Football 2017

Supplement to

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

2 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

Young Mustangs favorites in 12-4A

By Van Wade

The Orange Leader

For the past couple seasons, the district competition for the West Orange-Stark Mustangs has simply not been there.

Along the way, the Mustangs have strolled to backto-back Class 4A Division II state titles, dominating every foe in their sight as members of District 12-4A Division II have literally been a stepping stone for the Mustangs’ ultimate goal.

Well, according to Dave Campbell Texas Football Magazine, that is not going to change entering the 2017 campaign as the Mustangs are slated to cruise through 12-4A play as the champion and are ranked No. 2 in the state in Class 4A Division II. So how dominant have the Mustangs been in their district?

They have outscored

their district foes 391-10 in eight games the last two years. Average score: 48.91.3.

Orangefield got a field goal on WO-S in 2015 and Liberty actually found the end zone last year.

Some say the Mustangs (16-0 last season) could be a little down this season as they look to rebuild.

After all, Coach Cornel Thompson’s crew returns just seven starters – four on offense and three on defense – but the cupboard is far from bare as they do have some exciting players back.

Defensively the Mustangs return outstanding defensive backs Jarron Morris and Teshaun Teel from a defense that notched eight shutouts.

Offensively, the Mustangs return several key members from their offensive line along with solid running backs Kavyn Cooper and Justin Sibley, who

Leader Photo by IC Murrell

WO-S senior quarterback Chaka Watson will look to guide the Mustang offense this season as the Mustangs will try to go for yet another district title.

both contributed nicely last season.

Gone is three-year starting quarterback Jack Dallas, who ran the ship to near perfection as WO-S

made the state title game all three years. The Mustangs will look to run the ball a little more with a speedy Chaka Watson seeing plenty of time at quar-

terback.

The Liberty Panthers (10-3) are looking to make some major noise again and deservedly so.

Coach Chad Taylor’s

Panthers improved by six wins last year and advanced to the Region III semifinals.

The Panthers have plenSee ‘12-4A,’ page 3

Looking for another banner season ahead Welcome to the 2017 football season.

Surprise. It’s been hot and steamy just like we’ve always liked it as high school football teams and their coaches have been braving the heat on practice fields and at scrimmages.

I’m fortunate that this is my 25th straight goaround covering Orange County football.

Each year has been full of memories of great athletes, top-notch teams and hard-working coaches.

I’ve had a chance to cov-

er several All-Staters every year and I’m curious which athletes will land in that category this time around.

Been lucky the last three years to cover Class 4A Division I State Championships games with the West Orange-Stark Mustangs bringing home the ultimate trophy for the second straight time last season.

Last year was a great run for Orange County teams as all six teams made the postseason.

I’ll always remember the old faces over the years but I’m always highly antici-

VAN WADE

Sports Editor

pating, every year, which new faces are going to stand out.

September 1, 2017.

The start of the season.

Most folks have that date marked on their calendars all year.

When a game kicks off in Southeast Texas on a Friday night, it gives communities an extreme rush along with players, coaches, band members, drill teams, cheerleaders and parents.

Traditions last a lifetime around our tight-knit area.

Fans wrap themselves

around the local boys and what they accomplish on the gridiron.

High school stadiums are where the past, future and the present meet and contrast and just have a super time.

Of course, in Texas, football is much more than a game, it’s in our culture.

It is an atmosphere like no other. It’s about sounds of marching bands, cheerleaders yelling out or drill teams dancing to the oldies. There is also the smell of hot dogs, turkey legs and popcorn that simply can’t

be topped.

We’re all going to find out real soon on which teams will move on to the postseason after Nov. 10.

Will we have another team that can surprise us and get to a state title game like the Mustangs have? Only time will tell.

I can’t wait and look forward to another memorable football season.

Best of luck to all of our local kids making the tackles and touchdowns, blowing horns and dancing and yelling between the hash marks all season long.

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

12-4A Continued from 2

ty of starters back in the mix including seven on offense and eight on defense from a team that gave the Mustangs’ their biggest district challenge last year, for a half.

The Panthers will miss 1,500-yard back Alex Brown but have plenty of talent back, including quarterback J.J. Slack along with backs Jeremiah Guillory and K.K. Antoine.

Receivers L.J. Domain and Jarius Hill ,all-district picks, will also see some carries in addition to being on the receiving end of Slack’s passes. Center Justice Fregia (2nd team all-district) and offensive tackle John Ryder Moorman will lead a massive offensive line which will also feature Dawson Drake and Zachary Kutack.

Dylan Jordan will lead a defensive line which will also have Keaton Parker and Raul Gonzales. Linebacker River Lucy will power the linebacker crew along with Keegan Turner.

Slack and fellow safety, Jeremiah Guillory will anchor a Panther secondary which will also feature veteran corners and all-district picks in Domain and Hill.

The Orangefield Bobcats (5-6) pushed their way into the playoffs for the fourth straight season for Coach Josh Smalley and Co. and are picked to make the postseason yet again.

The Bobcats return six starters on both sides of the pigskin. Key returners on offense include versatile back Christian Louvier and quarterback Mason Gonzales. Blake Bradley is back after being a standout on both sides of the ball along with Michael Teeples. Safety Zach Dischler returns to anchor the sec-

ondary and the Bobcats return the best kicker in the district in Jacob Rainey.

The Hardin-Jefferson Hawks (7-4) will also be in the hunt and are picked third as they also have seven starters back on offense and eight on defense Brayden Pelt is back at quarterback after getting valuable experience a season ago and Mason Murray returns to the backfield and is one of the most versatile athletes returning in the district. Blake Cruse could play a key role as well along with the speedy and always dangerous Luke Morreale. Senior Kameron O’Bannion will look to spark a young line.

Dylin Duhon-Walker will lead a defensive front wall which will also have Tron Rideaux and Caleb Hayden. Chris Walter will guide the linebacker group.

Murray, a all-district safety, will lead a secondary which will also feature all-district corner Brayden Pomirko.

The Hamshire-Fannett Longhorns (1-9) will look for a bounce-back campaign this season as Coach Bill Jehling welcomes back seven starters on both sides of the ball.

Running back Tyrese White has definitely been a key cog the last three years as he has piled up close to 3,000 career yards. Marcus Morris, Matt Conkle, Tiler Paine and Dakota Bell will also figure heavy in an offense that will look to up the ante. Defensively is where the Longhorns will look to turn things around.

Up front, all-district defensive end Grant Davis and defensive end Jacob Garza will be joined in the line by Mason Dubois. Senior all-district linebacker Reese Rubio will be joined by outside linebacker Ty Boudroux and linebacker Cody Broussard.

Paine and free safety Cody Byrd will power the Longhorn

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 3 secondary.

12-4A predictions 1.WEST ORANGE-STARK: It could be tough sailing to try to pick up a third straight Class 4A Division II State Championship ring with just seven total starters back from last year’s 16-0 State Champs but the cupboard is far from bare as the Mustangs have plenty of youngsters that have won at lower levels.

2. LIBERTY: No doubt, 2016 was a breakout season for the Panthers as they went 10-3 and notched their first winning campaign since 2011. The Panthers return 15 starters and if they can find a running back to replace Alex Brown, the district’s leading rusher, Liberty should make a push at the title and a deep run in the playoffs.

3. ORANGEFIELD: The Bobcats will be looking to cash in on a fifth straight playoff berth. Orangefield returns six starters on both sides of the leather.

They will look for a young backfield to step up and fill some shoes. The Bobcats will be big on both sides of the trenches and should improve in their 4-3 defense to notch another postseason berth.

4. HARDIN-JEFFERSON: The Hawks gained steam midway through non-district and carried the momentum all the way to the first round of the playoffs. The Hawks return 15 starters to the mix, including eight on what should be a much-improved defense.

5. H A M SHIRE-FANNETT: The only place to go is up for the Longhorns, who suffered through a 1-9 campaign and a winless run through 12-4A. Coach Jehling will benefit from seven starters back on each side of the ball.

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HAVE A GREAT SEASON! Orange County Football Teams!

4 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Mustangs ‘rebuilding’ towards more success

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

WEST ORANGE — At West Orange-Stark, to reach the pinnacle of the Class 4A Division II State Championship Game for the third straight season, the Mustangs know they have a ton of work ahead of them.

This group of Mustangs are what many call “wet behind the ears” when it comes to Friday night experience.

A senior class is gone, that included 13 college signees. That group saw the Mustangs go 44-4 the last three seasons. Last season the Mustangs outscored opponents 811-69 for the season. Repeating that would be a tall task indeed for the youngsters this season and Coach Cor-

nel Thompson and Co. will look to build up the talent and the confidence.

Plenty of new faces will be looking to hold the line.

The Mustangs return just four starters, four on offense and three on defense.

“Many folks are thinking we’re just going to reload but that’s far from the case,” said Thompson.

“We’re definitely in a rebuilding mode. We’re so young on both sides of the ball. We could easily be starting four or five sophomores on both sides of the ball. That’s tough to do, but we might have to.”

Thompson doesn’t want this year’s group to feel like they should be compared to the last three teams.

“It simply would not be fair to these kids at all,

WO-S MUSTANGS Colors: Blue, Silver and White District: 12-4A Division II 2016 record: 16-0, 4-0 in district (State Champions) District finish: First All-Time record: 384-92-3 Playoff record: 64-24 Coach: Cornel Thompson (78-11, seventh year) Offensive players to watch: RB Kavyn Cooper; OL Paul Ivory; K Chad Dallas; QB Chaka Watson; RB Justin Sibley; TE Kaleb Ramsey; WR Blake Robinson; OL Jacory Brady Defensive players to watch: CB Jarron Morris; DB Teshaun Teel; DB Demorris Thibodeaux; LB Davien Teate; LB Tyshon Watkins

See ‘WO-S,’ page 5

Leader Photo by Mark Pachuca

WO-S defensive back Jarron Morris picks off a pass against Kennedale last season.

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WO-S Continued from 4

we’re talking about a senior group that graduated that many of them played in three state championship games, winning the last two,” said Thompson.

“We’ve got some kids back that experienced it but not many. This group is going to need to find its own identity. They have a lot to learn and a lot of growing up to do but they do have a lot of potential and we like that.”

The Mustangs may be young, but they do have some returning talent, especially at the skill positions.

Senior Chaka Watson will be taking over at quarterback to run the spread offense. He showed promise coming in for quarterback Jack Dallas last season.

“It’s so hard to replace a starter like Jack Dallas, someone who played in nearly 50 games and started in three state championships,” said Thompson.

“Chaka Watson, we have confidence in him. He’s been in the program and knows what to expect. We definitely want to use his talents. He’s really good at toss sweeps, running the ball and we like him in the boot-leg.”

Starting tight end Kaleb Ramsey and Tyrone Wilson will be in the backup roles at quarterback.

Junior running back Kavyn Cooper returns after zipping for 753 yards and 13 touchdowns on just 80 carries while junior Justin Sibley also returns with experience, zipping for 290 yards and two TDs on just 29 totes.

“I think our strength could be our backfield,” said Thompson. “Cooper had some really good moments last year and we’ll

look forward to giving him more touches. Sibley is back healthy and we feel we can move him around some. He can play in the backfield and some at slot receiver. Ja’Vonn Ross will likely get his share of touches too.”

The Mustangs have a couple key people back to catch the ball, including all-district selection Blake Robinson and tight end Ramsey. The Mustangs are looking for depth there as Jarron Morris and Ross will see time at receiver as well.

WO-S will bring some familiar faces to help hold down the offensive line including all-district selections Paul Ivory and Jacorry Brady along with Bobby Rash and Adrik Mims.

The Mustangs will look for an inexperienced defensive line to come to the forefront.

Tyshon Watkins got some nice experience up front last year, Ivory, along with Brady, Ja’Qualan Coleman and Jerrick Spencer will also factor in the trenches.

“What we worry about is depth in our lines,” said Thompson. “We’ve got some kids going both ways, so we’re hoping some of the younger guys can step in and fill a void.”

The defensive unit will be led by a strong secondary that includes the likes of all-district selections in cornerback Jarron Morris along with safety Teshaun Teel.

“We’ve got to get solid production from those two guys, and leadership,” said Thompson.

“Teel was one that just got better each week last year and Morris, he was so solid at cornerback and could be special in the return game. We will intend to utilize them on offense in spots too. The other two spots our up in the air with several guys battling it

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 5 out.”

All-district linebacker Davien Teate returns to the mix. The Mustangs are looking for guys like Cooper, Lande Butler and Keontae Strother to step in and play well.

“Defense is a top concern early, because we do have spots to fill and guys going both ways,” said Thompson. “We’ll get a good look as these younger guys early on as we go through tough scrimmages with PN-G and Vidor then another gauntlet of a non-district schedule.”

The Mustangs, as usual, will have perhaps the toughest non-district slate in the Southeast Texas area.

They head to Nederland to face some fired up Bulldogs in Coach Monte Barrow’s head coaching debut in their opener. They will get long-time rival Little Cypress-Mauriceville and a gritty Bridge City unit in back-to-back home dates. They also have to visit a loaded Silsbee unit plus take on 4A Division I semifinalist Kennedale at Nacogdoches High Oct. 6 before starting District 124A Division II play.

“It’s a non-district schedule that will separate the young men from the boys, as usual, especially for a young football team,” said Thompson.

“We go to Nederland, which has a new coach, a new quarterback and a new team and they’ll be fired up. We have a pair of games at home back to back against Orange County foes LC-M and Bridge City and we know they’ll be fired up. A tough road trip to Silsbee, they’ll be waiting to trap us and they have a load of talent.

Then we wrap up against a hungry Kennedale team in Nacogdoches, a semifinalist in Division I last year, and you know those Wildcats would like a piece of

Leader Photo by Mark Pachuca

WO-S running back Kavyn Cooper finds the sidelines for a score during the postseason last year.

us after last year.”

WO-S will dive into 124A play Oct. 13 when they visit Hamshire-Fannett.

The Mustangs have not dropped a district contest since the 2009 season. The last two years, the Mustangs have outscored their 12-4A counterparts 391-10 in eight encounters.

“The district should be much more competitive this year,” explained Thompson. “Fannett is going to be improved and we

go there. Hardin-Jefferson comes in with some talent after going two rounds last year. Liberty, that will be tough at their place. They are huge up front and have a good quarterback back along with a good back. Orangefield, they come here and Coach (Josh) Smalley always has those guys in the playoffs. We have a small league, but one that has proven itself in the playoffs.”

Now it’s all about getting

ready for the first game.

