Season Preview - District 28-5A

Winning records in 2007: 3

Playoff teams in 2007: 4

District playoff record: 2-4

And the winner is: Warren

A disputed call ended Warren's season earlier than expected a year ago and the Warriors aim to make up for that disappointment. Warren returns 22 lettermen from last season's 10-win team and none are bigger than defensive tackle Calvin Howell and safety Joseph Bonugli.

Howell, a Texas commit, is the top prospect in the San Antonio area and a force in the trenches. Bonugli, who?s drawing interest from Arizona, SMU, Oklahoma State and Colorado State, is a big hitter and the unquestioned leader of a defense that could be the area's best.

Receiver Marcus Smith could develop into a go-to guy for an offense that may take some time to get going. But either way, Warren's defense should carry it a long way.

Don't bet against: O'Connor

The reigning district champion, O'Connor, was hit hard by graduation and isn't expected to be a serious threat to win again. That's news to the six returning starters and coach Danny Padron.

The Panthers were a balanced offensive team last season, but may have to rely on running back Jerreal Minor a bit more in 2008. Minor posted a 1,000-yard season last year and should do even more with a bigger offensive role.

Linebacker Jarek Lancaster, a Rice commit, was an all-district selection last season and should again lead the defense to another solid season. O'Connor may not be as loaded as last season, but don?t expect the Panthers to be a pushover either.

Show me something: Holmes

It's been a while since Holmes was a serious threat to win a district title or listed as one of the marquee teams in the area. That time may be coming again.

The Huskies return all but two starters on both sides of the ball, including the entire offensive line and linebacking core. Erik Ximenez is the leader of that trio and a threat to make a tackle on every play.

The Huskies struggled on both sides of the ball last season, but with so much returning talent and experience should contend for a playoff spot.

At the finish line:

Warren
O'Connor
Clark
Stevens
Holmes
Marshall
Taft
Jay
Brandeis

Date of Article: Thu Jul 31, 2008 10:49 am

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