Prep Ticket Top 25 (20-16)

The countdown continues with a look at the bottom half of the top 20, starting with the Klein Oak Panthers.

#20 Klein Oak. The Panthers have established themselves as one of the top programs in Houston and return as the favorites to win their district and also be in the hunt for a state title.

#19 Pearland. Much like Klein Oak, the Oilers have become perennial contenders. Though they've yet to break through and win a state title, they have consistently been a threat to advance deep into the playoffs.

#18 Arlington. The Colts may be a bit of a surprise to be ranked in the top 20 (and ahead of district rival Bowie) but they appear to be a team with all of the right ingredients. Senior quarterback Matt Joeckel returns as one of the top signal-callers in the state after throwing for 3,000 yards in 2008. His favorite target is Miles Onyegbule. The junior receiver is considered one of the top prospects in the Class of 2011 and at 6 foot 4 and 205 pounds, he's as good as a possession receiver as any you'll find.

#17 Galena Park North Shore. The Mustangs have top 5 talent but since their state title win in 2003 have underachieved in the playoffs. In four out of the last five years, North Shore has been unable to advance past the first round of the playoffs. This year could be different but a brutal non-district schedule that includes games with Katy and Southlake Carroll will more than likely end their UIL school record of 78 consecutive wins.

#16 Odessa Permian. The Panthers return just five starters, but face arguably the easiest schedule. Their combined opponents record from a year ago is just 49-56. An undefeated season looks quite possible and at least a couple of playoff wins are well within reach.

To see teams 25-21, click here.

Date of Article: Thu Aug 06, 2009 11:34 am