“We don’t want the kids to play attention to rankings and predictions, that’s something we don’t like to do around here,” said Thompson. “We’re so young at this point, we just want to improve each week. A big key is staying healthy and passing our classes throughout a tough non-district schedule. We see the potential but it’s going to be a work in progress.”

6 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Ivory, Teate anxious to help lead young Mustangs

By Ronnie Hughes Leader Correspondent

WEST ORANGE — One mention of West Orange-Stark instantly brings to mind the Mustangs and their amazing back-to-back state championships (2015,2016). The Mustangs have gone to the Texas UIL 4AII state title game three years in a row.

The Mustangs have a much different looking squad than years past after losing 18 seniors from last season.

The loss of players merely means it’s time for the next man up. They don’t rebuild, but rather reload with a solid core of returners to help mentor some of the younger guys on what it means to be a champion.

Some of the new faces seen this season are not so new and have actually gotten playing time last season including in the post season and championship game.

First Team all-district lineman Paul Ivory is a prime example of the leadership that returns to the Mustang lockeroom this season. Ivory is starting his third year on varsity, which means he was part of the back-to-back championship teams.

“I have been to and played in these state games, so, I know what it takes and the hard work we’re going to have to put

in to get back there,” Ivory said. “ I will be able to step up this season and show the younger guys that it takes all week to prepare for Friday night. We train hard all week and to get back to state its going to have to be a week in and week out thing. No time to take a day off.”

Ivory is currently ranked number one academically in his class and plans to keep his ranking to cross the stage in 2018 as valedictorian. Ivory has plans that span far beyond the gridiron and has already started doing volunteer work with a group called The Young Financial Wizards. He is also a member of the National Honor society and student council.

Despite what seems like a heavy work load outside of football, Ivory carries the load with pride. He is exactly what the Mustangs need to help lead this team. He is a lead by example guy and hopes some of the younger athletes will follow his leadership.

“When I need a break from football I go to church.

It helps get my mind right and reminds me about the other things in life,” said Ivory. “I just try to live right and do like Coach Thompson says, don’t get in trouble and stay away from those girls.”

Ivory’s teammate, Davien Teate, is also a senior

and is academically ranked in the top 10 of their class.

The Second Team all-district linebacker is going into his fourth season on varsity and every season thus far he’s played in a state championship game.

Teate not only brings hard-hitting knowledge on defense, but what it takes to not just win, but win as a team. Teate is also a member of the national honor society, student council and Young Financial Wizards.

“We do pursuit drills every day at practice,” Teate said “Game days, I got my head up, I am reading the guard, mirroring the guard doing what I can to get to the ball.”

The two senior teammates both praise head coach Cornel Thompson for his hard work and getting them prepared all week.

Being the state champs they have somewhat of a target on them, so its imperative that they take each week as serious as the next.

The Mustangs have several key rivalry games including, Bridge City Little Cypress-Mauriceville and what they’ve coined over the years as their biggest rival, Silsbee. Despite the loss of athletes from last season’s squad the Mustangs seem to be in good hands with the core group of seniors they have while

Leader Photo by Ronnie Hughes

WO-S Paul Ivory (left) and Davien Teate will look to provide leadership to a young Mustang team after all-district campaigns last year.

led by two young men, Ivory and Teate, who are tal-

ented on the field and in the classroom. They’ll pro-

vide the leadership quality to keep the tradition alive.

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8 Justin Sibley

30 Mark Thibodeaux

58 Ja’Corry Brady

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 7

13 Chaka Watson

14 Tyrone Wilson

15 Jarron Morris

16 Chad Dallas

17 Kaleb Ramsey

32 Kedrick Harris

35 Tyshon Watkins

36 Herzel Washington

40 Paulino Santos

42 Davien Teate

60 Christian Adams

64 Bobby Rash

65 Bruce White

79 Adrick Mims

82 Jordan Charles

22 Renaldo Rose

23 Kavyn Cooper

25 Teshaun Teel

28 Ja’Vonn Ross

45 Keontae Strother

47 Joseph Cotton

53 Ja’Qualan

55 Paul Ivory

56 Jerrick Spencer

84 Deshawn Holt

86 Jalin Mims

18 Blake Robinson

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8 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Bobcats aiming to battle for 12-4A bragging rights

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

ORANGEFIELD — Making the playoffs for the fourth straight season last year, the longest streak in school history, the Orangefield Bobcats will look to continue their winning ways in 2017.

Orangefield has made the playoffs every year since 2013 after going through a 10-year drought.

In 2016, the Bobcats went down to the last week in District 12-4A Division II play with a chance to snare the outright title before falling to eventual state champion West Orange-Stark.

The Bobcats (5-6) went on to finish in a threeway tie for second-place and bowed out to eventual 4A Region III Division II semifinalist Bellville in the bidistrict round of the playoffs.

The cupboard is far from bare for Coach Josh Smalley and Co. as six starters return on each side of the ball.

“It has been the best summer we’ve ever had here since I’ve been here,” said Smalley as he heads into his sixth season. “We would have about 100 boys show up on days during the summer, which was amazing. Our numbers are up, looks like we’re going to have three complete teams this year, with a freshman team. We couldn’t be more happier about that.”

As usual for most teams, several key figures must be replaced but Smalley likes the younger talent the Bobcats have coming up to fill major roles.

Two quarterbacks will

likely see time early on in Mason Gonzales and Christian Louvier. Gonzales played some at quarterback last season while also making All-District on the defensive line while Louvier had solid moments playing at tailback in the Bobcats’ vaunted Slot T offense.

“Both of those guys are really capable of getting the job done,” said Smalley.

“They both contribute in so many ways and both will see time on defense as well.

Mason was a all-district defensive end last year and Christian played well as a running back. We have a good mix with those two for sure.”

The Bobcats will look to find some depth at running back after losing First Team All-District tailback Christopher McGee, who had nearly 1,200 yards last year.

Blake Bradley, who was a First Team All-District linebacker, will look to help at fullback along with Kadeon Evans, Heston Puckettt and Quy Tsan.

Zach Dischler, an all-district defensive back and Kayson Dubois will see time at halfback. The tailback spot will likely feature the likes of Dylan Williams. Clayson Choate and Chase Broussard.

“We have a host of backs that we’re going to count on,” said Smalley. “We may not have what you would call a bell cow at this moment but they’re all working hard, plus they will all help us on defense as well.”

When the Bobcats put it in the air, they’ll look for tight end Aaron Gordon and split ends Blake Deloach, David Ochoa and

ORANGEFIELD BOBCATS Colors: Orange and White District: 12-4A Division II 2016 record: 5-6, 2-2 in district District finish: Three-way tie for second All-Time record: 315336-13 Playoff record: 4-13 Coach: Josh Smalley (2828, sixth year) Offensive players to watch: RB/QB Christian Louvier; OL Aaron Galitz; RB/LB Blake Bradley; QB/DE Mason Gonzales; K Jacob Rainey; OL Jonah Landry Defensive players to watch: SS Zach Dischler; DL Michael Teeples; LB/ RB Kadeon Evans; LB Dylan Williams; LB Tyron Waggoner

Chaz Laird.

Michael Teeples, First Team All-District at tight end last year, will move to the guard spot this year with fellow veteran Brett Fregia at the other guard.

All-district tackle Aaron Galitz is back as well and will be a strong anchor.

Other linemen expected to make impacts are centers Jonah Landry and David Fear along with tackles Joseph Auer, Luke Padilla and Kent Michael.

Six starters bring back key experience to pace the defensive effort.

The Bobcats will have nice size in the defensive trenches as well.

Spending time at along the defensive front will be Gonzales, Deloach, Auer and Dubois while the tack See ‘Cats,’ page 9

Leader Photo by Mark Pachuca

Orangefield quarterback Mason Gonzales looks to make a handoff against WO-S last season.

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Cats

Continued from 8

les will be Landry, Galitz, Teeples and Fregia.

Bradley will man middle linebacker while Evans will be at Sam linebacker and Wiliams at the other linebacker with depth provided by Michael, Gordon and Puckett.

Dischler, who was so superb in 2016, sparks the secondary from his strong safety spot as the only starter back.

Those expected to fill in with a nice impact include Broussard, Laird, Tsan, Dubois, Louvier and Choate.

“It’s going to be a grind for us for sure because we

know we’re going to have guys playing both ways a lot,” said Smalley.

“We don’t have a huge senior group this year but they’re providing excellent leadership. We’re counting on eight or nine sophomores to really make an impact for us, we’re going to need those guys to step up.”

Of course, another big weapon for the Bobcats is that have arguably the top kicker back in 12-4A in all-district selection Jacob Rainey.

The Bobcats will crank up their season on the road Sept. 1 against longtime rival Buna in a good non-district slate that also includes Kirbyville, Woodville, LC-M, Beaumont Kelly and Diboll.

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 9 “Buna is such a rival for us and Kirbyville always gives us fits,” said Smalley.

“Woodville was a super team last year and has some athletes. LC-M has twice the enrollment we do so that’s going to be a tough one again. Kelly plays us well and Coach (Blake) Morrison and Diboll will be looking forward to coming in here after we beat them up there last year. It’s a tough schedule for sure, six non-district games are a lot but it will certainly get us ready for district. The big key for us is to stay healthy while we’re doing it.”

Orangefield will kick off 12-4A Division I play at home Oct. 13 against Liberty, followed by Hamshire-Fannett, Hardin-Jefferson and WO-S.

“Obviously West Orange-Stark is the favorite, some say they may be down but tell that to the rest of the district, we know what WO-S has and they have amazing young athletes and a great staff,” said Smalley.

“Liberty, they lost a couple key backs but they’re ready to reload with some athletes that went three playoff rounds and have a lot of other kids back.

Hardin-Jefferson went two rounds in the playoffs and have plenty of kids back.

Fannett should be much improved. I know we just have a five-team district but it’s very competitive and I think the Bobcats will definitely compete, that’s what it is all about.”

Leader Photo by Mark Pachuca

Orangefield’s Christian Louvier will play a vital role for the Bobcats on both sides of the ball this season after a productive campaign last year.

Orange County coaching records since 1977

By Van Wade

The Orange Leader

It’s that time of year when everyone is starting to turn their focus on the upcoming football season.

Former Orange County football players will always remember their head coach and what they meant to them.

So here is a flashback from some glory days that local fans and former players can remember.

Here is a list of all of the head football coaching records in the Orange County area from 1977-2016.

Orange Area Coaching Records (since 1977)

WO-S Cornel Thompson: 2011-present 78-11-0 .876 Dan Hooks: 1981-2010 277-71-2 .794 Steve McCarthy: 19771980 29-10-1 .725 SCHOOL: 384-92-3 .805

LC-M

Randy Crouch: 2009-present 37-46-0 .446 Todd Moody: 2005-2008 8-28-0 .222 David Williams: 19942004 56-58-0 .491 Rhodney Russell: 19911993 19-11-1 .629 Lucky Gamble: 19891990 9-10-1 .475 Pat Wozniak: 1985-1988 11-28-0 .282 Ron Dupree: 1981-1984 20-20-0 .500 a-Lidney Thompson: 1977-1980 17-22-1 .438 SCHOOL: 177-2233.443

VIDOR Jeff Mathews: 1999-present 86-97-0 .470 Kevin Johnson: 19971998 3-17-0 .150 Pat Murphy: 1994-1996 7-23-0 .233 Jay Law: 1989-1993 5-45-0 .100 Nolan Viator: 1987-1988 3-16-0 .158 J.R. Jones: 1985-1986 5-13-2 .300 Phillip Brown: 1978-

1984 36-35-0 .507 Ronnie Thompson: 1977 6-4-0 .600 SCHOOL: 151-250-2 .377

BRIDGE CITY Dwayne DuBois: 2015-present 16-7-0 .696 Cris Stump: 2007-2014 35-47-0 .427 Claude Tarver: 20022006 36-19-0 .655 Curtis Conway: 19992001 20-16-0 .556 Les Johnson: 1995-1998 16-23-1 .413 Terry Townzen: 19901994 19-31-0 .380 Fred Bolton: 1984-1989 21-37-1 .364 Gary Sutton: 1981-1983 8-21-0 .276 b-Andy Griffin: 19771980 22-16-1 .577 SCHOOL: 193-217-3 .471

ORANGEFIELD Josh Smalley: 2012-present: 28-28-0 .500 Brian Huckabay: 20092011 16-14-0 .533

Blake Morrison: 20042008 12-34-0 .261 Kevin Flanigan: 20002003 24-17-0 .585 Randy Theriot: 19961999 14-25-1 .363 Charlie Wallace: 19921995 14-26-0 .350 Mark Foreman: 19901991 1-19-0 .050 Dennis Robbins: 19881989 15-6-0 .714 Julian Bush: 1986-1987 13-7-2 .636 c-Ed Peveto: 1977-1985 57-33-2 .630 SCHOOL: 194-2093.482 Notes: a- Lidney Thompson took over at LC-M in 1976 and coached for five years and posted an overall record of 20-26-3 (.439); b- Andy Griffin took over at Bridge City in 1974 and coached for seven years and posted an overall record of 39-29-1 (572); c- Ed Peveto took over at Orangefield in 1975 and coached for 11 years and posted an overall record of 67-42-3 (612);

Leader file photo

Former West Orange-Stark coach Dan Hooks chats it up on the sidelines during a game with Bridge City. Hooks is the all-time leader in wins amongst Orange County coaches and led the Mustangs to state championships and four state championship appearances.

10 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

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Dischler, Peeples ready to do what they can to power Bobcats to wins

By Ronnie Hughes Leader Correspondent

ORANGEFIELD — It was a season filled with close games and what-ifs for the Orangefield Bobcats in 2016, finishing, 5-6 overall and 2-2 in District 12-4A Division II. The top spot in the district has belonged to the Mustangs of West Orange-Stark since joining the district, leaving the other three of four post season spots up in the air each season.

The Bobcats would draw the fourth seed last season which pinned them against a number one seed, Bellville Brahmas, in the bi-district round of the UIL playoffs. The Bobcats kept it close, but the Brahmas pulled away in the fourth quarter for the win, leaving the Bobcats hungry to prove themselves in 2017.

They’ll rely on a small core of seniors to set the tone, but have a young hardnose bunch moving up in the ranks ready to make some noise.

First Team All-district strong safety Zach Dischler, will help lead the defense into the 2017 season. His 95 tackles, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries last season is an impressive stat line, but the way he attacks the game is more impressive.

Spending hours on film combined with hours in the weight room will translate into success on the field. Dischler knows the

importance of film sessions which helps him prepare to read the opposing offense and bark out signals to the rest of the defense.

