermen. This experience should help us compete in one of the most competitive districts in Texas.”

The Bulldogs will return 8 offensive starters and 4 defensive starters. The offense will be led by Sr. QB 2nd AD Cruz Tello who is a 2-year starter. Other leaders on offense include Jr. WR Rowen Wells, Sr.RB Kayson Mathabela, Sr. OL Clayton Migl, and Sr. OL John Martino.

The defense will be led by Sr. LB 2nd AD Reagan Cooper who was the leading tackler last season. Other defensive players to watch are Jr. DL Jackson Lang, Sr. LB Ryan Trueblood, Sr. LB Wyatt Barnes, and Sr. DL Sean Dougerty.

CEDAR PARK TIMBERWOLVES

After an 8-4 season in 2023, the Cedar Park Timberwolves are looking forward to starting the 2024 season with many key players returning. “This is going to be one of the most dynamic teams we have had here at Cedar Park when it comes to talent and leadership,” says coach Michael Quintero. “We have some key players coming back who had a breakout season last year and we have a lot of young talent that are going to fill big roles and we are expecting them to help our team.

Five offensive starters and four defensive starters will be returning in 2024. Key offensive players include Jr. RB Trae Hill (1st AD and IHSFAN Top 10 Team), So. QB David Cooper, and Sr. Center/OL Wyatt Valiente. Key defensive players include Sr. LB Logan Wicketts (2nd AD), Sr. DB Garrett Nichols (2nd AD) and Jr. LB Jahiem Porter (2nd AD). Additional All District players that will be returning this year include Jr. OL Jacob Slaughter.

EAST VIEW PATRIOTS

East View coach Michael Wall finished his second season with an improved record of 4-6, and he is very optimistic about his third season with the Patriots with many starters returning. “We are excited about what we have coming back and we look forward to the leadership of our defensive line and offensive skill positions to help us win ball games,” says Coach Wall.

The Patriots will return 5 starters on the offense and 7 starters on the defense.

The offense will be led by Sr. QB Ty Blair (2nd AD), Sr. ATH Kieston Rainey, Sr. OL Joshuah Claypool, and Sr. TE Luke Martin.

The defense will be led by Jr. DE Tieson Ejiawoko (Defensive Newcomer of the Year), Sr. DT Marco Sanchez (2nd AD), Sr. LB Isaiah Davenport-Bell and Jr. DE Ty Temples.

GLENN GRIZZLIES

The Grizzlies finished the 2023 season with a record of 2-8, the Grizzlies are optimistic about the upcoming 2024 season. Six offensive players and nine defensive starters will be returning to the team. “The youth movement that took over for our team last year will hopefully pay dividends for the 2024 season and new district,” says coach Brandon Krauskopf. “An experienced and senior heavy defense will lead the way as we gain experience for our new offensive starters on the offensive line.”

Key returning offensive players include Jr. FB JJ Ortiz (Offensive Newcomer of the Year), Jr. TB DeMarcus Davis (All-District RB), and Sr. QB Dakota Dubelbeis.

Key returning defensive players include Sr. CB. Eyan Jones (1st AD), Sr. LB Joshua Vincik (1st AD), and Jr. DL Braelon Deloatche.

Another key returning team member to the team this season is Sr. K Armando Don Juan (1st AD).

LEANDER LIONS

The Lions are hoping for a more winning season in 2024 after a 2023 record of 2-8. “We will have a lot of returners at key positions in the 202425 season,” says coach Kris Price. “We are excited about that and expect that the experience will play a major role in our success.”

The Lions will have 6 returning offensive starters, and 8 defensive returning starters on this 2024 team. Key returning offensive players include Sr. QB Logan Mitchell (2nd AD), Sr. WR Zane Wooldridge (Utility Player of the Year) and Sr. C Ryan Kazmir.

Key returning defensive players include Sr. DB Malachi Philen (2nd AD), Sr. LB Calvin Kesler and Sr. LB Nick Parsons.

