A&M Consolidated Tigers

Head coach -- Jim Slaughter (188-101-1 overall; 62-39 at A&M Consolidated)

2008 record -- 6-5 (5-2 in 12-5A)

2008 playoffs -- Division I bi-district: lost to Tyler Lee, 13-3

State playoff appearances (26) -- 1941, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945, 1947, 1948, 1951, 1953, 1958, 1960, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 30 (4 offensive, 4 defensive starters)

Team strengths -- Running backs, tight ends, secondary

Team weakness -- Defensive line, lack of experience at quarterback

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 11 at Austin Westlake - first road game comes in a place that's been trouble for Tigers; District: Sept. 25 at Temple - league opener against Wildcat team looking for revenge after last year; Oct. 30 at Copperas Cove - matchup between the teams most analysts expect to battle for title, another team Consol beat last season.

Notes -- Consol will play four games at Tigerland Stadium, including the first two weeks of the season. The Tigers will have five road games to go with the neutral-site game against Bryan at Kyle Field. ... Much is expected of junior running backs Chris Nutall and Clinton Banks, whose promotions from the JV helped the Tigers recover from an 0-2 start to reach the state playoffs last year. ... Consol can go three-deep at tight end. Along with returners Kyle Doll and Earl Burrell, the Tigers have Patrick Bettiol, who returned to his preferred position after starting at guard last season.

Brenham Cubs

Head coach -- Glen West (142-56-1 overall; 101-33 at Brenham)

2008 record -- 8-5 (5-2 in 18-4A)

2008 playoffs -- Division II bi-district: defeated Manor, 54-20; area: defeated Crosby, 31-24; regional: defeated El Campo, 21-13; quarterfinals: lost to Dayton, 42-21.

State playoff appearances (17) -- 1957, 1958, 1959, 1975, 1983, 1984, 1986, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 22 (7 offensive, 7 defensive starters)

Key players -- WR Terrell Reese (34 receptions, 423 yards, four touchdowns); S Jeremy Hall (54 tackles, four interceptions); QB Ty Schlottmann (88 of 142, 1,010 yards, eight touchdowns); OL John Poehlmann; RB Jacori Jackson. DL Christian McBride, RB Jacori Jackson.

Team strength -- Experience.

Team weakness -- Loss of key contributors.

Key games -- Non-district: Aug. 29 vs. Katy Mayde Creek - showcase game in Alamodome. District: Oct. 2 at Huntsville - Hornets shut out the Cubs last year

Notes -- The Cubs should be capable of making another run in the 4A playoffs. ... Schlottmann earned the starting quarterback job midway through last season and should give Brenham solid play. He will have several weapons on the offense, including receiver Reese, who has committed to sign with Utah. ... Safety Hall has pledged to sign with SMU. ... Poehlmann's older brother Luke plays for the University of Texas.

Madisonville Mustangs

Head coach -- Greg Morgan (73-62 overall; 54-40 at Madisonville)

2008 record -- 3-6 (2-4 in 24-3A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

State playoff appearances (16) -- 1957, 1958, 1959, 1975, 1983, 1984, 1986, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007.

Returning lettermen -- 18 (5 offensive, 8 defensive starters)

Key players -- RB/WR Brock Taylor (4.4 in the 40); QB Dalton McVey (33 of 83, 443 yards, three touchdowns, two interceptions); WR/DB Howard Harris (27.8 average on punt returns, 14.9 kickoffs), WR/DB Ladarian Byrd; DE/OLB Josh Cobbs.

Team strength -- Speedy play-makers in Taylor and Harris.

Team weakness -- Must replace RB Chris Whaley, league leader in rushing and scoring last season.

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 18 vs. Crockett - game with old foe wasn't played last year. District: Oct. 2 vs. Rockdale - district home opener

Notes -- The Mustangs lost most of their scoring power when Whaley left for the University of Texas. Whaley scored 24 of the team's 35 touchdowns last season, when a knee injury sidelined Taylor, who was expected to provide the outside threat to balance the offense. ... Madisonville must shore up its defense, which ranked next-to-last in 24-3A after allowing 390 yards per game.