Although putting a notch in the win column each week is the ultimate goal, Zach has goals that reach beyond the 2017 season.

“Bobcat football is built on pride, toughness and representing our school and families well on and off the field,” Dischler said. “I want to leave behind a program my little brother can look at, take pride in and know what he’s inheriting when he gets to varsity.”

Dischler enters his third year as a varsity player in 2017. He will take reps at halfback this season as well which will add to his work load, but not in a way he expects it will hamper his defensive play. He admits he’s embracing the expanded role and is preparing to have his best season yet.

“Everybody has to stay healthy and execute play in and play out,” said Dischler. “As for myself, I must prepare for every scenario, watch my film and what touches I do get on offense I must make a positive impact that moves the ball forward for my team.”

Those touches Dischler will get on offense he will get a boost from senior offensive guard, Michael Teeples, who spent most of last season as a First Team All-District tight end.

The transition to guard

Leader Photo by Ronnie Hughes

Orangefield’s Zach Dischler (left) and Michael Teeples once again look to make big impacts for the Bobcats on both sides of the ball this season.

in 2017 is a task Teeples is excited to take on. Knowing the guys in the trenches don’t get much recognition on the highlight films, he knows and reminds the rest of the lineman just how important their role is to the success of the team.

“The guys in the trenches are special and have their own thing,” said Tee-

ples. “Game day it’s our job to get the offense into the end zone. Our efforts aren’t highlighted on Friday nights, but it shows on Saturday during film who’s doing their job.”

As a guard Teeples will prepare differently this season, because in head coach Josh Smalley’s offense many of the plays

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involve a pulling-guard.

Teeples answered without hesitation the importance of keeping his legs strong and getting faster so he can lead the way for the running backs.

This younger Orangefield squad will need the leadership of Teeples and Dischler this season to keep the underclassman

locked into the game while remaining disciplined.

One important player both mentioned as a vocal leader and motivator was Brett Fregia, who they say you’ll never hear complain, always there for the good of the team and he’s humble, but gets the job done while making their jobs easier.

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Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 11

1 Chase Broussard

2 Kaiden Dubose

3 Quy Tsan

4 Dylan Williams

5 Clayson Choate

6 Blake Bradley

7 Christian Louvier

8 Jacob Rainey

12 David Ochoa

14 Chaz Laird

17 Mason Gonzales

20 Lane Rach

21 Heston Puckett

23 Cade Brown

24 Kadeon Evans

32 Blake Deloach

33 Jacob Harvey

40 Zach Dischler

41 Aaron Gordon

42 Kayson Dubois

50 Brett Fregia

55 Michael Teeples

56 Kent Michael

57 David Fear

59 Xander Steele

62 Joseph Auer

63 Jonah Landry

68 Colby Gonzales

71 Luke Padilla

76 Aaron Galitz

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12 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

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Tigers, Cardinals early favorites in tight 10-4A D1

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

Without question, District 10-4A Division I was a competitive race last year as it ended up being a battle between the Bridge City Cardinals and the Silsbee Tigers.

The Cardinals wound up having the final say, defeating the Tigers 42-41 in dramatic fashion to capture the outright crown.

The Cardinals, led by Coach Dwayne Dubois, rolled to a perfect 5-0 104A mark, went on to finish 9-3 overall and made the third round of the playoffs, the deepest trip the program has had since 2005.

There is no question that the Cardinals and Tigers will be the frontrunners again but the other four teams in the district should certainly make a strong push with key players returning to the fray.

Coach Dubois and Co. welcome back 12 starters, nine of them off a defense that made tremendous strides by late in the 2016 campaign.

Offensively. The Redbirds return just three starters. Gone are 1,000yard backs Cayce Draper and Patrick Morris along with quarterback Byron Trahan.

The Cartdinals do have speedy scatback Max Bak-

er back, who had 935 yards and 12 touchdowns along with the elusive Hunter Denton (480 yards) and fullback Andy Lara (420 yards).

The biggest key for the Cardinals will be trying to replace all five starting offensive linemen that were so stellar. Senior quarterback Caleb Dubois will look to anchor the ship after returning from an injury that kept him out last year as the Cardinals will look to roll again in their Slot-T Offense.

The Cardinals defense will look to mature, especially with the return of all-district selections See ‘10-4A,’ page 13

Leader Photo by Joey Dupuy

Bridge City defensive back Justyn Romero makes a stop during the playoffs last season.

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LC-M receiver Katon Brown fights for yardage against Bridge City in 10-4A Division I play last season.

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10-4A Continued from 12

Ethan Hamm, Stetson Wilson and Eziquiel Mendez up front along with Blake DiChiara at linebacker and Justyn Romero in the secondary.

Silsbee’s (6-5) cupboard is far from bare for second-year Tiger coach Randy Smith as the Tigers return six starters on offense and seven on defense. They still have dangerous weapons in 4A state 100 and 200-meter champion in receiver Kalon Barnes along with backs Adonis Thomas and Aaron Sells and receiver Tre’ Lowe.

If new quarterback Jacob Collins steps in and plays well early, the Tigers will a load to stop.

The Tigers should be more stout on defense with the return of all-district linemen Johnathan Hageon and Marquell Hale along with all-district linebackers Thomas, Adam Carrell and Spencer Uribe.

The Navasota Rattlers slipped to a 2-9 record but still squeezed into the fourth-place playoff berth.

What a fall it was for the Rattlers in Coach Patrick Goodman’s first year after replacing Lee Fedora.

They returned 10 starters last year from a team that had reached the regional semifinals the year before but struggled mightily.

Navasota captured state titles in 2012 and 2014.

The Rattlers had won at least nine games a season from 2007 to 2015.

The Rattlers look for a bounce back with 13 starters returning, seven on offense and six on defense.

Senior quarterback Jeb Malek returns to lead the Rattler offense. He will be looking for wideouts Ronnie Jackson and Lawson Hughlett. Jordan Jefferson will lead a young line.

Jefferson will also be key along the defensive front with Jaycob Steels while Tyron Preston is back as a all-district linebacker.

The Little Cypress-Mauriceville Battlin’ Bears (56) will look to make the postseason for the fourth time in the past five years after nabbing the thirdplace berth last season.

LC-M will be seeking its first playoff win since 1997.

The Bears could certainly be playing with a chip on their shoulders by being picked fifth this season.

Coach Randy Crouch will see the return of five starters on both sides of the ball and will have three stout offensive weapons back in versatile back Chris Winters, receiver Katon Brown and fullback J’Lon Douglas, who is “rough-and-tumble” on both sides of the ball after being named the district Defensive MVP at linebacker last season.

Expect Dameon Morris and Ethan McCollum to get their share of touches as well.

Douglas will once again look to spearhead the Bear defensive arsenal along with all-district pick Truman Franklin up front while Winters and Mark Netherly, both all-district picks, will help anchor the secondary.

The Huffman Hargrave Falcons ( 4-6) are looking to recover after failing to make the postseason last year despite have 17 starters that returned.

They return 12 starters, including 1,300-yard rusher Camron McMahan.

Sophomore quarterback Justin Shively looks to be the answer at quarterback as he will look to toss it to the likes of Casdon Rice, Donavan Gray, Noah Thomas and A.J. Johnson.

The defense is senior-laden led by all-district defensive end Tyler Price, linebacker David

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 13 King and defensive backs Blake Boss and Jacob Hortch.

The Cleveland Indians (4-6) captured four of their five non-district games last season, but struggled in 10-4A play, going winless.

The Indians return 10 starters, six of them on defense.

Quarterback Jett Hendrix is possibly the best dual-threat in the district and will look to get some more help on the offensive side this year by backs Monroe Harding, Dylan Reeves and Montrail Searles. David Reeves and Kobe Gipson will return along the defensive front as the Indians will look to improve drastically on defense.

DISTRICT 10-4A DIVISION I PREDICTIONS 1. SILSBEE: This year’s version of the Tigers should be on the prowl after a year under Randy Smith’s reign. The Tigers found their balance after a tough early start in 2016 and ended up winning four of fiver district games before bowing out to eventual state champion Carthage 34-30 in bidistrict. The Tigers have the most talent and speed at the skill positions than any other team in the district and should be the early-on favorites.

2. BRIDGE CITY: The Cardinals took 10-4A by storm last year, going a perfect 5-0, including a dramatic district-clinching win over Silsbee plus a three-round trip to the postseason. The Cardinals will lean on an experienced defense that returns nine starters in the early going as they will turn to a youth movement on offense. BC has solid skill folks back and if a totally revamped offensive line improves weekly, look out again 104A. 3.LC-M: The Battlin’ Bears will certainly be in

Leader Photo by Caleb Adams

LC-M’s Mark Netherley (10) goes up high getting ready to pick off a pass against Coldspring in a scrimmage.

the mix with several key starters back, especially at the skill positions. LC-M has five starters back on both sides of the leather and their district schedule has them in the friendly confines of Battlin’ Bear Stadium three times with Silsbee, Huffman and Navasota venturing in and a rugged non-district schedule should have them ready.

4. NAVASOTA: The Rattlers have a lot to prove after slipping to 2-9 in 2016 after a 12-1 run

in 2015. The Rattlers fell in the bidistrict round in coach Patrick Goodman’s first year. A program that won state titles in 2012 and 2014 will look to turn its fortunes back around quickly with the return of 13 starters and should be the darkhorse to possibly finish higher.

5.HUFFMAN: Last season was the first time in eight years that the Falcons missed the playoffs, which certainly left a bad taste in the mouths of a squad that was young.

With 11 starters returning, the Falcons will be in the hunt, especially with three of their district games at home. Road trips at both Bridge City and LC-M could tell the tale.

6.CLEVELAND: The Indians started with a 4-1 mark last year in non-district before running into a 0-5 wall in 10-4A play. The Indians should certainly be able to move the ball but stopping folks could be a tough in one of the most competitive 4A Division I districts in the state.

14 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

All-Time Orange County football playoff records

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

Orange County has had its share of success in the football playoffs, including four state titles, four by West Orange-Stark (1986, 1987, 2015, 2016) and one

by Bridge City (1966).

WO-S has the current longest playoff streak, making it 13 straight years.

Mustang coach Cornel Thompson has led the Mustangs to six straight Region III Finals and three straight trips to the Class 4A Division II State Championship Game, including bringing home back-toback state crowns with a 22-3 victory over Celina in 2015 and 24-6 over Sweetwater last season.

The Orangefield Bobcats ended a 10-year playoff drought in 2013,captured back-to-back bidistrict playoff round victories in 2014 and 2015 under coach Josh Smalley and made the postseason again last season.

The Bridge City Cardinals ended a two-year playoff drought in 2015 under the direction of coach Dewayne DuBois and stormed to the 10-4A Division I district title last year and went three rounds deep in the playoffs.

Little Cypress-Mauriceville made the playoffs in 2013 and 2014 after a 16-year drought that dated back to 1997.

The Bears barely missed out on the postseason in 2015 but bounced back to nab the third-place playoff berth out of District 10-4A Division I a season ago.

The Bears will be seeking their first playoff victory in 20 years this season.

The Vidor Pirates ended a three-year playoff last season drought as coach

Jeff Mathews and his rugged Pirates shared a piece of the District 22-5A title How many will make the postseason in 2017?

Droughts should not last as long anymore with four teams now making the postseason out of each district and a bunch of schools now compete in five and six-team districts across the state.

Here is a look at the playoff history for the Orange County schools:

WO-S in the playoffs 1979: Baytown Lee 12, WO-S 7 1985: WO-S 22, Aldine MacArthur 21 WO-S 14, Baytown Sterling 14 Houston Yates 19, WO-S 6 1986: WO-S 17, Dickinson 0 WO-S 23, Brenham 7 WO-S 21, Jasper 15 WO-S 28, New Braunfels 12 WO-S 21, McKinney 9 (state champs) 1987: WO-S 33, Wharton 0 WO-S 27, C.E. King 13 WO-S 30, West Columbia 7 WO-S 21, Kerrville-Tivy 7 WO-S 17, Rockwall 7 (state champs) 1988: WO-S 35, Crosby 7 WO-S 38, Jasper 15 WO-S 14, Katy Mayde Creek 0 WO-S 24, Tomball 22 WO-S 28, Kerville-Tivy 14 Paris 31, WO-S 13 (state finalist) 1989: C.E. King 27, WO-S 15 1990: C.E. King 26, WO-S 0 1991: C.E. King 35, WO-S 6 1993: WO-S 41, Jasper 7 La Marque 25, WO-S 8 1994: Jasper 17, WO-S 6

1995: WO-S 35, New Caney 20 WO-S 23, Henderson 10 La Marque 18, WO-S 7 1996: WO-S 16, Dayton 13 Waller 23, WO-S 20 1997: WO-S 27, Jasper 12 WO-S 16, Brownsboro 0 La Marque 23, WO-S 12 1998: Silsbee 21, WO-S 20 2000: WO-S 23, Jasper 0 WO-S 36, Magnolia 0 WO-S 37, Friendswood 10 WO-S 10, La Marque 6 WO-S 27, CC Calallen 21 Ennis 38, WO-S 24 (state finalist) 2004: Huffman 30, WO-S 28 2005: WO-S 41, Huffman 21 WO-S 42, Palestine 13 WO-S 42, Giddings 21 Wimberly 52, WO-S 29 2006: WO-S 60, Liberty 0 Giddings 21, WO-S 13 2007: WO-S 51, Coldspring 14 WO-S 28, Giddings 19 Waco La Vega 20, WO-S 12 2008: WO-S 36, Coldspring 8 WO-S 37, Caldwell 7 Gilmer 35, WO-S 23 2009: Coldspring 41, WO-S 36 2010: WO-S 63, Liberty 7 Brookshire-Royal 24, WO-S 21 2011: WO-S 58, Cleveland 14 WO-S 52, Columbus 9 WO-S 45, Bullard 13 Coldspring 35, WO-S 13 2012: WO-S 57, Cleveland 0 WO-S 20, West Columbia 10 WO-S 28, Lorena 0

Navasota 38, WO-S 7 2013: WO-S 41, Huffman 9

WO-S 61, West Columbia 7 WO-S 18, Jasper 16 Carthage 28, WO-S 14 2014: WO-S 68, Scarborough 0 WO-S 34, Giddings 14 WO-S 34, LaMarque 0 WO-S 42, LaGrange 7 WO-S 42, Sinton 21 Gilmer 35, WO-S 25 (state finalist) 2015: WO-S 63, Scarborough 0 WO-S 47, Wharton 15 WO-S 69, Caldwell 13 WO-S 42, Bellville 3 WO-S 41, Cuero 28 WO-S 22, Celina 3 (state champions) 2016: WO-S 73, Tarkington 0 WO-S 47, Robinson 14 WO-S 49, Bellville 7 WO-S 48, Giddings 5 WO-S 49, Navarro 7 WO-S 24, Sweetwater 6 (state champions) All-time playoff record: 64-24 PF 2,643 PA 1,233 ***

