The first (of many to come??) Lucas Holiday Xplosion wrapped up on Tuesday at the M.O. Campbell Center and there were some interesting sights on and off the court.
* * * * *
For the second consecutive game, Atascocita was able to hang tough with a national opponent, Mt. Zion Academy, but came up just a little short, losing 53-50. Mt. Zion rebounded from their Monday loss to Christian Life to head back to Durham 1-1 for their two-day efforts.
Atascocita lost both their games (by a combined total of 8 points), which drops their season record to 6-12 as they now prepare for the District 19-5A schedule.
Like the Eagles, Strake Jesuit came up short for the second consecutive night. The Norcross Blue Devils used an 11-0 run late in the second quarter and an 11-2 run to end the third quarter to create a large enough cushion that propelled them to a 61-46 win over the Crusaders.
Rasheed Sulaimon again led Strake with 19 points, but the Crusaders couldn’t shut down the duo of Jeremy Lamb (G, 6’2” senior, 26 points) and Marty Johnson (G, 6’1” senior, 12 points).
* * * * *
After watching the Crusaders for the second day in a row, my impression is that the difference between this year’s squad and last year’s state semifinalist is basically in the way the teams finish off their dribble penetration moves on offense.
Last year, with Joey Brooks and Tim Frazier able to slash and finish off drives to the bucket, the Crusaders were unstoppable; this year—or least over the last two days—Strake had trouble finishing off those drives. The opportunities to cut to the basket on the dribble were still there. The Crusaders just couldn’t put the ball in the hole.
Plus, with the ability to collapse the opponent’s defense on those types of drives, they had reliable outside shooters in Stevie Rogers and Frazier to kick the ball out to for wide open looks, many from outside the arc. I didn’t see that with this year’s team.
As I mentioned in Monday’s post, Coach Jones has an inexperienced crew on his hands. But Jones and his staff are good basketball technicians. That generally means that, as the experience comes, the team will respond to the good coaching and by the end of the season will look much different than the team that started in November.
Right now, going into the District 18-5A season, Strake is at 7-9. They will have a tough time in district against the Alief teams (Elsik almost beat Bellaire for the HISD tournament title), and Memorial and Stratford will be tough too, but don’t be shocked if the Crusaders wind up with a playoff berth in mid-February.
* * * * *
By good fortune, I had the opportunity to meet Jamaal Greene, an assistant hoops coach at Midland College, during the tournament. The Chaparrals happened to be the top-ranked JuCo team in America right now and they just completed a successful tournament in Las Vegas before Christmas. With his team on the traditional JuCo holiday break, Greene was in town to see some of the individual talent on display the local holiday tournaments.
He mentioned the name of Jonathan Simmons from Smiley High School (who I believe played in the final edition of the Houston vs. The Nation tournament a couple of years ago, if memory serves me correctly). After graduating from Smiley, Simmons went to Paris Junior College in northeast Texas, but has since transferred to Midland. And, according to Greene, he is getting some NCAA D-1 looks from multiple schools.
(I would’ve put in a pitch for Andre Hollins, the impressive-looking junior from White Station, TN, but I doubt the schools closer to his home would let him get anywhere near Midland.)
Greene and I got to talk a little hoops sitting courtside during the evening and he was great to visit with. He and I seemed to have some similar opinions about some of the individual talent on the floor, as well as the way some of the in-game situations were managed. So, our discussion prompted me to try to learn a little more about the Midland College program. There’s some very interesting history associated with the program.
For Houston-area fans, I’d call Midland College the San Jac of west Texas. Through the years, there have been many NCAA players who played there first, as well as a handful of NBA players. Spud Webb and Mookie Blaylock both played at Midland. So did Harold ‘The Show’ Arceneaux (one of the all-time great names in hoops history). The Chaps are two-time NJCAA national champions (1982, 2007).
But, maybe the most interesting bit of trivia he told me involved their home court. Midland College plays in the 5,500-seat Al Langford Chaparral Center. As their website states, it is arguably the nicest JuCo arena in the nation. And the rest of their athletic facilities appear to be first-rate too. That has to make Midland an attractive destination for aspiring players. (That, and getting to go to Vegas!)
Now, all they need is for Legacy Sports Network to open a West Texas bureau and start broadcasting their games...and I'll volunteer for any Vegas trip...
By the way, according to Greene, the Chaps start 2010 right here in the Houston area, playing a pair of games over the weekend at San Jacinto College (which is definitely NOT a 5,500-seat facility). On Saturday, January 2, they play the Lone Star-Cy Fair Ducks and on January 3, they take on Lone Star-Tomball. It might be a good opportunity for folks in the area to see some good JuCo hoops.
* * * * *
Prestonwood Christian, maybe the top TAPPS team in the state, got a dose of the top 5A team in the state—Bellaire—in the third game of the night. PCA got off to a good early start and was able to play toe-to-toe with the Cardinals for about a half. But Bellaire’s running game wore down the Lions in the second half and the Cardinals picked up their second win in as many days with a 49-35 victory.
Sebastian Douglas, Sheldon McClellan and Toby Oyedeji all scored in double-figures for Bruce Glover’s squad that moves its season record to 18-1.
The noticeable difference from Monday for Prestonwood was that Bellaire managed to shut down Jason Pospichal. Pospichal, who scored 17 points against Strake with five three-pointers, was held to seven points on Tuesday. He scored four of the Lions’ first six points and then was held scoreless until he hit his only three with 4:35 to go in the fourth quarter.
Still, there should be no doubt that Prestonwood should be considered the team to beat in the TAPPS classification this year. With a young, and large, presence in the low blocks, this team will only improve as the season wears on.
* * * * *
White Station and Christian Life Academy (or is it Christian Life Center Academy?) finished up the evening, and the Xplosion ended with a bang. On the strength of a 16-2 run in the final three minutes of the game, White Station came from behind to defeat Christian Life, 87-86. The previously-mentioned Andre Hollins sunk a free throw with 1.2 seconds on the clock to deliver the victory over a shocked Cougar squad.
* * * * *
Thanks to their entertaining comeback, the Spartans also earned their fans who came to Houston my unofficial title as Best Team Supporters at the two-day event. While none of the schools had a large contingency of followers, including all four Houston-area teams, the White Station boosters were without question the easiest to find during their team’s games.
To say they were vocal would be an understatement. To say they loved the Houston-area referees who officiated their games would be a lie. But to say that they were extremely pleased with the come-from-behind win would be completely true. I know, because I heard it with my own ears.
* * * * *
I hope this event will become a successful holiday showcase, but crowds were sparse again on Tuesday and I believe it is probably because a lot of people in the Houston area just didn’t know about it. The promoters of LHX 2010 will need to ramp up the advance buzz to get some folks out to watch some quality hoops. Fortunately, looking at my calendar for next year, I’m available to help if they need it!
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Lucas Xplosion: Day 1 recap
The first edition of the Lucas Holiday Xplosion and Athletic Conference got underway on Monday and it had a lot of the old feel of the Academy National Invitational that used to occupy the same building, the Campbell Center in Aldine ISD, at this time of year.
As mentioned in previous posts, it is smaller in scale than the Academy, which generally boasted eight teams in a 'Texas' division and eight teams in a 'National' division, but its organizers insist that this is just the beginning for what they hope will become a nationally-recognized holiday destination for teams from across the country.
Crowds were sparse for the opening day, but everyone associated with the event seemed pleased with the way the day went. On the floor, there were a pair of very competitive games, a couple of blowouts and plenty of familiar faces in the crowd.
* * * * *
Familiar face #1: Johnnie 'The Hawk' Carter, former head of the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches, head coach at Hastings High School and current director of athletic services for Aldine ISD.
Carter's resume is impressive. He played at Carthage High School and East Texas Baptist. His coaching stops include assistant's roles at Cushing High School, Grambling University and Forest Brook High School, and head coaching positions at Aldine MacArthur, Lufkin and Hastings. Those Bears' teams won four district titles and appeared in four regional tournaments. He had a 465-246 career record.
Carter is also the only member of the Texas Basketball Hall of Fame (inducted in 1998) that I can say I know.
On Monday, as a representative of the host Aldine ISD, he was all over the Campbell Center taking care of behind-the-scenes issues, but allowed himself to sit and watch portions of a couple of games. As Atascocita took on Norcross High out of Georgia, I asked him if he missed the sidelines at all.
"At times like this, yeah," he answered with a smile. Which, to me, means he only misses it about 30-40 nights a year...and you can live with that if the other 325-335 nights were difficult to endure.
* * * * *
Familiar faces #2-3: Wayne Jones, head coach, and Ray Marshall, assistant coach, of the Strake Jesuit Crusaders. It was good to see those two men...for the first time this season. I had the privilege of following them throughout their run to the Class 5A state tournament in 2008-09. The Crusaders went undefeated until running into the DeSoto Eagles in the state semifinal.
We reminisced about that weekend last March for a few minutes. Both Jones and Marshall understand how special that team and season were. But they also know it is now just a piece of history.
I asked Jones if his prolific trio--Brooks, Frazier and Rogers--have called him since beginning their college careers. He said they definitely have. He's proud of the fact that, as a freshman, Frazier starts for Penn State and that Brooks had a nice game for Notre Dame against Bucknell recently.
Will this year's Strake team repeat last season's success? If you ask him about that, Jones won't specifically say no, but he is a realist: "We're just so young this season."
* * * * *
On the floor on Monday...
Christian Life Center Academy, from the north side of town, easily defeated Mt. Zion Academy out of Durham NC, 77-56. The previously-heralded Chris Coleman was held to four points by Mt. Zion, which happens to be Tracy McGrady's alma mater. (I didn't spot T-Mac in the crowd, though.)
The Atascocita Eagles hung tough with the Norcross Blue Devils, but fell 52-47. Neither team shot the ball very well, which was as much a tribute to the good defense played on both ends as anything else. For Atascocita, Everrette Pleasant (F, 6'5", junior) has the look of an athlete. For Norcross, Victor Nickerson (C, 6'6", junior) and Marty Johnson (G, 6'1", senior) led the way.
Against Prestonwood Christian, Jones' Strake Jesuit Crusaders looked as young and inexperienced as he said they were. The PCA Lions rolled out to an early lead and increased it every quarter to claim a 59-39 win. Elliott Franshaw (C, 6'7", senior), one of only three returning players from last year's squad, got into early foul trouble, had to spend a lot of time on the bench and fouled out with over six minutes to go in the game.
Without him, Strake had no answer for the twin-tower duo of Zach Peters (C, 6'9", sophomore) and Julius Randle (F, 6'8", freshman), who each poured in 16 points. They combined with senior Jason Pospichal, who added 17 points (included five three-point buckets), to deliver the win. Rasheed Sulaimon scored 23 for the Crusaders in defeat.
The nightcap featured a pair of top-ranked teams in the Bellaire Cardinals and White Station Spartans from the northern part of the metropolitan Memphis area. Early on, it looked like Bellaire might win in a rout. The Cardinals scored the first six points of the game and led 21-11 after one period.
But White Station, defending Tennessee state champs, got into a rhythm beginning in the second and held even with Bellaire in the second quarter, before outscoring them in the second half to eventually take a 61-60 lead with just over six minutes to go in the game.
But Bellaire rebounded, led by Toby Oyedeji's 29 points, and pulled out a 72-68 win. A pair of free throws by Shelden McClellan with 0:34 to go sealed the victory.
White Station's All-American guard Joe Jackson recovered from a rough first quarter to lead the Spartans with 22 points. Andre Hollins (G, 6'3", junior) also scored 22 points and Nino Johnson added 17.
* * * * *
The showcase wraps up on Tuesday with games featuring Mt. Zion vs. Atascocita (3:30 pm), Norcross vs. Strake Jesuit (5:00 pm), Prestonwood Christian vs. Bellaire (6:30 pm) and Christian Life vs. White Station (8:00 pm).
As mentioned in previous posts, it is smaller in scale than the Academy, which generally boasted eight teams in a 'Texas' division and eight teams in a 'National' division, but its organizers insist that this is just the beginning for what they hope will become a nationally-recognized holiday destination for teams from across the country.
Crowds were sparse for the opening day, but everyone associated with the event seemed pleased with the way the day went. On the floor, there were a pair of very competitive games, a couple of blowouts and plenty of familiar faces in the crowd.
* * * * *
Familiar face #1: Johnnie 'The Hawk' Carter, former head of the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches, head coach at Hastings High School and current director of athletic services for Aldine ISD.
Carter's resume is impressive. He played at Carthage High School and East Texas Baptist. His coaching stops include assistant's roles at Cushing High School, Grambling University and Forest Brook High School, and head coaching positions at Aldine MacArthur, Lufkin and Hastings. Those Bears' teams won four district titles and appeared in four regional tournaments. He had a 465-246 career record.
Carter is also the only member of the Texas Basketball Hall of Fame (inducted in 1998) that I can say I know.
On Monday, as a representative of the host Aldine ISD, he was all over the Campbell Center taking care of behind-the-scenes issues, but allowed himself to sit and watch portions of a couple of games. As Atascocita took on Norcross High out of Georgia, I asked him if he missed the sidelines at all.
"At times like this, yeah," he answered with a smile. Which, to me, means he only misses it about 30-40 nights a year...and you can live with that if the other 325-335 nights were difficult to endure.
* * * * *
Familiar faces #2-3: Wayne Jones, head coach, and Ray Marshall, assistant coach, of the Strake Jesuit Crusaders. It was good to see those two men...for the first time this season. I had the privilege of following them throughout their run to the Class 5A state tournament in 2008-09. The Crusaders went undefeated until running into the DeSoto Eagles in the state semifinal.
We reminisced about that weekend last March for a few minutes. Both Jones and Marshall understand how special that team and season were. But they also know it is now just a piece of history.
I asked Jones if his prolific trio--Brooks, Frazier and Rogers--have called him since beginning their college careers. He said they definitely have. He's proud of the fact that, as a freshman, Frazier starts for Penn State and that Brooks had a nice game for Notre Dame against Bucknell recently.
Will this year's Strake team repeat last season's success? If you ask him about that, Jones won't specifically say no, but he is a realist: "We're just so young this season."
* * * * *
On the floor on Monday...
Christian Life Center Academy, from the north side of town, easily defeated Mt. Zion Academy out of Durham NC, 77-56. The previously-heralded Chris Coleman was held to four points by Mt. Zion, which happens to be Tracy McGrady's alma mater. (I didn't spot T-Mac in the crowd, though.)
The Atascocita Eagles hung tough with the Norcross Blue Devils, but fell 52-47. Neither team shot the ball very well, which was as much a tribute to the good defense played on both ends as anything else. For Atascocita, Everrette Pleasant (F, 6'5", junior) has the look of an athlete. For Norcross, Victor Nickerson (C, 6'6", junior) and Marty Johnson (G, 6'1", senior) led the way.
Against Prestonwood Christian, Jones' Strake Jesuit Crusaders looked as young and inexperienced as he said they were. The PCA Lions rolled out to an early lead and increased it every quarter to claim a 59-39 win. Elliott Franshaw (C, 6'7", senior), one of only three returning players from last year's squad, got into early foul trouble, had to spend a lot of time on the bench and fouled out with over six minutes to go in the game.
Without him, Strake had no answer for the twin-tower duo of Zach Peters (C, 6'9", sophomore) and Julius Randle (F, 6'8", freshman), who each poured in 16 points. They combined with senior Jason Pospichal, who added 17 points (included five three-point buckets), to deliver the win. Rasheed Sulaimon scored 23 for the Crusaders in defeat.
The nightcap featured a pair of top-ranked teams in the Bellaire Cardinals and White Station Spartans from the northern part of the metropolitan Memphis area. Early on, it looked like Bellaire might win in a rout. The Cardinals scored the first six points of the game and led 21-11 after one period.
But White Station, defending Tennessee state champs, got into a rhythm beginning in the second and held even with Bellaire in the second quarter, before outscoring them in the second half to eventually take a 61-60 lead with just over six minutes to go in the game.
But Bellaire rebounded, led by Toby Oyedeji's 29 points, and pulled out a 72-68 win. A pair of free throws by Shelden McClellan with 0:34 to go sealed the victory.
White Station's All-American guard Joe Jackson recovered from a rough first quarter to lead the Spartans with 22 points. Andre Hollins (G, 6'3", junior) also scored 22 points and Nino Johnson added 17.
* * * * *
The showcase wraps up on Tuesday with games featuring Mt. Zion vs. Atascocita (3:30 pm), Norcross vs. Strake Jesuit (5:00 pm), Prestonwood Christian vs. Bellaire (6:30 pm) and Christian Life vs. White Station (8:00 pm).
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Lucas' Hoops 'Xplosion' returning a holiday showcase to the area
For several years, Houston area basketball fans always had an outlet for watching potential future stars play in the Academy National Invitational Tournament at the M.O. Campbell Center in the Aldine ISD during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. Hal Pastner, a local hoops legend and father of Memphis University head coach Josh Pastner, was the driving force behind that showcase.