Franklin Lions

Head coach -- Mike Hedrick (197-135-11 overall; 19-12 at Franklin)

2008 record -- 8-4 (5-0 in 20-2A)

2008 playoffs -- Division II bi-district: defeated Troup, 55-7; area: defeated Hughes Springs, 21-20; regional: lost to Newton, 35-21 (3 OT)

State playoff appearances (21) -- 1951, 1953, 1955, 1961, 1965, 1970, 1972, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1983, 1984, 1986, 1988, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2003, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 18 (5 offensive, 7 defensive starters)

Key players -- QB Jonathon Eiman; FB Scott Sanders; LB Austin Dobbs; DL Dewayne Varvel; RB Randall Rutledge; LB Stephen Knight; PK Hap Campbell; OL Wes Tindle; OL Eric Dobbs; OL Patrick McCullough.

Team strength -- Depth.

Team weakness -- Lack of experience on defense, speed.

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. vs. at Salado - Lions lost big on the road last year; District: Oct. 23 at Hearne - Robertson County showdown

Notes -- The Lions are coming off a good season that ended with a surprising run to the fourth round of the 2A Division II playoffs. A triple overtime loss to Newton prevented Franklin from making it to the state quarterfinals. ... The Lions have a strong nucleus back from that 8-4 team, including four members of the defensive front seven. Dewayne Varvel and Randall Rutledge should team with linebacker Stephen Knight to make Franklin strong against the run. ... Eiman will play a crucial role after switching from tight end to quarterback.

Hearne Eagles

Head coach -- Ralph Lymas (18-15 at Hearne)

2008 record -- 5-5 (3-2 in 20-2A)

2008 playoffs -- Division II bi-district: lost to West Rusk, 24-22

State playoff appearances (14) -- 1936, 1937, 1939, 1952, 1954, 1961, 1982, 1983, 1985, 1988, 2003, 2005, 2006 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 28 (7 offensive, 7 defensive starters)

Key players -- OL/DL Lafrenzo Thomas; LB Sexton Curry; QB Shedrick Taylor; RB Kenneth Jones; WR DeKendrick Jeffrey; DB Demarcus Blue; OL Alexander Flores; FB/LB Jamal Thomas.

Team strength -- Defense, team speed, special teams.

Team weakness -- Depth.

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 4 at New Waverly -- vs. solid playoff team; District: Oct. 16 at Marlin -- the 2008 district game that got away

Notes -- Hearne is seeking its fifth playoff appearance since 2002. Jones ran for 801 yards and 7 TDs last year. Thomas graded out at 90 percent as a blocker. Curry had 95 tackles (10 for losses), 8 for losses, and interception and a fumble recovery.

Centerville Tigers

Head coach -- Kyle Hardee (17-24 overall; 17-24 at Centerville)

2008 record -- 3-7 (2-3 in 21-2A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

State playoff appearances (11) -- 1939, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1969, 1993, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2007.

Returning lettermen -- 10 (3 offensive, 4 defensive starters)

Key players -- FB/DE Clay Hardee; OL/LB Jeremy Hammock; RB/LB Jose Mora; WR/DB Trey Scarbrough; WR/DB Michael Gwodz; RB/DB Seth Mahaffey; OL/DL Chance Breeding; WR/DB Johnny Cloud.

Team strength -- Attitude and more quickness.

Team weakness -- Size and depth.

Key games -- Non-district: Aug. 28 at Grapeland -- a strong opener against a playoff team; Oct. 23 at Buffalo -- rivalry game should be telling in district race.

Notes -- Clay Hardee led the Tigers with 87 tackles. On offense, he ran for 90 yards and two TDS. Hammock contributed 60 tackles and Mora had 36. Despite a one-year absence, Centerville is seeking its sixth playoff season this decade.

Lexington Eagles

Head coach -- Jason Holcomb (69-38 overall; 69-38 at Lexington)

2008 record -- 5-5 (3-3 in 25-2A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

State playoff appearances (11) -- 1964, 1968, 1978, 1997, 1999, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007.

Returning lettermen -- 26 (8 offensive, 7 defensive starters)

Key players -- RB/DB Clint Hutson (971 yards rushing, eight touchdowns, 15 receptions, 278 yards); QBs Josh Murray and Landon Evans (42 of 111, 599 yards, two touchdowns, seven interceptions); K Mason Vecera (four field goals); DT Chase Sunvison; TE/DE Tyler Moerbe; DB Spencer Taylor.

Team strength -- Quickness.

Team weakness -- Experience along the lines.

Key games -- Sept. 18 vs, Rice Consolidated - a test against a recent 2A power; District: Oct. 2 vs. Academy - first meeting with a 25-2A playoff team.

