Pflugerville and Storm Woods are one of the area's top 5A teams.

Class 5A

Team

1. Stony Point (5)

2. Cedar Park (1)

3. Westlake

4. Pflugerville

5. Round Rock

6. Bowie

7. Connally

8. Leander

9. McNeil

10. Austin High

Others receiving votes: Georgetown, Bastrop, Westwood.

Class 4A

Team

1. Lake Travis (4)

2. Hendrickson (1)

3. Steele (1)

4. Killeen

5. Hays

6. Alamo Heights

7. LBJ

8. Hutto

9. Tivy

10. McCallum

Others receiving votes: Lockhart, Elgin, Dripping Springs.

Class 3A-2A-1A-private

Team

1. Giddings (3)

2. Wimberley (2)

3. Bellville (1)

4. Liberty Hill

5. Burnet

6. La Grange

7. Llano

8. St. Michael’s

9. Fredericksburg

10. Little River Academy

Others receiving votes: Salado, Thorndale.

(first-place votes in parentheses; polls included districts previewed in the 2009 ACN football guide).

Both traditional powerhouses have something to prove in this nondistrict renewal of a once-fierce district rivalry.

Sept. 4: Westlake at Lake Travis, 7:30 p.m.

Conner Floyd and Lake Travis look for their 2nd straight win over Westlake Sept. 4.

It’s been a long, long time since Lake Travis lost (30 games, in fact), but the Chaps were the last ones to beat the Cavs. Buckle up the chin straps for this burgeoning rivalry.

Sept. 11: Lake Travis at Cedar Park, 7:30 p.m.

Another tussle with a Class 5A heavyweight confirms this CenTex football truth: the 4A state champ Cavs aren’t afraid of a nondistrict fight.

Sept. 18: Hendrickson vs. Elgin, 7:30 p.m.

A pair of 2008 playoff teams meet for a second straight year, and both seek momentum on the eve of district play.

Sept. 25: Lexington at Lago Vista, 7:30 p.m.

The District 25-2A opener for both teams should match the thrills of last season’s 32-26 Lexington win, and it should play a pivotal role in the race for the playoffs.

Oct. 2: Bastrop at Connally, 7:30 p.m.

If these two darkhorse candidates hope to capture a playoff spot, a win in this early-season meeting in District 25-5A would prove critical.

Oct. 9: Vista Ridge at McNeil, 7:30 p.m.

The Mavs held off District 16-5A neophyte Vista Ridge by six points a year ago, but the Rangers see McNeil as just another stepping stone on the climb to the top.

Oct. 15: Round Rock at Leander, 7 p.m.

Pivotal district games have become the norm between these longtime foes, so expect another defensive slugfest.

Oct. 23: Stony Point at Cedar Park, 7:30 p.m.

The speed of Stony Point meets the power of Cedar Park in what should be a brawl for the District 16-5A title.

Oct. 30: Smithville at Giddings, 7:30 p.m.

A late autumn evening spent in the Buffaloes’ backyard separates District 25-3A’s playoff contenders from the pretenders. Where does Smithville fall?

Nov. 5: Westwood at Vista Ridge, 7 p.m.

Expect, say, 400 combined yards rushing in this running back duel between Vista Ridge’s Calvin Thompson and Westwood’s Princeton Collins.

Quarterback: Tanner Price, senior, Westlake

The Wake Forest commit comes off an impressive 2008 campaign that included 2,326 yards and 20 TDs on 61-percent passing.

Running back: Princeton Collins, senior, Westwood

Big-play speedster with good size (6-foot, 195 pounds) raced for 1,514 yards and 13 TDs in 2008 despite drawing attention of every foe.

Running back: Dominique Hardaway, senior, Lockhart

Explosive scatback (5-7, 180) had almost 2,000 yards rushing with 19 TDs for Lions.

Wide receiver: Andy Erickson, senior, Lake Travis

Regardless if he’s in the slot, split wide or in the backfield, the 5-10, 170-pound speedster produces: he tallied 1,214 yards from scrimmage and 12 TDs last season.

Wide receiver: Stephen Williams, junior, Stony Point

Explosive youngster had 50 catches for 679 yards as a sophomore and added 350 yards rushing.

Tight end: Gerard Shillow, senior, Stony Point

Stony Point TE Gerard Shillow

Dangerous downfield threat for loaded Tigers had 46 catches for 785 yards and nine TDs in 2008.

Offensive line: Tyrus Thompson, senior, Pflugerville

The 6-5, 285 former defensive lineman has developed into a physical force up front; he’ll ply his trade for Oklahoma in college.

Offensive line: Mitch Morse, senior, St. Michael’s

The 6-5, 265 Missouri commit earned TAPPS all-state honors last season after dominating parochial foes.

Offensive line: Dominic Espinosa, senior, Cedar Park

A fireplug at 6-3, 270, the physical Texas recruit is one of the top interior linemen in the state.

Offensive line: Graeme Ramsey, senior, Dripping Springs

A returning first-team all-district selection, the 210-pound Ramsey relies on footwork and technique rather than brute strength.