Over the years, players like Kendrick Perkins, Jason Wingate, Shelden Williams, Tywon Lawson, Gary Johnson, B.J. Holmes, D.J. Augustin, and many more took the floor at the Campbell Center to give Houston hoops fans a holiday treat of seeing stars before they became stars.
When Pastner ended his affiliation with Vision Sports (the producers of the Academy and the subsequent Houston vs. The Nation showcase) the tournament went by the boards as well, leaving a void.
So another Houston-area legend, John Lucas, is trying to fill that void by creating a new holiday showcase that will feature local teams against teams from around the nation over a two-day period. While starting out smaller in scale than the Academy, with four Houston-area high school teams and four national high school teams, the John Lucas Holiday Xplosion will also allow some Houston middle school teams an opportunity to play on a larger stage.
The showcase takes place on Monday, December 28, and Tuesday, December 29. Each day’s session will begin at 9:00 AM with four middle school games. The high school squads are featured in the afternoon/evening sessions.
Lucas’ inaugural field of teams should boast some serious talent.
Of the four local teams in the field, the Bellaire Cardinals are the team with the most national prominence, ranked at No. 50 nationally by Rivals 100. Bruce Glover’s team is out of the gate in 2009-10 with a 16-1 record. Their only loss was a one-point defeat to Lancaster on the Friday after Thanksgiving. They will bring a 10-game winning streak into Monday’s game that includes their recent championship in the HISD tournament.
Strake Jesuit, last year’s Class 5A state semifinalists, are 7-7 through the early portion of their schedule. Wayne Jones has to come up with a combination on the floor to replace a talented trio that has moved on to the NCAA Division I ranks: Joey Brooks (Notre Dame), Tim Frazier (Penn State) and Steven Rogers (Rice).
Atascocita (6-10) and Christian Life Center Academy round out the Houston-area foursome. While we don’t know much about CLCA, we do know that the Cougars feature 6’9” junior post player Chris Coleman. Originally from Buffalo, NY, Coleman is already commanding some attention from D-I recruiters.
Coleman was recruited by Isiah Thomas at Florida International University and had committed to that school, but decommitted in September. Also of interest to note is that Coleman played last year at Mt. Zion Christian (NC), which happens to be CLC’s opponent on Monday.
The national field that those teams will face should be impressive and entertaining to watch.
The White Station Spartans out of the Memphis TN area give the tournament a defending state champion. The Spartans are the defending Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association Class AAA (largest classification) state champions, following up a season as state runner-up in 2007-08. Under head coach Jesus Patino, in his fifth season (110-45), they are the eighth-ranked team in USA Today’s Super 25 South Region rankings.
Led by senior guard Joe Jackson, who averages 34.5 points per game and is committed to Memphis, White Station will come to town with a 7-1 record to start the 2009-10 season and regarded by many as a favorite to repeat as TSSAA champions again. Jackson, who was last year’s state tournament MVP as a junior, is ranked by Rivals.com as their No. 5 point guard.
White Station plays Bellaire on Monday at 8:30 pm, in what promises to be an extremely competitive matchup. On Tuesday, the Spartans take on Christian Life Center Academy.
The Norcross (GA) Blue Devils are another traditional basketball powerhouse that will be in the field. Norcross was the three-time Georgia High School Association Class AAAAA state champion from 2006 to 2008 before falling in the regional final round last year.
The Blue Devils, under second-year head coach Jesse McMillan (34-5), should have a size advantage on almost any team they play. Of the 15 players on the Norcross roster, eight are listed as 6’4” or taller.
Norcross has a season record of 7-2 and is at No. 56 in the current Rivals 100 basketball rankings. They will play Atascocita on Monday and Strake Jesuit on Tuesday.
The Warriors of Mount Zion Christian Academy from Durham, NC, come straight from the heart of hoops country. While they’ve struggled early, with a 5-9 record heading to Houston, it will be interesting to see how they approach their aforementioned Monday game against former teammate Coleman.
Prestonwood Christian, from the North Dallas/Plano area and the TAPPS Class 5A state runner-up from 2008-09, rounds out the field. Much of the roster from that team returns for the 2009-10 season and the Lions are a favorite to pick up a TAPPS state championship because of that. PCA (14-2) is big in low blocks, featuring a front line of 6’9” Zach Peters, 6’8” Julius Randle and 6’5” Aaron Wyatt. Jason Pospichal is a sharpshooter from the outside.
Prestonwood will be tested during the Holiday Xplosion. The team opens against Strake Jesuit on Monday and finishes with Bellaire on Tuesday.
Perhaps the thing that differentiates the Lucas tournament from others is the accompanying conference-style seminars and workshops that are offered in conjunction with the showcase games. A variety of topics of interest to players, coaches and parents of aspiring athletes are included and will be discussed on-site during the two-day event.
Although currently an assistant coach on the Los Angeles Clippers' staff, Lucas is currently slated to deliver the opening address of the conference on Monday morning.
Over the years, players like Kendrick Perkins, Jason Wingate, Shelden Williams, Tywon Lawson, Gary Johnson, B.J. Holmes, D.J. Augustin, and many more took the floor at the Campbell Center to give Houston hoops fans a holiday treat of seeing stars before they became stars.
When Pastner ended his affiliation with Vision Sports (the producers of the Academy and the subsequent Houston vs. The Nation showcase) the tournament went by the boards as well, leaving a void.
So another Houston-area legend, John Lucas, is trying to fill that void by creating a new holiday showcase that will feature local teams against teams from around the nation over a two-day period. While starting out smaller in scale than the Academy, with four Houston-area high school teams and four national high school teams, the John Lucas Holiday Xplosion will also allow some Houston middle school teams an opportunity to play on a larger stage.
The showcase takes place on Monday, December 28, and Tuesday, December 29. Each day’s session will begin at 9:00 AM with four middle school games. The high school squads are featured in the afternoon/evening sessions.
Lucas’ inaugural field of teams should boast some serious talent.
Of the four local teams in the field, the Bellaire Cardinals are the team with the most national prominence, ranked at No. 50 nationally by Rivals 100. Bruce Glover’s team is out of the gate in 2009-10 with a 16-1 record. Their only loss was a one-point defeat to Lancaster on the Friday after Thanksgiving. They will bring a 10-game winning streak into Monday’s game that includes their recent championship in the HISD tournament.
Strake Jesuit, last year’s Class 5A state semifinalists, are 7-7 through the early portion of their schedule. Wayne Jones has to come up with a combination on the floor to replace a talented trio that has moved on to the NCAA Division I ranks: Joey Brooks (Notre Dame), Tim Frazier (Penn State) and Steven Rogers (Rice).
Atascocita (6-10) and Christian Life Center Academy round out the Houston-area foursome. While we don’t know much about CLCA, we do know that the Cougars feature 6’9” junior post player Chris Coleman. Originally from Buffalo, NY, Coleman is already commanding some attention from D-I recruiters.
Coleman was recruited by Isiah Thomas at Florida International University and had committed to that school, but decommitted in September. Also of interest to note is that Coleman played last year at Mt. Zion Christian (NC), which happens to be CLC’s opponent on Monday.
The national field that those teams will face should be impressive and entertaining to watch.
The White Station Spartans out of the Memphis TN area give the tournament a defending state champion. The Spartans are the defending Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association Class AAA (largest classification) state champions, following up a season as state runner-up in 2007-08. Under head coach Jesus Patino, in his fifth season (110-45), they are the eighth-ranked team in USA Today’s Super 25 South Region rankings.
Led by senior guard Joe Jackson, who averages 34.5 points per game and is committed to Memphis, White Station will come to town with a 7-1 record to start the 2009-10 season and regarded by many as a favorite to repeat as TSSAA champions again. Jackson, who was last year’s state tournament MVP as a junior, is ranked by Rivals.com as their No. 5 point guard.
White Station plays Bellaire on Monday at 8:30 pm, in what promises to be an extremely competitive matchup. On Tuesday, the Spartans take on Christian Life Center Academy.
The Norcross (GA) Blue Devils are another traditional basketball powerhouse that will be in the field. Norcross was the three-time Georgia High School Association Class AAAAA state champion from 2006 to 2008 before falling in the regional final round last year.
The Blue Devils, under second-year head coach Jesse McMillan (34-5), should have a size advantage on almost any team they play. Of the 15 players on the Norcross roster, eight are listed as 6’4” or taller.
Norcross has a season record of 7-2 and is at No. 56 in the current Rivals 100 basketball rankings. They will play Atascocita on Monday and Strake Jesuit on Tuesday.
The Warriors of Mount Zion Christian Academy from Durham, NC, come straight from the heart of hoops country. While they’ve struggled early, with a 5-9 record heading to Houston, it will be interesting to see how they approach their aforementioned Monday game against former teammate Coleman.
Prestonwood Christian, from the North Dallas/Plano area and the TAPPS Class 5A state runner-up from 2008-09, rounds out the field. Much of the roster from that team returns for the 2009-10 season and the Lions are a favorite to pick up a TAPPS state championship because of that. PCA (14-2) is big in low blocks, featuring a front line of 6’9” Zach Peters, 6’8” Julius Randle and 6’5” Aaron Wyatt. Jason Pospichal is a sharpshooter from the outside.
Prestonwood will be tested during the Holiday Xplosion. The team opens against Strake Jesuit on Monday and finishes with Bellaire on Tuesday.
Perhaps the thing that differentiates the Lucas tournament from others is the accompanying conference-style seminars and workshops that are offered in conjunction with the showcase games. A variety of topics of interest to players, coaches and parents of aspiring athletes are included and will be discussed on-site during the two-day event.
Although currently an assistant coach on the Los Angeles Clippers' staff, Lucas is currently slated to deliver the opening address of the conference on Monday morning.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Prepping for an Abilene 'two-peat' and other lasting memories from Championship Saturday
First, allow me to wish each and every one of you a joyful Christmas and holiday season! Be safe and make the effort to treasure people more than things in your lives.
* * * * *
My lasting impression of FSN's coverage of the UIL Class 5A Division 2 Championship on Saturday night? Let me sum it up this way:
Dear Ahmad Brooks...we have a word in the English language for a 'two-peat': REPEAT.
PS--try not to gush too much over your boys winning the state championship. Fox Sports Southwest did hire you for a statewide broadcast. Seeing your grinning mug on the Abilene sideline just a few feet from the head coach as the seconds ticked off probably wasn't the lasting image they wanted their viewers to see.
You've got from now till December 18, 2010 to celebrate. You should've kept your journalistic demeanor and composure about 30 minutes longer.
Seriously, he said, 'two-peat' in attempting to ask Ronnell Sims about the prospects of returning to San Antonio (or wherever) next season, as if he's not scared to pay Pat Riley for copyright infringement.
By the way, Ahmad Brooks went to the University of Texas, whose football team is on the verge of trying to one-peat a national championship in football.
* * * * *
On the fields this past Saturday, there were several actual participants who left some lasting impressions too.
For me, Abilene's Herschel Sims' 60-yard TD run in the fourth quarter against Katy will always stick with me. Although outgained by his cousin Ronnell in the game, I thought Herschel's jaunt that iced the game for the Eagles was a thing of beauty. First he showed speed to get into the secondary and then, more impressively, he made three Tiger defenders miss him altogether.
A couple of weekends ago, I talked ad nauseum on the air about Brandon Carter of Euless Trinity. The guy was a one-man wrecking crew against Stony Point in the semifinal, and his TD catch in OT of the 5A Division 1 Championship in OT against Austin Westlake will be a lasting legacy that will be hard for him to top, no matter how long he continues to play the game. Of course, there ARE those among us who don't believe it was a catch at all...and that should only enhance the legend in the years ahead.
In the Class 4A Division 2 Championship, Aledo sophomore Jonathan Gray burst onto the statewide stage with 252 rushing yards and four TDs in Aledo's win over Brenham. During the game, the Metroplex-based broadcast team gushed so much over Gray, I had to check to make sure I wasn't watching Trey Williams of Dekaney. Still, it was an impressive performance in a huge game.
In Class 3A, the McCoy family failed in the first leg of the high school state championship/college national championship couplet. Graham lost to Carthage in a close game, 13-12. Perhaps that bodes well for the Crimson Tide of Alabama on January 7. (Some of you have mentioned that you think I'm obsessed with the Longhorns losing. Let me dispel that notion...oh wait, no, I DO want them to lose. All true Aggies will be shouting, 'Roll Tide!' that night.)
Actually, THE big game is in Shreveport this year on Monday afternoon. (Which reminds me, I will have to recount my experience at the 1981 Independence Bowl in the days ahead. Preview: I was 20 years old and had more money than brains at the time! But the Ags won that icy evening over Oklahoma State, 33-16.)
* * * * *
Again, Merry Christmas, everyone, and remember what the season is all about!
* * * * *
My lasting impression of FSN's coverage of the UIL Class 5A Division 2 Championship on Saturday night? Let me sum it up this way:
Dear Ahmad Brooks...we have a word in the English language for a 'two-peat': REPEAT.
PS--try not to gush too much over your boys winning the state championship. Fox Sports Southwest did hire you for a statewide broadcast. Seeing your grinning mug on the Abilene sideline just a few feet from the head coach as the seconds ticked off probably wasn't the lasting image they wanted their viewers to see.
You've got from now till December 18, 2010 to celebrate. You should've kept your journalistic demeanor and composure about 30 minutes longer.
Seriously, he said, 'two-peat' in attempting to ask Ronnell Sims about the prospects of returning to San Antonio (or wherever) next season, as if he's not scared to pay Pat Riley for copyright infringement.
By the way, Ahmad Brooks went to the University of Texas, whose football team is on the verge of trying to one-peat a national championship in football.
* * * * *
On the fields this past Saturday, there were several actual participants who left some lasting impressions too.
For me, Abilene's Herschel Sims' 60-yard TD run in the fourth quarter against Katy will always stick with me. Although outgained by his cousin Ronnell in the game, I thought Herschel's jaunt that iced the game for the Eagles was a thing of beauty. First he showed speed to get into the secondary and then, more impressively, he made three Tiger defenders miss him altogether.
A couple of weekends ago, I talked ad nauseum on the air about Brandon Carter of Euless Trinity. The guy was a one-man wrecking crew against Stony Point in the semifinal, and his TD catch in OT of the 5A Division 1 Championship in OT against Austin Westlake will be a lasting legacy that will be hard for him to top, no matter how long he continues to play the game. Of course, there ARE those among us who don't believe it was a catch at all...and that should only enhance the legend in the years ahead.
In the Class 4A Division 2 Championship, Aledo sophomore Jonathan Gray burst onto the statewide stage with 252 rushing yards and four TDs in Aledo's win over Brenham. During the game, the Metroplex-based broadcast team gushed so much over Gray, I had to check to make sure I wasn't watching Trey Williams of Dekaney. Still, it was an impressive performance in a huge game.
In Class 3A, the McCoy family failed in the first leg of the high school state championship/college national championship couplet. Graham lost to Carthage in a close game, 13-12. Perhaps that bodes well for the Crimson Tide of Alabama on January 7. (Some of you have mentioned that you think I'm obsessed with the Longhorns losing. Let me dispel that notion...oh wait, no, I DO want them to lose. All true Aggies will be shouting, 'Roll Tide!' that night.)
Actually, THE big game is in Shreveport this year on Monday afternoon. (Which reminds me, I will have to recount my experience at the 1981 Independence Bowl in the days ahead. Preview: I was 20 years old and had more money than brains at the time! But the Ags won that icy evening over Oklahoma State, 33-16.)
* * * * *
Again, Merry Christmas, everyone, and remember what the season is all about!
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Championship Saturday...
I won't personally be on-hand for the Class 5A state championships today. That will be the first time I will have missed a 5A championship since 2004. But I am already making plans to be back in 2010...to start a new streak!
For the record, I'm going to go with Austin Westlake in the Division 1 final over Euless Trinity. And, in the Division 2 final, I will go with the Katy Tigers in a dogfight over the Abilene Eagles; however, I won't be surprised at all if it goes the opposite way. Everyone in the Houston area knows about Katy. Abilene is just as good.
* * * * *
Did you know that Alabama was the first state to officially recognize Christmas as an official holiday? It says so right here. And here. And here. I'm trying to interpret that as a bad sign for the UT Fightin' McCoys in the BCS Championship Game, but haven't been able to so far. However, it does solidify the universally-held opinion that the state of Alabama is always progressive.
* * * * *
Have you noticed that there's no Houston-area over-the-air radio for the Katy-Abilene game? What happened there? Katy fans deserve better than that. In fact, all Houston high school fans deserve better.
On the final Saturday night before Christmas, it isn't outlandish to assume that many interested people, who could not make it to San Antonio, will be away from both a TV or the Internet while trying to finish shopping or heading to holiday parties. It seems like someone would have or could have made an effort to negotiate some local radio coverage to provide a service to those folks.
Sure, that broadcast would cost money to air, but it also would generate advertising revenues for the network that delivered the broadcast. And, one thing I know about the Katy faithful: they will support the Tigers. Advertisers would not have been hard to find.