Notes -- The Eagles will move to a new spread offense and need adjust to the change in order to return to the playoffs after missing the postseason last year. ... Hutson and junior Xavier Ward should get plenty of touches out of the backfield as the Eagles try to improve an offense that ranked next-to-last in the district with 243 yards per game last year. ... Lexington should be improved on defense, where the Eagles used six sophomore starters last season. Defensive coaches could have a hard time getting their message to the right players: The projected starting lineup includes Chase Sunvison at tackle, with Chace Sherrill and Chance Sherrill at linebackers.

Iola Bulldogs

Head coach -- Roddy McDougald (1-9 overall; 1-9 at Iola)

2008 record -- 1-9 (1-4 in 22-A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

Returning lettermen -- 30 (7 offensive, 5 defensive starters)

Key players -- WR/DB Trevor Fairbanks; LB Matt Longron; OL/DL Paul Muniz; QB Bryan Bradford; WR Justin Fairbanks; RB Ross Johnson; DB Stephen Williamson; RB Chris Ebers; WR Chris Compian; OL Josh Morashed; LB Justin Willis.

Team strength -- Senior class, good strength.

Team weakness -- Lack of speed.

Key games -- Non-district: vs. St. Joseph - aiming for a strong start; District: Oct. 22 at Riesel - Iola's only 2008 victory

Notes -- Roddy McDougald expects his team to improve in his second season as head coach of the Bulldogs. Iola has more experience than last season, with eight seniors likely to start on offense and nine on defense. ... Sophomore quarterback Bryan Bradford should be more confident in his second season as a starter.

Somerville Yeguas

Head coach -- Larry Cone (5-14 overall; 5-14 at Somerville)

2008 record -- 3-6 (0-5 in 27-A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

State playoff appearances (16) -- 1953, 1954, 1956, 1960, 1961, 1966, 1967, 1970, 1971, 1976, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1990 and 2006.

Returning lettermen -- 17 (8 offensive, 8 defensive starters)

Key players -- QB Cody Holliday (90 of 171, 1,504 yards, 14 touchdowns passing, 1,019 yards, seven touchdowns rushing); LB Tony Negrete (121 tackles); OL/DE David Wiggins; OL John Corona; WR P.J. Pleasant (26 receptions, 443 yards, three touchdowns); DB Matt Corona (101 tackles).

Team strength -- Experience.

Team weakness -- Depth.

Key games -- Non-district: Aug. 28 vs. Leon -- good opener against an improving 2A team; District: Oct. 9 at Ganado -- vs. state semifinalist.

Notes -- The experienced Yeguas should move up the district standings after dropping all five league games last season. Although the Yeguas dropped one level to Class A last year, they wound up in a strong district featuring Shiner and Ganado. ... Negrete made first-team all-state at linebacker last season despite playing most of the year with a cast on his broken hand.

St. Joseph Eagles

Head coach -- Blake Evans (first season)

2008 record -- 6-6 (1-2 in TAPPS Division III District 3)

2008 playoffs -- Division III bi-district: defeated Cypress Community, 50-33; regional: lost to Lubbock Christian, 56-28.

Returning lettermen -- 6 (5 offensive, 5 defensive starters)

Key players -- WR/K Chad Peevey (56 receptions for 897 yards and 12 touchdowns, 38.4 yard punt average, 35 tackles); QB Alex Castilleja (126 of 242, 1,945 yards, 25 touchdowns passing, 82 rushes for 367 yards and 10 touchdown); RB/LB Jazz Alejandro (78 tackles).

Team strength -- Play-makers on offense.

Team weakness -- Depth on both lines.

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 18 vs. Brazos Christian - Crosstown Showdown (private school edition); District: Oct 30 at Waco Reicher - vs. defending state champs

Notes -- The Eagles have a new coach, with Evans taking over after Randy Hollas left for The Woodlands Christian. Evans was a quality control assistant at Rice last year. Before that, he spent four years as an assistant coach at Lufkin. ... Part of the coaching changes was a switch in offenses, with St. Joseph going from the I formation to the spread with four receivers.

Brazos Christian Eagles

Head coach -- Boyd Brigman (36-37 overall; 36-37 at Brazos Christian)

2008 record -- 5-4 (3-2 in TAPPS Division IV District 3)

2008 playoffs -- Division IV bi-district: lost to The Woodlands Christian, 24-21

Returning lettermen -- 31 (7 offensive, 6 defensive starters)

Key players -- OL/DL Jordan Lightfoot; RS/WR/DB Daniel Ordonez; LB/OL Austin Elms; RB/LB Mark Norman; QB Cole Brigman; OL Ethan Mitchell; LB John Gustafson; DT Marcus Ford; C Aaron Mitchell.