GEORGETOWN EAGLES

The Eagles will be going through some changes this upcoming season, besides moving to a new district. Last season the Eagles finished 6-5, and with graduation taking many of last season’s key players, the team will be looking for returning players to step into those leadership roles. “The defense, especially the linebacker corps, should be a strength early as the offense replaces our prolific quarterback and running back positions,” says coach Chuck Griffin. “LBs Sr. Chance Kelly and Jr. Kole Mitchell played a lot last year and look to join All-Centex Sr. LB Seth Warren as leaders.”

The team will return with 4 offensive starters and 5 defensive starters. The return of explosive Jr. WR Xavier Warren, who will be a key starter, and sure handed big target Sr. WR Davyn Sedwick will help with whoever steps up and becomes the quarterback. Additional key players returning to the Eagles starting roster include Jr. OL Sam Lopez (1st AD), who will anchor the much-improved offensive line, and Sr. TE Jake Miloch.

The defense will have key players returning as well. Sr. CB Jaheim Dowd, Sr. DB Luke Holley, and Sr. CB Alex Wilson played significant reserve roles last season and they will look to make the jump to impact players. Another key player returning to the defensive roster includes Sr. DT Andrew Urban.

“As always, Georgetown will be in the thick of our new district,” says coach Griffin.

ROUSE RAIDERS

Coach Josh Mann returns in 2024 for his 17th season as head coach of the Rouse Raiders, which will be a year of pushing themselves. Last season ended when the Raiders were eliminated in the area playoff game and had a regular season record of 8-4. “The 2024 Raiders are returning a lot of depth from last year and as in every year we want to reach our standard, expectation and goal that we set for our program year in and year out,” he says.

Quite a few starters will be returning to the Raiders for the 2024 season, including 12 offensive starters and 11 defensive starters.

Key offensive players that will be returning include Jr. QB London Morgan (2nd AD), Sr. WR Noah Fablia (1st AD), Sr. ATH Leland Smit, Sr. TE Mason Rieger (2nd AD), and RBs Jr. Anthony Reyes and Sr. Bryce Johns.

Key returning defensive players include Sr. DL Tyler Evans, Sr. DE Braden Eberwine (2nd AD), Sr. DB Judson Mann (2nd AD), Sr. Safety Jacob Dotson, and Sr. Corner Jaxon Koltys (2nd AD). Additional All District returning players include Sr. OL Chris De La Garza (2nd AD), Sr. OL Jaden Winslow (2nd AD) and Sr. DB Jacob Dotson (2nd AD).

ANDERSON TROJANS

There is some good news for surrounding schools when preparing for upcoming games against the Trojans, and the good news is that Ed Small is almost done. The bad news for opponents is that he has one more go at it, and the Sr. all-everything, reigning District Offense POY and IHSFAN Top 10 Team is ready to get it going with help from a huge Jr. class that will include 16 players who gained varsity experience as Sophs.

Returning 8 offensive starters and 6 on the defensive side of the ball, the Trojans have a great deal to look forward to when looking at the upcoming season. It is apparent that last year’s 4-6 season is out the window. Head Coach Donald Hatcher has been devoted to the “No Excuse” motto that has been a driving force this off-season, stating, “We expect to compete for a district championship.” After last year, Coach Hatcher has obviously planted his flag and now expects his kids to follow along.

Along with Small, the offense will be led by QB Max Gerlich, OL Jayden Evans and returning 1st Team AD receiver Zaden Sharp. Returning 2nd AD linebacker Gage Webb will be expected to lead the charge on defense. DB Colin Haines and Jr. DE Calvin Ballinger will be expected to be in the thick of the action when the Trojans are on defense.

CEDAR CREEK EAGLES

Spring practice dates will depend on baseball schedule towards the end of district play. Whenever Head Coach Josh Thomas decides to get things rolling, there will be plenty excitement about the upcoming season. Having seven returners on offense and six on defense, and then tossing in returning 1st Team AD punter, Sr. Dillon Dubee, Thomas feels the Eagles are ready to “take our program to another level.”

Leading the offense in ’24 will be talented Jr. QB Blaze Orr. Another reason the Eagles are excited about the upcoming season is the expected play from two of their skill kids. Senior RB Devon James and returning All-District WR, Sr. Dakota Baker, will be leading the skill positions going into Spring ball, and big things will be expected from them next year. OL play will continue to blossom into a positive with the help of the strenuous offseason they are currently enduring.