So, it's a mystery as to why there's no over-the-air station in Houston carrying the Katy-Abilene broadcast. In fact, the exclusive carrier of Katy ISD football will not even be providing a webcast from San Antonio. So, even if you're a Katy fan and have Internet access, you don't have an outlet to be your 'home' broadcast provider. That also makes Katy the only school in any classification that does not have any kind of audio-only broadcast of their championship game.
There must be something going on that we don't know about...
There will be an Abilene radio broadcast that can be heard on the web here.
* * * * *
There's an interesting high school hoops showcase coming up after Christmas in the Houston area. The John Lucas Holiday Explosion and Athletic Conference will feature some local high school teams in showcase games against teams from around the country. The top-ranked Bellaire Cardinals headline the Houston-area teams, which also include last year's 5A state semifinalist Strake Jesuit along with Atascocita and Christian Life Center Academy.
I'll give more details about this showcase in an upcoming blog post, but if you were a fan of the old Academy Invitational Tournament and it's short-lived successor, The Houston vs. the Nation Tournament, you'll want to spend a couple of days at the Campbell Center in north Houston.
* * * * *
We'll recap the football championships next week.
For the record, I'm going to go with Austin Westlake in the Division 1 final over Euless Trinity. And, in the Division 2 final, I will go with the Katy Tigers in a dogfight over the Abilene Eagles; however, I won't be surprised at all if it goes the opposite way. Everyone in the Houston area knows about Katy. Abilene is just as good.
* * * * *
Did you know that Alabama was the first state to officially recognize Christmas as an official holiday? It says so right here. And here. And here. I'm trying to interpret that as a bad sign for the UT Fightin' McCoys in the BCS Championship Game, but haven't been able to so far. However, it does solidify the universally-held opinion that the state of Alabama is always progressive.
* * * * *
Have you noticed that there's no Houston-area over-the-air radio for the Katy-Abilene game? What happened there? Katy fans deserve better than that. In fact, all Houston high school fans deserve better.
On the final Saturday night before Christmas, it isn't outlandish to assume that many interested people, who could not make it to San Antonio, will be away from both a TV or the Internet while trying to finish shopping or heading to holiday parties. It seems like someone would have or could have made an effort to negotiate some local radio coverage to provide a service to those folks.
Sure, that broadcast would cost money to air, but it also would generate advertising revenues for the network that delivered the broadcast. And, one thing I know about the Katy faithful: they will support the Tigers. Advertisers would not have been hard to find.
So, it's a mystery as to why there's no over-the-air station in Houston carrying the Katy-Abilene broadcast. In fact, the exclusive carrier of Katy ISD football will not even be providing a webcast from San Antonio. So, even if you're a Katy fan and have Internet access, you don't have an outlet to be your 'home' broadcast provider. That also makes Katy the only school in any classification that does not have any kind of audio-only broadcast of their championship game.
There must be something going on that we don't know about...
There will be an Abilene radio broadcast that can be heard on the web here.
* * * * *
There's an interesting high school hoops showcase coming up after Christmas in the Houston area. The John Lucas Holiday Explosion and Athletic Conference will feature some local high school teams in showcase games against teams from around the country. The top-ranked Bellaire Cardinals headline the Houston-area teams, which also include last year's 5A state semifinalist Strake Jesuit along with Atascocita and Christian Life Center Academy.
I'll give more details about this showcase in an upcoming blog post, but if you were a fan of the old Academy Invitational Tournament and it's short-lived successor, The Houston vs. the Nation Tournament, you'll want to spend a couple of days at the Campbell Center in north Houston.
* * * * *
We'll recap the football championships next week.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
It's the most wonderful time of the year!
I feel an Andy Williams Christmas Special coming on. (For those of you too young to remember Andy Williams, he was one of the greatest influences in my young life. Wanting to be like Andy and have a gorgeous young French wife, I developed a penchant for white double-knit pants and white patent-leather shoes. It's absolute true, and you can ask my hot young French wife to verify it!)
Andy Williams was (and still is) known for a holiday song that has become a classic and staple for the Christmas season: "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!"
I love that song, mainly because it perfectly sums up my feelings about this time of the year. Although, my reasons may be slightly different than ol' Andy's...
On Saturday afternoon, I was privileged to sit in Waco ISD Stadium and watch an excellent, competitive high school football game. The Stony Point Tigers and Euless Trinity Trojans squared off for the right to play in the Class 5A Division 1 State Championship at the Alamodome this Saturday.
I was biased toward Stony Point; they were my personal ticket to the Alamodome's broadcast booth if they won. But, alas, it was not to be. Still it was perhaps the most entertaining and competitive game I personally witnessed all season long. Trinity held off Stony Point for a 35-28 win, but not before the Tigers had two late opportunities to post a game-tying touchdown.
It's exactly that kind of game at this time of year that really makes December so special to me.
Both teams traveled considerable distances to play the game, yet both sides of the stadium were standing room only. The hosts (Waco ISD) rolled out the red carpet--even for media types--and put on a fine show.
Plus, I got to visit for a fair amount of time with Stony Point assistant coach Tom Collins (no, I didn't even mention it...) who happened to have been an assistant defensive coach on the 1994 Tyler John Tyler team that won the wacky playoff shootout against Plano East. Collins had some interesting stories and insights about that game.
Craig Chessher, Stony Point's head coach who was previously David Aymond's assistant at North Shore, was a pleasure to watch as he directed his team to their second consecutive 13-2 season. Chessher has been added to my list of the current 'really good' head football coaches in Texas. (I always hesitate to use the term 'great', because greatness is hard to define and takes longer to measure.)
He came to Stony Point four years ago and inherited a program that was almost on life support before it got going. Stony Point played it's first varsity season in 2000 and in their first six seasons won nine games. Total.
Enter Chessher. In his first season, the Tigers went 3-7. But he has followed that season with seasons of 9-3, 13-2 and 13-2. They've won three consecutive district championships and now have played in back-to-back state semifinals. Stony Point is a juggernaut in the making.
Consider this: both QBs and the leading rusher, RB Sam Kelley, were just juniors this season. The core offensive unit returns for 2010. Will the third time be the charm? We'll see. I know this much: it'll be easy to root for a man like Chessher, who is as concerned with the character of the young men his program produces as the number of wins they rack up each year.
I'm privileged to have met Chessher and Collins in 2009. They are the types of people that you run into on a regular basis covering high school athletics in Texas. Good people. And part of the reason that this IS the most wonderful time of the year.
Andy Williams was (and still is) known for a holiday song that has become a classic and staple for the Christmas season: "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!"
I love that song, mainly because it perfectly sums up my feelings about this time of the year. Although, my reasons may be slightly different than ol' Andy's...
On Saturday afternoon, I was privileged to sit in Waco ISD Stadium and watch an excellent, competitive high school football game. The Stony Point Tigers and Euless Trinity Trojans squared off for the right to play in the Class 5A Division 1 State Championship at the Alamodome this Saturday.
I was biased toward Stony Point; they were my personal ticket to the Alamodome's broadcast booth if they won. But, alas, it was not to be. Still it was perhaps the most entertaining and competitive game I personally witnessed all season long. Trinity held off Stony Point for a 35-28 win, but not before the Tigers had two late opportunities to post a game-tying touchdown.
It's exactly that kind of game at this time of year that really makes December so special to me.
Both teams traveled considerable distances to play the game, yet both sides of the stadium were standing room only. The hosts (Waco ISD) rolled out the red carpet--even for media types--and put on a fine show.
Plus, I got to visit for a fair amount of time with Stony Point assistant coach Tom Collins (no, I didn't even mention it...) who happened to have been an assistant defensive coach on the 1994 Tyler John Tyler team that won the wacky playoff shootout against Plano East. Collins had some interesting stories and insights about that game.
Craig Chessher, Stony Point's head coach who was previously David Aymond's assistant at North Shore, was a pleasure to watch as he directed his team to their second consecutive 13-2 season. Chessher has been added to my list of the current 'really good' head football coaches in Texas. (I always hesitate to use the term 'great', because greatness is hard to define and takes longer to measure.)
He came to Stony Point four years ago and inherited a program that was almost on life support before it got going. Stony Point played it's first varsity season in 2000 and in their first six seasons won nine games. Total.
Enter Chessher. In his first season, the Tigers went 3-7. But he has followed that season with seasons of 9-3, 13-2 and 13-2. They've won three consecutive district championships and now have played in back-to-back state semifinals. Stony Point is a juggernaut in the making.
Consider this: both QBs and the leading rusher, RB Sam Kelley, were just juniors this season. The core offensive unit returns for 2010. Will the third time be the charm? We'll see. I know this much: it'll be easy to root for a man like Chessher, who is as concerned with the character of the young men his program produces as the number of wins they rack up each year.
I'm privileged to have met Chessher and Collins in 2009. They are the types of people that you run into on a regular basis covering high school athletics in Texas. Good people. And part of the reason that this IS the most wonderful time of the year.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Cinco Ranch announces baseball, swimming signings
Cinco Ranch announced a pair of signings today by athletes in their their baseball and swimming programs. Congratulations go out to Stefan Crichton (baseball) and Jason Ting (swimming), who will both continue their participation in athletics as part of NCAA collegiate programs next year.
* * * * *
All District pitcher and staff ace, Stefan Crichton has committed to TCU to continue his baseball career at the next level. Joining Stefan are:
* * * * *
Top Cougar swimmer Jason Ting has committed to Harvard University to continue his career at the next level. Joining Jason are:
* * * * *
All District pitcher and staff ace, Stefan Crichton has committed to TCU to continue his baseball career at the next level. Joining Stefan are:
Seated: Mom (Loretta), Stefan, and Dad (Brook)
Standing: Jerry Miller (Baseball Coach), Kevin Hildebrand (CRHS Head Baseball Coach), Shane Weaston (Baseball Coach), James Cross (CRHS Principal), and Don Clayton (CRHS Athletic Coordinator)
* * * * *
Top Cougar swimmer Jason Ting has committed to Harvard University to continue his career at the next level. Joining Jason are:
Seated: Mom (Han), Jason, and Dad (Frank)
Standing: James Cross (CRHS Principal), Christie Patterson (CRHS Head Swim Coach), Sharon Power (Swim Instructor), and Don Clayton (CRHS Athletic Coordinator)
* * * * *
We join with the Cinco Ranch community in extending our congratulations to these student-athletes and wish them the best next year and beyond.
Special thanks to CRHS athletic coordinator Don Clayton for providing the information.
Cinco Ranch announces softball signings
Congratulations to Courtney Buchman, Teresa Mursuli and Amy Pelton of Cinco Ranch High School, who today signed commitment letters to continue their athletic endeavors in softball at the next level.
* * * * *
Lady Cougar softball leader Amy Pelton has committed to Sam Houston State University to continue her career at the next level. Joining Amy are:
* * * * *
Lady Cougar softball leader Courtney Buchman has committed to the University of Texas at San Antonio to continue her career at the next level. Joining Courtney are:
* * * * *
Lady Cougar softball leader Teresa Mursuli has committed to Ouachita Baptist University to continue her career at the next level. Joining Teresa are:
* * * * *
We join the Cinco Ranch family in wishing the very best for these young women this spring and then next fall as they move into the collegiate ranks.
Special thanks to Cinco Ranch athletic coordinator Don Clayton for providing the information.
* * * * *
Lady Cougar softball leader Amy Pelton has committed to Sam Houston State University to continue her career at the next level. Joining Amy are:
Seated: Mom (Pam), Amy, and Dad (Dave)
Standing: Amber Griffin (Softball Assistant Coach), Jerry Miller (Softball Head Coach), Erik Hammond (Strength Coach), Sandy Mader (Softball Instructor), J.D. Fincher (Conditioning Coach), James Cross (CRHS Principal), Don Clayton (CRHS Athletic Coordinator), and Kayley Poenitzsch (Softball Assistant Coach).
* * * * *
Lady Cougar softball leader Courtney Buchman has committed to the University of Texas at San Antonio to continue her career at the next level. Joining Courtney are:
Seated: Dad (Matthew), Courtney, and Mom (Pamela)
Standing: Kathy Henry (CRHS Administrative Principal), Amber Griffin (Softball Assistant Coach), Cameron Buchman (brother), Kayley Poenitzsch (Softball Assistant Coach), and Don Clayton (CRHS Athletic Coordinator).
* * * * *
Lady Cougar softball leader Teresa Mursuli has committed to Ouachita Baptist University to continue her career at the next level. Joining Teresa are:
Seated: Dad (Orlando), Teresa, and Mom (Vivian)
Standing: Kathy Henry (CRHS Administrative Principal), Amber Griffin (SB Asst Coach), Kayley Poenitzsch (SB Asst Coach), Danny Mursuli (brother), and Don Clayton (CRHS Athletic Coordinator)
* * * * *
We join the Cinco Ranch family in wishing the very best for these young women this spring and then next fall as they move into the collegiate ranks.
Special thanks to Cinco Ranch athletic coordinator Don Clayton for providing the information.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Prediction recap/full-disclosure
A few weeks back, as the 2009 playoffs got underway, I boldly predicted the Final Four in both divisions of the Class 5A bracket. And when you get it right, you have the right to brag about it!
Of course, when you're like me and get it almost completely WRONG, you should 'fess up to it too...
I deliver written jabs to enough other people that it's only right that I expose my own personal shortcomings...no matter how hard they are to find. And trust me, I've lived with myself long enough to know just how close to perfect I am.
My predictions for the 5A Division 1 Final Four: Coppell, The Woodlands, Hightower and Converse Judson.
Have you ever completely whiffed on a tee shot in golf?? I know that feeling well. You quickly look around and hope the other guys in your foursome were getting something out of their bags on the back of the carts.
The Woodlands, Hightower and Judson couldn't make it past the second round. Coppell lasted until the third round. WHIFF!
My predictions for the 5A Division 2 Final Four were Cedar Hill, Klein Collins, Katy and San Antonio Reagan.
Have you ever barely foul-tipped a 55-mph batting-practice fastball? You tell yourself that it's only because you're rusty. But by the third or fourth time, you realize your glory days are gone.
The Reagan Rattlers couldn't muster more than a lone field goal in a first-round loss to Pflugerville. Cedar Hill and Klein Collins fared somewhat better, both making it to the third weekend before losing.
Katy is still Katy. Nailed that one! Foul tip!
Having learned my lesson, I will refrain from ever picking state semifinalists again...at least for this year.
Of course, when you're like me and get it almost completely WRONG, you should 'fess up to it too...
I deliver written jabs to enough other people that it's only right that I expose my own personal shortcomings...no matter how hard they are to find. And trust me, I've lived with myself long enough to know just how close to perfect I am.
My predictions for the 5A Division 1 Final Four: Coppell, The Woodlands, Hightower and Converse Judson.
Have you ever completely whiffed on a tee shot in golf?? I know that feeling well. You quickly look around and hope the other guys in your foursome were getting something out of their bags on the back of the carts.
The Woodlands, Hightower and Judson couldn't make it past the second round. Coppell lasted until the third round. WHIFF!
My predictions for the 5A Division 2 Final Four were Cedar Hill, Klein Collins, Katy and San Antonio Reagan.
Have you ever barely foul-tipped a 55-mph batting-practice fastball? You tell yourself that it's only because you're rusty. But by the third or fourth time, you realize your glory days are gone.
The Reagan Rattlers couldn't muster more than a lone field goal in a first-round loss to Pflugerville. Cedar Hill and Klein Collins fared somewhat better, both making it to the third weekend before losing.
Katy is still Katy. Nailed that one! Foul tip!
Having learned my lesson, I will refrain from ever picking state semifinalists again...at least for this year.
There apparently was a city championship on Saturday...but which city?
When UT wins (lucky) and the Houston Texans lose (dumb), I get cranky about the least little thing. So, here goes...
Did you know a city championship game was played on Saturday?
At least one person thinks so and said so in a broadcast, notwithstanding that there hasn’t been anything remotely close to a city championship since the days before the Civil Rights Act of 1964. People should be offended, if for no other reason, calling a game ‘The City Championship’ hearkens back to the days of segregation and overt racism.
But, beyond that, when a game that is played between a team from Katy and a team from League City is implied to be the Houston ‘city championship’, those fans should feel justified in boycotting such ignorance of our local geography, too.
So apparently, there was a city championship on Saturday. But which city? Houston? That also leads to the question: can you have a ‘city championship’ without a team from that city in the game?
The Katy Tigers and the Clear Springs Chargers met Saturday in the Class 5A Region III Division 2 championship game, which Katy won 38-21. Region III encompasses so much more than the Houston city limits that it seems almost unthinkable that one person would insult the great football that is played in the entire region by boiling down the Region III championship game to a ‘city championship’.
People who live, vote, pay taxes and build their lives in the communities of Katy and League City (both incorporated entities with elected officials and municipal services that are completely independent of the city of Houston) should be more than a little irritated by someone who chooses to demean their football team’s accomplishments by claiming they are playing for the Houston City Championship.
What if West Brook had made the regional final? What if the Ball Tors were playing? Would a team from Beaumont or Galveston play for the championship of Houston? In one small mind, the answer would be 'yes'.