Bridge City 33, Mexia 14 Sinton 38, Bridge City 0 2002: Bridge City 31, Barbers Hill 14 Bridge City 28, Elgin 7 Jasper 28, Bridge City 0 2004: Barbers Hill 31, Bridge City 14 2005: Bridge City 42, Cleveland 20 Bridge City 23, Jasper 0 Hutto 27, Bridge City 10 2009: Cleveland 44, Bridge City 17 2010: Coldspring 43, Bridge City 13 2011: Coldspring 7, Bridge City 0 2012: Coldspring 47, Bridge City 7 2015: Carthage 44, Bridge City 20 2016: Bridge City 35, Center 28 Bridge City 39, Bay City 19 Stafford 37, Bridge City 28 All-time playoff record: 16-14 PF 678 PA 608 ***

Bridge City in the playoffs

Orangefield in the playoffs

1965: Bridge City 52, Conroe 8 Bridge City 21, Bay City 3 Bridge City 12, San Marcos 7 Brownwood 14, Bridge City 0 (state finalist) 1966: Bridge City 41, Conroe 17 Bridge City 36, Clear Creek 7 Bridge City 28, San Marcos 7 Bridge City 30, McKinney 6 (state champs) 1969: Brenham 40, Bridge City 12 2000: Bridge City 35, Hardin-Jefferson 7 Cleveland 25, Bridge City 20 2001: Bridge City 34, Liberty 14 Bridge City 17, Sweeny 14

1967: Waller 21, Orangefield 0 1981: Newton 28, Orangefield 21 1982: East Chambers 20, Orangefield 14 1986: Kirbyville 27, Orangefield 0 1987: Kirbyville 21, Orangefield 7 1988: Orangefield 25, Center 12 Hamshire-Fannett 21, Orangefield 14 1999: Barbers Hill 21, Orangefield 3 2000: Barbers Hill 50, Orangefield 0 2003: Orangefield 21, Liberty 14 La Grange 17, Orangefield 14 2013: Coldspring 28, Orangefield 14 2014: Orangefield 49, Kashmere 35

LaGrange 49, Orangefield 7 2015: Orangefield 37, Worthing 28 Giddings 45, Orangefield 13 2016: Bellville 45, Orangefield 21 All-time playoff record: 4-13 PF 260 PA 482 ***

LC-M in the playoffs 1992: Jasper 7, LC-M 7 (lost on penetrations) 1994: LC-M 14, New Caney 6 Willis 31, LC-M 22 1995: Jasper 28, LC-M 6 1997: LC-M 52, Cleveland 14 LC-M 20, Whitehouse 7 LC-M 17, Sweeny 14 La Marque 41, LC-M 20 2013: Dayton 49, LC-M 18 2014: Carthage 10, LC-M 0 2016: Henderson 47, LC-M 13 All-time playoff record: 4-7 PF 189 PA 254 ***

Vidor in the playoffs 1964: Vidor 13, Cypress-Fairbanks 9 Vidor 28, Lamar Consolidated 2 San Marcos 21, Vidor 21 (lost on penetrations) 1978: Aldine 40, Vidor 13 2000: Nederland 21, Vidor 9 2009: Dayton 28, Vidor 14 2011: Vidor 42, Crosby 20 Vidor 42, Montgomery 35 Angleton 55, Vidor 30 2012: Humble Summer Creek 51, Vidor 27 2016: Crosby 33, Vidor 24 All-time playoff record: 4-7 PF 263 PA 315

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18 • F o o t b a l l 2 0 1 7 , A u g u s t 3 0 , 2 0 1 7

F o o t b a l l 2 0 1 7 , A u g u s t 3 0 , 2 0 1 7 • 15

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BRIDGE CITY CARDINALS Sept. 1: Hamshire-Fannett, 7:30 p.m.

Sept.8: at Hou. North Forest (Jones-Cowart), 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at West Orange-Stark, 7:30 p.m.

Sept.22: Newton, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Jasper, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 6: Open Oct. 13: at Cleveland*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: Little Cypress-Mauriceville*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: at Silsbee*, 7 p.m.

Nov.3: at Navasota*, 7 p.m.

Nov.10: Huffman Hargrave, 7 p.m.

ORANGEFIELD BOBCATS Sept. 1: at Buna, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: Kirbyville, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Woodville, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 22: Little Cypress-Mauriceville, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Kelly, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: Diboll, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: Liberty*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 20: Open Oct. 27: at Hamshire-Fannett*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 3: Hardin-Jefferson*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 10 at West Orange-Stark*, 7:30 p.m.

WEST ORANGE-STARK MUSTANGS Sept. 1: at Beaumont Central, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: at Ozen, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Sheldon C.E. King, 7 p.m.

Sept. 21: Houston St. Thomas, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Montgomery*, 7:30 .m.

Oct. 5: The Woodlands College Park*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 12: at The Woodlands*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: Lufkin*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 27: Open Nov. 3: at Conroe Oak Ridge*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 9: Conroe*, 7 p.m.

PA MEMORIAL TITANS Sept. 1: Dallas Bishop Dunne, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: at Houston Westside (Delmar), 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: Open Sept. 22: at Beaumont Central*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: Ozen*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: at Nederland*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: Lumberton*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: at Port Neches-Groves*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: Livingston*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: at Baytown Lee*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: Vidor*, 7 p.m.

NEDERLAND BULLDOGS Sept. 1: West Orange-Stark, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: at Dayton, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Livingston*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 22: Baytown Lee*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Vidor*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: Port Arthur Memorial*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: at Beaumont Central*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: Ozen*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: Open Nov. 3: at Lumberton*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: Port Neches-Groves*, 7 p.m.

PORT NECHES-GROVES INDIANS Sept. 1: at Silsbee, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: Baytown Sterling, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: Lumberton, 7 p.m.

Sept. 22: Open Sept. 29: at Livingston*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: Baytown Lee*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: at Vidor*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: Port Arthur Memorial*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 26: at Beaumont Central*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: Ozen*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: at Nederland*, 7 p.m.

LITTLE CYPRESS-MAURICEVILLE BEARS Sept. 1: Jasper, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 8: at West Orange-Stark, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Hardin-Jefferson, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 22: at Orangefield, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: Open Oct. 6: Houston St. Pius, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: Silsbee*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: at Bridge City*, 7 p.m.

Oct.27: Huffman Hargrave*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: at Cleveland*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: Navasota*, 7 p.m.

ORANGE COMMUNITY CHRISTIAN LIONS Sept. 2: at Houston Emery/Weiner, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: Apple Springs, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 15: High Island, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Allen Academy, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: Brazosport Christian, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: at Covenant Christian, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: at Baytown Christian, 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: Living Stones, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: at Alpha Omega, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: vs. Faith Academy, 7 p.m.

KELLY BULLDOGS Sept. 1: East Chambers, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: at Kountze, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Legacy Christian, 7 p.m.

Sept. 22: Hardin-Jefferson, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: Orangefield, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: at Hamshire-Fannett, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 13: Katy St. John XXIII, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: Open Oct. 27: at Houston St. Thomas*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: at Houston St. Pius X*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: Tomball Concordia Lutheran*, 7 p.m.

SABINE PASS SHARKS Sept. 1: at Pasadena First Baptist, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: Galveston O’Connell, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: Open Sept. 21: Deweyville JV, 6 p.m.

Sept. 29: at West Hardin, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: Open Oct. 13: Burkeville*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: at Iola*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: Hull-Daisetta*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: at Colmesneil*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: Evadale*, 7 p.m.

BEAUMONT CENTRAL JAGUARS Sept. 1: West Brook, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: at Katy Tompkins, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Vidor*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 22: Port Arthur Memorial*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: Open Oct. 6: Ozen*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: Nederland*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: at Lumberton*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 26: Port Neches-Groves*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: at Livingston*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 11: Baytown Lee*, 7 p.m.

OZEN PANTHERS Sept. 2: CC St. John Paul II (Port Arthur), 3 p.m.

Sept. 8: at West Brook, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Baytown Lee*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 23: Vidor*, 2 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Port Arthur Memorial*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: at Beaumont Central*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: Open Oct. 20: at Nederland*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: Lumberton*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: at Port Neches-Groves*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: Livingston*, 7 p.m.

HAMSHIRE-FANNETT LONGHORNS Sept. 1: at Bridge City, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 8: at Lumberton, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 15: East Chambers, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 22: Buna, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Anahuac, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 6: Beaumont Kelly, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 13: West Orange-Stark*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 20: at Liberty*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 27: Orangefield*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 3: Open Nov. 10: at Hardin-Jefferson*, 7:30 p.m.

HARDIN-JEFFERSON HAWKS Sept. 1: at Coldspring, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: Buna, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: Little Cypress-Mauriceville, 7 p.m.

Sept. 22: at Beaumont Kelly, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: at La Marque, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 6: Jasper, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: Open Oct. 20: at West Orange-Stark*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 27: Liberty*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 3: at Orangefield*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 10: Hamshire-Fannett*, 7:30 p.m.

EAST CHAMBERS BUCCANEERS Sept. 1: at Kelly, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: Tarkington, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Hamshire-Fannett, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 22: New Waverly, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Newton, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 6: Open Oct. 13: Hempstead*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 20: at Hardin*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 27: La Marque*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 3: Hitchcock*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 10: at Anahuac*, 7:30 p.m.

LUMBERTON RAIDERS Sept. 1: at New Caney Porter, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: Hamshire-Fannett, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Port Neches-Groves*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 22: Livingston*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: Baytown Lee*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 6: Vidor*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: at Port Arthur Memorial*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: Beaumont Central*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: at Ozen*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: Nederland*, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: Open

VIDOR PIRATES Sept. 1: at Barbers Hill, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: Pasadena Memorial, 7 p.m.

Sept.15: Beaumont Central*, 7 p.m.

Sept. 23: at Ozen* 2 p.m.

Sept. 29: Nederland* 7 p.m.

Oct. 6: at Lumberton* 7 p.m.

Oct. 13: Port Neches-Groves* 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: at Livingston* 7 p.m.

Oct. 27: Baytown Lee* 7 p.m.

Nov. 3: Open Nov.10: at Port Arthur Memorial* 7 p.m.

WEST BROOK BRUINS Sept. 1: at Beaumont Central, 7 p.m.

Sept. 8: at Ozen, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15: at Sheldon C.E. King, 7 p.m.

Sept. 21: Houston St. Thomas, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29: at Montgomery*, 7:30 .m.

Oct. 5: The Woodlands College Park*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 12: at The Woodlands*, 7 p.m.

Oct. 20: Lufkin*, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 27: Open Nov. 3: at Conroe Oak Ridge*, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 9: Conroe*, 7 p.m.

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NEW YORK JETS Sept. 10 at Buffalo Bills Sept. 17 at Oakland Raiders Sep. 24 Miami Dolphins Oct. 1 Jacksonville Jaguars Oct. 8 at Cleveland Browns Oct. 15 New England Patriots Oct. 22 at Miami Dolphins Oct. 29 Atlanta Falcons Nov. 2 Buffalo Bills Nov. 12 at Tampa Bay Bucs Nov. 19 BYE Nov. 26 Carolina Panthers Dec. 3 Kansas City Chiefs Dec. 10 at Denver Broncos Dec. 17 at New Orleans Saints Dec. 24 Los Angeles Chargers Dec. 31 at New England Patriots

BALTIMORE RAVENS Sept. 10 at Cincinnati Bengals Sept. 17 Cleveland Browns Sept. 24 at J’ville (London) Oct. 1 Pittsburgh Steelers Oct. 8 at Oakland Raiders Oct. 15 Chicago Bears Oct. 22 at Minnesota Vikings Oct. 26 Miami Dolphins Nov. 5 at Tennessee Titans Nov. 12 BYE Nov. 19 at Green Bay Packers Nov. 27 Houston Texans Dec. 3 Detroit Lions Dec. 10 at Pittsburgh Steelers Dec. 17 at Cleveland Browns Dec. 23 Indianapolis Colts Dec. 31 Cincinnati Bengals

CINCINNATI BENGALS Sept. 10 Baltimore Ravens Sept. 14 Houston Texans Sept. 24 at Green Bay Packers Oct. 1 at Cleveland Browns Oct. 8 Buffalo Bills Oct. 15 BYE Oct. 22 at Pittsburgh Steelers Oct. 29 Indianapolis Colts Nov. 5 at Jacksonville Jaguars Nov. 12 at Tennessee Titans Nov. 19 at Denver Broncos Nov. 26 Cleveland Browns Dec. 4 Pittsburgh Steelers Dec. 10 Chicago Bears Dec. 17 at Minnesota Vikings Dec. 24 Detroit Lions Dec. 31 at Baltimore Ravens

CLEVELAND BROWNS Sept. 10 Pittsburgh Steelers Sept. 17 at Baltimore Ravens Sept. 24 at Indianapolis Colts Oct. 1 Cincinnati Bengals Oct. 8 New York Jets Oct. 15 at Houston Texans Oct. 22 Tennessee Titans Oct. 29 Minn. Vikings (London) Nov. 5 BYE Nov. 12 at Detroit Lions Nov. 19 Jacksonville Jaguars Nov. 26 at Cincinnati Bengals Dec. 3 at L.A. Chargers Dec. 10 Green Bay Packers Dec. 17 Baltimore Ravens Dec. 24 at Chicago Bears Dec. 31 at Pittsburgh Steelers

PITTSBURGH STEELERS Sept. 10 at Cleveland Browns Sept. 17 Minnesota Vikings Sept. 24 at Chicago Bears Oct. 1 at Baltimore Ravens Oct. 8 Jacksonville Jaguars Oct. 15 at Kansas City Chiefs Oct. 22 Cincinnati Bengals Oct. 29 at Detroit Lions Nov. 5 BYE Nov. 12 at Indianapolis Colts Nov. 16 Tennessee Titans Nov. 26 Green Bay Packers Dec. 4 at Cincinnati Bengals Dec. 10 Baltimore Ravens Dec. 17 New England Patriots Dec. 25 at Houston Texans Dec. 31 Cleveland Browns

