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District 5-3A predictions
August 27, 2008Next stop on the prediction bandwagon brings us to District 5-3A.
Everyone talks about how difficult 2-3A is because of Brownwood, Abilene Wylie, Snyder, Graham, etc., but this district is no patsy, either.
Losing Graham was definitely negated by the arrival of Bridgeport and Decatur. I can see any four teams (Burkburnett and Vernon too) making the playoffs. So here is my projections:
1. Vernon: Until proven otherwise, the Lions are the team to beat. They have a tremendous back in Craig Whiteside, they always have a solid defense and they excel in special teams. It would not surprise me if the 5-3A champ has a blemish in the loss column, but I think the Lions get the nod.
2. Burkburnett: Not much separating the Bulldogs from the Lions. They really got in a last year, and their wishbone offense always creates problems. The Bulldogs may need to throw some if they want the district title, but Coach Dalke seems to be happy with how the passing game is progressing.
3. Bridgeport: I am giving Bridgeport the nod over Decatur because of one player -- quarterback Cameron Green. Bulls did a great job last year making the playoffs, and if the offense can keep firing on all cylinders, then they are in.
4. Decatur: It is difficult to put a traditionally great school like Decatur down this far. The Eagles are not as good as they were a few years ago, but they are always a tough out. Do not be surprised if they are in the mix for the 5-3A title.
5. Iowa Park: It sounds like Coach Ellis went to some new offense, so that may take some transitioning time. Last year, the single wing they installed lasted all of 2 1/2 games, then they reverted to the Wing-T and looked better. But the days of having lots of game-breaking skill players (Swenson, Burgher, etc.) might be gone for now, at least.
6. Hirschi: The only live football action I have seen in the past few days was the Henrietta-Hirschi scrimmage last week. The Huskies need a lot of work on offense, especially on the line. Their guys looked big, but Bearcat defenders dominated up front. That and improving on stopping the run are two areas of concern for Hirschi, which lost its last seven games in 2007.
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