I listen to a lot of high school sports, either online or on the radio. Not only our LSN broadcasts, but those from around the Houston area, as well as the state of Texas. I do it because I really love the games, the enthusiasm that they create and the lessons of the goodness of teamwork that is learned from these events.
And in listening to these broadcasts, what I have generally found to be true is this: the broadcasters who cover these games--whether they are polished veterans or raw novices--usually genuinely love the games they are covering. And that makes the profiteering vultures with self-serving agendas easy to spot. You know them: they don't bother to learn players' or coaches' names properly, everything they relate in-game turns into a personal anecdote that centers around themselves and their attention to detail is very lax.
I think calling a regional championship game, or a state quarterfinal, a 'city championship' falls into the latter category.
Okay, okay…in the grand scheme of things, this isn’t the biggest catastrophe or the greatest injustice in the world today. My overly-emotional reaction is most likely too extreme. Blame it on UT and the Texans.
But, if you’re going to cover a sport, at least show a little respect for it.
Did you know a city championship game was played on Saturday?
At least one person thinks so and said so in a broadcast, notwithstanding that there hasn’t been anything remotely close to a city championship since the days before the Civil Rights Act of 1964. People should be offended, if for no other reason, calling a game ‘The City Championship’ hearkens back to the days of segregation and overt racism.
But, beyond that, when a game that is played between a team from Katy and a team from League City is implied to be the Houston ‘city championship’, those fans should feel justified in boycotting such ignorance of our local geography, too.
So apparently, there was a city championship on Saturday. But which city? Houston? That also leads to the question: can you have a ‘city championship’ without a team from that city in the game?
The Katy Tigers and the Clear Springs Chargers met Saturday in the Class 5A Region III Division 2 championship game, which Katy won 38-21. Region III encompasses so much more than the Houston city limits that it seems almost unthinkable that one person would insult the great football that is played in the entire region by boiling down the Region III championship game to a ‘city championship’.
People who live, vote, pay taxes and build their lives in the communities of Katy and League City (both incorporated entities with elected officials and municipal services that are completely independent of the city of Houston) should be more than a little irritated by someone who chooses to demean their football team’s accomplishments by claiming they are playing for the Houston City Championship.
What if West Brook had made the regional final? What if the Ball Tors were playing? Would a team from Beaumont or Galveston play for the championship of Houston? In one small mind, the answer would be 'yes'.
I listen to a lot of high school sports, either online or on the radio. Not only our LSN broadcasts, but those from around the Houston area, as well as the state of Texas. I do it because I really love the games, the enthusiasm that they create and the lessons of the goodness of teamwork that is learned from these events.
And in listening to these broadcasts, what I have generally found to be true is this: the broadcasters who cover these games--whether they are polished veterans or raw novices--usually genuinely love the games they are covering. And that makes the profiteering vultures with self-serving agendas easy to spot. You know them: they don't bother to learn players' or coaches' names properly, everything they relate in-game turns into a personal anecdote that centers around themselves and their attention to detail is very lax.
I think calling a regional championship game, or a state quarterfinal, a 'city championship' falls into the latter category.
Okay, okay…in the grand scheme of things, this isn’t the biggest catastrophe or the greatest injustice in the world today. My overly-emotional reaction is most likely too extreme. Blame it on UT and the Texans.
But, if you’re going to cover a sport, at least show a little respect for it.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Random thoughts on Week 15...
As the fifteenth weekend of Texas high school football in 2009 draws nearer, many different topics vie for my attention...
* * * * *
Our featured 5A playoff game this week is Stony Point vs. Cypress Woods. Both teams average over 35 points per game and 400-plus yards of offense. This should be an excellent matchup and we are pleased to bring you all the action in high-quality audio at the LSN. We're bringing our 'A' game, too...complete sentences and all!
* * * * *
How many Texas high school football playoff games have ever been played in snow? If our fearless meteorological experts are correct, there could be some that are on Friday night.
When the season winds down and the number of playoff teams dwindles, many games move from Fridays to Saturdays, and such is the case again this season. Across the state, in all classifications, there are only 11 Friday night games. (There were originally 12 on the schedule, but Sinton-LaGrange has been rescheduled to Saturday to avoid a weather problem.) In places like San Antonio, San Marcos, Corsicana and Waco, there appears to be a chance that some snow will be on the turf or falling at gametime.
Still, it is hard to get a historical perspective on Texas high school football games played in snow. Try googling 'Texas high school football in snow' and you'll learn more about Indianapolis Colts' long snapper Justin Snow (from Abilene Cooper HS) than you really need to know.
I'm not even sure there's a section in the officials' handbook on how to deal with snow. Lightning? Yes. Snow? Doubtful. Officials may navigate some uncharted waters Friday night.
* * * * *
Speaking of officials, the Texas Association of Sports Officials (TASO) has filed a lawsuit against the UIL, which had several weeks ago announced its intention to require all officials who worked a UIL-sanctioned sporting event to be registered with the UIL.
In effect, the UIL wanted to be the governing body over the officials that are used in their games, a move that effectively would destroy TASO as an organization. TASO is attempting to block the UIL's move through court action.
There are arguments both for and against what the UIL is doing (Randy Byers at Houston5ABaseball.com has done a good job of following this issue and elaborating on the ramifications as they relate to baseball umpires), but no matter which side you take, there had to have been a better way to handle this.
Could we see potential officials' boycotts of big-time UIL events down the road? We'll see. You can certainly expect salvos fired from both sides and general nastiness before this issue goes away.
* * * * *
What was this Florida State offensive lineman thinking on this play? Perhaps sophomore tackle Zebrie Sanders--who hails from Ohio, nowhere near Texas--was having a premonition of Bobby Bowden's impending 'retirement' and needed a moment to cope.
* * * * *
The TAPPS football championships in all six divisions are being played this Saturday, and LSN's sister network, TAPPStv.com, will provide live video streams of the games from the Temple/Killeen area. There is a nominal charge for the broadcasts, but unlike other media outlets who have covered championships in the past, TAPPStv.com doesn't require you to take out a second mortgage to view the games. A one-time $10 fee gets you every championship game.
* * * * *
Okay...I've resisted as long as possible. I can't hold out any longer: Tiger, what the...???
There isn't enough money in the world, much less Eldrick's bank account, to alleviate the self-inflicted agony he is going through at this very moment.
And though you've undoubtedly already heard this, he will now be known (instead of Tiger) as Cheetah Woods.
Get it? Hilarious!
Signed, Third Grade.
* * * * *
I think the greatest thing America learned on this past Thanksgiving Day is that, while Colt McCoy is very good, he's certainly no Jerrod Johnson. Johnson is probably the greatest QB ever to play the game, certainly better than VY ever hoped to be. In fact, JJ practically sewed up the Heisman on Turkey Day.
(The previous paragraph is dedicated to all you Longhorns out there. Remember this: you cannot correct an opinion, no matter how absurd it is.)
* * * * *
Speaking of the McCoy family, Dad Brad and Little Brother Case play Friday night on the LSN, as the Graham Steers take on the Wimberley Texans in the Class 3A Division 2 Regional Final.
* * * * *
Okay folks, bundle up this weekend and remember: when the weather outside is frightful, the computer is so delightful...and the best way to stay in touch with some great high school football.
* * * * *
Our featured 5A playoff game this week is Stony Point vs. Cypress Woods. Both teams average over 35 points per game and 400-plus yards of offense. This should be an excellent matchup and we are pleased to bring you all the action in high-quality audio at the LSN. We're bringing our 'A' game, too...complete sentences and all!
* * * * *
How many Texas high school football playoff games have ever been played in snow? If our fearless meteorological experts are correct, there could be some that are on Friday night.
When the season winds down and the number of playoff teams dwindles, many games move from Fridays to Saturdays, and such is the case again this season. Across the state, in all classifications, there are only 11 Friday night games. (There were originally 12 on the schedule, but Sinton-LaGrange has been rescheduled to Saturday to avoid a weather problem.) In places like San Antonio, San Marcos, Corsicana and Waco, there appears to be a chance that some snow will be on the turf or falling at gametime.
Still, it is hard to get a historical perspective on Texas high school football games played in snow. Try googling 'Texas high school football in snow' and you'll learn more about Indianapolis Colts' long snapper Justin Snow (from Abilene Cooper HS) than you really need to know.
I'm not even sure there's a section in the officials' handbook on how to deal with snow. Lightning? Yes. Snow? Doubtful. Officials may navigate some uncharted waters Friday night.
* * * * *
Speaking of officials, the Texas Association of Sports Officials (TASO) has filed a lawsuit against the UIL, which had several weeks ago announced its intention to require all officials who worked a UIL-sanctioned sporting event to be registered with the UIL.
In effect, the UIL wanted to be the governing body over the officials that are used in their games, a move that effectively would destroy TASO as an organization. TASO is attempting to block the UIL's move through court action.
There are arguments both for and against what the UIL is doing (Randy Byers at Houston5ABaseball.com has done a good job of following this issue and elaborating on the ramifications as they relate to baseball umpires), but no matter which side you take, there had to have been a better way to handle this.
Could we see potential officials' boycotts of big-time UIL events down the road? We'll see. You can certainly expect salvos fired from both sides and general nastiness before this issue goes away.
* * * * *
What was this Florida State offensive lineman thinking on this play? Perhaps sophomore tackle Zebrie Sanders--who hails from Ohio, nowhere near Texas--was having a premonition of Bobby Bowden's impending 'retirement' and needed a moment to cope.
* * * * *
The TAPPS football championships in all six divisions are being played this Saturday, and LSN's sister network, TAPPStv.com, will provide live video streams of the games from the Temple/Killeen area. There is a nominal charge for the broadcasts, but unlike other media outlets who have covered championships in the past, TAPPStv.com doesn't require you to take out a second mortgage to view the games. A one-time $10 fee gets you every championship game.
* * * * *
Okay...I've resisted as long as possible. I can't hold out any longer: Tiger, what the...???
There isn't enough money in the world, much less Eldrick's bank account, to alleviate the self-inflicted agony he is going through at this very moment.
And though you've undoubtedly already heard this, he will now be known (instead of Tiger) as Cheetah Woods.
Get it? Hilarious!
Signed, Third Grade.
* * * * *
I think the greatest thing America learned on this past Thanksgiving Day is that, while Colt McCoy is very good, he's certainly no Jerrod Johnson. Johnson is probably the greatest QB ever to play the game, certainly better than VY ever hoped to be. In fact, JJ practically sewed up the Heisman on Turkey Day.
(The previous paragraph is dedicated to all you Longhorns out there. Remember this: you cannot correct an opinion, no matter how absurd it is.)
* * * * *
Speaking of the McCoy family, Dad Brad and Little Brother Case play Friday night on the LSN, as the Graham Steers take on the Wimberley Texans in the Class 3A Division 2 Regional Final.
* * * * *
Okay folks, bundle up this weekend and remember: when the weather outside is frightful, the computer is so delightful...and the best way to stay in touch with some great high school football.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Brackets all busted, predictions gone down the tubes...time to be 'thankful' for the teams still standing...
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I trust you will take at least a few minutes to find something or someone in your life to be thankful for this week. If you're a fan of Texas high school football, you can, at the very least, be grateful for one of the most entertaining seasons in recent memory.
* * * * *
November 26, 2009 is the fifteenth anniversary of this all-time Texas high school playoff gem between Plano East and Tyler John Tyler, not to mention the most 'homer'-riffic call of a football game ever.
* * * * *
Here's a play run by Bethel College that I doubt any coach that is still in the Texas high school playoffs would have the courage to call.
* * * * *
Upsets were the order of the weekend in Round 2 of the 2009 UIL football playoffs, along with some near misses. Plenty of teams will give thanks this weekend for still having at least one more game to play when many people thought they would not.
The Woodlands fell at the hands of the Stony Point Tigers on Saturday night. This is an upset because TWHS was the top-ranked team in the Houston area and the third-ranked team in the state. But it isn't like Stony Point was an overwhelming underdog. Coach Craig Chessher, with his team trailing 17-3 at halftime, apparently pulled out a Lombardi-esque halftime speech and Sam Kelley sliced and diced the Highlander defense in the second half.
The Tigers outscored The Woodlands 35-7 in the final two periods to advance to play Tyler Lee. You can listen to that game on the LSN.
And how 'bout those West Brook Bruins? After knocking off North Shore in the final week of the regular season to win District 21-5A, the Little Team that Could out of Beaumont rolled on through a first-round win over Deer Park before they upset almost everyone's pick to come out of Region III in the 5A Division 1 bracket, the Hightower Hurricanes.
Now, the Bruins have their fourth extremely tough test in a row, against the Cinco Ranch Cougars, in the regional semifinal round. But, after the last three weeks, who is to say that Craig Stump's team can't or won't pull off another upset?
Again, you can follow that game at the LSN, and it will be one of our video streams for the weekend. Listen AND SEE all the action.
In still another LSN broadcast on Friday, Brazoswood and Alief Taylor play in a third round matchup that I doubt anyone saw coming. Brazoswood knocked out North Shore, 7-3, in what could be considered a mild upset, though you couldn't tell that to anyone who has seen the Bucs' defense play this season. Alief Taylor won their second consecutive playoff game, which also happen to be the first two playoff wins in school history.
Outside the Houston area, Dallas Skyline posted 41 points in the first half, and then held on for dear life as DeSoto shut them out and made a furious attempt to end the Raiders' undefeated season. Skyline eked out a 41-36 win and now will face Cypress Woods in a rematch of last year's Region II semifinal game.
Cy Woods held off a late rally by Westfield to advance. In their first two seasons as a varsity program, David Jones' Wildcats have now advanced to the third round of the playoffs both years. That's a strong benchmark to establish.
Beyond the 5A classification, there will be plenty of other exciting matchups as the remaining number of teams dwindles.
Beaumont Central and Friendswood meet again in a Class 4A 2008 playoff rematch. The Central Jaguars feel like they were robbed by the Mustangs last season and come into this game with revenge on their minds. This is another of our LSN-TV games this week.
Perhaps no games will be as entertaining as the 1A matchups we have this weekend. Riesel and Mart, a pair of 22-1A teams who are both still alive in the playoffs, square off against some tough competition. Mart will take on Tenaha, who comes out of East Texas with a 12-0 record. But Mart can put up a lot of points offensively, as their 60-7 victory over previously-unbeaten Evadale last week would attest.
And they are a rugged team on defense, something that should be no surprise from a team coached by a man named Rusty Nail. Mart and Tenaha play Friday night in Van.
Riesel finished behind Mart and Lovelady in 22-1A, but are still alive and well in the 1A Division 1 regional final round. They'll have a tough battle against 10-2 Joaquin, but are just one win from the state semifinal round. Joaquin is about as close to Louisiana as you can get without being in it (over near Possum Trot and Huxley) and they take their football seriously. So that will be an entertaining game on Friday afternoon.
By the way, Lovelady, the 22-1A champs are also still alive in the 1A playoffs at 12-0. They play 10-1 Cayuga this week.
All in all, it's another bountiful week of playoff football. That makes me thankful, indeed!
* * * * *
November 26, 2009 is the fifteenth anniversary of this all-time Texas high school playoff gem between Plano East and Tyler John Tyler, not to mention the most 'homer'-riffic call of a football game ever.
* * * * *
Here's a play run by Bethel College that I doubt any coach that is still in the Texas high school playoffs would have the courage to call.
* * * * *
Upsets were the order of the weekend in Round 2 of the 2009 UIL football playoffs, along with some near misses. Plenty of teams will give thanks this weekend for still having at least one more game to play when many people thought they would not.
The Woodlands fell at the hands of the Stony Point Tigers on Saturday night. This is an upset because TWHS was the top-ranked team in the Houston area and the third-ranked team in the state. But it isn't like Stony Point was an overwhelming underdog. Coach Craig Chessher, with his team trailing 17-3 at halftime, apparently pulled out a Lombardi-esque halftime speech and Sam Kelley sliced and diced the Highlander defense in the second half.
The Tigers outscored The Woodlands 35-7 in the final two periods to advance to play Tyler Lee. You can listen to that game on the LSN.
And how 'bout those West Brook Bruins? After knocking off North Shore in the final week of the regular season to win District 21-5A, the Little Team that Could out of Beaumont rolled on through a first-round win over Deer Park before they upset almost everyone's pick to come out of Region III in the 5A Division 1 bracket, the Hightower Hurricanes.
Now, the Bruins have their fourth extremely tough test in a row, against the Cinco Ranch Cougars, in the regional semifinal round. But, after the last three weeks, who is to say that Craig Stump's team can't or won't pull off another upset?
Again, you can follow that game at the LSN, and it will be one of our video streams for the weekend. Listen AND SEE all the action.
In still another LSN broadcast on Friday, Brazoswood and Alief Taylor play in a third round matchup that I doubt anyone saw coming. Brazoswood knocked out North Shore, 7-3, in what could be considered a mild upset, though you couldn't tell that to anyone who has seen the Bucs' defense play this season. Alief Taylor won their second consecutive playoff game, which also happen to be the first two playoff wins in school history.