The six defensive returners will be led by Sr. MLB Benjamin Young. The secondary could be an extremely experienced part of this team, returning Jr. standout Dillon Redmon and Sr. Ivan Lopez. The defense will have their hands full with the tough district schedule, but the Eagles are not dodging anyone.

Coach Thomas doubled down as they “will embrace a challenging schedule with two 6A teams in the preseason.” As difficult as it is to acquire a winning tradition on campus, they are definitely taking the proper steps to get there.

WEISS WOLVES

Let’s think about an extremely positive reason to be excited about an upcoming football season. Coming off a playoff season and a stellar 9-2 record, Coach Vernon Hughes knows that his returning squad is “top heavy with a lot of kids coming back.” About those kids coming back…

Offensively, realizing there are nine returning starters, it is hard not to start with the reigning Offensive MVP and IHSFAN Top 10 Team, Sr. QB Jax Brown and 1st AD and IHSFAN Top 10 Team Sr, WR Adrian Wilson. It’s great to have a returning starter at RB, and the Wolves have two All-District RBs coming back, Sr. transfer and IHSFAN Top 10 team DJ Dugar Sr. Braiden Wooley. The WR group is in the same situation, returning another All-District player, Jr. Daniel Berry. But that is not even the most dominant part. Every one of these skill guys will benefit from the return of four of the five OL spots! The All-District big boys will be led by seniors Michael Otutu and Nehemiah Griffin. Right there with them paving the way will be juniors Jerald Mays and Marquis Libby.

Although they have some holes to fill on defense, returning Def. Newcomer of the Year, Jr, Jorian Guinn will be one of three AD performers coming back in the secondary. Others returning are seniors 1st AD Jason Stokes and 1st AD Josiah Wells and LB 1st AD Dhaylee Bradfield .

HENDRICKSON HAWKS

There is little doubt that the Hawks will be depending on a bunch of young players without varsity experience this year. No problem with the upcoming talent in the system, and when you think you’re going to be young on O and D, it is comforting to know you have Sr. Divan DeKock solidifying your special teams as a returning AD P/K.

With only 3 returning starters on offense and 4 on defense, it’s easy to see why Coach Doug Pearce is busy identifying young kids in the program to get the once dynamic program back into playoff contention. Coming off a 3-7 campaign, the young squad will be ready to turn things around “if they mature quickly.”

With so many spots to be earned this off=season, their offense will be led by Srs. WR Romelo Boykin and RB Michael Anderson. Jr. RB Brandon Mosley will be expected to contribute in the backfield, and the OL will be anchored by massive Jr. OL Alijah Ford.

Sr. Oluseye Akeredolu will be roaming the edges at OLB, while Jr. Carnell Spicer will man the post of MLB and Jr. Maddox Quiller tightens up the secondary from his CB spot.

High expectations for the younger kids in the program will make for an interesting start to the season, as most of their projected starters have little to no varsity experience. Coach Pearce will have his guys ready, and this off-season and summer conditioning will iron out most of the competitions for game reps.

LEHMAN LOBOS

After fighting through a rough 2-8 campaign in 2023, Head Coach Chris Castillo is looking forward to turning the page and getting “different outcomes to some of the games” as they prepare for the upcoming season. The Lobos should be in fine position to contend for a playoff spot, bringing back six starters on each side of the ball.

Leading the charge to change their fortunes from the past few seasons should be their defensive stalwarts. At the top of that list is returning All-District CB, Sr. Anthony Mata. Joining him will be two key performers, DE Darin Page and LB Markis Maldonado, both seniors. They will be expected to lead all three levels of a swarming defense.

On the offensive side, they will have the benefit of returning QB, Jr. Gunner Winiecki. Sr. RB Mo Bayo is looking for a big year on the ground while big things are expected from the two main threats at WR, Tim Mata and big-framed target, Jr. Amir Washington.

Although they are not currently planning on having Spring Ball, according to Coach Castillo, the Lobos are getting ready to “play with toughness and discipline that matches the talent we believe we have on our team,” That is going to be huge in taking the steps to turning the corner in the win column. It is definitely going be tough knowing that “the district will be tough, but we are ready for the challenge.