Offensive line: Bryce Gwynn, senior, McNeil

At 6-5, 299 with good handwork, Gwynn bullies opposing linemen while anchoring the Mavs’ physical front.

Kicker: Jordan Williamson, senior, Westwood

Williamson went 34-34 on PATs and 10-14 on FGs and showed moxie with a game-winner vs. Austin High.

 Defense 

Defensive line: Josh Mullins, senior, Crockett

The 6-3, 275-pound tackle quietly had a standout 2008: 94 tackles, seven sacks and five TFLs. 

Defensive line: Alex Wallace, senior, Burnet

The 6-2, 230–pound force has already claimed two first-team all-district selections.

Defensive line: Caleb Little, senior, Salado

A dominant two-way player at the Class 2A level, the 6-4, 250-pound Little had five sacks for the Eagles in 2008. 

Defensive line: Silvio Diaz, senior, Leander

A unanimous all-district first-teamer in 2008, the 6-foot, 245-pound nose guard wreaked havoc a year ago with 63 tackles and four sacks. 

Linebacker: Holmes Onwukaife, senior, Cedar Park

A move from the line to linebacker won’t lessen the impact of Onwukaife, a 6-3, 220 Florida State commit with 4.5 speed who had five sacks in 2008. 

Linebacker: Quinton Crow, senior, Lake Travis

The all-state selection averaged a dozen tackles a game for the Cavs and added nine TFLs and five sacks. 

Linebacker: Juan Asencio, senior, Hendrickson

The speedster (4.5) racked up 145 stops, including 18 TFLs in an all-state 2008 year. 

Defensive back: Louie Swope, senior, Westlake

Big and fast, the 6-foot, 175-pound SMU recruit had 95 tackles and nine passes defended last season. 

Defensive back: Kevin White, senior, Stony Point

The lockdown corner had five picks a year ago and anchors one of the best secondaries in the state.

Defensive back: Rodney Lee, senior, Del Valle

A blazing ballhawk at 5-10, 170, Lee averaged 13.5 tackles a year ago and had four interceptions. 

Defensive back: Jeremy McKnight, senior, Round Rock

The free safety showed his nose for the ball with a District 16-5A-leading 156 tackles a year ago and also snagged a pair of picks. 

Punter: Kevin Del Aguilla, senior, Connally

Shined in first year as punter with 40.6 average in 2008. 

“I wouldn’t say we’re not big enough,” said Behrens, a 5-foot-10-inch, 215-pound senior. “I’d just say we’re not big. But we can get the job done.”

Behrens and his comrades up front, who average a burger or two under 230 pounds, will have to get the job done if the Chaps hope to continue their legacy of success under a new head coach. Darren Allman arrived in Westlake from Odessa Permian this past spring after the retirement of Derek Long, and a change in leadership hasn’t changed the expectations for a program used to winning.

Westlake has captured 14 district championships in the past 17 years, including a share of last season’s District 25-5A title. The Chaps finished the season with a 9-5 record and reached the Division I Region IV finals.

“The community expects success, and it’s the type of community I’ve always liked to be in,” Allman said. “These are really smart kids here. They’ve responded well to the coaching change, and they’ve embraced what we’re trying to do.”

According to Allman, those smarts start with Behrens and the boys up front. In the Chaps’ new offensive scheme, Behrens must make all the presnap calls while quickly dissecting defensive fronts.

“It’s definitely a big difference from what the offense used to be,” Behrens said. “It’s a thinking position, and I’m expected to know the defenses and call out the defenses.”

It’s a mentally demanding job, said Allman, but it plays a pivotal role in the execution of Westlake’s spread offense.

“We were blessed to have Brandon already in place,” he said. “He brings a lot of intelligence to the position, and that’s pivotal in our offense. He’s really been a leader out there.”

Behrens, a member of the varsity since his sophomore season, joins four other returning starters on the offense, including quarterback Tanner Price. The Wake Forest recruit had a stellar junior season with 2,326 yards passing and 20 touchdowns with a 61.2 completion percentage. Under his guidance, the Chaps averaged 36 points and 397 yards per game in 2008.

Linemen Phillip Reed, Tim Johnston and Cameron Bethke return, although Allman says several starting spots remain open as two-a-days approach.

Westlake must replace all-state running back Ryan Swope and both starting receivers, but Allman cites his depth at wideout and the potential of running backs Van Gramman and Bryce Hager.

Defensively, Westlake boasts speed at every unit. Returning linebacker Ellis Glaw can run with most tailbacks, and defensive back and SMU recruit Louie Swope returns after tallying 95 tackles and eight passes defended in 2008. Hager will likely see plenty of playing time at linebacker as the Chaps look to lower last year’s numbers of 24 points allowed per game, Allman said.

“I’m an old defensive guy, and, defensively, I want us to be ahead of the game entering the year,” said Allman, a former defensive back at Hardin-Simmons University and a longtime defensive coordinator. “We’re not that big but we have a lot of athleticism.”

Sounds like a lot of the Chaps, doesn’t it?