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS Sept. 10 at Los Angeles Rams Sept. 17 Arizona Cardinals Sept. 24 Cleveland Browns Oct. 1 at Seattle Seahawks Oct. 8 San Francisco 49ers Oct. 16 at Tennessee Titans Oct. 22 Jacksonville Jaguars Oct. 29 at Cincinnati Bengals Nov. 5 at Houston Texans Nov. 12 Pittsburgh Steelers Nov. 19 BYE Nov. 26 Tennessee Titans Dec. 3 at Jacksonville Jaguars Dec. 10 at Buffalo Bills Dec. 14 Denver Broncos Dec. 23 at Baltimore Ravens Dec. 31 Houston Texans

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS Sept. 10 at Houston Texans Sept. 17 Tennessee Titans Sept. 24 Balt. Ravens (London) Oct. 1 at New York Jets Oct. 8 at Pittsburgh Steelers Oct. 15 Los Angeles Rams Oct. 22 at Indianapolis Colts Oct. 29 BYE Nov. 5 Cincinnati Bengals Nov. 12 Los Angeles Chargers Nov. 19 at Cleveland Browns Nov. 26 at Arizona Cardinals Dec. 3 Indianapolis Colts Dec. 10 Seattle Seahawks Dec. 17 Houston Texans Dec. 24 at San Francisco 49ers Dec. 31 at Tennessee Titans

TENNESSEE TITANS Sept. 10 Oakland Raiders Sept. 17 at Jacksonville Jags Sept. 24 Seattle Seahawks Oct. 1 at Houston Texans Oct. 8 at Miami Dolphins Oct. 16 Indianapolis Colts Oct. 22 at Cleveland Browns Oct. 29 BYE Nov. 5 Baltimore Ravens Nov. 12 Cincinnati Bengals Nov. 16 at Pittsburgh Steelers Nov. 26 at Indianapolis Colts Dec. 3 Houston Texans Dec. 10 at Arizona Cardinals Dec. 17 at San Francisco 49ers Dec. 24 Los Angeles Rams Dec. 31 Jacksonville Jaguars

DENVER BRONCOS Sept. 11 Los Angeles Chargers Sept. 17 Dallas Cowboys Sep. 24 at Buffalo Bills Oct. 1 Oakland Raiders Oct. 8 BYE Oct. 15 New York Giants Oct. 22 at L.A. Chargers Oct. 30 at Kansas City Chiefs Nov. 5 at Philadelphia Eagles Nov. 12 New England Patriots Nov. 19 Cincinnati Bengals Nov. 26 at Oakland Raiders Dec. 3 at Miami Dolphins Dec. 10 New York Jets Dec. 14 at Indianapolis Colts Dec. 24 at Wash. Redskins Dec. 31 Kansas City Chiefs

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS Sept. 7 at New England Patriots Sept. 17 Philadelphia Eagles Sept. 24 at L.A. Chargers Oct. 2 Washington Redskins Oct. 8 at Houston Texans Oct. 15 Pittsburgh Steelers Oct. 19 at Oakland Raiders Oct. 30 Denver Broncos Nov. 5 at Dallas Cowboys Nov. 12 BYE Nov. 19 at New York Giants Nov. 26 Buffalo Bills Dec. 3 at New York Jets Dec. 10 Oakland Raiders Dec. 16 Los Angeles Chargers Dec. 24 Miami Dolphins Dec. 31 at Denver Broncos

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS Sept. 11 at Denver Broncos Sept. 17 Miami Dolphins Sept. 24 Kansas City Chiefs Oct. 1 Philadelphia Eagles Oct. 8 at New York Giants Oct. 15 at Oakland Raiders Oct. 22 Denver Broncos Oct. 29 at New Eng. Patriots Nov. 5 BYE Nov. 12 at Jacksonville Jaguars Nov. 19 Buffalo Bills Nov. 23 at Dallas Cowboys Dec. 3 Cleveland Browns Dec. 10 Washington Redskins Dec. 16 at Kansas City Chiefs Dec. 24 at New York Jets Dec. 31 Oakland Raiders

OAKLAND RAIDERS Sept. 10 at Tennessee Titans Sept. 17 New York Jets Sept. 24 at Wash. Redskins Oct. 1 at Denver Broncos Oct. 8 Baltimore Ravens Oct. 15 Los Angeles Chargers Oct. 19 Kansas City Chiefs Oct. 29 at Buffalo Bills Nov. 5 at Miami Dolphins Nov. 12 BYE Nov. 19 New England Patriots Nov. 26 Denver Broncos Dec. 3 New York Giants Dec. 10 at Kansas City Chiefs Dec. 17 Dallas Cowboys Dec. 25 at Philadelphia Eagles Dec. 31 at L.A. Chargers

WEST DIVISION

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS Sept. 7 Kansas City Chiefs Sept. 17 at New Orleans Saints Sept. 24 Houston Texans Oct. 1 Carolina Panthers Oct. 5 at Tampa Bay Bucs Oct. 15 at New York Jets Oct. 22 Atlanta Falcons Oct. 29 Los Angeles Chargers Nov. 5 BYE Nov. 12 at Denver Broncos Nov. 19 at Oakland (Mexico) Nov. 26 Miami Dolphins Dec. 3 at Buffalo Bills Dec. 11 at Miami Dolphins Dec. 17 at Pittsburgh Steelers Dec. 24 Buffalo Bills Dec. 31 New York Jets

HOUSTON TEXANS Sept. 10 Jacksonville Jaguars Sept. 14 at Cincinnati Bengals Sept. 24 at New Eng. Patriots Oct. 1 Tennessee Titans Oct. 8 Kansas City Chiefs Oct. 15 Cleveland Browns Oct. 22 BYE Oct. 29 at Seattle Seahawks Nov. 5 Indianapolis Colts Nov. 12 at Los Angeles Rams Nov. 19 Arizona Cardinals Nov. 27 at Baltimore Ravens Dec. 3 at Tennessee Titans Dec. 10 San Francisco 49ers Dec. 17 at Jacksonville Jaguars Dec. 25 Pittsburgh Steelers Dec. 31 at Indianapolis Colts

SOUTH DIVISION

MIAMI DOLPHINS Sept. 10 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sept. 17 at L.A. Chargers Sep. 24 at New York Jets Oct. 1 N.O. Saints (London) Oct. 8 Tennessee Titans Oct. 15 at Atlanta Falcons Oct. 22 New York Jets Oct. 26 at Baltimore Ravens Nov. 5 Oakland Raiders Nov. 13 at Carolina Panthers Nov. 19 BYE Nov. 26 at New Eng. Patriots Dec. 3 Denver Broncos Dec. 11 New England Patriots Dec. 17 at Buffalo Bills Dec. 24 at Kansas City Chiefs Dec. 31 Buffalo Bills

NORTH DIVISION

BUFFALO BILLS Sept. 10 New York Jets Sept. 17 at Carolina Panthers Sept. 24 Denver Broncos Oct. 1 at Atlanta Falcons Oct. 8 at Cincinnati Bengals Oct. 15 BYE Oct. 22 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Oct. 29 Oakland Raiders Nov. 2 at New York Jets Nov. 12 New Orleans Saints Nov. 19 at L.A. Chargers Nov. 26 at Kansas City Chiefs Dec. 3 New England Patriots Dec. 10 Indianapolis Colts Dec. 17 Miami Dolphins Dec. 24 at New Eng. Patriots Dec. 31 at Miami Dolphins

EAST DIVISION

AFC schedules

16 Footba l l 2August 0 1 7 , A30, u g2017 ust 30, 2017 16 •• Football 2017,

F O O T B A L L 2 0 1 7 / 17

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WASHINGTON REDSKINS Sept. 10 Philadelphia Eagles Sep. 17 at Los Angeles Rams Sep. 24 Oakland Raiders Oct. 2 at Kansas City Chiefs Oct. 8 BYE Oct. 15 San Francisco 49ers Oct. 23 at Philadelphia Eagles Oct. 29 Dallas Cowboys Nov. 5 at Seattle Seahawks Nov. 12 Minnesota Vikings Nov. 19 at New Orleans Saints Nov. 23 New York Giants Nov. 30 at Dallas Cowboys Dec. 10 at L.A. Chargers Dec. 17 Arizona Cardinals Dec. 24 Denver Broncos Dec. 31 at New York Giants

CHICAGO BEARS Sept. 10 Atlanta Falcons Sept. 17 at Tampa Bay Bucc Sept. 24 Pittsburgh Steelers Sept. 28 at Green Bay Packers Oct. 9 Minnesota Vikings Oct. 15 at Baltimore Ravens Oct. 22 Carolina Panthers Oct. 29 at New Orleans Saints Nov. 5 BYE Nov. 12 Green Bay Packers Nov. 19 Detroit Lions Nov. 26 at Philadelphia Eagles Dec. 3 San Francisco 49ers Dec. 10 at Cincinnati Bengals Dec. 16 at Detroit Lions Dec. 24 Cleveland Browns Dec. 31 at Minnesota Vikings

Sept. 10 Arizona Cardinals Sept. 18 at New York Giants Sept. 24 Atlanta Falcons Oct. 1 at Minnesota Vikings Oct. 8 Carolina Panthers Oct. 15 at New Orleans Saints Oct. 22 BYE Oct. 29 Pittsburgh Steelers Nov. 6 at Green Bay Packers Nov. 12 Cleveland Browns Nov. 19 at Chicago Bears Nov. 23 Minnesota Vikings Dec. 3 at Baltimore Ravens Dec. 10 at Tampa Bay Bucs Dec. 16 Chicago Bears Dec. 24 at Cincinnati Bengals Dec. 31 Green Bay Packers

GREEN BAY PACKERS Sept. 10 Seattle Seahawks Sept. 17 at Atlanta Falcons Sept. 24 Cincinnati Bengals Sept. 28 Chicago Bears Oct. 8 at Dallas Cowboys Oct. 15 at Minnesota Vikings Oct. 22 New Orleans Saints Oct. 29 BYE Nov. 6 Detroit Lions Nov. 12 at Chicago Bears Nov. 19 Baltimore Ravens Nov. 26 at Pittsburgh Steelers Dec. 3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Dec. 10 at Cleveland Browns Dec. 17 at Carolina Panthers Dec. 23 Minnesota Vikings Dec. 31 at Detroit Lions

MINNESOTA VIKINGS Sept. 11 New Orleans Saints Sept. 17 at Pittsburgh Steelers Sept. 24 Tampa Bay Bucs Oct. 1 Detroit Lions Oct. 9 at Chicago Bears Oct. 15 Green Bay Packers Oct. 22 Baltimore Ravens Oct. 29 at Cleveland (London) Nov. 5 BYE Nov. 12 at Wash. Redskins Nov. 19 Los Angeles Rams Nov. 23 at Detroit Lions Dec. 3 at Atlanta Falcons Dec. 10 at Carolina Panthers Dec. 17 Cincinnati Bengals Dec. 23 at Green Bay Packers Dec. 31 Chicago Bears

DETROIT LIONS

SOUTH DIVISION

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES Sept. 10 at Wash. Redskins Sept. 17 at Kansas City Chiefs Sept. 24 New York Giants Oct. 1 at Los Angeles Chargers Oct. 8 Arizona Cardinals Oct. 12 at Carolina Panthers Oct. 23 Washington Redskins Oct. 29 San Francisco 49ers Nov. 5 Denver Broncos Nov. 12 BYE Nov. 19 at Dallas Cowboys Nov. 26 Chicago Bears Dec. 3 at Seattle Seahawks Dec. 10 at Los Angeles Rams Dec. 17 at New York Giants Dec. 25 Oakland Raiders Dec. 31 Dallas Cowboys

WEST DIVISION

EAST DIVISION

NEW YORK GIANTS Sept. 10 at Dallas Cowboys Sept. 18 Detroit Lions Sept. 24 at Philadelphia Eagles Oct. 1 at Tampa Bay Bucs Oct. 8 Los Angeles Chargers Oct. 15 at Denver Broncos Oct. 22 Seattle Seahawks Oct. 29 BYE Nov. 5 Los Angeles Rams Nov. 12 at San Francisco 49ers Nov. 19 Kansas City Chiefs Nov. 23 at Wash. Redskins Dec. 3 at Oakland Raiders Dec. 10 Dallas Cowboys Dec. 17 Philadelphia Eagles Dec. 24 at Arizona Cardinals Dec. 31 Washington Redskins

ATLANTA FALCONS Sept. 10 at Chicago Bears Sept. 17 Green Bay Packers Sept. 24 at Detroit Lions Oct. 1 Buffalo Bills Oct. 8 BYE Oct. 15 Miami Dolphins Oct. 22 at New Eng. Patriots Oct. 29 at New York Jets Nov. 5 at Carolina Panthers Nov. 12 Dallas Cowboys Nov. 20 at Seattle Seahawks Nov. 26 Tampa Bay Bucs Dec. 3 Minnesota Vikings Dec. 7 New Orleans Saints Dec. 18 at Tampa Bay Bucs Dec. 24 at New Orleans Saints Dec. 31 Carolina Panthers

CAROLINA PANTHERS Sept. 10 at San Francisco 49ers Sept. 17 Buffalo Bills Sept. 24 New Orleans Saints Oct. 1 at New England Patriots Oct. 8 at Detroit Lions Oct. 12 Philadelphia Eagles Oct. 22 at Chicago Bears Oct. 29 at Tampa Bay Bucs Nov. 5 Atlanta Falcons Nov. 13 Miami Dolphins Nov. 19 BYE Nov. 26 at New York Jets Dec. 3 at New Orleans Saints Dec. 10 Minnesota Vikings Dec. 17 Green Bay Packers Dec. 24 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Dec. 31 at Atlanta Falcons

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS Sept. 11 at Minnesota Vikings Sept. 17 New England Patriots Sept. 24 at Carolina Panthers Oct. 1 at Miami (London) Oct. 8 BYE Oct. 15 Detroit Lions Oct. 22 at Green Bay Packers Oct. 29 Chicago Bears Nov. 5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Nov. 12 at Buffalo Bills Nov. 19 Washington Redskins Nov. 26 at Los Angeles Rams Dec. 3 Carolina Panthers Dec. 7 at Atlanta Falcons Dec. 17 New York Jets Dec. 24 Atlanta Falcons Dec. 31 at Tampa Bay Bucs

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS Sept. 10 at Miami Dolphins Sept. 17 Chicago Bears Sept. 24 at Minnesota Vikings Oct. 1 New York Giants Oct. 5 New England Patriots Oct. 15 at Arizona Cardinals Oct. 22 at Buffalo Bills Oct. 29 Carolina Panthers Nov. 5 at New Orleans Saints Nov. 12 New York Jets Nov. 19 BYE Nov. 26 at Atlanta Falcons Dec. 3 at Green Bay Packers Dec. 10 Detroit Lions Dec. 18 Atlanta Falcons Dec. 24 at Carolina Panthers Dec. 31 New Orleans Saints