LOCKHART LIONS

After an outstanding campaign in 2022 that included an overall record of 8-4 and a playoff victory and just a play here or there from a second-round win against Flour Bluff, Coach Moebes and his Lions had higher aspirations than the 4-7 season of a year ago. Although they were good enough to make it into the playoff picture, that record had to carry a sting that sticks with the boys going into the off-season.

Although the Lions return a total of 10 starters, 5 on offense and 5 on defense, they have six returners with All-District honors from last year.

Sr. RB Nathaniel Gonzales comes back as one of the leading backs in the area. He will be expected to lead the ground game once again this year. The burden should be eased because the Lions will feature returning AllDistrict WR, fellow Sr. Gage Deutsch. One of the Super Sophs should take a big load off these two seniors. One of the other major offensive threats will be Jordan Frohock, returning All-District Utility player as a freshman. Not much will get rolling on offense without the play of standout OL, Jr. Dylan Ovalle, who was an All-District performer himself last year.

The Lions will be led by returning All-District performers, Jr. LB Miguel Portillo and Jr. Ayden Scott. The D-Line will be anchored by Sr. DL Michael Foster. A couple of other sophomores fall into the same category as Frohock, one of them being CB Kadon Moebes.

HAYS HAWKS

The Hawks finished the 2023 season with the record of 4-6. After 6 productive season leading the Hays football program Coach Les Goad announced his retirement. Coach Goad finished his 39th season coaching young men.

The Hawks find themselves in a new district yet again due to realignment as they will compete against Austin area schools in District 12 5A D1.

The Hawks return one ALL district player in Sr. KR 2nd AD Latwun Baker.

Hays welcomed a new football coach. On Jan. 22, as the head football coaching vacancy for Hays High School was officially filled when it was announced that Marc Torres former Pebble Hills High School head coach, would take the position.

Look for Jr. QB Tacoma Ames to take the snaps this season. The defensive leader should be Sr. LB Robert Braitkrus who is the returning starter who had the most tackles last season.

CONNALLY COUGARS

Head Coach Charles Burton is ready to turn the tide from last year’s record. He also is expecting leadership to come from some kids who will be expected to play on both sides of the ball. Although the Cougars have only three starters returning on offense, they can draw a line in the sand, knowing they have six returners on defense, and four of the six come back with All-District honors from last year!

Leading the defense will be their two 1st Team AD selections from last year. Sr. DB CJ Anderson will patrol the secondary, and Sr. DE Jaydus Bell will be a menace up front. All-District Sr. LB Ousman Jabateh will be expected to be a tackling machine, while Jr. DL Didier Thorpe is coming off an AD season himself. It will be exciting to see if the offensive coaches get a chance to include these guys in their game plans next year.

Offensively, there will be more questions to be answered by the end of the Spring and summer drills. Leading the way for the Cougars on offense will be Jr. WR Aiden Smart. There are battles being had for most of the other skill positions. The Offensive Line will be led by two returners, Sebastian Vaquera and Damari Reed. It will be their responsibility to get that unit to gel sooner than later.

Overall, Coach is striving for his players “to improve significantly in all three phases of the game.” These will be needed for the climate change he is demanding.

PFLUGERVILLE PANTHERS

After “they exceeded expectations by making the playoffs” last year, Head Coach Charles Taylor is ready to take on a new district schedule with seven starters returning on each side of the ball. Part of being young last year is hopefully reaping the rewards of experience.

That experience on offense is led by four returning All-District players, all of whom play skill positions. That should give a returning starter at QB a great deal of confidence. Jr. Cole Taylor will be taking snaps, and he should have numerous weapons at his disposal. We could easily start with fellow All-District Jr. TE, Javion Martin. Put those two with a pair of seniors who were AD performers, Sr. WR Kyran McFrazier and Sr. RB Rhyder Miller, and you have the makings of an explosive offense.