Westlake's Tanner Price and Bryce Hager will play key roles again for the Chaps as they compete for another district title.

Akins Eagles

Coach: Mike Zierlein

Returning starters: 7 off., 4 def.

Preview

Entering the third year of Zierlein’s tenure, the perennial cellar-dwelling Eagles have yet to find an identity. A shift from a spread passing attack to the ground-based veer offense didn’t ease Akins’ struggles as the Eagles went 1-9 in ‘08 and were outscored by an average of 42-11. Returning QB Kenny Davis and talented newcomer RB Armonde Woods-Williams will lead hopes of reversing that trend. DB Knockus Sashington can lock down a receiver but has little help on defense.

Did you know?

Akins’ 2009 boys basketball team became the first squad in any sport to reach the playoffs in the school’s seven-year history.

Anderson Trojans

Coach: Mark Reiland

Returning starters: 6 off., 4 def.

Preview

Individual talent isn’t the problem for Anderson, whose lack of depth has prevented the Trojans from challenging for a 5A playoff spot. Six all-district players return, including first-teamers OG Nathan Shaw, TE Stanley Kurunwune and LB Connor Sheehan. The maturation of an all-junior backfield (QB Sam Wehmeyer and RB Andre Wheeler) could determine whether the Trojans are contenders or pretenders.

Did you know?

Since winning two consecutive district titles in 4A, Anderson has just 14 wins after moving up to 5A in 2004.

Austin High Maroons

Coach: Larry Don Williams

Returning starters: 5 off., 7 def.

Preview

Although the Maroons welcome back a dozen starters from a playoff team, 2009 could be a rebuilding year for a program that lost its most successful coach in generations and uber-athlete Emory Blake. Prototypical passer Jacob Morgan (6-4, 215) had 2,285 yards passing in ‘08 and returns to run a new offense. He welcomes speedy newcomers such as Cayleb Jones and Thomas Coffman. DE Darrell Green and DT Hunter Hale anchor the defense.

Did you know?

Austin High may not have won a playoff football game since the 1950s, but its all-time golfing team could whip most comers; Ben Crenshaw and Harvey Penick are among its alumni.

Bastrop Bears

Coach: Gerald Perry

Returning starters: 3 off., 7 def.

Preview

A second year in Perry’s system – and the return of district newcomer QB Josiah Monroe – key Bastrop’s darkhorse hopes. Monroe had 1,620 yards passing, 440 yards rushing and 19 TDs despite starting just half the season. Returning WR Auston Shipley offers a proven target, but the Bears must rebuild up front. Returners DT Grayson Hernandez and DB Pete Rodriguez must held the defense better its 31.2 points allowed per game.

Did you know?

This year likely marks the final 5A appearance for the Bears; the Bastrop school district opens a new school next year.

Bowie Bulldogs

Coach: Jeff Ables

Returning starters: 3 off., 4 def.

Preview

Back-to-back district titles have buoyed – pun intended – hopes at the sprawling South Austin campus. If the Bulldogs hope to continue their recent success, however, they must rebuild an offense that lost eight starters around all-district WR DeAndre Perry (59 catches, 600 yards, eight TDs in ‘08) and gifted RB Brelyn Sorrells (733 yards, nine TDs in just two starts). LBs Cory Bacon and David Kerr return for the defense.

Did you know?

Before its recent success, Bowie had never won a district title since opening in 1988.

Connally Cougars

Coach: Howard McMahan

Returning starters: 8 off., 5 def.

Preview

The Cougars’ first foray into 5A proved painful, but the quantity (25 returning lettermen) and quality of their returners bodes well for the future. Speedy DB Jaceal Davis returns after earning first-team all-district honors as a junior, along with LB Zac Aossey, LB Alex Brown and DL Karel Kearney. Connally boasts the best team speed in the district, especially at the offensive skill positions: WR Anthony Bryant won the 100 dash at the district track meet, and RB Kenny Defee boats 4.5 speed.

Did you know

2008 marked the first losing season in Connally’s 10-year history.

Pflugerville Panthers

Coach: George Herrmann

Returning starters: 6 off., 3 def.

Preview

A year after being carried to a share of the district title by its defense, the Panthers hope to reach the playoffs for an eighth time this decade behind its relentless rushing attack. Foes should expect a lot from all-district RB Stormy Woods (683 yards rushing, eight TDs) and Oklahoma OT recruit Tyrus Thompson, but the Panthers will need a lot from an unproven defense if they hope to approach last year’s average of 14.5 points allowed per game. DE Savon Thomas will lead the pass rush, while safety Alex Matlock anchors the secondary.

Did you know?

Pflugerville set a national record when it won 55 consecutive football games from 1958-1962.

Westlake Chaparrals

Coach: Darren Allman

Returning starters: 6 off., 2 def.

Preview

First-year coach Allman arrives after returning Odessa Permian to glory, and the return of several top-notch players should help keep the Chaps at that same status. DB Louie Swope, a SMU recruit, and LBs Ellis Glaw and Bryce Hager return as leaders for a young defense. Hager will also see time at RB to provide balance for Tanner Price (2,326 yards, 20 TDs passing in ‘08), a Wake Forest recruit. Newcomers RB Van Gramman and WR Colin Shaw add speed to the offense.