ARIZONA CARDINALS

Sept. 10 at Detroit Lions Sept. 17 at Indianapolis Colts Sept. 25 Dallas Cowboys Oct. 1 San Francisco 49ers Oct. 8 at Philadelphia Eagles Oct. 15 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Oct. 22 at LA. Rams (London) Oct. 29 BYE Nov. 5 at San Francisco 49ers Nov. 9 Seattle Seahawks Nov. 19 at Houston Texans Nov. 26 Jacksonville Jaguars Dec. 3 Los Angeles Rams Dec. 10 Tennessee Titans Dec. 17 at Washington Redskins Dec. 24 New York Giants Dec. 31 at Seattle Seahawks

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

Sept. 10 Carolina Panthers Sept. 17 at Seattle Seahawks Sep. 21 Los Angeles Rams Oct. 1 at Arizona Cardinals Oct. 8 at Indianapolis Colts Oct. 15 at Washington Redskins Oct. 22 Dallas Cowboys Oct. 29 at Philadelphia Eagles Nov. 5 Arizona Cardinals Nov. 12 New York Giants Nov. 19 BYE Nov. 26 Seattle Seahawks Dec. 3 at Chicago Bears Dec. 10 at Houston Texans Dec. 17 Tennessee Titans Dec. 24 Jacksonville Jaguars Dec. 31 at Los Angeles Rams

LOS ANGELES RAMS

Sept. 10 Indianapolis Colts Sept. 17 Washington Redskins Sept. 21 at San Francisco 49ers Oct. 1 at Dallas Cowboys Oct. 8 Seattle Seahawks Oct. 15 at Jacksonville Jaguars Oct. 22 Arizona (London) Oct. 29 BYE Nov. 5 at New York Giants Nov. 12 Houston Texans Nov. 19 at Minnesota Vikings Nov. 26 New Orleans Saints Dec. 3 at Arizona Cardinals Dec. 10 Philadelphia Eagles Dec. 17 at Seattle Seahawks Dec. 24 at Tennessee Titans Dec. 31 San Francisco 49ers

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS Sept. 10 at Green Bay Packers Sept. 17 San Francisco 49ers Sept. 24 at Tennessee Titans Oct. 1 Indianapolis Colts Oct. 8 at Los Angeles Rams Oct. 15 BYE Oct. 22 at New York Giants Oct. 29 Houston Texans Nov. 5 Washington Redskins Nov. 9 at Arizona Cardinals Nov. 20 Atlanta Falcons Nov. 26 at San Francisco 49ers Dec. 3 Philadelphia Eagles Dec. 10 at Jacksonville Jaguars Dec. 17 Los Angeles Rams Dec. 24 at Dallas Cowboys Dec. 31 Arizona Cardinals

NFC schedules

DALLAS COWBOYS Sept. 10 New York Giants Sept. 17 at Denver Broncos Sept. 25 at Arizona Cardinals Oct. 1 Los Angeles Rams Oct. 8 Green Bay Packers Oct. 15 BYE Oct. 22 at San Francisco 49ers Oct. 29 at Wash. Redskins Nov. 5 Kansas City Chiefs Nov. 12 at Atlanta Falcons Nov. 19 Philadelphia Eagles Nov. 23 Los Angeles Chargers Nov. 30 Washington Redskins Dec. 10 at New York Giants Dec. 17 at Oakland Raiders Dec. 24 Seattle Seahawks Dec. 31 at Philadelphia Eagles

NORTH DIVISION

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 17

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 19

Bears ready to make waves in competitive 10-4A

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

LITTLE CYPRESS — They are hungry at the Bear Den” for a playoff victory.

The Little Cypress-Mauriceville Battlin’ Bears have entered the postseason fray three out of the last four years but the program is still seeking its first playoff victory since 1997, which saw the Bears reach the 4A Region III Finals.

The Bears (5-6) finished strong at the end of Dis-

trict 10-4A Division I to go 3-2 in a competitive loop before bowing to a powerful Henderson unit in the bidistrict round of the playoffs.

Coach Randy Crouch will look to lead the Bears to their fourth playoff berth in five years in his ninth season and he and the coaching staff will welcome back five starters on each side of the ball.

LC-M will be looking for a new quarterback to step in to run its spread offense after Beau Bickham started for two years, making

all-district last year as a senior.

Getting good looks at the position include Ethan McCollom, Brayden Babineaux and Adam Pope.

“Each one of those guys have worked hard to improve and they all have good arms, it’s just getting control of the offense and getting reps,” said Crouch.

“They are all capable and one will come to the front soon.”

The Bears certainly bring back plenty of talent at the skill positions.

Senior tailback Chris

Winters should certainly spark the offense as the First Team All-District selection returns after rolling up almost 1,000 yards on the ground a season ago.

His backfield mate the last two years, fullback J’Lon Douglas returns with over 500 yards last year when he wasn’t busy being the District 10-4A Division I Defensive Most Valuable Player from his linebacker position.

“Those two guys know what it is all about and will definitely be instrumental to our success,” said Crouch. “They are two that practically live on the field and both were all-district on defense last year too. We want to get the ball into their hands for sure.”

Crouch likes the depth in the backfield too with the likes of Ethan McKay,

Shawn McKay and Cameron McIlwain looking to get touches as well.

Receiver Katon Brown, also a standout on the basketball court, joined the fray midway through non-district and became the most dangerous receiver in the district to earn First Team All-District accolades. Dameon Morris, Mark Netherley, Tyreke Brown and Brandon Dunbar are also speedy guys that will look to haul in some passes.

The Bears offense will be led in the trenches by the likes of All-District lineman Mike Davis along with teammates senior Truman Franklin, Colt LeBleu and Zack Robin.

Cole Killian, Grant Lacour and Michael Johnson will also see time up front.

LC-M BEARS Colors: Green and Gold District: 10-4A Division I 2016 record: 5-6, 3-2 in district District finish: third All-Time record: 209259-5 Playoff record: 4-7 Coach: Randy Crouch (37-46, ninth year) Offensive players to watch: RB Chris Winters; WR Katon Brown; RB Dameon Morris; OL Mike Davis; OL Zack Robin Defensive players to watch: LB/FB J’Lon Douglas; DL Truman Franklin; DB/WR Mark Netherly; DL Colt LeBleu

See ‘Bears,’ page 20

GOOD LUCK BEARS!

409-745-2375 Leader Photo by Mark Pachuca

LC-M running back/defensive back Chris Winters returns for his senior season after making all-district on both sides of the ball last season.

30 years of great tires at a fair price with exceptional custom services.

20 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

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Douglas, Winters hungry for Battlin’ Bear victories

By Ronnie Hughes

Leader Correspondent

LITTLE CYPRESS — The Little Cypress-Mauriceville Bears are geared up and ready for the 2017 football season. After a first round exit from the post season against Henderson last season the Bears are optimistic about the upcoming season and their chances of making a deeper run. In district 104A Division I the Bears will need their experienced seniors to step up in a big way against district favorite Silsbee along with

Bears

Continued from 19

“We’ve got several guys that might be playing both ways so we’re really looking to find some depth, especially along the defensive line,” said Crouch.

Defensively, the Bears will look to slow down offenses, especially behind the leadership of Douglas, who racked up close to 100 tackles a year ago.

McIlwain, Reid Saperstein, Blake Pruitt and Malik Griffith will also look to throw their weight around at linebacker.

Bridge City and Navasota.

J’Lon Douglas is one of those seniors as well as a star leader on the team.

Douglas has the size and strength that will catapult him to the next level, but his main focus is pushing his teammates to be their absolute best on and off the field.

“Most of this group has been playing together since peewee or junior high,” said Douglas “We push each other to be their very best, because we know what each other is capable of.”

Douglas nabbed the

district Defensive MVP last season asthe middle linebacker notched more than 100 tackles on defense. He also garnered 850 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns as a major offensive contributor as well, making him a dual threat player. Douglas believes if the Bears play mistake free football and play up to their potential they will go much further than another one-and-done in the post season.

Senior running back and strong safety Chris Win

Franklin, who made All-District on the defensive line along with Davis and LeBleu, will be the key guys up front. Shawn McKay and Ethan McKay will both work at defensive end. Johnson and Trent Brown will also be worked in a defensive tackle.

Netherly and Winters, both Second Team All-District selections in the secondary will look to lead the way there. Morris, Netherley and Tyreke Brown will also work in the secondary.

There are several starting spots to be filled before the Bears face Jasper in their opener Sept. 1 at home.

“We’ve got some young kids that are going to have to help us,” said Crouch.

“We’re still trying to zero in on a few positions and the competition level is high.”

The Bears’ non-district schedule is loaded with playoffs teams from last year. They open it up with Jasper at home, visit defending 4A Division II state champion West Orange-Stark, then they will visit Hardin-Jefferson and Orangefield before closing out the slate with a home date with St. Pius, which was a TAPPS Division I state semifinalist.

“Every team we face made the playoffs last

See ‘LC-M,’ page 22

Leader Photo by Ronnie Hughes

LC-M’s J’Lon Douglas (6) and Chris Winters (5) return for their senior years as they will try to make the playoffs for the third straight season.

year, some of them went deep,” said Crouch. “Many of them went deep. WOS, enough said there. St. Pius was a state semifinalist and has a quarterback (Grant Gunnell) who has committed to Texas A&M and is just a junior. Jasper has a lot of kids back and that will be a tough opener. We also have two tough road trips at Hardin-Jefferson and Orangefield.

That will certainly will get us ready for what should be a very competitive district race.”

The Bears will look to navigate their way through what looks to be another rugged District 10-

4A Division I as they will look to take down returning champion Bridge City, a stout Silsbee unit, along with what should be a much-improved Navasota team along with Huffman and Cleveland.

The Bears open up104A play Oct. 13 at home against Silsbee. They have road trips at Bridge City and Cleveland and will host both Huffman and Navasota.

Three homes district games gives the Bears some what of a favorable schedule after making long trips to Huffman and Navasota last year.

“We like how it is set

up for us this year but we have to make it happen,” said Crouch. “Bridge City is the defending champ and they have a good group back. Silsbee is loaded with athletes again. I expect Navasota to bounce back after they played a ton of sophomores last year.

Huffman was banged up a lot last year and they’re usually a playoff team every year. Cleveland, they have athletes, some off a relay teams that qualified for the State Track Meet.

It’s going to be competitive to the very end, it’s a tough challenge every week but we feel the kids will be ready for it.”

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Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 21

2 Landon Alford

3 Katon Brown

4 Mark Netherley

5 Chris Winters

6 J’Lon Douglas

7 Seth Kuenzel

8 Reid Saperstein

9 Dameon Morris

10 Scott Vidalier

12 Brayden Babineaux

13 Ethan McCollom

14 Landon Bearden

15 Tyreke Brown

16 Adam Pope

17 Blake Pruitt

18 Connor Ingram

20 Ethan McKay

21 Brandon Dunbar

22 Cameron McIlwain

25 Shawn McKay

51 Truman Franklin

53 Trent Brown

54 Victor Daviala

58 Dalton LeDoux

59 Malik Griffith

60 Grant Lacour

63 Cole Killian

65 Jaze Acklin

68 Mike Davis

71 Colt LeBleu

72 Zack Robin

73 Noah Bagley

79 Michael Johnson

Supporting our Football Teams GOOD LUCK! ORANGE COUNTY FOOTBALL TEAMS!

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22 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

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Baker’s Fields picks up national honors for great work

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

Every athletic field has a story to tell.

It may be the great rivalry game 20 years ago.

Maybe it was the year the conference championships were hosted on it. Or, maybe it’s the care given to it by dedicated professionals or volunteers throughout the year.

At Pioneer Athletics we are proud to salute the men and women who work hard to make game day a special day by producing an exceptional field of play.

Pioneer Athletics has announced 85 winners of their 2016 Field of excellence awards. Faced with tightened budgets and being asked to do more with less, the field crews of these schools and organizations

LC-M

Continued from 20

ters, will get to enjoy one last ride along side his longtime friend, Douglas.

The two not only know the game inside and out, but both are looked to as leaders of this Bears squad.

After finishing district last season with a 3-2 record, Winters, wants to leave his mark in 2017. He looks to not only match his 1,000-yard and 17 touchdown season from 2016, but with his consistent summer work outs, he believes he could double those numbers.

“We focused on football all summer,” said Winters “We did everything from drills to film and going heavy in the weight room.”

As a first team all-district offensive and defen-

exemplified team work and dedication in 2016.

Of these 85 winners of the award in 2016, Baker’s Fields (David Baker) a company from Vidor, Texas received four of the FOE awards this year for high schools in Southeast Texas.

With David’s retirement from Vidor ISD in 2013, he kept getting contacted from other schools to see if he would be interested in working for them designing their team logos on their fields. He thought about it for awhile and decided to try doing it on a part time basis. With the demand rising, he decided to create his own business.

So in March 2013, that’s when “Baker’s Fields” was born.

With his years with Vidor ISD, he would always

submit pictures of the school’s athletic fields in Pioneer Athletics “Fields of Excellence” Program each December.

Over the years, with the help of many people from the Maintenance Dept., he was able to win this national award five different years (2006, 2008, 2010, 2011 and 2012).

After his retirement he continued with the same program in his business.

He would continue to take a picture of each job and for that year would send the pictures in to the FOE program given by Pioneer Athletics out of Cleveland, Ohio.

By continuing this program two things were being accomplished; his work was being recognized on a national level and he was attempting to get students

sive player in 2016, Winters knows his role and the importance of stepping up as leader. At the strong safety position he understands it’s on him to ensure the defense knows the right call, the correct reads and their success on defense begins with his understanding of the game.

“I am prepared just like last season and confident I can make the right call for my guys,” Winters admits “If I miss a read and make a bad call then it’s on me. I don’t want to let my guys down so I am glued to film all week, making sure I know our opponents strengths and weaknesses.”

The Bears are used to playing the role of the underdog which both Douglas and Winters’ admits it just gives them fuel to prove their worth in such a tough district. Flying under the

radar often weighs in favor of the Bears, because teams misjudge their firepower and speed on both sides of the ball.

Brayden Babineaux is an example of that strength and speed that Winters and Douglas both mentioned as a player that deserves credit for his play.

This season the Bears squad is littered with athletes such as Babineaux that put in the work and grind daily which will sure to be the extra edge to shake things up in district play.

“It’s up to us – the seniors – to leave behind a winning program for the underclassman to look up to,” said Douglas. “What we do this season is what they’ll be able to build on next season and we look forward to leaving them with a winning tradition.”

scholarships for their college education.