Outside the Houston area, Dallas Skyline posted 41 points in the first half, and then held on for dear life as DeSoto shut them out and made a furious attempt to end the Raiders' undefeated season. Skyline eked out a 41-36 win and now will face Cypress Woods in a rematch of last year's Region II semifinal game.
Cy Woods held off a late rally by Westfield to advance. In their first two seasons as a varsity program, David Jones' Wildcats have now advanced to the third round of the playoffs both years. That's a strong benchmark to establish.
Beyond the 5A classification, there will be plenty of other exciting matchups as the remaining number of teams dwindles.
Beaumont Central and Friendswood meet again in a Class 4A 2008 playoff rematch. The Central Jaguars feel like they were robbed by the Mustangs last season and come into this game with revenge on their minds. This is another of our LSN-TV games this week.
Perhaps no games will be as entertaining as the 1A matchups we have this weekend. Riesel and Mart, a pair of 22-1A teams who are both still alive in the playoffs, square off against some tough competition. Mart will take on Tenaha, who comes out of East Texas with a 12-0 record. But Mart can put up a lot of points offensively, as their 60-7 victory over previously-unbeaten Evadale last week would attest.
And they are a rugged team on defense, something that should be no surprise from a team coached by a man named Rusty Nail. Mart and Tenaha play Friday night in Van.
Riesel finished behind Mart and Lovelady in 22-1A, but are still alive and well in the 1A Division 1 regional final round. They'll have a tough battle against 10-2 Joaquin, but are just one win from the state semifinal round. Joaquin is about as close to Louisiana as you can get without being in it (over near Possum Trot and Huxley) and they take their football seriously. So that will be an entertaining game on Friday afternoon.
By the way, Lovelady, the 22-1A champs are also still alive in the 1A playoffs at 12-0. They play 10-1 Cayuga this week.
All in all, it's another bountiful week of playoff football. That makes me thankful, indeed!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Expanding the Legacy...
When the Legacy Sports Network launched, we made a promise to build a legacy one game at a time. As a catchy slogan, it was easy to come up with, but to everyone involved with the LSN, it was more than just a catchy slogan.
Our goal was literally to create a legacy of entertaining, top-quality broadcasts of your favorite prep and college athletic events. That goal still motivates every one of us each day.
But we also understood that it was not our birthright to assume we’d be handed anything. We knew it would take a lot of hard work. To attain our goal of building a legacy, we’d have to also prove ourselves one game at a time. We were willing to do that--and still are.
So, when we see the hard work and diligence pay off, we take a minute to recognize and celebrate it.
This weekend marks the beginning of a working relationship that Legacy Sports Network has established with HoopTV.net and Fox Sports. We are pleased to be providing on-air broadcasting talent and behind-the-scenes production personnel (in the form of camera operators) for the HoopTV/Fox Sports broadcasts of the UIL State Volleyball Championships.
When you tune in to Fox Sports’ coverage of the 2009 UIL Volleyball championships from San Marcos this weekend, it’ll be LSN voices that you’ll be hearing and LSN people delivering the pictures.
From the 5A matches, featuring Cinco Ranch, Austin Westlake, Georgetown and Amarillo, to the 1A contests, featuring Bronte, Lindsay, Louise and Normangee, we’ll be there to help bring the finals to you.
And as I mentioned, this is only the beginning. We look forward to the days and weeks ahead and many more opportunities to work alongside these groups to provide you with quality broadcasts of your favorite prep teams.
We continue to work on and value our relationship with TAPPS, through our sister group, TAPPStv.com. And as the weeks and months progress, you’ll also see some additions to our UIL and NJCAA coverage as we continue to expand in order to become the standard-bearer for quality audio and video athletic productions.
These aren’t just hollow words and empty promises. We are extremely proud to be adding to our legacy by being a part of the team that makes this season—and many to come—a memorable one.
Our goal was literally to create a legacy of entertaining, top-quality broadcasts of your favorite prep and college athletic events. That goal still motivates every one of us each day.
But we also understood that it was not our birthright to assume we’d be handed anything. We knew it would take a lot of hard work. To attain our goal of building a legacy, we’d have to also prove ourselves one game at a time. We were willing to do that--and still are.
So, when we see the hard work and diligence pay off, we take a minute to recognize and celebrate it.
This weekend marks the beginning of a working relationship that Legacy Sports Network has established with HoopTV.net and Fox Sports. We are pleased to be providing on-air broadcasting talent and behind-the-scenes production personnel (in the form of camera operators) for the HoopTV/Fox Sports broadcasts of the UIL State Volleyball Championships.
When you tune in to Fox Sports’ coverage of the 2009 UIL Volleyball championships from San Marcos this weekend, it’ll be LSN voices that you’ll be hearing and LSN people delivering the pictures.
From the 5A matches, featuring Cinco Ranch, Austin Westlake, Georgetown and Amarillo, to the 1A contests, featuring Bronte, Lindsay, Louise and Normangee, we’ll be there to help bring the finals to you.
And as I mentioned, this is only the beginning. We look forward to the days and weeks ahead and many more opportunities to work alongside these groups to provide you with quality broadcasts of your favorite prep teams.
We continue to work on and value our relationship with TAPPS, through our sister group, TAPPStv.com. And as the weeks and months progress, you’ll also see some additions to our UIL and NJCAA coverage as we continue to expand in order to become the standard-bearer for quality audio and video athletic productions.
These aren’t just hollow words and empty promises. We are extremely proud to be adding to our legacy by being a part of the team that makes this season—and many to come—a memorable one.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Interesting weekend starts the playoffs right
It was an interesting first weekend of playoff football in the Houston area.
Some games went exactly as expected; others were complete surprises. Several teams that were expected to win did so, but got much more of a run for their money than they would’ve liked in the first round. So, who fared best over the weekend? And which team might have raised some questioning eyebrows in the course of moving on?
First of all (since I saw this one first-hand), Klein Collins only elevated their stature as a contender for the Region II/Division 2 crown in my mind. Their 44-7 win over Oak Ridge was a textbook example of the two huge strengths that this team has: a punishing defense and an offense that does not make mistakes to beat themselves.
Before the game, Coach Drew Svoboda refused to single out any one or two players on defense who are THE difference-makers, instead saying that he wouldn’t trade any one of his eleven for any other group of kids. In the aftermath, it was easy to understand why.
The Lamar Redskins and North Shore Mustangs were impressive in victory, not simply because they defeated Eisenhower and Pearland, respectively, but because of the manner in which they thoroughly controlled their games against opponents that were expected to be a little more evenly matched to them.
Last week, we wrote that we expected The Woodlands to be given a big test right out of the gate by Klein Forest. We expected a TWHS win, but a very close game. But, the game was even closer than expected, coming down to missed PAT in overtime by the Golden Eagles, which gave the Highlanders a 32-31 win.
Finally, here’s a short multiple-choice quiz:
At some point in their playoff opener, Cypress Ridge looked like they would [a] blow out Cedar Park by halftime, [b] live through the rest of the school year with the pain of a huge blown lead, [c] win a gritty overtime thriller, or [d] all of the above.
If you can’t figure out the answer, find a box score of the game.
* * * * *
I wanted to rant about this issue last week, but got consumed with playoff predictions instead…
Do you know which Dallas-Fort Worth area venue has hosted the most playoff games to this point? It’s that high school Mecca, Cowboys Stadium in Arlington.
And do you know why they’ve hosted more games than any other venue? It’s because they’ve hosted a Thursday night doubleheader, a Friday night doubleheader and a Saturday quadrupleheader. It'll happen again this weekend too.
If you’re thinking my rant is about the greed of Jerry Jones and the Cowboys, then you’ll be sadly disappointed. I’m a lot like Gordon Gekko in the movie Wall Street: “Greed is good.”
Jones and the Cowboys are in business to make money (as well as pay off the debt they incurred to build that edifice).
My rant is instead directed toward the coaches and administrators of the teams and schools who, for the ‘prestige’ of being able to say they played a game in Cowboys Stadium, are willing to sacrifice their team’s best interest and agree to be a part of a hurry-in, hurry-out format of either two or four games in a single day.
The Thursday night twinbill started at 5:00 PM. The teams in the early game at least get the benefit of a solid hour or more on the field before game time. But parents must choose to sacrifice work time to make it to the game on time, arrive late or not go at all, which seems unlikely.
The parents fare better for a Thursday 8:00 PM start, but then the teams suffer because the pre-game on-field time is cut down due to waiting on the early contest to wrap up.
Undoubtedly, the ticket prices at that venue are higher than other locales. In every game, the game officials will be ‘encouraged’ to run a tightly-timed event. Quarter changes and halftimes will be sliced and diced. And I can envision guys with walkie-talkies out on the field after each game to run off both teams who just finished and run the next contestants onto the field…
Assembly-line playoffs.
Friday night doubleheaders start an hour later, because there is no school on Saturday and you can ‘legitimately’ start a second game at 9:00 PM. But imagine trying to keep a group of restless high school kids focused until that hour.
Then, there are the Saturday marathons: 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM kickoff times.
If I were a coach of a team whose administration was considering being a part of that scenario, I’d take a stand for my team and refuse to play under those terms and conditions. I think, in situations where more than one game at a given site are necessary or expedient, there should be a minimum of five hours in between kickoff times for each game.
If a site can’t or won’t do that, then the coach has the obligation to the best interests of his team to turn down the opportunity to play there—no matter how grand a stage it may be.
(Yes, I know that currently the Alamodome in San Antonio hosts Saturday tripleheaders with four hours in between kickoff times; that’s better, but still pushing the envelope a little, in my estimation.)
I think this is just a North Texas/DFW phenomenon. And this isn't the first year this has happened in that region of the state. The same practice was in place for years at Texas Stadium in Irving.
You haven’t seen those kinds of scenarios here, even back in the day when the Astrodome hosted high school playoffs. Saturday day/night doubleheaders are generally no problem, but four games at one site seem ridiculous.
But apparently certain coaches in North Texas—much like the general population of that area—are more concerned with style over substance and where they are seen rather than how much of a chance to succeed they give themselves.
I guess if you are resigned to the fact that, ultimately, you’re not going to make it through the bracket to play on a major stage at the end of the season, it really isn’t a big deal.
* * * * *
Speaking of North Texas matchups, I feel lonely out on this limb: I’ve picked De Soto to end Dallas Skyline’s season. I’m either the smartest prognosticator in the world…or the dumbest.
I also think Converse Judson will take out Austin Westlake in Region IV this Friday night. That seems to put me in the minority as well, but the Rockets play this game at home (at D.W. Rutledge Stadium) and I think this team is going to play for a while.
Many would say it isn’t wise to trumpet unpopular picks immediately after lampooning others, but I’ve never been accused of being a wise man. Only a wise...well, you know.
Some games went exactly as expected; others were complete surprises. Several teams that were expected to win did so, but got much more of a run for their money than they would’ve liked in the first round. So, who fared best over the weekend? And which team might have raised some questioning eyebrows in the course of moving on?
First of all (since I saw this one first-hand), Klein Collins only elevated their stature as a contender for the Region II/Division 2 crown in my mind. Their 44-7 win over Oak Ridge was a textbook example of the two huge strengths that this team has: a punishing defense and an offense that does not make mistakes to beat themselves.
Before the game, Coach Drew Svoboda refused to single out any one or two players on defense who are THE difference-makers, instead saying that he wouldn’t trade any one of his eleven for any other group of kids. In the aftermath, it was easy to understand why.
The Lamar Redskins and North Shore Mustangs were impressive in victory, not simply because they defeated Eisenhower and Pearland, respectively, but because of the manner in which they thoroughly controlled their games against opponents that were expected to be a little more evenly matched to them.
Last week, we wrote that we expected The Woodlands to be given a big test right out of the gate by Klein Forest. We expected a TWHS win, but a very close game. But, the game was even closer than expected, coming down to missed PAT in overtime by the Golden Eagles, which gave the Highlanders a 32-31 win.
Finally, here’s a short multiple-choice quiz:
At some point in their playoff opener, Cypress Ridge looked like they would [a] blow out Cedar Park by halftime, [b] live through the rest of the school year with the pain of a huge blown lead, [c] win a gritty overtime thriller, or [d] all of the above.
If you can’t figure out the answer, find a box score of the game.
* * * * *
I wanted to rant about this issue last week, but got consumed with playoff predictions instead…
Do you know which Dallas-Fort Worth area venue has hosted the most playoff games to this point? It’s that high school Mecca, Cowboys Stadium in Arlington.
And do you know why they’ve hosted more games than any other venue? It’s because they’ve hosted a Thursday night doubleheader, a Friday night doubleheader and a Saturday quadrupleheader. It'll happen again this weekend too.
If you’re thinking my rant is about the greed of Jerry Jones and the Cowboys, then you’ll be sadly disappointed. I’m a lot like Gordon Gekko in the movie Wall Street: “Greed is good.”
Jones and the Cowboys are in business to make money (as well as pay off the debt they incurred to build that edifice).
My rant is instead directed toward the coaches and administrators of the teams and schools who, for the ‘prestige’ of being able to say they played a game in Cowboys Stadium, are willing to sacrifice their team’s best interest and agree to be a part of a hurry-in, hurry-out format of either two or four games in a single day.
The Thursday night twinbill started at 5:00 PM. The teams in the early game at least get the benefit of a solid hour or more on the field before game time. But parents must choose to sacrifice work time to make it to the game on time, arrive late or not go at all, which seems unlikely.
The parents fare better for a Thursday 8:00 PM start, but then the teams suffer because the pre-game on-field time is cut down due to waiting on the early contest to wrap up.
Undoubtedly, the ticket prices at that venue are higher than other locales. In every game, the game officials will be ‘encouraged’ to run a tightly-timed event. Quarter changes and halftimes will be sliced and diced. And I can envision guys with walkie-talkies out on the field after each game to run off both teams who just finished and run the next contestants onto the field…
Assembly-line playoffs.
Friday night doubleheaders start an hour later, because there is no school on Saturday and you can ‘legitimately’ start a second game at 9:00 PM. But imagine trying to keep a group of restless high school kids focused until that hour.
Then, there are the Saturday marathons: 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM kickoff times.
If I were a coach of a team whose administration was considering being a part of that scenario, I’d take a stand for my team and refuse to play under those terms and conditions. I think, in situations where more than one game at a given site are necessary or expedient, there should be a minimum of five hours in between kickoff times for each game.
If a site can’t or won’t do that, then the coach has the obligation to the best interests of his team to turn down the opportunity to play there—no matter how grand a stage it may be.
(Yes, I know that currently the Alamodome in San Antonio hosts Saturday tripleheaders with four hours in between kickoff times; that’s better, but still pushing the envelope a little, in my estimation.)
I think this is just a North Texas/DFW phenomenon. And this isn't the first year this has happened in that region of the state. The same practice was in place for years at Texas Stadium in Irving.
You haven’t seen those kinds of scenarios here, even back in the day when the Astrodome hosted high school playoffs. Saturday day/night doubleheaders are generally no problem, but four games at one site seem ridiculous.
But apparently certain coaches in North Texas—much like the general population of that area—are more concerned with style over substance and where they are seen rather than how much of a chance to succeed they give themselves.
I guess if you are resigned to the fact that, ultimately, you’re not going to make it through the bracket to play on a major stage at the end of the season, it really isn’t a big deal.
* * * * *
Speaking of North Texas matchups, I feel lonely out on this limb: I’ve picked De Soto to end Dallas Skyline’s season. I’m either the smartest prognosticator in the world…or the dumbest.
I also think Converse Judson will take out Austin Westlake in Region IV this Friday night. That seems to put me in the minority as well, but the Rockets play this game at home (at D.W. Rutledge Stadium) and I think this team is going to play for a while.
Many would say it isn’t wise to trumpet unpopular picks immediately after lampooning others, but I’ve never been accused of being a wise man. Only a wise...well, you know.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Some thoughts on the 5A brackets...
Here are some random observations about the first-round games this week and the playoffs, in general.
* * * * *
When we’ve had the opportunity to see The Woodlands play this season, the one area that has always stood out to both Brett Mills and I was the play of the Highlanders’ defense. They are a hard-hitting bunch with instincts for being around the football at the right times. But in their first-round Class 5A Region II Division 1 matchup this week, they could be tested unlike any they’ve faced so far in 2009.
The Klein Forest Golden Eagles averaged 41 points per game this season and have a tag-team monster in Matt Davis and Cory Idlebird that can wear down a defense.
But, a few weeks back, I had said to several people that if the Highlanders went into Lufkin and defeated the Panthers on their home turf, I’d start really believing in The Woodlands. They did; I do. I think TWHS has the swarming defense to slow down Davis and Company enough to bring the Highlanders a victory. I expect a good, close game—but The Woodlands will move on.
And as for the Cypress Falls Golden Eagles? Will I predict that they’ll knock off the Stony Point Tigers? Sorry, no. If I were picking with my heart, I definitely would. But my head overrides and says that there’s no way the Eagles’ defense can shut down Stony Point. Having said that, if a miracle can be wrought, I’d believe that David Raffield can be the ‘wroughter’.