You might have a little easier task of moving the ball against the Panthers next year, but don’t bring that up in the DL meetings. They return one of the more dominant DL combinations, led by First Team AD performers Donny Wright and Sonny Davis. Add Sr. All-District LB Brandon Bradshaw and Jr. MLB Kenneth Magee, yet another AD selection, and Coach Taylor has the makings of as top tier defense in ’24.

Records aside, the Pflugerville Panthers were a playoff team last year, and the coaches “look to build on that in 2024.” I would imagine a great deal of excitement is expected at The Pfield next season.

ELGIN WILDCATS

After a 4-6 record for the 2023 season, the Elgin Wildcats are setting themselves up to pounce on a playoff run in this upcoming 2024 season. “I expect the 2024 Wildcats to make another jump from competing for a playoff spot to a team to make a playoff run,” predicts coach Heath Clawson. “The quarterback spot will be the biggest question replacing 3-year

starter Nathen Lewis, who signed with Texas A&M Kingsville. But we have options, and look forward to the returners we have on both sides to carry the team. Look for the ‘24 Wildcats to make some noise in 5AD2!”

Among those returning will be 6 offensive starters and 7 defensive starters. Key offensive players include Sr. OL Joseph Stiggers (2nd AD), Sr. WR Zaire Nuells (2nd AD), Sr. OL Joaquin Rodriguez, and Sr. QB/WR Blake Thames.

Key defensive players include Sr. LB Jackson Clowdus (1st AD), Sr. DE Tanner Magnuson, Sr. SS/LB Miguel Nunez, and Sr. FS/CB Noddyn Bailey.

MCCALLUM KNIGHTS

The McCallum Knights ended the 2023 season with a record of 7-4, but with a new district and many seasoned players returning, they feel with some rebuilding the team will be ready for a playoff run in 2024. “We return most of our skill players, but we need to rebuild both the offensive line and defensive line,” says coach Thomas Gammerdinger. “We had a ton of injuries last year, so we have lots of young kids who got experience while starters were out, including four freshmen, who were pulled up and started games. They should be ready to step in. Winning playoff games is the primary goal for this group. We are excited about the new district because we feel it will better prepare us for playoffs.”

Among those returning this season are 7 offensive players and 6 defensive players. Returning offensive starters include Sr. QB Luke Dunham (1st AD), Sr. RB Mitchell Butler, and Sr. WR Jaiden Booe (Newcomer of the Year).

Key returning defensive starters include Sr. DL Isaiah Paniagua (1st AD), Sr. WR Mark Sanchez (1st AD), and Sr. LB Joaquin Reynolds Additional All-District players that will be returning to the team include Sr. OL Braxton Bishop (1st AD), Sr. RB Jorge Aldape (2nd AD), and Sr. OL Ajay Woolf (2nd AD).

LIBERTY HILL PANTHERS

News Flash!!!! Well, OK, it kind of plays like a broken record by now.

Liberty Hill is coming off a great season, playing deep into the playoffs, and they are one of the best teams in the state at running the football. And if you ask Head Coach Kent Walker, he will tell you that, “Our expectations remain the same. We expect to compete for a state championship.”

It’s always tough to reload from a state Semi-Finalist team, but the Panthers do have an impressive 10 returning starters from last year. Five on each side of the ball should be a bonus for them, having gained so much experience during that run.

The offense should be led by a trio of Juniors. Returning C Kolton New has All-District credentials to help him lead the OL. They also return TE Jeff Harrison and do-it-all QB/HB Jack Pitchford. If history is any indicator, expect numerous 1,000 rusher opportunities from the other backs as well.

Defensively, we should start with another returning Jr. who was All-District last year, DE Alister Vallejo. Their LB corps should be a mainstay of the defense, bringing back a couple of seniors, Garret Lindgren and Caleb Nicholas. The secondary should be led by senior CB Kendrick Hicks.

I know that the Panthers are ready to make another run at a state title, and Coach Walker realizes “we have a lot of work to do.” That’s true, but not everyone can score 82 in a regular season game!

CROCKETT COUGARS

The Cougars had a stellar 2023 campaign finishing with the record of 7-5 losing in the second round to Lake Creek.

The Cougars will be led by Sr. WR 1st AD Jamari Wilson and Jr. OL 2nd AD Ricky Sierra on offense and on defense by Sr. DL and Def MVP Caleb Dickey.