As of current date 2017, Baker’s Fields has won the FOE award a total of 13 times since his retirement and a total of 18 times since he has been in the program, along with being able to give away two $1,000 scholarships to two seniors in 2011.

While working with each of the schools that contracted with Baker’s Fields in 2016, four of the fields took home a Field of Excellence award. Those winning were Community Christian-Orange, Hardin-Jefferson ISD-Sour Lake, Evadale ISD-Evadale and Kirbyville ISD _ Kirbyville.

Out of the 85 national winners of the “Field of Excellence” program for 2016, Baker’s Fields won five

Courtesy Photo

Baker’s Fields has won many awards over the years including Vidor’s Pirate Stadium.

percent of the total awards given to the winners in the United States. Another interesting fact is out of all the winners in Texas, there is a total of 14, with

two of those from Texas A&M and four from Baylor. Baker’s Fields won 29 percent of those winners from Texas.

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Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 23

Cardinals aiming to sit atop 10-4A perch again

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

BRIDGE CITY — It’s certain that football fans in Bridge City would love to have an encore of last season’s superb run to the District 10-4A Division I crown.

What a year it was for Cardinal Country in 2016.

The Redbirds went a perfect 5-0 to capture the 10-4A crown for Coach Dwayne DuBois and Co., including a dramatic 42-41 home victory over Silsbee to seal it. It was their first district title since 2002.

The Cardinals were not through either, advancing to the third round of the playoffs for the first time since 2005, nabbing their first playoff wins in 11 years in the process.

The Cardinals, 9-3 last season, will be on a quest of back-to-back 10-4A titles. Bridge City has not won back-to-back district titles since 1966.

“We have some seniors, that have confidence, after being in the playoffs the last couple years and winning a district title and seeing what it feels like to win a playoff game and that’s a huge plus,” said DuBois. “They know what it takes and hopefully their leadership and energy will trickle down to our younger guys.”

This year, they should be sparked by a defensive unit that returns a whopping nine starters.

Bridge City will likely lean on the defense early as a young offense gets going.

The Cardinals return just three offensive starters and lost its entire offensive line that had basically started the last three seasons together.

“We’ve got some work to do up front on offense, you just don’t replace five guys like that, three of them started for three years,” said DuBois. “It’s going to take awhile for those guys.

They are busting assignments and not stepping right but that’s correctable as we go along. One thing for sure, they’re up here early everyday by themselves working on it and we know they’ll get better once they get game reps.”

The Cardinals do have several key weapons returning at the skill positions, despite losing 1,000yard backs Cayce Draper and Patrick Morris.

Senior tailback Max Baker neared the 1,000yard mark a year ago, rolling up 935 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Jack-of-alltrades Hunter Denton returns after zipping for 480 yards, averaging over 12 yards a carry, he also was a strong receiver and return man as well. Sophomore Andy Lara could shine at fullback after rolling up 420 yards and four TDs as a freshman. A versatile Logan Hamm could see plenty of carries as well along with Caleb Honeycutt and George Fleming.

“We feel fortunate that we do have depth in the backfield,” said DuBois.

“Baker is quick and elusive and almost made it to 1,000 yards last year.

Denton, he’s valuable in all phases on both sides of the ball and we intend to use him more out of the backfield this year. Keep an eye on Andy Lara, he had his moments as a freshman last year and he’s bigger, stronger and faster this year. Hamm, who played defense for us as a freshman, will get some good looks as well.”

BRIDGE CITY CARDINALS Colors: Red and White District: 10-4A Division I 2016 record: 9-3, 5-0 in district District finish: First All-Time record: 310309-11 Playoff record: 16-14 Coach: Dwayne DuBois (16-7, third year) Offensive players to watch: RB Max Baker; RB/CB Hunter Denton; RB; LB Andy Lara; QB Caleb Dubois; K Alfredo Heraldez Defensive players to watch: DB Justyn Romero; LB Blake DiChiara; DL Stetson Wilson; DE/LB Ethan Hamm; DE Zeke Mendez; LB Brennon Tregre

Leader Photo by Mark Pachuca

Bridge City’s Stetson Wilson (74) and Seth Martin (15) bring down Silsbee’s Willie Jones last season. Wilson will be an anchor on the Cardinals’ defensive line again.

Senior quarterback Caleb Dubois, DuBois’ son, will look to guide the Cardinals’ smooth Slot-T rushing attack after missing last season due to an injury.

“Caleb is so anxious because it was so tough on him watching last year, I was hurting for him too,” said DuBois. “He came back strong in the spring and summer playing baseball. The best thing is that he’s not showing any rust.

He knows the offense so well and has been running it since seventh grade.”

Dubois will also look to receivers Kelton Brooks, Marqus Abrego and Cory Westlund to get the ball too.

The offensive line got some nice reps during the scrimmages and will look to rise up and get better each week during the course of the campaign.

The line will include the likes of centers Adam Snyder and Jacob Cunningham, tackles Josh Sanders, Jack Fontenot, Manuel Gomez and Kody Mann , guards Kevin Ross, Blaze Montagne and Christian Young and tight ends Brennon Tregre and Ethan Hamm.

The defensive line should be strong with the return of all-district picks Ethan Hamm, Eziquiel Mendez and Stetson Wilson.

Blake DiChiara, who was all-district and made 115 stops last season is back at linebacker. Logan Hamm will return after starting every game as a freshman last year and will be at outside linebacker. Tregre will be back at linebacker as well as playing some in the defensive line. Others expected to contribute at linebacker

includes Fleming, Young, Baker, and Jackson Tims.

Justyn Romero and Denton combined for seven interceptions last season and will spark the secondary at the safeties after making all-district.

“Both of those guys will be starting for the third season and we expect a lot out of them,” said DuBois.

“They have the potential to be one of the best tandems in Southeast Texas and we’re looking for some leadership out of those guys.”

Honeycutt and Cace Skinner will also see time at safety.

The Cardinals have a gauntlet of a non-district schedule especially a threeweek span when they go to defending 4A Division II state champion West Orange-Stark (Sept. 15), at home against Newton, 3A Division II regional finalist

(Sept. 15) and at defending 8-4A Division II champion Jasper (Sept. 29). They also host Hamshire-Fannett in their opener Sept.

1 and will also visit North Forest (Sept. 9), a playoff unit last year.

“Four of our five opponents were in the playoffs last year and made deep runs,” said DuBois. “Fannett’s going to be better.

The trip to North Forest will be tough because we know they have the athletes. West Orange, well enough said there, they may be young but they’re always loaded. We get an excellent Newton team here at home and then go to Jasper. It’s a schedule that is loaded for sure but looking back on it last year, it paid off for us in the long run.”

The Cardinals open 104A play Oct. 13 at Cleve See ‘Cards,’ page 26

24 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

DiChiara, DuBois set to power BC arsenal

By Ronnie Hughes Leader Correspondent

BRIDGE CITY - The Big Red Cardinals of Bridge City have been on fire in district 10-4A Division I play since head coach Dwayne DuBois took the reigns in 2015.

Following a dismal season in 2014 which the Cardinals went 1-5 in district play they have made the playoffs in 2015 and won the 10-4A title last season and went three rounds deep in the playoffs.

The Cardinals look to continue their winning ways in 2017 with nine starters returning to defense. The offense however will feature new faces, but they seem to be firing on all cylinders and the season has yet to begin.

Blake DiChiara is one of the nine defensive players returning this season. The strong side linebacker is going into his second year on varsity, but he has already nabbed First Team all-district honors in 2016.

He spent the summer perfecting his game, hitting the weights and thinking about games against teams such as Silsbee, which he knows the team will need to bring their A-Game.

DiChiara loves the dirty work and getting in the trenches to make stops against the opposing offense. He’s often seen preparing like Rambo before games with dreams of playing at a major D1 school. He admits that nobody will square up with him, because he’s similar to colliding with a speeding train. His joking demeanor, good nature and hard

hitting work ethic is just enough to keep the Cardinals on track while maintaining good chemistry in the lockeroom.

“I read the guards and the running backs side to side,” said DiChiara, when asked about his role on defense. “I find my position and attack like Rambo, they never see me coming whether its in the trenches or playing outside.”

The young Cardinal offense is headed up by senior quarterback Caleb Dubois, who is returning after missing last season due to having Tommy John surgery following a baseball injury. The nine month recovery was successful with doctors telling the young DuBois he had a much faster recovery time than most with the surgery. Caleb is back under center though in 2017 and is one hundred percent and ready to shine in his senior season.

“I will admit I was scared at first when the injury occurred, because you never know at what level or if you’ll play again,” said Dubois. “ I was just happy I had the best doctors, family and friends who supported me that made my recovery easier.”

The competitive Dubois worked hard to get back into football shape and is every bit ready to lead the Cardinals down the field.

In a district that features Silsbee and a re-surging Navasota team, the Cardinals have little room for error and those are games that add fuel to Dubois and DiChiara to make sure they remain focused and play as a unit while keep-

ing some of the younger guys positive.

Dubois admits he pushes himself hard, but being the son of the head coach, nothing is sugar coated.

He knows just like all the players when he’s messed up or has a bad game or practice he’s going hear about it. H e laughingly says his mom will give it to him the most honest while some of his biggest encouragement comes from his brother who’s in the Marines and will call him to keep him positive at times.

When the A-Honor roll student, Caleb needs to clear his mind and step back from the game for a bit he enjoys things like fishing, hunting and video games. The one thing he says he looks forward to besides football is beating coach or as he calls him away from the field, Dad, in a game of ping-pong.

Caleb calmly says with a smile, “He will keep trying to win after losing several times before he realizes I can’t be beat.”

The Cardinal football family is a tight-knit group and it starts with leaders like DuBois and DiChiara, who bring different personalities and dynamics to the locker room as well as the gridiron. The two seniors both mentioned sophomore fullback Andy Lara, who’s one of those guys that is tough as nails, will get those tough to get yards when they need them and will be a leader of the program for the next few years.

DuBois, a two sport athlete (football and baseball), wants to ensure the Bridge

Leader Photo by Ronnie Hughes

Bridge City’s Blake DiChiara (left) and Caleb DuBois will be key components as the Cardinals look to repeat as 10-4A champions.

City football program is in good hands after his final season. More so than being known as an athlete he wants to leave a bigger impact on his school and community. An impact that the younger athletes

can look up to and know what Cardinal football represents.

“My legacy here will be I was a hard worker. I was the guy that never gave up and I am an example of someone who gave his

Go Orange County Football Teams!

Have a Great Season!

all for his community and teammates,” said DuBois.

“I am blessed to be able to play this game and I thank God I have these guys on my team and the support from my family.”

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The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 25

1 Jesus Heraldez

2 Jackson Tims

3 Caleb Dubois

4 Justyn Romero

5 Max Baker

6 Hunter Denton

8 Ethan Morgan

9 Preston Peterson

10 Drew Walker

12 Cace Skinner

13 Kaleb Renfro

15 Trenton Lagrappe

20 Cory Westlund

21 Bryce Tomplait

22 Logan Hamm

23 Marqus Abrego

24 Brennon Tregre

25 Caleb Honeycutt

27 Kelton Brooks

28 Steven Nguyen

29 Ben Trahan

32 Kyler Champagne

33 Roman Haymon

34 George Fleming

35 Camden Perry

36 Andy Lara

43 Rylan Ply

44 Blake DiChiarra

45 Hunter Gauthier

48 Ethan Hamm

50 Blaze Montagne

51 Adam Snyder

52 Jacob Cunningham

55 Zeke Mendez

57 Christian Young

58 Micah Pierce

60 Jack Fontenot

62 Zack Leigh

65 Manuel Gomez

70 Kevin Ross

72 Josh Sanders

74 Stetson Wilson

78 Kody Mann

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26 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

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Indians, Titans favorites in District 22-5A race

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

There was no outright District 22-5A football champion last season as three teams shared the district title.

So what will 2017 bring?

Will tri-champions of last year Port Neches-Groves, Vidor and Port Arthur Memorial separate themselves from the pack last year as they each went 7-1?

Will first-year Nederland head coach Monte Barrow, a long-time assistant for legendary retired Bulldog coach Larry Neumann, bring the Bulldogs back into the playoff fray?

What will Beaumont schools Central and Ozen accomplish with new head coaches as well?

Without a question, it should be a tight and interesting race through Friday night wars.

Last year PN-G defeated Vidor but fell to Memorial while Memorial lost to Vidor to create the logjam.

Those three schools should once again be battling it out for 22-5A bragging rights.

The PN-G Indians will look to advance even further this season and return six starters on offense and five on defense from a squad that went 11-2 and reached the 5A Division II

Cards

Continued from 23

and and also make a long trip to Navasota

regional semifinals.

The Indians are picked to win the district by Dave Campbell Texas Football Magazine.

Coach Brandon Faircloth welcomes back junior quarterback Roschon Johnson, who little field up as a sophomore, accounting for 3,978 total yards and a stunning 56 touchdowns.

Johnson has some nice weapons back as well in the forms of receivers Preston Riggs, who had 1,045 yards receiving and nine TDs and back/receiver Preston Hughes, who amassed over 1,050 total yards and 11 TDs. The Indians will welcome Memorial into The Reservation Oct. 20, which could tell the tale.

The Memorial Titans, who are picked second, will see six starters return on offense and seven on defense from a 10-2 unit that also reached the 5A Division I regional semifinals.

The Titans can brag that they have the leading rusher in the district back in Elijah Hines, who zipped for 1,642 yards and 26 TDs. Keitha Jones can play anywhere at the skill positions, including quarterback. All_District linebacker Jomard Valsin powers a defensive unit that will look to make a drastic improvement.

Texas Football certainly

believes in Nederland getting back into the postseason, picking the Bulldogs third.

Coach Barrow will see 11 starters return to the mix, including seven on defense. The Bulldogs return versatile back Devon Simmons, who accounted for more than 1,000 yards of total offense, to the fray.

Linebacker Brady Spell returns after bulling his way to 130 tackles while defensive lineman Tiren Forney is back after leading the squad in sacks.

Over in Vidor (8-3), Coach Jeff Mathews and the Pirates will look to make some noise again with nine starters returning to Pirate Country, led by all-district twin brothers linebacker Joey Ciccio and defensive end Tony Ciccio.

The Pirates return just three starters back on offense and are looking to rebuild their offensive front but they do have two valuable backs returning with experience in Hogan Stogner and Kelby Odom, who combined for more than 1,200 rushing yards.

