District predictions HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW DISTRICT 23-5A
Five storylines to watch
New competition: Though Manvel is coming off a trip to the Class 6A Division II state quarterfinals, the Mavericks’ journey to that long-awaited state title could be just as challenging in 5A with a schedule of new district foes.
Starting anew: Texas City has earned four straight playoff berths and is looking for its fifth, but first, the Stingarees will have to battle through having only three returning starters on defense. The chemistry of the defensive line will be key to extending the streak.
New rivalries brewing: Manvel and Fort Bend Elkins are arguably the top two teams in the newly aligned district, offering tons of talent and football pride, but they have never played each other before.
Luck of the draw: Fort Bend Marshall has immense experience and talent on its roster, including one of the nation’s top junior linemen, OL Barton Clement. But will the realignment make it impossible for the Buffalos to conquer such a competitive district?
Brotherly love: According to coach Kirk Martin, the brotherly love between Manvel’s WR Michael Tolds and DB Ce’ctori Tolds is one to watch. The two know how to push each other when it comes to speed and power, and they’ll surely bring a healthy dose of competition along for the ride.
Players to watch
DB Derrick Tucker, Manvel: The senior, who has committed to A&M after getting offers since his freshman year, had 49 tackles and four interceptions last season, and is looking only to improve. OL Luke Matthews, Elkins: Son of Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews and recent A&M commit is ranked as the No. 9 offensive tackle in the country and No. 4 in the state within the 2018 graduating class. RB Deonte Hunt, Ball: The junior Golden Tor is expected to have an incredible season, though he had only 42 carries last year. Considering the newly adjusted roster, Hunt will have a lot of room for more touches and plays. OL Barton Clement, Marshall: Clement is one of the nation’s top junior linemen of his class and offers the exactly stability this team needs. After losing a huge chunk of last season’s roster to graduation, Clement has the ability to offer some great padding to whomever the Buffalos choose as their quarterback.
Must-see games
Manvel at Elkins, Oct. 14: The winner will have a huge leg up for the district title. Texas City at Manvel, Oct. 21: These two powerhouses will finally meet again after a previous realignment broke apart the rivalry. Ball at Angleton, Aug. 26: This non-district game will be a good indication if Ball is capable of ending a seven-year run of not making the playoffs. 1. Manvel; 2. Elkins; 3. Texas City; 4. Ball; 5. Marshall 6. Willowridge; 7. Galena Park; 8. Santa Fe.