LASA RAPTORS

The Raptors head coach Derrick Lewis was hired by Manor New Tech. The Raptors finished with the record of 6-4 in 2023 and will find themselves competing against Austin area schools in District 11 5A D2.

LASA will be led by Sr. RB 2nd AD Alec Maritzner, Sr. WR 2nd AD Austin Buckley on offense and the defense will be led by Sr. DB 2nd AD Barret Siedeneicher, Jr. LB 2nd AD Abel Perez, and Sr. LB Travis Huynh.

BASTROP BEARS

The Bears finished las season with a record 0f 5-5. Excitement abounds regarding the 2024 season. “We look forward to a good football season,” says coach Jake Griedl. “We brought back a good amount of experience and capitalized on strong off-season performance thus far. Our players and coaches are excited to continue to improve the program.”

Several starters on both sides of the roster will be returning in 2024, including 10 offensive players, and 10 defensive players.

Key offensive players include Sr. WR Keyshon Moore, Sr. OL Jaxon Taylor, and So. QB Weston Nielsen. Key defensive players include Jr. DL Tiki Hola, Sr. DB Jayden Riley, and Sr. LB Andy McCarus.

NAVARRO VIKINGS

Navarro finished last 2023 season with a record of 2-8, the Vikings are looking forward to a new season and new opportunities in the 2024 season. “We are excited about the challenge ahead of us,” says coach Sebastian Velasquez. “We will have our own motives and we will not shy away from the competition.”

The Vikings will have returning starters including 4 offensive starters and 6 defensive starters.

Key offensive starters include Sr. OL Juan Huerta (2nd AD), Sr. WR Irabel Avila, and Jr. OL Christopher Gomez. Key defensive starters include Jr. DE Trae’von Washington (2nd AD), Sr. LB Jacobi Simmons, and Sr. DT Francklin Gonzalez.

EASTSIDE PANTHERS

The Eastside Panthers are coming off a frustrating 0-10 season in 2023, which already started the season with a 38-game losing streak, but they have many reasons to be optimistic for the upcoming season. Their freshman team, who finished 5-5, will be moving up to fill in the varsity team. “Our freshman team learned how to win,” says coach Luis Becerra, “All of them will be moving into varsity roles next season and they are ready for the challenge. They have been working hard in the offseason to take this program to a new level and are excited about all they can accomplish for this community.”

The Panthers, who will be moving to the 4A division, will return with a very fresh team, with only one defensive starter returning. But they will have experienced key players who will be ready to leave their mark on the field, including offensive player Sr. TE Victor Carr 2nd AD, and defensive players Jr. LB Carlos Hernandez, Sr. DE Andrew Aguilar and Sr. NT Jaden Benson.

LBJ JAGUARS

With a positive 2023 season of 8-4 under their belt, the LBJ Jaguars are looking forward to a potentially exciting 2024 season, which also includes moving to the 4A division. The Jaguars will also be 8 returning offensive starters and 8 returning defensive starters. “The 50th Anniversary of LBJ Early College High School is expected to be a special season,” says coach Joe Rauls. “After winning District Championships, but early Area Round playoff exits the last 2 years, the Jaguars are ecstatic to return to 4A where their opponent’s enrollments are similar to their size.”

Major players from the offense and defense from last season will be returning, including Sr. QB Ali Scott (Offense MVP and IHSFAN Top 10 Team), Jr. RB Caleb Crenshaw (1st AD), So. WR Marquis Murry II, and Sr. WR Treawn Young-Henderson.

Key players from the defense include Jr. FS Yaheim Riley (Defensive MVP), Sr. CB K.J Houston (1st AD), So. MLB Josh Covington (Newcomer of the Year), and Sr. OLB Tre Small (1st AD).

Additional returning All-District players include Jr. Ret Javarlyn Smith (1st AD), Jr. OL Eric Mathews (1st AD), Jr. LB Antione Baker (1st AD), Jr. Util Kevin Alexander (1st AD), and Sr. OL Efrain Cortez-Perez (2nd AD).