Beaumont Central (5-6) was the fourth-place playoff team last year. The Jaguars had a coaching change as former coach Toby Foreman left to take over at 6A Killeen Shoemaker and Jeff Nelson takes over.

Nelson is a former head

(Nov. 3). They will have a showdown at Silsbee (Oct. 27), and will host Orange County rival Little Cypress-Mauriceville (Oct. 20) and will close at home against Huffman (Nov. 10).

“The district is going to be super competitive for sure,” said DuBois.

“Everyone is going to want what we had last year, a district championship. Silsbee will have a

Leader Photo by IC Murrell

Port Arthur Memorial quarterback Keitha Jones (7) will guide the Titan offensive attack this season.

coach of Beaumont Ozen.

The Jaguars have some gifted speed on offense in the forms of running back Theodrick Foster and receiver Dailon Gants.

Ozen will have a new face leading its program as Edward Taylor takes over the reigns of a 1-9 Panther team that really struggled a season ago. The Panthers return four starters on offense and five on defense.

Quarterback Dominique Morris could definitely prove to be a dual threat.

The Lumberton Raiders look to bounce back from a 2-6 district campaign as Coach Chris Babin will see six starters back on both sides of the ball.

Running back Josh Ward and Remington Boykin should provide some

highlights on offense and the Raiders return plenty of big guys in the trenches as they will be one of the largest teams in the loop.

The Livingston Lions will try to be a darkhorse after going 5-5 overall and 4-4 in district, barely missing the postseason.

Coach Brian Broussard will see five starters back on offense and four on defense., sparked by versatile athlete Christian Mitchell, who accounted for 20 touchdowns and averaged 28 yards per catch.

The Baytown Lee Ganders are slated to finish last again, a place the once proud Baytown school has grown accustomed to over the years.

Coach Tim Finn will have six back on offense

very athletic bunch and they will be ready when the Cardinals roll in over there. Navasota is loaded with talent from a team that was extremely young last year. LC-M is going to

be tough, especially with all the kids that Coach (Randy) Crouch has at the skill positions. Huffman will bounce back after injuries got to them last year and then there is Cleve-

and four on defense from a unit that went 0-8 in 22-5A play and 1-9 overall.

DISTRICT 22-5A PREDICTIONS 1. PORT NECHES-GROVES: A ton of firepower returns for the Indians including University of Texas commit quarterback Roschon Johnson.

Coach Faircloth returns a ton of talent on both sides of the ball from a team that shared the 22-5A title last season and made a threedeep run in the playoffs.

A home date with Port Arthur Memorial could tell the tale Oct. 20.

2. PORT ARTHUR MEMORIAL: The Titans certainly made their mark dropping down to Class See ‘22-5A,’ page 28 land, who is loaded with athletes. We like the group we have to and we feel we’re going to be right in the mix. We respect everyone we play.”

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 27

Pirates will be ‘defensive’ in 22-5A title quest

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

VIDOR — In what should be yet another rugged District 22-5A season, the Vidor Pirates will look to make their mark once again.

The Pirates bruised their way back into the playoff picture last season after a three-year absence, taking the district by storm with their rugged rushing attack.

Vidor surprised many by earning a tri-championship in District 22-5A, sharing it with Port Neches-Groves and Port Arthur Memorial.

Last year PN-G defeated Vidor but fell to Memorial while Memorial lost to Vidor to create the logjam.

The Pirates nabbed a huge regular season finale victory over PA Memorial at home to nab part of the 22-5A title.

Those three schools should once again be battling it out for 22-5A bragging rights, especially if the Pirates find their groove on offense again, despite looking to replace a ton of starters on that side of the ball. Vidor has just three starters back on offense. However, nine returnees on defense could pave the way early.

The Pirates do have some nice experience back on offense, including senior running back Hogan Stogner, who was First Team all-district at fullback last season and the Pirates also return back Kelby Odom, who saw some nice time last season.

The Pirates lost outstanding back Haylon Leckelt to graduation.

Leckelt rushed for over 1,000 yards the last three

VIDOR PIRATES Colors: Black and Gold District: 22-5A 2016 record: 8-3, 7-1 in district District finish: First (three-way tie) All-time record: 261-49414 Playoff record: 4-7 Coach: Jeff Mathews (8697, 19th year) Offensive players to watch: RB Hogan Stogner; RB Kelby Odom; QB William Fawcett; TE Grant Johnson; C Logan McDaniel.

Defensive players to watch: LB Joey Ciccio; DE Tony Ciccio; LB Dylan Caldwell; LB Joseph Harris; S Gage Galloway

seasons. Vidor will also have to replace versatile quarterback Maverick Quirante, who was over 1,000 yards last season.

Williams Fawcett will look to guide the Pirate offense at quarterback and the Pirates will also seek help from the likes of Brad Nunez and Zack Dahlenburg, who will see their share of carries.

The Pirates will look for the their offensive line to gel early, led by the likes of Logan McDaniel, Te Woodard, Mason Marie, Robert Richard and Jon Burton.

Vidor will turn to a veteran defense to lead the way, including the brother duo of Tony Cicio and Joey Cicio. Tony Cicio was all-district at defensive end while Joey Cicio was a all-district linebacker and a fierce tackler.

Cameron Haley, Ian Wooten and Gavin Otey will look to help anchor the defensive front wall.

Leader file photo

Pasadena Memorial quarterback Landon Cunningham tries to outrun a pack of Vidor defenders, including Tony Ciccio, who lost his helmet at the start of the play. Ciccio was an all-district performer for the Pirates last year.

Noah Emfinger is expected to contribute well at linebacker.

The secondary has plenty of talent as well with Fawcett, Bridger Quirante, Braiden Baker and Wyatt Compton leading the charges.

In many magazines, the Pirates are projected to be in the playoffs, mainly in the fourth-place spot. Last year, Vidor was picked as low as sixth in a lot of polls and wound up being one of the biggest pleasant surprises in the area before bowing out to Crosby in bidistrict play.

The Pirates will start their season on the road Friday against a tough Barbers Hill unit before hosting Pasadena Memorial to wrap up non-district play.

The Pirates will have

Leader file photo

Vidor coach Jeff Mathews is the longest tenured coach in Orange County and has led the Pirates to five playoff berths.

the luxury of hosting big home games against Nederland (Sept. 29) and Port Neches-Groves (Oct. 13) along with Beaumont Cen-

tral (Sept. 15) and Baytown Lee (Oct. 27).

Vidor will hit the 22-5A road at Beaumont Ozen (Sept. 23), Lumberton (Oct.

6) and Livingston (Oct. 20) and will close out the regular season with a big road test at PA Memorial (Nov. 10).

28 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Young Pirates look to improve

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

DEWEYVILLE — The Deweyville Pirates barely missed out on the playoffs last year after dropping down to the Class 2A Division I ranks but they look to punch their way in this season under the direction of first-year head coach Brandon Prouse.

Prouse was a long-time assistant coach at Orangefield before spending last year as an assistant coach at Jasper before taking the reigns in Pirate Country late this summer.

The Pirates went 4-1 in non-district last year but were 1-4 in District 12-2A Division I as they finished fifth.

Coach Prouse and the Pirates will be running a Slot-T offense, which Prouse was so familiar with when he was with the Bobcat program for so many seasons.

Jace Atchley is a key component back for the Pirates on offense after he gobbled up 726 yards and six touchdowns on the ground a season ago.

Keevin Gordon and Nate Buxton will lead the Pi-

22-5A Continued from 26

5A last season, sharing the 22-5A crown. Coach Harrison returns 13 starters including seven off a defense that looks to make strides. The return of 1,600-yard back Elijah Hines is a blessing. The Titans were the only 22-5A team to down PN-G in district, they could do it again Oct. 20, but will have to do it at The Reservation.

rates early on at the quarterback position.

Nate Henson returns to help power the offensive line.

Lance Wilhelm, Darin LaVergne and Dillon Fears will also see plenty of totes coming out of the backfield as the Pirates, short in depth, will see most of their roster playing on both sides of the ball.

LaVergne will be a spearhead on defense as well after collecting 10 sacks from his linebacker position last season.

Atchley and Justin Lilyquist will also play big roles at linebacker.

The Groveton Indians won District 12-2A last season as they went 9-2 overall and a perfect 5-0 in district.

The Indians return versatile athletes in Braxton Terry, receiver Anthony Chavez and back Ethan Caffey.

Centerville, the runnerup in the district last year actually advanced all the way to the 2A Division II state semifinals and return six starters on both sides of the ball, including running back Brandon Madison, who zipped for

2,253 yards and 28 TDs. Lovelady returns five starters on both sides of the ball after finishing third and reaching the area round Running back Timothy Johnson is back in the mix after rushing for 1,018 yards and 10 TDs. The West Sabine Tigers return 14 starters, eight off a defense that enabled them to finish fourth and earn a playoff berth last season.

Running back Zack Franklin returns after cruising for 830 yards and 10 scores.

The West Hardin Oilers will look to bounce back from a 1-9 season in which they went winless in 12-2A play.

The Oilers do return seven starters on both sides of the ball.

In District 12-2A Division II Evadale, Iola and Hull-Daisetta finished in a three-way tie for the district title last year.

Iola could be the early favorite, returning 15 starters, including nine off defense. They also return the district MVP in Tyler Dykes, who totaled 1,300 yards and 20 TDs. Evadale should have

a say again. Coach Mark Williams has 11 starters back, eight on defense.

The Rebels will certainly like the return of running back Coy Williams, who zipped for 1,661 yards and 24 Tds and quarterback Tyler Torres, who has accounted for 70 career touchdowns.

Sabine Pass, Colmesneil and Burkeville will try to make a push at the top three teams.

3. VIDOR: The Pirates shared the tri-title a season ago and will look to make noise again for Coach Mathews. Vidor returns just three starters on offense but have some experience back and a young group that won on the lower levels. The plus is that nine starters return on defense and the Pirates have both PN-G and Nederland at home.

4. N E D E R L A N D : The Bulldogs will look to bounce back after a tough 2016 as Coach Barrow will

look to take over where Coach Neumann left off for a fine program. Nederland had made the postseason nine straight years before the 4-6 2016 campaign.

The Bulldogs will lean on defense early with seven starters back and they are fortunate to host both Nederland and PN-G in big showdowns.

5. L U M B E R T O N : The Raiders competed hard with a young team in 2016 as 10 sophomores started.

Lumberton returns plenty of size up front on both

ABOUT THE COVER Thanks to photographer Mark Pachuca for all of his hard work and dedication over the years shooting action shots for schools across Orange County in all of the sports.

We gathered at the West Orange-Stark weight room this year, featuring four young men that will look to lead their teams back to the playoffs.

They include Bridge City running back Max Baker, who was the Newcomer of the Year on the All-Leader Team last year; West Orange-Stark all-district lineman Paul Ivory; Orangefield all-district lineman Aaron Galitz; and LC-M fullback/linebacker J’Lon Douglas, who was the District 10-4A Division II Defensive Player of the Year on the All-District Team.

Lions looking to punch in playoff ticket again

ORANGE — The Community Christian Lions will look to accomplish something they’ve been able to do every year of their existence — making the playoffs.

The Lions captured the fourth-place playoff berth out of TAPPS Six-Man District 6 last season, going 5-7 overall and will look to improve and move up the ladder this season for coach John Robinson and

Co. The Lions have several key returners on the offense to try and ignite the J-Formation with five starters back in the mix.

Chase Mott, Luke Pennington and Trenton Cummings will look to spark the offensive unit.

The Lions will have some nice size up front, led by the likes of Nathaniel Willett along with Macy Le Blanc and Brendan Sylestine.

Four starters return to spark the defensive

unit, including Pennington, Cummmings and Mott along with Kelby Domingue.

The Lions will crank up their season on the road Sept. 2 at Houston Emery-Weiner before back-to-back non-district home dates against Apple Springs (Sept. 8) and High Island (Sept. 15).

They will start district play Sept. 29 at Bryan Allen Academy.

They will visit defending state champion Baytown Christian Oct. 20.

sides of the ball. The Raiders also lost several games late in fourth quarters last year but are anticipating more depth this year as they could easily be the darkhorse in the loop.

6. B E A U M O N T CENTRAL: The Jaguars were able to crawl into the postseason late last year to make it for the fourth year in a row. New coach Nelson will look to fire up the troops to make another push. The Jaguars are a very young team that has plenty of offensive fire-

power but defense could be the big question mark.

7.

LIVINGSTON: The Lions barely missed out on the postseason but they lost a whole lot of talent as they will turn to a youth movement to try to stay in the hunt. Depth, as usual, could play a huge role in the Lions’ success as Livingston is by far the smallest school in the district.

8. B E A U M O N T OZEN: Once again there will be a new head coach in Panther Country as

Coach Taylor looks to turn the fortunes around from a 1-9 team. Ozen always has enough talent to compete, the Panthers just need to find some consistency within the rank and file.

9.

BAYTOWN LEE: The only place to go is up for the Ganders, who went winless in the loop last season. They return 10 starters that gained valuable experience but it may not be enough in this rugged league.

By Van Wade The Orange Leader

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 29

L L A O T K C U GOOD L IS H T S M A E T LOCAL AREA N O S A E S L L A B FOOT

Delta Life Fitness-Orange County 3509 Edgar Brown Dr. Orange, Tx 77630 409.920.4345

Delta Life Fitness - Vidor 1004 N Main St. Vidor Tx 409.651.0848

30 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Good Luck Orange County Football Teams!

Don Freeman • Greg Freeman • Jeff Freeman bakerstrans83@gmail.com

Proudly serving you for 34 Years.

404 West Green @ 3rd Street Orange, TX 77630

(409) 886-4089

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Football 2017, August 30, 2017 • 31

TEAM UP WITH THE BEST! We wish all area teams a safe and memorable season!

FUN

FAMILY

FOOD

FRIENDS

LOCALLY OWNED

32 • Football 2017, August 30, 2017

October 7-8, 2017 • 23rd Germanfest

Roberts Cove, LA www.robertscovegermanfest.com

The Orange Leader • www.orangeleader.com

Heart of tHe Cajun Prairie joie De ViVre a LittLe joy of LiVing aCaDia ParisH tourist Commission

October 18-21, 2017 • 81st International Rice Festival Crowley, LA www.ricefestival.com

877.783.2109 aptc@bellsouth.net www.acadiatourism.org

February 13, 2018 • 31st Tee Mamou Iota Mardi Gras Folklife Festival

Downtown Iota, LA 337-523-6557 www.IotaMardiGras.com

February 13, 2018 • 18th Carnival D’Acadie (Mardi Gras)

Downtown Crowley, LA 337-783-0821 www.Crowley-la.com