Team strengths -- Experience, defense.

Team weakness -- Replacing career rushing leader, tight end and two offensive linemen.

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 18 at. St. Joseph -- Crosstown Showdown (private school edition); District: Oct. 9 vs. Hallettsville Sacred Heart -- hosting the defending district winners

Notes -- Coach Brigman ranks lineman Lightfoot, receiver/running back Ordonez and linebacker Elms as seniors who could draw interest from small-college recruiters. Norman, a junior, also is considered a prospecy. ... The Eagles must replace Chad Milburn, the leading rushing in school history with more than 4,000 yards in his career. ... Most of the Brazos Christian players will join coaches on a faith-based trip Friday, when they travel to Houston for a program called Men at the Cross.

Allen Academy Rams

Head coach -- Eddie Luna (6-15 overall; 6-15 at Allen Academy)

2008 record -- 5-5 (1-1 in TAPPS 6-man Division I District 5)

2008 playoffs -- Division I bi-district: lost to Kerrville Our Lady of the Hills, 57-24

Returning lettermen -- 10 (4 offensive, 5 defensive starters)

Key players -- RB/S Gary Flemings (1,300 yards rushing, second-team all-state at safety); QB/LB Anthony Vento (three-year starter at quarterback); OL Cade Walton; TE Sam Hickson; DE Preston Bryant; DB Caleb Clanton; DB Matt Schieffer.

Team strength -- Experience from strong senior class.

Team weakness -- Lack of speed

Key games -- Non-district: Oct. 2 at Brenham Christian - vs. Division II semifinalists. District: Oct. 29 at Tomball Rosehill - district opener and possible playoff-deciding game.

Notes -- In Allen's second season since returning to 6-man, coach Eddie Luna expects the Ram to challenge for the top spot in district. ... Flemings should put up big rushing numbers in his second season paired with Vento in the offensive backfield. ... Clanton made second-team all-state at cornerback last season. ... Luna will allow Vento to play on defensive for the first time this season. The 155-pound senior played nose guard and linebacker in Allen's opening scrimmage.

Brenham Christian Eagles

Head coach -- Matt Tarbutton (first year as coach)

2008 record -- 11-1 (2-0 in TAPPS 6-man Division II District 4)

2008 playoffs -- Division II bi-district: defeated Wichita (Falls) Christian, 67-0; regional: defeated Dallas Tyler Street, 44-29; semifinals: lost to Fredericksburg Heritage, 48-28

Returning lettermen -- 8 (5 offensive, 6 defensive starters)

Key players -- LB/WB Roy Dawson; QB/LB Travis Cole; DB Vitaly Clee; CB/LB Lonnie Armstrong; C/NG Dylan Cole; PK Azmat Pate; DT Drew Anderson.

Team strength -- Running game, defense.

Team weakness -- Passing attack.

Key games -- Non-district: Oct. 18 at Temple Central Texas Christian -- vs. Division I semifinalist; District: Oct. 30 vs. Bellville Faith -- closing district contest.

Notes -- New head coach Matt Tarbutton is a former Brenham Christian player. He replaced Dan Headley. ... Including kickers, the Eagles return 10 starters from the team that reached the state semifinals last season. ... The versatile Dawson will be the leader of the defense and a key contributor on offense. He could line up in several positions on offense, primarily at running back and wingback. Coach Tarbutton rates Dawson as a strong candidate for all-state honors. ... Although Clee is only 5-foot-6 and 140 pounds, he made first-team all-state at cornerback last season. Texas Football magazine picked Clee as the preseason defensive player of the year in TAPPS 6-man Division II.

Bryan Vikings

Head coach -- Bob Bellard (116-91-1 overall; 17-14 at Bryan)

2008 record -- 4-5 (2-5 in 12-5A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

State playoff appearances (14) -- 1973, 1974, 1982, 1984, 1986, 1987, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2004, 2006 and 2007.

Returning lettermen -- 12 (4 offensive, 3 defensive starters)

Team strength -- Secondary, talent at skill positions

Team weakness -- Inexperience on defensive line

Key games -- Non-district: Sep. 4 vs. Leander -- a chance to establish a much-needed home field advantage. District: Oct. 23 vs Temple -- it's become the make-or-break game.

Notes -- The Vikings' offensive total of 314.1 yards per game was last in the 12-5A in 2008. Bryan was second in the district in team defense, behind Copperas Cove. The Vikings allowed 288.1 yards per contest. Bryan finished minus 12 in turnover ratio, intercepting four passes and recovering two fumbles. They lost 11 fumbles and 7 interceptions. The Vikings' 4-5 record was the school's first losing season since going 4-6 in 2005.