Ultimately, in 5A Region II Division 1, I believe that the regional final matchup will be The Woodlands-DeSoto, and I believe that the Highlanders will win the region.
In the Class 5A Region III Division 1 bracket, even though it’s early, I believe that the winner of this week’s North Shore-Pearland game has to be considered a solid favorite to make it to the regional final. I know that North Shore uncharacteristically lost the District 21-5A championship to gritty Beaumont West Brook team, but that game should only prove to be a catalyst in Professor David Aymond’s chemistry lab when it comes to coming up with a playoff potion for the Mustangs.
On the other side of the 5A Region III Division 1 bracket, I believe Cinco Ranch and Hightower are on a collision course with each other in the regional semifinal round.
I predict we’ll see a Hightower-North Shore regional final. I like the Hurricanes to make it through.
My prediction for the 5A Division 1 Final Four: Coppell (Region I), The Woodlands (Region II), Hightower (Region III) and Converse Judson (Region IV).
Wouldn’t it be great to see a Woodlands-Hightower 5A D-1 state championship game? Okay…I’ll predict it. Remember, you read it here first!
* * * * *
In Class 5A Region II Division 2, I will again go with the team who has proven to have the best defense: Klein Collins. The Tigers finally allowed a couple of teams more than 20 points in a game for the first time in Drew Svoboda’s tenure. It took Westfield an overtime to manage to score 21 points (the Tigers held them to 14 points in regulation), and Klein Forest scored 21 in the regular-season finale.
Those are two high-octane offenses and neither could generate more than three TDs against Klein Collins. I’m hard-pressed to believe that other (lesser) offenses will fare any better. Klein Collins allowed an average of 11 points per game this season in arguably the toughest district in the state. In the playoffs, if you can hold your opponents to 14 points or less, you can basically write your own ticket through the bracket.
I like the Tigers to make it through their side of the bracket to play Lufkin in the regional final.
Finally, in the Class 5A Region III Division 2 bracket, how can you NOT pencil in the Katy Tigers? I can’t make a firm case for any other team in the bracket to knock off the Big Red Machine. The closest thing to a mystery in my mind, regarding Katy, is whether Allen will make it back to the state championship game for a rematch of last year’s final. (For the record, I personally think Cedar Hill will make it through from Region I.)
My prediction for the 5A Division 2 Final Four: Cedar Hill (Region I), Klein Collins (Region II), Katy (Region III) and San Antonio Reagan (Region IV).
Perhaps because the images of William Cole running all over Cypress Falls in the 2006 state championship game are still indelibly burned into my memory, I’ll predict a Katy-Cedar Hill 5A D-2 final.
Please prove me wrong, Klein Collins!
* * * * *
When we’ve had the opportunity to see The Woodlands play this season, the one area that has always stood out to both Brett Mills and I was the play of the Highlanders’ defense. They are a hard-hitting bunch with instincts for being around the football at the right times. But in their first-round Class 5A Region II Division 1 matchup this week, they could be tested unlike any they’ve faced so far in 2009.
The Klein Forest Golden Eagles averaged 41 points per game this season and have a tag-team monster in Matt Davis and Cory Idlebird that can wear down a defense.
But, a few weeks back, I had said to several people that if the Highlanders went into Lufkin and defeated the Panthers on their home turf, I’d start really believing in The Woodlands. They did; I do. I think TWHS has the swarming defense to slow down Davis and Company enough to bring the Highlanders a victory. I expect a good, close game—but The Woodlands will move on.
And as for the Cypress Falls Golden Eagles? Will I predict that they’ll knock off the Stony Point Tigers? Sorry, no. If I were picking with my heart, I definitely would. But my head overrides and says that there’s no way the Eagles’ defense can shut down Stony Point. Having said that, if a miracle can be wrought, I’d believe that David Raffield can be the ‘wroughter’.
Ultimately, in 5A Region II Division 1, I believe that the regional final matchup will be The Woodlands-DeSoto, and I believe that the Highlanders will win the region.
In the Class 5A Region III Division 1 bracket, even though it’s early, I believe that the winner of this week’s North Shore-Pearland game has to be considered a solid favorite to make it to the regional final. I know that North Shore uncharacteristically lost the District 21-5A championship to gritty Beaumont West Brook team, but that game should only prove to be a catalyst in Professor David Aymond’s chemistry lab when it comes to coming up with a playoff potion for the Mustangs.
On the other side of the 5A Region III Division 1 bracket, I believe Cinco Ranch and Hightower are on a collision course with each other in the regional semifinal round.
I predict we’ll see a Hightower-North Shore regional final. I like the Hurricanes to make it through.
My prediction for the 5A Division 1 Final Four: Coppell (Region I), The Woodlands (Region II), Hightower (Region III) and Converse Judson (Region IV).
Wouldn’t it be great to see a Woodlands-Hightower 5A D-1 state championship game? Okay…I’ll predict it. Remember, you read it here first!
* * * * *
In Class 5A Region II Division 2, I will again go with the team who has proven to have the best defense: Klein Collins. The Tigers finally allowed a couple of teams more than 20 points in a game for the first time in Drew Svoboda’s tenure. It took Westfield an overtime to manage to score 21 points (the Tigers held them to 14 points in regulation), and Klein Forest scored 21 in the regular-season finale.
Those are two high-octane offenses and neither could generate more than three TDs against Klein Collins. I’m hard-pressed to believe that other (lesser) offenses will fare any better. Klein Collins allowed an average of 11 points per game this season in arguably the toughest district in the state. In the playoffs, if you can hold your opponents to 14 points or less, you can basically write your own ticket through the bracket.
I like the Tigers to make it through their side of the bracket to play Lufkin in the regional final.
Finally, in the Class 5A Region III Division 2 bracket, how can you NOT pencil in the Katy Tigers? I can’t make a firm case for any other team in the bracket to knock off the Big Red Machine. The closest thing to a mystery in my mind, regarding Katy, is whether Allen will make it back to the state championship game for a rematch of last year’s final. (For the record, I personally think Cedar Hill will make it through from Region I.)
My prediction for the 5A Division 2 Final Four: Cedar Hill (Region I), Klein Collins (Region II), Katy (Region III) and San Antonio Reagan (Region IV).
Perhaps because the images of William Cole running all over Cypress Falls in the 2006 state championship game are still indelibly burned into my memory, I’ll predict a Katy-Cedar Hill 5A D-2 final.
Please prove me wrong, Klein Collins!
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Must-win teams can't cash in...with one exception
By the time Saturday evening rolled around in Week 10, there were only a handful of teams that took the field who were already playing for their playoff lives. Win-or-go-home time. Sure, there would be several games that would determine seedings or district championships, but only a few meant the right for a team to keep playing beyond this weekend.
Mayde Creek was one of those teams. And they seemed to have the easiest of tasks. The Rams just needed to beat winless Morton Ranch to clinch a playoff spot out of District 17-5A. But, the Mavericks spoiled the party with a 28-21 win and ended Mayde Creek's season.
Across town, at Thorne Stadium, the Humble Wildcats held their playoff fate in their own hands as they took the field against the Nimitz Cougars. The Wildcats had gotten off to a rugged start to the 2009 season before putting things together in District 19-5A play. Nimitz would be finishing off a disappointing season, having been eliminated from the playoff picture seemingly early.
But, the Cougars would also bring a disappointing end to Humble's season as well, pulling out a 33-28 win that allowed Kingwood and Aldine to claim the final two playoff berths from 19-5A thanks to tiebreakers over Humble.
The one team that seemed unlikeliest of all to accomplish the task of winning a game to earn a playoff spot was the Cypress Falls Golden Eagles. Cy Falls needed a win, against district co-leader Cypress Woods, coupled with a loss by Cypress Springs to the other district co-leader, Cypress Creek.
It seemed like an impossible task, a fact that Eagles' head coach David Raffield acknowledged on Saturday night.
"Everybody had us as an underdog in this game," Raffield stated. "But these kids love each other and play for each other."
In the unlikeliest of necessary wins, in the unlikeliest of second-half comebacks, Cy Falls outscored Cy Woods 24-7 in the final two quarters to come away with a 46-43 win and earn District 15-5A's fourth and final playoff spot.
Brice Christian capped the comeback with a 22-yard field goal with 1:55 left on the game clock. After the Cy Falls defense fended off a last minute drive by the Wildcats, the celebration began on the Eagles' sideline.
Trailing at halftime, 36-22, following a barrage of points in the last two minutes of the half by Woods, Raffield admitted his team went into the locker room in a less-than-optomistic mood.
"Their heads were down," said the coach, "but we said, 'We've got 24 minutes left to play. We're going to go out and send the seniors out with their heads held high."
Because of the effort, those seniors will have at least one more week to play before they move on with their lives. Cy Falls plays Round Rock Stony Point, a state-ranked team in almost every statewide poll, on Friday night at Round Rock ISD Stadium.
For Cypress Falls fans, the last weekend of the 2009 season had a similar feel to the final weekend of the 2005 season, Raffield's third as head coach.
That year, Cy Falls had lost in Week 9 to Tomball, 24-21, to all but eliminate themselves from playoff contention. There was a chance, going into the final weekend of play, for the Eagles to make the playoffs, but it would be a slim one and they'd need some help.
Cy Falls needed to beat Magnolia (in a Thursday night contest), and have Jersey Village beat a high-powered Langham Creek team on the last Saturday of the season.
Cy Falls defeated Magnolia, 52-22, and then waited for a couple of days and crossed their fingers hoping Jersey Village could help their cause. And the Falcons did squeak out an 18-16 win over Langham Creek, sending Falls into the playoffs while bumping the Tomball team who had beaten the Eagles a week earlier.
It's a neat story, but it doesn't end there.
After the Golden Eagles made it into the Class 5A playoffs by the skin of their teeth, that same team wound up taking the vaunted Katy Tigers down to the wire in the 5A Region III championship game, losing when Katy made a furious fourth-quarter rally to win 32-28 at Rice Stadium on the first weekend in December that season.
It's my guess that Raffield and Company wouldn't mind seeing 2009 take a similar path to that season. And, because of Saturday's results, they still have that chance.
Mayde Creek was one of those teams. And they seemed to have the easiest of tasks. The Rams just needed to beat winless Morton Ranch to clinch a playoff spot out of District 17-5A. But, the Mavericks spoiled the party with a 28-21 win and ended Mayde Creek's season.
Across town, at Thorne Stadium, the Humble Wildcats held their playoff fate in their own hands as they took the field against the Nimitz Cougars. The Wildcats had gotten off to a rugged start to the 2009 season before putting things together in District 19-5A play. Nimitz would be finishing off a disappointing season, having been eliminated from the playoff picture seemingly early.
But, the Cougars would also bring a disappointing end to Humble's season as well, pulling out a 33-28 win that allowed Kingwood and Aldine to claim the final two playoff berths from 19-5A thanks to tiebreakers over Humble.
The one team that seemed unlikeliest of all to accomplish the task of winning a game to earn a playoff spot was the Cypress Falls Golden Eagles. Cy Falls needed a win, against district co-leader Cypress Woods, coupled with a loss by Cypress Springs to the other district co-leader, Cypress Creek.
It seemed like an impossible task, a fact that Eagles' head coach David Raffield acknowledged on Saturday night.
"Everybody had us as an underdog in this game," Raffield stated. "But these kids love each other and play for each other."
In the unlikeliest of necessary wins, in the unlikeliest of second-half comebacks, Cy Falls outscored Cy Woods 24-7 in the final two quarters to come away with a 46-43 win and earn District 15-5A's fourth and final playoff spot.
Brice Christian capped the comeback with a 22-yard field goal with 1:55 left on the game clock. After the Cy Falls defense fended off a last minute drive by the Wildcats, the celebration began on the Eagles' sideline.
Trailing at halftime, 36-22, following a barrage of points in the last two minutes of the half by Woods, Raffield admitted his team went into the locker room in a less-than-optomistic mood.
"Their heads were down," said the coach, "but we said, 'We've got 24 minutes left to play. We're going to go out and send the seniors out with their heads held high."
Because of the effort, those seniors will have at least one more week to play before they move on with their lives. Cy Falls plays Round Rock Stony Point, a state-ranked team in almost every statewide poll, on Friday night at Round Rock ISD Stadium.
For Cypress Falls fans, the last weekend of the 2009 season had a similar feel to the final weekend of the 2005 season, Raffield's third as head coach.
That year, Cy Falls had lost in Week 9 to Tomball, 24-21, to all but eliminate themselves from playoff contention. There was a chance, going into the final weekend of play, for the Eagles to make the playoffs, but it would be a slim one and they'd need some help.
Cy Falls needed to beat Magnolia (in a Thursday night contest), and have Jersey Village beat a high-powered Langham Creek team on the last Saturday of the season.
Cy Falls defeated Magnolia, 52-22, and then waited for a couple of days and crossed their fingers hoping Jersey Village could help their cause. And the Falcons did squeak out an 18-16 win over Langham Creek, sending Falls into the playoffs while bumping the Tomball team who had beaten the Eagles a week earlier.
It's a neat story, but it doesn't end there.
After the Golden Eagles made it into the Class 5A playoffs by the skin of their teeth, that same team wound up taking the vaunted Katy Tigers down to the wire in the 5A Region III championship game, losing when Katy made a furious fourth-quarter rally to win 32-28 at Rice Stadium on the first weekend in December that season.
It's my guess that Raffield and Company wouldn't mind seeing 2009 take a similar path to that season. And, because of Saturday's results, they still have that chance.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Vote for the Texas high school all-century team
I should've been promoting this several weeks back, but better late than never, right?
Here's where to make your voice heard on who are the greatest Texas high school football players ever. As part of the UIL's Centennial Celebration, they are conducting a poll until November 7 to vote for the Texas High School All-Century Team. You can even write in the name of your favorite sophomore or freshman!
While you're there, just spend a few minutes taking in some of the names--many of whom you'll recognize from NCAA or NFL fame--of those who played their high school football in Texas.
Is this a great state or what??
Here's where to make your voice heard on who are the greatest Texas high school football players ever. As part of the UIL's Centennial Celebration, they are conducting a poll until November 7 to vote for the Texas High School All-Century Team. You can even write in the name of your favorite sophomore or freshman!
While you're there, just spend a few minutes taking in some of the names--many of whom you'll recognize from NCAA or NFL fame--of those who played their high school football in Texas.
Is this a great state or what??
Monday, November 2, 2009
Houston area 5A races: still a lot to be determined in Week 10
First, an update from the weekend you may not have seen: Violent Illness 1, LK 0.
* * * * *
Friday night at George Stadium, the power went out before game time due to a transformer that went down at approximately 5:50 PM near the stadium. After waiting for nearly two hours, we were told by officials of the Spring ISD that the game had been postponed and the schools were working out a mutually-agreeable time to play on Saturday.
We packed up the remote broadcast equipment and headed down the stadium stairs (no electricity equals no elevator), but my partner Brett Mills noticed something that, at the time, seemed mildly amusing: Klein Oak head coach David Smith telling Spring ISD uniformed policemen that the game wasn't called yet.
He relayed the story to me and we laughed, thinking that, "Yeah, it is. They've sent everybody home!"
Turns out Smith was right...and it's probably his insistence that they wait a little longer and (perhaps) his unwillingness to agree upon a Saturday time that allowed the game to be played, and ultimately won by his Klein Oak Panthers.
As I packed the gear into the trunk of my car and got it, my cell phone rang. It was Mills.
"Did you just see that?" he asked. "The stadium lights just came on."
Sure enough, shortly after 8:00 PM, the electricity was restored and, almost immediately, Smith ran his team (still suited up and ready to go) onto the field to warm up.
The exact chain of events that followed are unknown to me, but by 8:40 PM, the game was on and it wound up being a huge win for the Panthers.
* * * * *
Here’s my unofficial look at the districts going into the final week. (Of course, we always go back and review this info to make sure it’s as accurate as possible and we welcome your feedback if you see something we’ve missed.)
District 13-5A
Klein Collins is the district champion and must wait to see who joins them in the playoff picture before knowing whether they will be a D-I or D-II representative. Klein Forest, win or lose, also has enough tiebreakers to know they are in. The rest of the picture is still muddled.
We know with certainty that the loser of the Klein Oak-Dekaney game is out of the picture. But if Collins beats Forest, there could potentially be a four-way tie for three spots. Without dragging out all the details, it appears to come down to this:
• Westfield: win and they’re in
• Dekaney: win and they’re in
• Klein Oak: win and they’re in
• Klein: win AND need Spring to upset Westfield
District 14-5A
The Woodlands, Lufkin and Oak Ridge, thanks to their 24-0 shutout of College Park last week, are in. That leaves the final spot for the winner of the Conroe-College Park matchup this weekend.
District 15-5A
As usual, this district is a mess going into the final week. Six of the eight teams still have possibilities of making the playoffs.
Cy Creek and Cy Woods are in. Cy Ridge is in with a win. Cy Falls is in with a win and a Cy Springs loss. Cy Springs would be in with a win and a Langham Creek loss. There are also a couple of scenarios where Langham Creek gets in.
