As a former defensive back in high school and college, Westlake coach Darren Allman spends plenty of time observing the Chaps’ secondary.

 

And he must like what he sees, based on the quantity and quality of the unit’s talent.

Senior Louie Swope returns for a third varsity season as one of the top DBs in Central Texas. The team leader with 95 tackles and eight passes defended in 2008, the 6-foot-1-inch, 185-pound SMU commit Swope will anchor the secondary from his free safety spot.

“Our defense is really designed around the free safety and his ability to make plays, and Louie will do a fine job,” Allman said. “He has a great feel for the game and a great instinct for where the ball is going. And he’s a leader; his level of play has rubbed off on the other defensive backs.”

Those other backs boast plenty of accomplishments at the varsity level, as well. Senior strong safety James Robison had 21 tackles a year ago, and senior cornerback Markham Sayers had nine tackles and two interceptions.

Junior Sean Potter, the right cornerback and newcomer to the group, garnered varsity experience at running back last season.

“He’ll be a real good one,” Allman said. “It looks like he’s been playing defensive back all his life.”

Jason You and Nathan Peavey have emerged as reliable reserves in the summer. Alex Martinez, Chase Corona, Sam Hazen and Travis Clayton will also see the field.