Rudder Rangers

Head coach -- C.M. Pier (0-8 overall; 0-8 at Rudder)

2008 record -- 0-8 (0-6 in 24-3A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

State playoff appearances -- None

Returning lettermen -- 50 (11 offensive, 11 defensive starters)

Team strength -- More maturity and experience

Team weakness -- No seniors yet; still seeking first win

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 11 vs. Brookshire Royal -- home opener in a game that was canceled in 2008; District: Oct. 16 vs. Taylor -- Ducks' only district win last year was against Rudder.

Notes -- Rudder was one of 10 teams in Class 3A that finished winless in 2008. The Rangers' eight opponents had a combined record of 55-36, and five were playoff teams. The Rangers averaged 199 yards of offense per game (100 rushing, 99 passing). Rudder's opponents picked up 506 yards of offense (416 rushing, 90 passing). Opponents averaged 36 points per game on rushing touchdowns. Rudder's defense had two interceptions and recovered 11 fumbles.

Cameron Yoemen

Head coach -- Rick Rhoades (42-21 overall; first year at Cameron)

2008 record -- 6-3 (4-2 in 24-3A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

State playoff appearances (37) -- 1934, 1936, 1946, 1947, 1948, 1951, 1955, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1974, 1975, 1978, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007.

Returning lettermen -- 25 (5 offensive, 6 defensive starters)

Key players -- QB Steven Townsend (5-11, 180, Sr.); RB James Wells (5-5, 160, Sr.); DT Matthaus Lopez (5-5, 275, Sr.); SE Brandon Freeman (5-11, 160, Sr.); DE Terrell Williams (5-10, 200, Sr.); LB Quin May (5-11, 203, Sr.); SB Tommy Anderson (5-9, 160, Sr.); DE Dantonae Holt (5-11, 245, Jr.); LB Trevion Sims (5-8, 165, Jr.)

Team strength -- Offensive skill players and defensive front

Team weakness -- Offensive line

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 4 at Gatesville -- road trip to face improved Hornets. District: Sept 25 at Rockdale -- Battle of the Bell.

Notes -- The Yoemen had an outstanding trio of offensive players in Townsend, Wells and Freeman. Townsend hit 102 of 176 passes for 1,671 yards with 21 TDs and 5 interceptions. Freeman caught 32 passes for 590 yards and 6 TDs. He has ran 130 times for 810 yards and 8 TDs. In seven games played, Wells carried 88 times for 871 yards and 7 TDs and caught 16 passes for 484 yards and 7 TDs. Lopez, a three-year starter, had 44 tackles, including 12 for losses. Sims had three interceptions.

Navasota Rattlers

Head coach -- Lee Fedora (83-44-1 overall; 25-19 at Navasota)

2008 record -- 10-1 (6-0 in 24-3A)

2008 playoffs -- Division I regional: defeated Silsbee, 48-33; quarterfinals: lost to Waco La Vega, 34-28 (OT)

State playoff appearances (26) -- 1936, 1940, 1941, 1943, 1948, 1955, 1956, 1974, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 20 (7 offensive, 7 defensive starters)

Key players -- QB-S Kye Hildreth (6-1, 170, Sr.); RB-LB Kesnick Jones (5-10, 185, Jr.); RB Antoin Burrell (5-8, 165, Jr.); RB Tyler Gessner (5-9, 175, Sr.); SE Kolby Castillo (5-6, 140, Sr.); T Gabe Hernandez (6-1, 235, Sr.); G Dewan Davis (5-10, 270, Sr.); Scott Mcduffie (5-11, 280, Sr.); G Jarvis Harrison (6-4, 300, Sr.); Aleon Calhoun (6-6, 320, Sr.); DE Deondre King (6-0, 225, Sr.); DT Cheyenne Hall (5-9, 200, Sr.); DT Jamarcus Hester (5-8, 217, Sr.); CB-E K.J. Nelms (6-0, 175, Jr.)

Team strength -- Offensive line and defensive speed

Team weakness -- Experience at wide receiver and kicker

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 18 at Bellville - the great game that wasn't played last season; District: Oct. 9 at Caldwell - huge first test in defending district title

Notes -- Offensive linemen Calhoun and Harrison are Division I-caliber players in an offensive line that returns intact and averages weighs 1,405 pounds (281 average). LB Jones had 121 tackles (60 solos) with 15 tackles for losses to lead an experienced defense. King had 97 tackles including 22 for losses. The Rattlers will be bolstered by additions from a JV team that was 9-0-1.

