Prep Ticket Top 25 (25-21)

With the regular season now less than a month away, we begin taking a look at the top 25 teams in the state, starting with numbers 25-21.

#25 - Arlington Bowie. Since the arrival of head coach Kenny Perry in 2006, the Vols have established themselves as the team to beat in 4-5A. Graduation robbed all but four of Coach Perry's starters but there's a wealth of new talent that will emerge, led by quarterback Deric Davis. Receivers Montra Holland (Oklahoma State) and Cameron White (TCU, Class of 2011) will make the transition from backup to starter easier for the talented but relatively inexperienced Davis. The Vols have the talent and the coaching to make another run through the playoffs.

#24. Odessa. The Bronchos have played second-fiddle to their famous neighbors at Permian High School since anyone can remember but this year may be different. Junior tailback Bradley Marquez headlines a talented team that returns 15 starters. Marquez is on many a college coach's radar after rushing for 1,743 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2008. Quarterback Derrick Teagarden gives Odessa some balance after throwing for 2,224 yards and 24 touchdowns last season.

#23 Austin Westlake. The Chaparrals have a storied history and welcome a new coach who knows a thing or two about that. After leading Odessa Permian back to respectability, new head coach Darren Allman comes in to try and turn things around at Westlake. He's got a proven quarterback in Tanner Price who returns after a good showing in 2008, throwing for 2,326 yards and 20 touchdowns.

#22 The Woodlands. The Highlanders will feature one of the state's most versatile and dynamic playmakers in junior tailback Daniel Lasco. Last season he accounted for 1,107 yards (on just 101 carries) and 11 touchdowns. Head coach Mark Schmid will lean heavily on his talents in hopes of improving upon last season's 9-2 record.

#21 Smithson Valley. The Rangers have been a model of consistency since the arrival of head coach Larry Hill and this year should be no different. Though they only return six total starters, they have proven to be one of the state's top programs year-in and year-out.

Tomorrow we'll take a look at number 20-16.

Date of Article: Wed Aug 05, 2009 1:15 pm