If Langham Creek, Cy Falls and Cy Springs all lose, they wind up in a three-way tie for fourth place. Those three teams are 1-1 vs the others, so a positive point differential would come into play and Langham would have the advantage.
If Cy Springs loses to Cy Creek, Cy Falls upsets Cy Woods and Langham beats Cy Ridge, then Falls, Ridge and Langham all wind up in a three-way tie for two spots. The third playoff spot would go to Cy Falls, who is 2-0 against Langham and Ridge. Langham would then get the fourth spot by virtue of their head-to-head win over Ridge.
Cy Springs and Cy Falls would appear to have the most difficult roads, each having to play—and defeat—the top two teams in the district, Cy Creek and Cy Woods. But stranger things have happened in the CFISD district in the past.
District 17-5A
Cinco Ranch, Katy and Katy Taylor have all clinched. Nick Georgandis of the Katy Times has broken down the fight for the fourth playoff spot nicely.
District 18-5A
Memorial, Stratford and Elsik are in. Taylor is in with a win over Elsik. Hastings is in with a win AND a Taylor loss. Even with a win, Strake doesn’t hold the tie-breaker in any scenario so they are out. The Alief schools would be the DI reps and the Spring Branch schools would be the DII reps.
District 19-5A
Atascocita and Eisenhower are in. Humble is in with a win and Kingwood is in with a win or losses by either Humble or Aldine. Aldine is in with a win coupled with a win by Humble and loss by Kingwood.
District 20-5A
Whew! An easy one…the four teams are set: Westside, Madison, Lamar and Chavez. Week 10 will help sort out the district positioning, but Westside and Lamar will be the D-I reps and Madison and Chavez will go D-II.
District 21-5A
This has turned out to be an interesting race, with Baytown Sterling being the only team eliminated from playoff contention.
West Brook and North Shore are in, and will play in Beaumont on Friday night for the district championship. Baytown Lee has also clinched a spot. But Channelview's upset of Port Arthur Memorial last Friday means that, if Channelview wins and Port Arthur Memorial loses this week, the Falcons make the unlikeliest of playoff appearances.
Conversely, Memorial needs a win OR a Channelview loss to Baytown Sterling to ensure their playoff berth.
District 22-5A
Pasadena Memorial, Pearland, Deer Park and La Porte will be the playoff reps from this district. Barring any kind of major upsets this weekend, Pearland will be the higher-seeded D-I team and Deer Park the other. Pasadena Memorial will be the higher-seeded D-II team.
District 23-5A
Hightower and Willowridge win their zones, so both will make the playoffs. The Hurricanes will go D-I while the Eagles head for a D-II matchup. Those two teams will face off on Friday for the district championship. Corey Roepken of the Fort Bend Sun lays out the remaining district contests for this week, and the accompanying playoff implications here.
District 24-5A
Joshua Buckley of the Galveston Daily News breaks down the implications of Week 10 in this district. To boil it down, Clear Springs and Brazoswood are both in; Galveston Ball, Dickinson and Clear Creek are all vying for the final two spots.
* * * * *
And in conclusion, how 'bout them Ags?
* * * * *
Friday night at George Stadium, the power went out before game time due to a transformer that went down at approximately 5:50 PM near the stadium. After waiting for nearly two hours, we were told by officials of the Spring ISD that the game had been postponed and the schools were working out a mutually-agreeable time to play on Saturday.
We packed up the remote broadcast equipment and headed down the stadium stairs (no electricity equals no elevator), but my partner Brett Mills noticed something that, at the time, seemed mildly amusing: Klein Oak head coach David Smith telling Spring ISD uniformed policemen that the game wasn't called yet.
He relayed the story to me and we laughed, thinking that, "Yeah, it is. They've sent everybody home!"
Turns out Smith was right...and it's probably his insistence that they wait a little longer and (perhaps) his unwillingness to agree upon a Saturday time that allowed the game to be played, and ultimately won by his Klein Oak Panthers.
As I packed the gear into the trunk of my car and got it, my cell phone rang. It was Mills.
"Did you just see that?" he asked. "The stadium lights just came on."
Sure enough, shortly after 8:00 PM, the electricity was restored and, almost immediately, Smith ran his team (still suited up and ready to go) onto the field to warm up.
The exact chain of events that followed are unknown to me, but by 8:40 PM, the game was on and it wound up being a huge win for the Panthers.
* * * * *
Here’s my unofficial look at the districts going into the final week. (Of course, we always go back and review this info to make sure it’s as accurate as possible and we welcome your feedback if you see something we’ve missed.)
District 13-5A
Klein Collins is the district champion and must wait to see who joins them in the playoff picture before knowing whether they will be a D-I or D-II representative. Klein Forest, win or lose, also has enough tiebreakers to know they are in. The rest of the picture is still muddled.
We know with certainty that the loser of the Klein Oak-Dekaney game is out of the picture. But if Collins beats Forest, there could potentially be a four-way tie for three spots. Without dragging out all the details, it appears to come down to this:
• Westfield: win and they’re in
• Dekaney: win and they’re in
• Klein Oak: win and they’re in
• Klein: win AND need Spring to upset Westfield
District 14-5A
The Woodlands, Lufkin and Oak Ridge, thanks to their 24-0 shutout of College Park last week, are in. That leaves the final spot for the winner of the Conroe-College Park matchup this weekend.
District 15-5A
As usual, this district is a mess going into the final week. Six of the eight teams still have possibilities of making the playoffs.
Cy Creek and Cy Woods are in. Cy Ridge is in with a win. Cy Falls is in with a win and a Cy Springs loss. Cy Springs would be in with a win and a Langham Creek loss. There are also a couple of scenarios where Langham Creek gets in.
If Langham Creek, Cy Falls and Cy Springs all lose, they wind up in a three-way tie for fourth place. Those three teams are 1-1 vs the others, so a positive point differential would come into play and Langham would have the advantage.
If Cy Springs loses to Cy Creek, Cy Falls upsets Cy Woods and Langham beats Cy Ridge, then Falls, Ridge and Langham all wind up in a three-way tie for two spots. The third playoff spot would go to Cy Falls, who is 2-0 against Langham and Ridge. Langham would then get the fourth spot by virtue of their head-to-head win over Ridge.
Cy Springs and Cy Falls would appear to have the most difficult roads, each having to play—and defeat—the top two teams in the district, Cy Creek and Cy Woods. But stranger things have happened in the CFISD district in the past.
District 17-5A
Cinco Ranch, Katy and Katy Taylor have all clinched. Nick Georgandis of the Katy Times has broken down the fight for the fourth playoff spot nicely.
District 18-5A
Memorial, Stratford and Elsik are in. Taylor is in with a win over Elsik. Hastings is in with a win AND a Taylor loss. Even with a win, Strake doesn’t hold the tie-breaker in any scenario so they are out. The Alief schools would be the DI reps and the Spring Branch schools would be the DII reps.
District 19-5A
Atascocita and Eisenhower are in. Humble is in with a win and Kingwood is in with a win or losses by either Humble or Aldine. Aldine is in with a win coupled with a win by Humble and loss by Kingwood.
District 20-5A
Whew! An easy one…the four teams are set: Westside, Madison, Lamar and Chavez. Week 10 will help sort out the district positioning, but Westside and Lamar will be the D-I reps and Madison and Chavez will go D-II.
District 21-5A
This has turned out to be an interesting race, with Baytown Sterling being the only team eliminated from playoff contention.
West Brook and North Shore are in, and will play in Beaumont on Friday night for the district championship. Baytown Lee has also clinched a spot. But Channelview's upset of Port Arthur Memorial last Friday means that, if Channelview wins and Port Arthur Memorial loses this week, the Falcons make the unlikeliest of playoff appearances.
Conversely, Memorial needs a win OR a Channelview loss to Baytown Sterling to ensure their playoff berth.
District 22-5A
Pasadena Memorial, Pearland, Deer Park and La Porte will be the playoff reps from this district. Barring any kind of major upsets this weekend, Pearland will be the higher-seeded D-I team and Deer Park the other. Pasadena Memorial will be the higher-seeded D-II team.
District 23-5A
Hightower and Willowridge win their zones, so both will make the playoffs. The Hurricanes will go D-I while the Eagles head for a D-II matchup. Those two teams will face off on Friday for the district championship. Corey Roepken of the Fort Bend Sun lays out the remaining district contests for this week, and the accompanying playoff implications here.
District 24-5A
Joshua Buckley of the Galveston Daily News breaks down the implications of Week 10 in this district. To boil it down, Clear Springs and Brazoswood are both in; Galveston Ball, Dickinson and Clear Creek are all vying for the final two spots.
* * * * *
And in conclusion, how 'bout them Ags?
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Trying to figure out entertaining 13-5A provides hours of fun!
Now that Week 8’s broadcast is in the rearview mirror, it’s time to focus on next Friday’s game: Klein Oak at Westfield. It’s a District 13-5A contest that will have some important ramifications on the district race…especially if the Panthers can defeat Westfield.
Let’s look at the 13-5A schedule for this week and play a game of ‘What If’:
It would mean that Dekaney, Westfield, Klein and Klein all have 3-3 district records (behind and would be fighting it out in Week 10 for two remaining playoff spots. If Tomball were to pull off a second consecutive upset—over Klein Forest—that would also drop the Golden Eagles to 3-3 and create a five-way tie for three playoff spots!
What if Dekaney defeats Collins on Thursday night (and Klein Forest and Klein win)? The Klein Oak-Westfield matchup is still extremely important, because it would create a three-way tie for the fourth and final playoff seed in the district between Oak, Westfield and Klein.
What makes this game of ‘What If’ in District 13-5A so much fun is that it is not far-fetched to think that the teams at the bottom of the district, Tomball and Spring, could win either or both of their remaining games. What if Spring defeats Klein? What if Tomball beats Klein Forest?
And what if Klein Oak loses to Westfield? They're done, as far as playoff hopes go, but can still play spoiler to Dekaney in Week 10, if Dekaney doesn't beat Collins this week.
On our Friday broadcast, Jeremy Branham asked Brett Mills and I which district we thought was the best this year. For my money, District 13-5A is easily the most entertaining district this season. It's providing me hours of fun even now!
Finally, another interesting note is that Dekaney’s loss to Tomball may take a significant toll on their playoff hopes. Now, with games remaining against Klein Collins and Klein Oak, they will need to at least pick up one win to even have a hope to make the playoffs.
The 13-5A playoff picture will come into focus a little more clearly by the time we wrap it up at George Stadium next Friday night. The question is, will it look anything like we thought it would a couple of weeks ago?
Let’s look at the 13-5A schedule for this week and play a game of ‘What If’:
- Thursday: Klein Collins at Dekaney
- Friday: Tomball at Klein Forest
- Friday: Klein Oak at Westfield
- Saturday: Spring at Klein
It would mean that Dekaney, Westfield, Klein and Klein all have 3-3 district records (behind and would be fighting it out in Week 10 for two remaining playoff spots. If Tomball were to pull off a second consecutive upset—over Klein Forest—that would also drop the Golden Eagles to 3-3 and create a five-way tie for three playoff spots!
What if Dekaney defeats Collins on Thursday night (and Klein Forest and Klein win)? The Klein Oak-Westfield matchup is still extremely important, because it would create a three-way tie for the fourth and final playoff seed in the district between Oak, Westfield and Klein.
What makes this game of ‘What If’ in District 13-5A so much fun is that it is not far-fetched to think that the teams at the bottom of the district, Tomball and Spring, could win either or both of their remaining games. What if Spring defeats Klein? What if Tomball beats Klein Forest?
And what if Klein Oak loses to Westfield? They're done, as far as playoff hopes go, but can still play spoiler to Dekaney in Week 10, if Dekaney doesn't beat Collins this week.
On our Friday broadcast, Jeremy Branham asked Brett Mills and I which district we thought was the best this year. For my money, District 13-5A is easily the most entertaining district this season. It's providing me hours of fun even now!
Finally, another interesting note is that Dekaney’s loss to Tomball may take a significant toll on their playoff hopes. Now, with games remaining against Klein Collins and Klein Oak, they will need to at least pick up one win to even have a hope to make the playoffs.
The 13-5A playoff picture will come into focus a little more clearly by the time we wrap it up at George Stadium next Friday night. The question is, will it look anything like we thought it would a couple of weeks ago?
Friday, October 23, 2009
State's rich tradition is what makes the 'greatest' debate so great
I had seen a poll and story some time back and, when the Trey Williams hysteria broke out a few weeks back, went back to look for it again. It took a couple of weeks, but I’ve found it. Years ago, TexasHSFootball.com posted a poll asking their forum members to vote for the greatest Texas high school running back of all time.
In response, one reader posted a Houston Chronicle story by Mickey Herskowitz, the prolific sportswriter, who made a case for one Kenneth Hall from Sugar Land High in the 1950s. The story intrigued me then—as it still does—because I didn’t really know anything about Hall until I read Herskowitz’s story. And it’s legendary stuff.
According to the record books, Hall rushed for 11,232 yards between 1950 and 1953. No other high school back had ever reached 10,000 when the story was written (a couple have since then, but still not surpassed Hall's totals). And he was apparently the quintessential 1950s All-American boy, too.
According to the story, he once “rushed for 520 yards, scored seven touchdowns and kicked seven extra points. Then, with the game in the second quarter, he came out.”
That’s a movie waiting to be made! In fact, Hall, who is by all accounts alive and well in Fredericksburg, has a nice MySpace page that, among other things, has some clips of a documentary he has commissioned. If you love the history of Texas high school sports, you have to visit the site.
Hall Stadium in the Fort Bend ISD is named after him. There’s an annual award given out to the U.S. Army National Player of the Year named for him too. The statuette that accompanies the award bears the likeness of a youthful Hall, in his number 31 uniform. Some folks remember.
He went to Texas A&M (which, naturally, increases my fondness for him) after his high school days, to play for another legend, Paul ‘Bear’ Bryant. Unfortunately, as all-too-often happens, the high school legend never became a college or pro legend.
Perhaps that contributes to the fact that Ken Hall slips from our consciousness as the greatest running back of all time. But a case can be made that there was never a greater high school running back than Ken Hall of Sugar Land, Texas.
The TxHSF poll also listed a Who’s Who of Texas high school greats, some of whom may also slide from our ever-shrinking consciousness: Billy Sims, Robert Strait, Rodney Thomas, Steve Worster, Earl Campbell, Eric Dickerson, Ced Benson, David Overstreet, Warren McVea, Little Joe Washington, Doak Walker, Adrian Peterson.
I can think of another couple that could be thrown in as well. Others could too. In the thread, someone attempted to make a case for a running back from a Class 2A school—Bangs—that got little media attention. His name was Jacoby Jones. Not the Texans' Jacoby Jones (thanks, Bailey, for keeping me accurate!).
This Friday night, our crew will get another look at Daniel Lasco of The Woodlands, a very good running back who first drew a lot of attention as a freshman two seasons ago. He has the potential to be a great football player, as does Williams at Dekaney. And in Lasco or Williams, we may be seeing the next great Texas high school legend. Williams certainly is having a marvelous season.
But, even if neither of those young men ever achieves legendary status, what a great tradition they have the opportunity to be a part of. And, when it's all said and done, it's the rich tradition of Texas high school football that makes these debates about who is the 'greatest' the great thing that it is.
In response, one reader posted a Houston Chronicle story by Mickey Herskowitz, the prolific sportswriter, who made a case for one Kenneth Hall from Sugar Land High in the 1950s. The story intrigued me then—as it still does—because I didn’t really know anything about Hall until I read Herskowitz’s story. And it’s legendary stuff.
According to the record books, Hall rushed for 11,232 yards between 1950 and 1953. No other high school back had ever reached 10,000 when the story was written (a couple have since then, but still not surpassed Hall's totals). And he was apparently the quintessential 1950s All-American boy, too.
According to the story, he once “rushed for 520 yards, scored seven touchdowns and kicked seven extra points. Then, with the game in the second quarter, he came out.”
That’s a movie waiting to be made! In fact, Hall, who is by all accounts alive and well in Fredericksburg, has a nice MySpace page that, among other things, has some clips of a documentary he has commissioned. If you love the history of Texas high school sports, you have to visit the site.
Hall Stadium in the Fort Bend ISD is named after him. There’s an annual award given out to the U.S. Army National Player of the Year named for him too. The statuette that accompanies the award bears the likeness of a youthful Hall, in his number 31 uniform. Some folks remember.
He went to Texas A&M (which, naturally, increases my fondness for him) after his high school days, to play for another legend, Paul ‘Bear’ Bryant. Unfortunately, as all-too-often happens, the high school legend never became a college or pro legend.
Perhaps that contributes to the fact that Ken Hall slips from our consciousness as the greatest running back of all time. But a case can be made that there was never a greater high school running back than Ken Hall of Sugar Land, Texas.
The TxHSF poll also listed a Who’s Who of Texas high school greats, some of whom may also slide from our ever-shrinking consciousness: Billy Sims, Robert Strait, Rodney Thomas, Steve Worster, Earl Campbell, Eric Dickerson, Ced Benson, David Overstreet, Warren McVea, Little Joe Washington, Doak Walker, Adrian Peterson.