Did you know?

With his college commitment, Price became the sixth Chap QB in the past 15 years to sign a scholarship with a Division I Football Bowl Subdivision school.

ACN prediction

(with enrollment)

1. Westlake (2,449)

2. Bowie (2,763)

3. Pflugerville (2,162)

4. Connally (2,094)

5. Bastrop (2,421)

6. Austin High (2,219)

7. Anderson (2,110)

8. Akins (2,468)

Michael Brewer follows record-setting QB Garrett Gilbert at Lake Travis.

Lake Travis quarterback Michael Brewer is aware you might feel the desire to compare him to former Cavalier quarterback Garrett Gilbert. And he’s OK with that.

But it really doesn’t matter to him, his teammates, Coach Chad Morris or the rest of the coaching staff.

They’ve got a handle on what Brewer can accomplish, and they’re not too concerned.

“The first thing Coach Morris always tells me is that I can’t worry about being anybody but myself,” Brewer said. “The second thing is to play within myself and remember that there’s only so much I can control, and I have to take what the defense gives me. Not every play is going to be a touchdown.”

It may be hard to believe, but not every play Gilbert was a part of was a touchdown, either. Seriously.

It’s true that, like Gilbert, Brewer has a famous quarterback dad that you might have heard of by the name of Robert Brewer. The elder Brewer was the hero of the 1982 Cotton Bowl for Texas, taking down Alabama.

And like Gilbert, Brewer has his lines down, praising his teammates in every situation and finding ways to deflect attention from himself.

After that, the similarities pretty much disappear.

Gilbert wore No. 7, Brewer wears No. 16. Gilbert’s frame (6-4, 200) was more prototypical than Brewer’s frame (6-1, 180). Gilbert dazzled with his arm, Brewer can do a few more things with his feet.

“I think I’ll surprise people with my arm,” Brewer said. “I’ve really worked hard in the offseason to get better on deep routes.”

Oh yeah, Brewer and Gilbert share a similar work ethic.

“Since day one, we’ve prepared Michael to be our quarterback,” Morris said. “And no one works harder or puts in as much time as he does, day-in and day-out. We have players right there with him, but no one outworks that kid.”

Brewer saw a fair amount of action last season considering the guy he was backing up, completing 11 passes on 25 attempts for 143 yards and two interceptions. On the ground, he ran 37 times for 145 yards and three touchdowns, and at receiver, he caught 10 passes for 87 yards and a touchdown. He did a little bit of everything, and he said he’s all the better for it.

“I think you really get a feel for what a receiver is thinking when he steps up to the line,” Brewer said. “That’s only going to help me when I’m looking at our guys and the opposing defense when I line up.”

He’s pretty sure it will lead to plenty of success, too.

“Our goals didn’t change, obviously,” he said. “The goal is to get back to the state championship, and I really think we can do it. The players we have are just too good, and they’re going to make my job a lot easier.”

But that road starts in the Cavaliers’ first game of the season at Westwood, and even though he’s got a full year of varsity football under his belt, Brewer thinks there’s still going to be some nerves on that first Friday night.

“Of course I’m going to be nervous. I’d be worried if I wasn’t,” he laughed. “But I think everything I’ve been through on the field will make it a lot easier to settle in.”

But what happens when nerves or anxiousness lead to an interception? What happens when the whispers about the Cavs’ demise start?

“Is he going to make mistakes? Of course,” Morris said. “But we’re going to do everything in our power to keep him out of tough situations, and it should never all fall on him, anyway. I have every confidence that in time, he’s going to be really special.”

But he won’t ever be Garrett Gilbert.

He’ll win a lot of games at Lake Travis, though.

And when he’s done, it’ll be time to debate another Cavalier quarterback legacy.

Sit back and enjoy the Brewer era first.

Cavaliers still loaded for another title run

Lake Travis has been absolutely indestructible for 30 games, but the Cavs lost a handful of talented players from that squad that will be hard to replace, including three (Garrett Gilbert, Paden Kelley and Cade McCrary) to the University of Texas football program.

Lake Travis has been absolutely indestructible for 30 games, but the Cavs lost a handful of talented players from that squad that will be hard to replace, including three (Garrett Gilbert, Paden Kelley and Cade McCrary) to the University of Texas football program.

So the question has to be, what’s next for Lake Travis?

“I’ll be honest, I don’t want to say we’ll surprise people, but I think we’re going to be right back playing at a high level,” Lake Travis head coach Chad Morris said. “There’s going to be a learning curve for a lot of younger players, but we’ve got some great veteran leadership, too.”

Three linemen return from one of the biggest and best offensive lines in the state, including guard and two-year letterman Ian Kelso. Receiver Andy Erickson (665 rushing, six TDs; 69 catches, 549 yards, six TDs) does a little bit of everything. 

