Season Preview - District 26-5A

Winning records in 2007: 4

Playoff teams in 2007: 4

District playoff record: 11-4

And the winner is: Madison

Despite playing the majority of its season with back-up running backs, Madison still found a way to reach the state semi-finals. That knack for winning is reason enough for us to roll with the Mavericks again, despite the loss of star running back Devin Thomas.

Just three starters return on both sides of the ball, but that does not mean Madison is lacking for talent. Star defensive back Andrew Green turned into a lifesaver in the playoffs, carrying the load on the ground for the Mavericks as a running back. He along with hard-hitting linebacker Kris Catlin will lead a defense that will use its speed and athleticism to deliver.

On offense the quarterback spot is still uncertain but junior Nate Askew should be a force every Friday night. Simply put, the Mavericks have too much talent and determination not to repeat as district champs.

Don't bet against: Smithson Valley

Arguably the top program in the San Antonio area over the past decade, Smithson Valley appears to be behind the eight ball this season. Just two lettermen return from a squad that won 12 games and reached the state quarterfinals.

Yet the Rangers never seem to drop off too much and we like their chances at another strong run. Running back Trey Reinhart and safety Ryan Wood are two of the top players in the area and good pieces to build around.

Reinhardt filled in nicely late in the year at running back, while Wood is a ferocious hitter and sure tackler. Add in coach Larry Hill and his ability to churn out deep playoff runs on a consistent basis and the Rangers could be a decent sleeper this season.           

Show me something: Reagan

No team will have a harder time matching its success from a year ago than Reagan. The Rattlers could be just as good, but they?ll surely be lacking the firepower that Marcus Wright brought to the table on each possession.

No single player can replace the graduated All-American running back, but the leadership void should be filled by quarterback Derrick Walls. Walls was a solid No. 2 option behind Wright all last season and should be fine carrying the offensive load early.

With six starters back on defense, including Division I prospect LeQuice McCall in the secondary, the Rattlers should provide a stiffer test for opponents. Just how bright Reagan can shine without its biggest star remains to be seen.

At the finish line:

Madison

Smithson Valley

Roosevelt

New Braunfels

Reagan

Churchill

Lee

MacArthur

Johnson

Date of Article: Tue Aug 05, 2008 3:39 pm

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