TRAVIS REBELS

The Rebels, who this season will be dropping down to 4A, will be returning to the field with Sr. QB Jordan Davis (Offensive Player of the Year) and Sr. RB Frank McCriston (1st AD) leading the offense. “We will lean on the 1-2 punch of those two to lead our rushing attack behind a veteran offensive line,” says coach Joe Frank Martinez. “We need to improve the passing game and we need some receivers to step up. We are dropping down to 4A so we are looking forward to the new challenge and should be able to compete.”

Coach Davis also believes that the defense will make great strides in 2024, as they have been steadily improving for the past 3 years. “Anthony Powell, Christian Rodriguez and Jordan Davis lead a defense that should be better in 2024,” he says. “We are looking forward to a veteran group returning.”

The Rebels finished the 2023 season with a 6-4 record and an elimination in the bi-district playoff. Returning starters include 7 on the offense and 7 on the defense.

With a talented JV/Freshman team that went 7-3 last season, the Rebels are optimistic that that talent will translate to the Varsity team. Another key returning offensive player includes Sr. OL Dominic Juarez (1st AD).

Key returning defensive players include Sr. DL Anthony Powell (1st AD), Sr. LB Christian Rodriguez and Sr. Safety Jordan Davis (1st team All-District SS).

NORTHEAST RAIDERS

The Raiders are looking to move past their 2-8 2023 season to build a better 2024 season, which includes being dropped to the 4A division. The Raiders will have 6 offensive players returning and 4 defensive players returning. Key offensive players that are returning include Sr. RB Michael Berry (2nd AD), Sr. QB Jesse Ybarra, and Sr. OL Yancy Jackson. Key defensive players that will return include Sr. DE Floyd Taylor, Sr. OLB Michael Berry, and Jr. CB Marss Thomas. Coach Abdul Mustafa has a simple quote to sum up the 2024 season: “Next man up!”

AUSTIN ACHIEVE POLAR BEARS

The Polar Bears are looking forward to building on their 2023 season, which ended with a 2-8 record. “We have lots of young returners, and a new, more competitive district,” says coach Joe Dimaio. “It should be a good year.”

The Polar Bears will have 8 offensive returning starters, and 9 defensive returning starters. Key offensive returning players include Jr. QB Michael Meijas, So. WR Jacob Brandon, and Sr. WR Rock Nyundo. Key returning defensive players include Sr. DL Fernando Benitez, Sr. CB Gerry Nunez, and So. LB Chance Jackson.

TAYLOR DUCKS

While the Ducks’ 2023 record was 5-6, the record doesn’t convey the heart and determination with which they played. It also feels like the Ducks could be in transition this year with so many seniors from the team who have graduated. “On the surface it will look like we are rebuilding since we lost 28 seniors but we will have kids who will return who played in a lot of crucial moments,” says coach Earven Flowers “We are having a good off season and our kids are working hard to build a consistent program. I expect our program to continue moving forward and trying to compete for a district championship.”

Even with so many seniors that graduated, there will still be 4 offensive and 5 defensive returning starters. There are many key returning offensive players this season. Sr. QB Nick Treuter (1st AD) will return as quarterback, who was the starting quarterback his freshman year, moved to linebacker his sophomore and junior years, and he was named 1st AllDistrict as a catcher in baseball. Sr. C Ernest Alderete will move to center from nose guard, and was also a state qualifier this year in powerlifting. Sr. RB Andrias Fisher, who had 1,000 yards rushing his sophomore year, will be returning after an injury.

Key defensive players returning this year include Sr. DL Kaddy Maravilla (Defensive Lineman of the Year), Sr. CB Ethan Flagg (2nd AD), and Sr. OLB Jerrell Roberson (2nd AD).

MANOR NEW TECH TITANS

New Tech finished the 2023 Season with the record of 2-8. At the end of the season Titans Head Coach Quincy Williams resigned and Manor ISD hired former LASA Head Coach Derrick Lewis.

New Tech will return So. QB Christian Salazar. Sr. RB Jonathan Alvarez will be the returning player with the most yards rushing last season. On defense look for a young group.

Manor will compete against Austin area 4 A competition in District 13 4A D1