All-state linebacker Quinton Crow (198 tackles, 9 TFL, 5 sacks) and partner-in-crime Ian Lazarus (98 tackles, 10 TFL) are two of the four returners back on defense.

Coach: Bob Schultz

Returning starters: 5 off., 3 def.

Preview

One year after shocking Central Texas by going undefeated before falling to Lake Travis and then Kerrville Tivy in the playoffs, the Tigers are looking like a team to underestimate again. Junior Jeff Tuck (51-95-609 passing, 430 rushing) and senior Jacob Moore (47-98-726-4, 6 TDs form one of the best one-two QB punches in Central Texas. But gone is an extremely talented and experienced linebacker corps, as well eight total starters on defense. It was that defense that helped the Tigers win six games by 10 points or less in 2008.

Did you know?

Tuck was once a student in the Lake Travis school disrict, and Tiger assistant coach Ben Reid is Lake Travis’ leading all-time rusher.

Hendrickson Hawks

Coach: Chip Killian

Returning starters: 4 off., 4 def.

Preview

The Hawks are coming off the best season in school history, one that took them to the DII regional finals. Impact RB Kenny Williams (1,651 yards, 15 TDs) returns for his junior season, and senior LB Juan Asencio (148 tackles, 18 for losses) will again terrorize opposing offenses. Killian lost 14 total starters from that 2008 squad.

Did you know?

Before last year’s impressive playoff run, the Hawks had made just one playoff appearance since the school was opened in 2003.

Hutto Hippos

Coach: Lee Penland

Returning starters: 6 off., 6 def.

Preview

Hutto was the sexy pick to challenge for a district title in 2008, but the Hippos were marred by inconsistency, particularly on defense, and missed the playoffs. The Hippos return arguably the most talented player in the district in senior TE/DE and Texas A&M commit Nehemiah Hicks. The Hippos will rely on an experienced defense and hope the new skill players on offense learn quickly. WR Trevor Hays and Hicks will give Hutto options downfield, but it’s an option-based offense.

Did you know?

Hutto moved up from 3A to 4A with last year’s realignment, just three years after losing the 3A DII title game to Tatum, 38-34.

Killeen Kangaroos

Coach: Sam Jones

Returning starters: 7 off., 6 def.

Preview

The 2008 ’Roos went 3-3 in district play, crept their way into the playoffs and then made it all the way to the DI region final before losing 71-9 to Lake Travis. To say they weren’t always the same team is understating the season’s ups and downs. But there’s a lot to be excited about in Killeen this year, particularly with multitalented junior QB Michael Cummings (1,042 yards rushing, 18 TDs). Receiver Ja’Corie Baker (34-423, 3 TDs), LB Marcellus Lee (83 tackles) and RB Jaquail Haskins (135-942, 8 TDs) also return.

Did you know?

Killeen outscored all opponents not named Cavaliers last season, 349-258, but against Lake Travis, the Kangaroos were outscored 121-18.

Lake Travis Cavaliers

Coach: Chad Morris

Returning starters: 6 off., 4 def.

Preview

The Cavs lost plenty of ammo but appear to be reloading. The biggest question mark will be incoming QB Michael Brewer, who takes over for all-everything QB and current Longhorn Garrett Gilbert. The Cavaliers bring back three starting lineman from last year’s state championship squad and welcome back senior slotback Andy Erickson (1,214 total yards, 12 TDs) and junior receiver Conner Floyd (41-735, 8 TDs). All-state senior LB Quinton Crow (194 tackles, 9 TFL, 5 sacks) also returns as a major cog that should keep the Lake Travis machine rolling.

Did you know?

Lake Travis hasn’t lost in the Alamodome in San Antonio in the past three years, going 6-0 dating back to the 2006 season. This is the first season since then that the Cavaliers won’t be playing there during the regular season.

Lampasas Badgers

Coach: Joey McQueen

Returning starters: 6 off., 6 def.

Preview

Lampasas hasn’t won a varsity football game since the 2006 season, but if there’s any hope for the Badgers, they can find it in district rival Lake Travis, which was mired in mediocrity five years ago and has quickly turned things around. New head coach McQueen brings a 102-96-4 record as a testament to his abilities, and he’ll get a boost from plenty of returning starters, including most of his skill positions. The most notable of the group is three-year starting QB Vann Millican (500 yards, 3 TDs), who has endured the beatings for two years and deserves a turnaround.

Did you know?

The Badgers last win came on Nov. 10, 2006, in a 34-14 result over Dripping Springs on the road.

Marble Falls Mustangs

Coach: Cord Woerner

Returning starters: 6 off., 5 def.

Preview

The Mustangs lost one-man wrecking crew Thor Woerner (a starter at both QB and LB), but 11 returning starters will try to pick up the slack in a brand new football stadium. Junior RB Austin Sparks (133-758, 8 TDs) will be an offensive threat for the Mustangs. One wonders if the Woerner family legacy will continue with Zed possibly taking the QB torch from his older brother.

Did you know?

Marble Falls narrowly missed out on a playoff berth in 2008, losing three district contests by a touchdown or less, including a 27-26 loss to district runner-up Dripping Springs.