I can think of another couple that could be thrown in as well. Others could too. In the thread, someone attempted to make a case for a running back from a Class 2A school—Bangs—that got little media attention. His name was Jacoby Jones. Not the Texans' Jacoby Jones (thanks, Bailey, for keeping me accurate!).
This Friday night, our crew will get another look at Daniel Lasco of The Woodlands, a very good running back who first drew a lot of attention as a freshman two seasons ago. He has the potential to be a great football player, as does Williams at Dekaney. And in Lasco or Williams, we may be seeing the next great Texas high school legend. Williams certainly is having a marvelous season.
But, even if neither of those young men ever achieves legendary status, what a great tradition they have the opportunity to be a part of. And, when it's all said and done, it's the rich tradition of Texas high school football that makes these debates about who is the 'greatest' the great thing that it is.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
A look ahead...the plots start to thicken...
Following Week 7, the upcoming schedule includes some very important games and entertaining matchups—
DISTRICT 13-5A
Westfield vs. Klein Collins (Thursday): Klein Collins, undefeated on the season (7-0, 4-0), faces a tough test in the Mustangs, who are one game behind Collins in the district at 3-1. If Westfield wins, it likely creates an interesting three-way at the top of 13-5A, which in turn makes the following week’s matchup between Klein Collins and Dekaney a critical game.
Klein Forest vs. Klein (Friday): these two teams are currently tied for fourth place in the district with a 2-2 record. Obviously, the winner of this one claims sole possession and would own the head-to-head tiebreaker, should that come into play down the road when playoff spots are determined.
DISTRICT 15-5A
Cypress Falls vs. Cypress Creek (Friday): Cy Falls got themselves back into the District 15-5A race with their win over Cy Ridge last Saturday; now they have a tough task ahead if they are to stay in that race. Cy Creek is currently in a three-way tie at the top of the district with Cy Springs and Cy Woods.
If—and it’s a BIG ‘if’—the Golden Eagles can defeat Cy Creek, they’d drop the Cougars to 3-2 and raise their own record to 3-2 in district. Plus, Falls would then hold three crucial head-to-head tiebreakers over Cy Creek, Langham Creek and Cy Ridge.
Cypress Springs vs. Langham Creek (Saturday): no team has been a bigger early district-season surprise than 3-1 Cy Springs, but the Panthers were brought back to earth a little bit last week by Cy Woods. Now, observers will be watching to see how that loss affects Cy Springs the rest of the way. Langham has a high-octane offense and is looking to move to 3-2 in the district race.
DISTRICT 19-5A
Aldine vs. Eisenhower (Saturday): this game may be Aldine’s last hope to stay in the playoff race in 19-5A. A loss drops the Mustangs to 1-3 and, coupled with their earlier loss to Humble, puts them at the mercy of other teams. Eisenhower has been winning but they have been having trouble getting the offense into high gear, averaging just over 19 points per game.
DISTRICT 20-5A
Madison vs. Chavez (Saturday): Madison is undefeated in 20-5A play at 2-0, but Chavez is 2-1 (7-1 overall) and has been the one of the highest-scoring team in the area. The Lobos average over 43 points per game, second only to Klein Forest’s 45.6 average.
DISTRICT 21-5A
Port Arthur Memorial vs. Beaumont West Brook (Friday): in ‘North Shore’s district’, no one would’ve predicted that this Golden Triangle matchup would be for the outright district lead. But Memorial’s upset win over North Shore in Week 6 sets up the showdown in Beaumont for first place.
DISTRICT 22-5A
Pasadena Memorial vs. La Porte (Friday): with Memorial’s convincing win over Pearland last week, this game can either practically solidify the Mavericks as the district champion if they win, or throw the race back into a big jumble if La Porte can win. Provided that Pearland defeats South Houston, a Bulldog victory would create a three-way tie for first place. La Porte would own the head-to-head over Memorial, Memorial would own the same over Pearland and the Oilers would have it over La Porte.
DISTRICT 23-5A
Travis vs. Willowridge (Friday): at the outset of the season, this would have seemed an unlikely candidate as an important game in 23-5A Zone B play. But, Willowridge has won their first two Zone B games and Travis, after their loss to Kempner, needs a win to avoid having to fight for an opportunity to just play for a playoff berth in Week 10.
DISTRICT 13-5A
Westfield vs. Klein Collins (Thursday): Klein Collins, undefeated on the season (7-0, 4-0), faces a tough test in the Mustangs, who are one game behind Collins in the district at 3-1. If Westfield wins, it likely creates an interesting three-way at the top of 13-5A, which in turn makes the following week’s matchup between Klein Collins and Dekaney a critical game.
Klein Forest vs. Klein (Friday): these two teams are currently tied for fourth place in the district with a 2-2 record. Obviously, the winner of this one claims sole possession and would own the head-to-head tiebreaker, should that come into play down the road when playoff spots are determined.
DISTRICT 15-5A
Cypress Falls vs. Cypress Creek (Friday): Cy Falls got themselves back into the District 15-5A race with their win over Cy Ridge last Saturday; now they have a tough task ahead if they are to stay in that race. Cy Creek is currently in a three-way tie at the top of the district with Cy Springs and Cy Woods.
If—and it’s a BIG ‘if’—the Golden Eagles can defeat Cy Creek, they’d drop the Cougars to 3-2 and raise their own record to 3-2 in district. Plus, Falls would then hold three crucial head-to-head tiebreakers over Cy Creek, Langham Creek and Cy Ridge.
Cypress Springs vs. Langham Creek (Saturday): no team has been a bigger early district-season surprise than 3-1 Cy Springs, but the Panthers were brought back to earth a little bit last week by Cy Woods. Now, observers will be watching to see how that loss affects Cy Springs the rest of the way. Langham has a high-octane offense and is looking to move to 3-2 in the district race.
DISTRICT 19-5A
Aldine vs. Eisenhower (Saturday): this game may be Aldine’s last hope to stay in the playoff race in 19-5A. A loss drops the Mustangs to 1-3 and, coupled with their earlier loss to Humble, puts them at the mercy of other teams. Eisenhower has been winning but they have been having trouble getting the offense into high gear, averaging just over 19 points per game.
DISTRICT 20-5A
Madison vs. Chavez (Saturday): Madison is undefeated in 20-5A play at 2-0, but Chavez is 2-1 (7-1 overall) and has been the one of the highest-scoring team in the area. The Lobos average over 43 points per game, second only to Klein Forest’s 45.6 average.
DISTRICT 21-5A
Port Arthur Memorial vs. Beaumont West Brook (Friday): in ‘North Shore’s district’, no one would’ve predicted that this Golden Triangle matchup would be for the outright district lead. But Memorial’s upset win over North Shore in Week 6 sets up the showdown in Beaumont for first place.
DISTRICT 22-5A
Pasadena Memorial vs. La Porte (Friday): with Memorial’s convincing win over Pearland last week, this game can either practically solidify the Mavericks as the district champion if they win, or throw the race back into a big jumble if La Porte can win. Provided that Pearland defeats South Houston, a Bulldog victory would create a three-way tie for first place. La Porte would own the head-to-head over Memorial, Memorial would own the same over Pearland and the Oilers would have it over La Porte.
DISTRICT 23-5A
Travis vs. Willowridge (Friday): at the outset of the season, this would have seemed an unlikely candidate as an important game in 23-5A Zone B play. But, Willowridge has won their first two Zone B games and Travis, after their loss to Kempner, needs a win to avoid having to fight for an opportunity to just play for a playoff berth in Week 10.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Week 7 sees things start to heat up
With apologies for the absence of recent posts, I offer the tried-and-true excuse of problems this week with my trusty laptop…
* * * * *
Okay…I know you always ask yourself which high school team is my favorite OUTSIDE the state of Texas. Well, the answer is John Glenn High School in Westland, Michigan. The reason? It’s my wife’s alma mater. The Rockets have a pretty good team this season, and they were aided by this strange ending in their Homecoming game…
* * * * *
The Houston Chronicle’s Week 7 area rankings are out and you can see them here. The 5A Top Five—in order—are The Woodlands, Hightower, Katy, Cinco Ranch and Klein Collins.
* * * * *
Dave Campbell's Texas Football also has their Week 7 statewide rankings posted and three area teams—The Woodlands (3), Katy (7) and Hightower (8) – occupy the Top 10.
* * * * *
The deeper we go into the season, the more interesting things get around the Houston area.
Our Friday night radio crew will be in League City to watch Clear Brook and Clear Lake pound on each other for four quarters. These teams have similar offenses—Clear Brook head coach Phil Lanier is a former Lake assistant—and that means they both like to run the football a lot.
Lake is coming off a game against Alvin in which they didn’t even attempt a pass. 70 plays, 70 rushes. On the season the Falcons have only attempted 32 passes in six games. But that’s three more than Brook has thrown.
Both teams like to run from a modified version of the wishbone, a double-wingback type of formation. Fullback dives and power sweeps—the stuff that old-school football is made of!—should be the order of the evening. For Clear Brook, we expect to call Brandon Ellison’s name quite a bit. In six games, he’s already carried for 711 yards. Sean McCraney, with 590 yards, is the leading rusher for Clear Lake.
Ironically, because these two teams are so synonymous with a running attack, the game very easily could come down to whichever team manages to pass the ball better.
* * * * *
On Saturday night, our crew heads to the Berry Center in Cypress. The Cypress Ridge Rams will take on the Cypress Falls Golden Eagles in what likely will be a crucial game in the Eagles’ season.
After starting their season with an impressive offensive performance, and win, against Bryan, Cy Falls lost four in a row—to Westfield, North Shore, Jersey Village and Cypress Springs—before holding on for a big win over neighborhood rival Langham Creek and their old offensive coordinator Todd Thompson, 29-28. Langham had a last-second 35-yard field goal attempt hit the crossbar in the loss.
So, at 1-2 in District 15-5A, if Cy Falls could pull off another upset, they move right back into the thick of the district’s playoff race. The Rams are coming into the game at 2-1 in district play following a closer-than-expected win over Cy-Fair, 39-36.
We expect to see a lot of offense and I think the team that wins the turnover battle will post the ‘W’.
* * * * *
Our Dot-Com Game of the Week affords us another opportunity to see the area’s top-ranked team, the Woodlands Highlanders, as they host the Oak Ridge War Eagles in a District 14-5A matchup.
The Eagles are coming off a close loss, 22-21, to Conroe in their district opener last week. The Highlanders are still undefeated.
This much we know: The Woodlands’ Daniel Lasco is always impressive. At times this season, the Oak Ridge offense has been extremely impressive. But, the Highlander defense has been surprisingly impressive. If the War Eagles are to come away with an impressive victory, they’ll have to figure out how to negate Lasco and the TWHS defense.
How’s that for a creative use of the word ‘impressive’? Impressive, isn’t it?
* * * * *
Our TAPPS game features Houston St. Thomas and Beaumont Kelly. With St. Pius, who has already defeated both teams, in the driver’s seat for the District 3 championship, these two teams will fight it out for the other automatic playoff bid from the district. They’ll meet for the first of two games this Friday night in Houston.
We also have some great District 20-4A matchups as the Vidor Pirates travel to Port Neches-Groves. The undefeated PN-G Indians (6-0) are currently 3-0 and tied with Beaumont Central for the district lead, but Vidor (5-1, 2-1) is just a game off the pace and will be looking to jumble up the district race. This one should be a big-time battle!
Meanwhile, Beaumont Central (5-1, 3-0) will be looking to avoid an upset at the hands of the Nederland Bulldogs.
* * * * *
Here are some of the best-of-the-rest matchups this week—
Cypress Woods and Cypress Springs meet Friday night at Pridgeon Stadium. Springs (surprisingly?) sit atop the District 15-5A race, but they have some tough matchups still to come, starting with this one against 2-1 Cy Woods.
Spring Branch Memorial will travel to Crump Stadium to take on the Elsik Rams. Both teams are currently 3-0 in District 18-5A and this one will be for outright control of the district. If Memorial wins, they will have already beaten Strake Jesuit, Stratford and Elsik.
Pearland and Pasadena Memorial find themselves tied atop the District 22-5A race and they’ll faceoff against each other on Friday in Pasadena.
Hightower and Elkins will meet to determine who stays undefeated and on top of District 23-5A/Zone A.
* * * * *
Okay…I know you always ask yourself which high school team is my favorite OUTSIDE the state of Texas. Well, the answer is John Glenn High School in Westland, Michigan. The reason? It’s my wife’s alma mater. The Rockets have a pretty good team this season, and they were aided by this strange ending in their Homecoming game…
* * * * *
The Houston Chronicle’s Week 7 area rankings are out and you can see them here. The 5A Top Five—in order—are The Woodlands, Hightower, Katy, Cinco Ranch and Klein Collins.
* * * * *
Dave Campbell's Texas Football also has their Week 7 statewide rankings posted and three area teams—The Woodlands (3), Katy (7) and Hightower (8) – occupy the Top 10.
* * * * *
The deeper we go into the season, the more interesting things get around the Houston area.
Our Friday night radio crew will be in League City to watch Clear Brook and Clear Lake pound on each other for four quarters. These teams have similar offenses—Clear Brook head coach Phil Lanier is a former Lake assistant—and that means they both like to run the football a lot.
Lake is coming off a game against Alvin in which they didn’t even attempt a pass. 70 plays, 70 rushes. On the season the Falcons have only attempted 32 passes in six games. But that’s three more than Brook has thrown.
Both teams like to run from a modified version of the wishbone, a double-wingback type of formation. Fullback dives and power sweeps—the stuff that old-school football is made of!—should be the order of the evening. For Clear Brook, we expect to call Brandon Ellison’s name quite a bit. In six games, he’s already carried for 711 yards. Sean McCraney, with 590 yards, is the leading rusher for Clear Lake.
Ironically, because these two teams are so synonymous with a running attack, the game very easily could come down to whichever team manages to pass the ball better.
* * * * *
On Saturday night, our crew heads to the Berry Center in Cypress. The Cypress Ridge Rams will take on the Cypress Falls Golden Eagles in what likely will be a crucial game in the Eagles’ season.
After starting their season with an impressive offensive performance, and win, against Bryan, Cy Falls lost four in a row—to Westfield, North Shore, Jersey Village and Cypress Springs—before holding on for a big win over neighborhood rival Langham Creek and their old offensive coordinator Todd Thompson, 29-28. Langham had a last-second 35-yard field goal attempt hit the crossbar in the loss.
So, at 1-2 in District 15-5A, if Cy Falls could pull off another upset, they move right back into the thick of the district’s playoff race. The Rams are coming into the game at 2-1 in district play following a closer-than-expected win over Cy-Fair, 39-36.
We expect to see a lot of offense and I think the team that wins the turnover battle will post the ‘W’.
* * * * *
Our Dot-Com Game of the Week affords us another opportunity to see the area’s top-ranked team, the Woodlands Highlanders, as they host the Oak Ridge War Eagles in a District 14-5A matchup.
The Eagles are coming off a close loss, 22-21, to Conroe in their district opener last week. The Highlanders are still undefeated.
This much we know: The Woodlands’ Daniel Lasco is always impressive. At times this season, the Oak Ridge offense has been extremely impressive. But, the Highlander defense has been surprisingly impressive. If the War Eagles are to come away with an impressive victory, they’ll have to figure out how to negate Lasco and the TWHS defense.
How’s that for a creative use of the word ‘impressive’? Impressive, isn’t it?
* * * * *
Our TAPPS game features Houston St. Thomas and Beaumont Kelly. With St. Pius, who has already defeated both teams, in the driver’s seat for the District 3 championship, these two teams will fight it out for the other automatic playoff bid from the district. They’ll meet for the first of two games this Friday night in Houston.
We also have some great District 20-4A matchups as the Vidor Pirates travel to Port Neches-Groves. The undefeated PN-G Indians (6-0) are currently 3-0 and tied with Beaumont Central for the district lead, but Vidor (5-1, 2-1) is just a game off the pace and will be looking to jumble up the district race. This one should be a big-time battle!
Meanwhile, Beaumont Central (5-1, 3-0) will be looking to avoid an upset at the hands of the Nederland Bulldogs.
* * * * *
Here are some of the best-of-the-rest matchups this week—
Cypress Woods and Cypress Springs meet Friday night at Pridgeon Stadium. Springs (surprisingly?) sit atop the District 15-5A race, but they have some tough matchups still to come, starting with this one against 2-1 Cy Woods.
Spring Branch Memorial will travel to Crump Stadium to take on the Elsik Rams. Both teams are currently 3-0 in District 18-5A and this one will be for outright control of the district. If Memorial wins, they will have already beaten Strake Jesuit, Stratford and Elsik.
Pearland and Pasadena Memorial find themselves tied atop the District 22-5A race and they’ll faceoff against each other on Friday in Pasadena.
Hightower and Elkins will meet to determine who stays undefeated and on top of District 23-5A/Zone A.
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