How They Rank:
1 – Floresville
2 – San Antonio Southside*
3 – Uvalde
4 – San Antonio McCollum*
5 – Castroville Medina Valley
6 – Pleasanton
7 – San Antonio Harlandale
Division I playoff teams denoted by (*)
Jeff’s Take:
Much like their brethren from District 28-4A, the teams from District 29-4A will have a very tough time when the postseason rolls around as potential playoff opponents include Port Lavaca Calhoun, Beeville Jones, and Gregory-Portland. Floresville won nine games last season and returns a terrific all around offensive player in running back Daniel Rendon who will spearhead their attack. The Tigers finished 2007 with a 9-2 record and while they might not reach those heights this season, they are still the team to beat. Southside went 5-5 last season and with 14 starters back this looks to be the year that they bust out and make the playoffs. Uvalde has playoff-caliber talent but the Coyotes were just 3-7 last season and they must bounce back mentally. McCollum also had a losing record last season and while I like them for the playoffs this season, next year might be their year as they have some very good talent in the junior class. Medina Valley will be pushing all season long for the fourth spot and if the Panthers can find some playmakers on offense they could get into the postseason. Pleasanton had some success this summer in 7 on 7 but the Eagles will need to compensate from the loss of quarterback Niko Salinas, who led the Eagles to the 3A state semifinals last season.
Team on the Rise: Southside
The Cardinals were 5-5 last season and with the return of 14 starters the should be in the mix for the playoffs, if not the district championship. Running back Alex Lovan had more than 1,200 yards and 11 touchdowns last season and will run behind what looks to be a solid offensive line anchored by Kenneth Southwell. If the defense plays well, the Cardinals will be in the mix for the league title.
Team on the Decline: Pleasanton
Salinas is not the only loss as just seven total starters are back from a team that had developed into one of the top 3A programs in South Texas. The anchor that will have to keep the Eagles together is veteran center Trent Schuchart and linebacker Sonny Trevino, both of whom have plenty of experience.
Best Non-District Game: Week 2, Port Lavaca Calhoun at Floresville
One of the preseason favorites in South Texas hits the road to take on district favorite Floresville. This will be a very good test for the Tigers as Calhoun returns a lot of talent from a 9-3 team in 2007.
Best District Game: Week 9, Uvalde at Floresville
By this time the district race should be almost a done deal and this contest will go a long way in not only deciding playoff berths, but likely the district championship.
PRESEASON PLAYER SUPERLATIVES
District MVP: Daniel Rendon, RB, Floresville
Offensive MVP: Landry Klann, QB, McCollum
Defensive MVP: Art Salinas, DB, Uvalde
Best Passer: Landry Klann, QB, McCollum
Best Runner: Daniel Rendon, Floresville
Best Receiver: Fernando Morales, McCollum
Best Offensive Lineman: Kenneth Southwell, Southside
Best Defensive Lineman: John Barrows, Southside
Best Linebacker: Cody Brown, Southside
Best Defensive Back: Art Salinas, Uvalde
Best Special Teamer: Fabian Navarro, K/P. Southside