Coach: Don Byrd

Returning starters: 6 off., 6 def.

Preview

Gone is quarterback Drew Allen, who left a solid Heights career to work his skills at Oklahoma University. But there’s plenty of talent for Byrd to work with in this group, and another playoff appearance nearly goes without saying for the Mules each year. Cullen Mills (17-28-140, 2 TDs) takes over under center and will be surrounded by some experienced talent on offense. RB Justin Rosenthall (96-462, 8 TDs) can do a little bit of everything. Depth may be the big issue because the Mules only bring back 16 lettermen.

Did you know?

Former Mule Patrick Bailey won a Super Bowl with the Steelers last year and was a member of Heights’ 2004 DII state semifinalist team.

New Braunfels Canyon Cougars

Coach: Les Davis

Returning starters: 3 off., 3 def.

Preview

Things only get trickier for the Cougars, who return just six starters. They’ll be led by the multitalented Tyler Figol, who will play on both sides of the ball. At receiver, Figol caught six passes for 63 yards and a touchdown in a limited offensive air attack, and at defensive back, he racked up 75 tackles and three interceptions. Canyon has another talented receiver in Alex Lawrence, who caught 11 passes for 123 yards, but they’ll need to find a standout option at tailback.

Did you know?

Canyon’s last playoff appearance was in the bidistrict round in 2007, where the Cougars fell to Lake Travis 37-7.

Boerne Champion Chargers

Coach: Danny Threadgill

Returning starters: 3 off., 4 def.

Preview

The Chargers just missed out on a playoff spot in 2008 and lost 48 lettermen to graduation. With seven total starters returning, it’s going to be an uphill climb. Champion has plenty of skill players, including QB Taylor Davis (34-73-399, 3 TDs) and receiver James Hurd (20-360, 7 TDs), but the question mark will be if a line will emerge around center Dylan Benac.

Did you know?

Champion is named after former Boerne High School teacher and principal Sam Champion, who died on Jan. 8, 2007, after a long battle with brain cancer.

Schertz Clemens Buffaloes

Coach: Greg Ferrara

Returning starters: 6 off., 6 def.

Preview

A DII area finalist in 2008, the Buffaloes retained more than half of their starters. Clemens lost big talents in Sean Porter to Texas A&M and Charles Ross to Rice, but return Stanley Harris (65 tackles, 5 INT), a DB and RB that is the prize senior in the district. Clemens’ strength will be defense with linebackers like Eric Hunsaker and Zachary Winbush. The question will be at quarterback, where soph Brice McCoy appears the frontrunner.

Did you know?

If you catch a Buffaloes game in September, check out Schertz Fest, which features big name performers, food, beverages and more.

San Marcos Rattlers

Coach: Steve Van Nest

Returning starters: 6 off., 5 def.

Preview

The Rattlers were the only winless team in District 27-4A last season after moving down from 5A, and they now face the challenge of rebuilding the offensive and defensive lines. San Marcos’ one weapon is its Slot-T offense, which, when executed well, can steal plenty of wins. RB Tyler Walker (77-447, 6 TDs) leads the team on offense, while LB Jeremy Gonzalez (99 tackles) holds down the fort on defense. Only 15 lettermen return.

Did you know?

San Marcos High School was founded in 1918.

Seguin Matadors

Coach: Jim Carson

Returning starters: 7 off., 5 def.

Preview

Brig Gerlich is one of the better quarterbacks in Central Texas that most people don’t know about, and unfortunately for the Matadors, his success hasn’t always equaled wins. The 6-foot-4-inch quarterback threw for 1,928 yards and 14 touchdowns last season while rushing 56 times for 172 yards and four touchdowns. His top returning target is Dustin Read (31-427, 5 TDs). Seguin has depth with 23 returning lettermen.

Did you know?

Seguin is often attributed the nickname “Pecan Capital of Texas.” The city boasts of having the “World’s Largest Pecan,” a five-foot long, two-and-a-half foot wide concrete pecan located in front of the county courthouse

Cibolo Steele Knights

Coach: Mike Jinks

Returning starters: 5 off., 4 def.

Preview

There are no flashy gimmicks or complicated game plans at Steele, and that’s because there’s no need. The Knights do what they do very well, and it’s turned a program in its infancy into a serious district title challenger. RB Malcolm Brown is coming off the most impressive sophomore campaign in the state, rushing 134 times for 1,352 yards and 17 TDs before his season was cut short by injury. Receiver Sheldon McClain (26-487, 4 TDs) is committed to Oklahoma despite playing second fiddle in a run-based offense.

Did you know?

Since its first year of varsity football in 2006, Steele has posted back to back playoff seasons with records of 11-2 and 10-2 in 2007 and 2008.

Kerrville Tivy Antlers

Coach: Mark Smith

Returning starters: 3 off., 5 def.

Preview

Is this the year the Antlers slow down? Tivy lost 14 starters to graduation, and new QB Johnny Manziel steps in to guide a young group. Receiver Andy Kinnison (15-333, 3 TDs) will help. On defense, safety Michael McKenzie (152 tackles, 2 INT) will wreak havoc.

