Panthers out for playoff revenge in ‘07

The Lufkin Panthers absolutely dominated their non-district schedule. The only game that was remotely close was a 24-14 Panther win at Evangel Christian and the next closest was a 44-27 thumping of rival Longview. Lufkin then proceeded to outscore their district opponents 232-43 on their way to an impressive 10-0 record on the regular season.

Panthers out for playoff revenge in ‘07

Once again, Lufkin continued their pure domination as they beat Klein in the first round 74-22. Using one of the biggest upsets in playoff history the Round Rock Dragons managed to be an unstoppable force that day in the second round and posted a 38-25 victory over a Lufkin team that had their sights set on another state championship. Head Coach John Outlaw’s Panthers will once again top the state rankings this season although losing some of the best players out of the area in QB Jeremy Claybon to SFA, LB A.J. Penson to North Texas, and WR Dez Bryant to Oklahoma St.

Although the offense only returns 4 starters from last season, they are all returning All-District players. The receiving core will definitely be hurt by the loss of Bryant, but SR WR James Davis and SR WR Eric Johnson were still both All-District last season and should put up some very good numbers. The running game will not be lacking at all as JR RB Tre’Von Lewis takes over the role completely after splitting time last season as a sophomore. The quarterback position is one that Coach Outlaw realizes will not be as strong but still has great potential JR QB Jeffery Claybon (little brother of Jeremy Claybon) has the tradition on his side and will battle with SR QB Jeremy Nobles for the starting nod. Lewis along with the QB will definitely benefit from one of the better offensive lines Lufkin has had. SR OL Josh Emshoff leads the group that also includes SR OL Jacolby Ashworth, SR OL Robert Inman, and SR OL William Calhoun.

Like the offensive line the Lufkin defensive line will be a strong point of the team. JR DT Jamarcus McFarland is dominating and will require double teaming all season long. SR DT Montavus Mott, SR DL Terrance Ivey, and SR DE Demarkus Conway will be alongside to assist. The linebackers will be another spot like quarterback that will need people to step up and play the level of football that everybody is accustomed to now at Lufkin. JR LB Hunter Byler will be the leader of that LB group. The defensive backfield is usually not a problem because of the pure athletic ability that walks in the doors every year at Lufkin. This season will be no different as they will be held together by SR DB Darius Terry.

Although the top names will not be on the roster this season if anybody should overlook the Lufkin Panthers they will be in for quite a shock. Lufkin will play their big time west Texas rival the Longview Lobos twice this season in a rare home and away series. If they can manage them again like last season the Panthers should be 10-0 again heading into the playoffs and this time they will not be overlooking anybody!