Did you know?

Former LB Kyle Prater will likely see playing time at LSU this season after redshirting in 2008, and former offensive standout Logan Vick is hanging up the pads to play baseball at Baylor.

ACN prediction

(with enrollment)

1. Cibolo Steele (1,869)

2. Alamo Heights (1,500)

3. Kerrville Tivy (1,430)

4. Schertz Clemens (1,350)

5. Boerne Champion (2,026)

6. Seguin (2,054)

7. New Braunfels Canyon (1,773)

8. San Marcos (1,978)

Offense MVP: Malcolm Brown, Steele

Brown had a stellar soph season with 1,352 yards rushing and 17 TDs in just seven games.

Defensive MVP: Stanley Harris, Clemens

The senior DB had 73 tackles and five INTs while earning first-team all-district honors.

Coach: Courtney Wash

Returning starters: 7 off., 6 def.

Preview

A team with 13 returning starters usually has high expectations, especially if that team barely missed the playoffs in 2008. With a new coach, however, a question always arises on how the team will respond with new leadership. Free safety Rodney Lee is the Cardinals’ playmaker on defense and leads an experienced secondary. Lee had 135 tackles and four interceptions in 2008. Offensively, quarterback Jozef Cortez and has two big WRs at his disposal.

Did you know?

Del Valle was one win away from making the playoffs last year.

Elgin Wildcats

Coach: Danny Lauve

Returning starters: 3 off., 2 def.

Preview

Elgin lost 20 seniors and 17 starters from last year’s team that went two rounds deep in the playoffs. Da’Rick Nolan will get a full year on varsity, and the junior could pick up where Derrick Falke left off on offense. Dallas Glass and Hayden Bell anchor the Wildcats’ offensive line. Falke will be missed on a secondary that included a lot of speed in Kevin Weaver, Cro Faulks and Sam Works.

Did you know?

Elgin was seven points away from being District 17-4A champions in 2008 after losing to Hays by six in overtime and Lockhart by one.

Hays Rebels

Coach: Bob Shelton

Returning starters: 4 off., 3 def.

Preview

Quarterback Sam Breyfogle leads an offense that relies heavily on the run. Running backs Torrance Smith and Trace Gandy, an all-district selection in 2008, have an immense offensive line to create holes and block for them. Legendary Coach Shelton is stacked on the defense that returns linebacker Godford Maxwell, who had 116 tackles last season.

Did you know?

Shelton is the only coach the Hays football program has had in its 42-year history.

Lehman Lobos

Coach: Steve Davis

Returning starters: 6 off., 5 def.

Preview

The good news for the Lobos is they return more starters than any team in the district other than Del Valle, which returns 13. The bad news is Lehman still plays in a district that is loaded with talent from top to bottom. Regardless, Lehman could place themselves on the map in 2009 with 19 seniors. The Lobos defensive line should be able to keep them in games while Coach Davis searches for a quarterback to lead the offense.

Did you know?

Lehman has not won a district game in school history. The Lobos are 0-19 in district play in their three-year existence.

Lockhart Lions

Coach: Robin Rapp

Returning starters: 5 off., 2 def.

Preview

It will be the sequel to the Dominique Hardaway show in Lockhart in 2009. One of the state’s top running backs, Hardaway returns for his senior year after roaring for 1,985 yards last year. Under new coach Rapp, that should be the plan with an offensive line that has a lot of beef on it with 275-pound Kevin Rodriguez and 300-pound Dion Turner. The Lions’ defense will be tested each week and may be the Achilles heel of the team with just two starters back.

Did you know?

Lockhart won its first playoff game in 36 years in 2008.

Manor Mustangs

Coach: Eric Carter

Returning starters: 2 off., 8 def.

Preview

The Mustangs will enter their second season under Carter and will rely on an experienced defense. The multiple spread offense will be highlighted by RB LaDarrien Williams, who had 948 yards rushing in 2008, but could take over at quarterback this fall. Defensively, the Mustangs are stacked at the LB position with Jordan Hutchings and John Keith, who combined for 63 tackles in 2008.

Did you know?

Opponents found no trouble scoring against Manor’s defense in 2008. The Mustangs’ “D” gave up 407 points.

– Michael Adams, Bastrop Advertiser

 ACN prediction

(with enrollment)

1. Lockhart (1,252)

2. Hays (1,850)

3. Elgin (1,060)

4. Del Valle (2,079)

5. Manor (1,096)

6. Lehman (1,615)

Offense MVP: 

Dominique Hardaway, Lockhart

One of the most dynamic senior RBs in the state, Hardaway rushed for 1,985 yards on 279 carries with 19 touchdowns and 7.1 yards per carry.

Defensive MVP: 

Godford Maxwell, Hays

Th senior spearheads a linebacker corps and defense that will be the best unit in the district. Maxwell had 116 tackles in 2008.

Coach: Royce McAdams

Returning starters: 6 off., 8 def.

Preview

Squeaking into the postseason last year by virtue of winning a three-way tiebreaker, the Bumblebees plan to capitalize on Layton Willis’ (544 yards rushing) progression after he nabbed offensive newcomer of the year honors last season. Center Steven Stewart and guard Marcos Pacheco, both seniors, along with junior tackle Tyler Lisenbe, will fuse a fence for a new quarterback. Linebackers Tyler Moon, Kyle Kuban and James Ash lead the defense.

Did you know?

This is Academy’s 10th season in District 25-2A.

Florence Buffaloes

Coach: Paul Smith

Returning starters: 5 off., 3 def.

Preview

With its second new coach in three years, Florence hopes to change the attitude and atmosphere around the program. The Buffs’ defense should be reliable as the team is looking to sneak up on unsuspecting opponents this season. Junior brothers Michael (126 yards rushing) and Emilio Ramirez (109 yards receiving) are emerging along with Gilbert Ledesma (120 yards rushing), while dueling quarterbacks Ben Futrell and Doak Hensley will try to replace Blake Brimer’s production. Also a safety, Michael Ramirez bolsters the defensive side that will see plenty of pass attacks this season.

Did you know?

Smith, a former assistant coach and co–offensive coordinator at Round Rock, sports a 57-22-1 record overall in Texas and Colorado.

Jarrell Cougars

Coach: Ricky Taylor

Returning starters: 3 off., 6 def.

Preview

The Cougars lost leading passer and rusher Chris Trevino, but Aaron Mueller (433 yards) should be able to build on his six-touchdown junior campaign along with Clint Vasquez (260 yards). Daniel Tucker (578 yards, six TD) made the most of his chances.

Did you know?

Jarrell will plan to remedy just its second losing season in the last 11 years.

Lago Vista Vikings

Coach: Alan Haire

Returning starters: 4 off., 4 def.

Preview

The Vikings were left on the outside looking in after finishing the season in a three-way tie for third place. Senior captain Cameron Kurth and center CJ Jacque, along with second-team all-district tight end Daniel Parker, anchor a running game that amassed 2,801 yards on the ground last season, compared to 219 yards passing. Dakota Haines (86 tackles) will help solidify the secondary. Austin Terry (6-3, 215, 4.6) will also fulfill a big role this season playing defensive end.

Did you know?

With a three-way tie for third place between Lago Vista, Lexington and Academy, Academy edged the Vikings by virtue of head-to-head-to head point differential, and Lago was the odd-team out by one point.

Lexington Eagles

Coach: Jason Holcomb

Returning starters: 8 off., 7 def.

Preview

Second-team all-district running back and safety Clint Hutson (1,102 yards rushing, 362 yards receiving, 5 total TDs; 45 tackles, 2 INT) joins Chance Sherrill (162 yards rushing, 133 yards receiving) as a formidable duo. Only a sophomore last season, LB Xavier Ward garnered defensive newcomer of the year honors and could compete for defensive MVP. Joining him is incumbent defensive back Dylan Islet, who has a nose for the ball.

Did you know?

Coach Holcomb has amassed 66 wins in eight seasons at the helm, averaging more than eight wins a season to become the winningest coach in Lexington history.

Rogers Eagles

Coach: Jeff Walker

Returning starters: 7 off., 4 def.

Preview

After romping through the district last season, Rogers has enough firepower to maintain its offensive attack. They lost the district’s offensive MVP (Robert Campos) and defensive MVP (Dustin Hamilton) to graduation. The offense should be alright, though, with first-teamer senior quarterback Chance Marek back to lead the attack with all-district center Michael Brenek protecting him and tight end Devin Zamora a year wiser. Defensive tackle Garrett Rice anchors the defense.

Did you know?

After scoring at least 24 points in eight straight games, Rogers failed to score for the first time all season in its playoff matchup against Hallettsville, losing 9-0 in the bi-district game.

Salado Eagles

Coach: Jeff Cheatham

Returning starters: 4 off., 2 def.

Preview

The Eagles’ overwhelming size on the line, led by Caleb Little on both sides, might enable them to push opposing defenses around. However, Salado lost a lot of offense to graduation – their top two quarterbacks, top rushers and top five wide receivers. A staunch defense that allowed just over 15 points per game should keep the Eagles in contention.

Did you know?

The Eagles racked up 16 consecutive regular-season victories before suffering an overtime defeat to McGregor (19-16) last season in Week 3.

– Habeab Kurdi, ACN Correspondent

ACN prediction

(with enrollment)

1. Academy (335)

2. Lago Vista (369)

3. Lexington (300)

4. Rogers (258) 

5. Salado (397)

6. Florence (325)

7. Jarrell (245) 

Offense MVP: 

Clint Hutson, Lexington

The do-it all-man for Lexington rarely got a rest last season while piling up eye-popping numbers (1,102 yards rushing, 362 yards receiving, 5 total TDs; 45 tackles, 2 INT).

Defensive MVP: 

Caleb Little, Salado

He grabbed first-team all-district honors as a defense tackle, not to mention first-team all-district honors at tight end.