Rockdale Tigers

Head coach -- Jeff Miller (50-39 overall; 15-18 at Rockdale)

2008 record -- 9-3 (4-2 in 24-3A)

2008 playoffs -- Division II area: defeated Cleveland, 17-8; regional: lost to Carthage, 55-28

State playoff appearances (17) -- 1958, 1962, 1963, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 24 (6 offensive, 9 defensive starters)

Key players -- DT Logan David (6-4, 300, Sr.); QB Joe Sanders (6-1, 180, Sr.); LB Justin Elliott (6-1, 190, Sr.); T Dillan Schnerr (6-3, 260, Jr.); RB Greg Chelf (5-9, 180, Sr.); DB-WR Tyler Wright (6-3, 170, Jr.)

Team strength -- Recent success, defensive experience

Team weakness -- Replacing quarterback and middle linebacker, speed

Key games -- Non-district: Aug 28 at Llano -- opener could be the toughest non-district game; District: Sept 25 vs. Cameron -- Battle of the Bell.

Notes -- Sanders, an outstanding receiver, slides back to the quarterback position he shared as a sophomore. His junior year, Sanders caught 44 passes for 786 yards and 10 TDs. David had 86 tackles from an interior defensive line position. Chelf rushed for 692 yards and 9 TDs. Elliott had 92 tackles at outside linebacker.

Caldwell Hornets

Head coach -- Dale Williams (29-32 overall; 23-17 at Caldwell)

2008 record -- 6-4 (4-2 in 24-3A)

2008 playoffs -- Division II area: lost to West Orange-Stark, 37-7

State playoff appearances (15) -- 1924, 1928, 1930, 1931, 1932, 1935, 1939, 1971, 1980, 1984, 1994, 1999, 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 17 (5 offensive, 5 defensive starters)

Key players - RB Nelson Scott, RB Kysan Woolverton, DL Logan Pharis, OL Trent Meckel, LB Ryan Surovik, LB Josh Courtney, OL Zach Kelly, LB Cody Spittler.

Team strength -- Running backs

Team weakness -- Replacing lost leadership in offensive line and defensive backfield

Key games -- Non-district: Aug. 28 vs. Bellville -- early measuring stick. District: Oct. 9 vs. Navasota -- lost by one to district winners last year.

Notes -- The slot-T offense, which has had success throught the state, is Caldwell's staple and the Hornets have a pair of 1,000-yard rushers retuning. Woolverton carried 173 times for 1,354 yards and 12 TDs, but speedy Scott had a better per-carry avarge with his 1,105 rushing yards. Meckel, a two-time all-district player, had 21 cut blocks and 23 pancakes.

Leon Cougars

Head coach -- Keith Sitton (9-21 overall; 9-21 at Leon)

2008 record -- 1-9 (0-5 in 20-2A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

State playoff appearances (9) -- 1982, 1983, 1985, 1987, 1992, 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2005.

Returning lettermen -- 16 (9 offensive, 8 defensive starters)

Key players -- FB-LB Seth Noey (5-10, 190, Sr.); T-DE Cason McCune (5-11, 235, Jr.); T-DE Chad Garner (6-2, 230, Sr.); WB-LB Steven Jones (5-10, 185, Sr.); TB-LB Chris Vasquez (5-9, 170, Sr.); G Jake Lowry (200, Sr.); CB Jay Hays (5-8, 140, Jr.); SE-LB Trevor Tadlock (6-0, 150, Jr.); TE- Justin Padgett (175, Jr.); C Garrett Robinson (200, Jr.); DT Bryan Diaz (180, Soph.)

Team strength -- Experience

Team weakness -- Depth: several two-way players

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 4 at Kerens -- a great rivalry with the well-respected Bobcats; District: Oct. 23 vs. Teague -- a big game if Leon has playoff hopes

Notes -- Noey was a two-way starter who made first-team all-district in the offensive backfield. McCune is a standout two-way starter in a district with more than its share of excellent linemen. The Cougars have just three wins over the last two years, but have played with a young team. A good core of seniors and a strong junior class could turn things around. Most of those juniors saw ample playing time last season.

Normangee Panthers

Head coach -- Brian Mullinnix (31-13 overall; 31-13 at Normangee)

2008 record -- 8-5 (3-2 in 22-A)

2008 playoffs -- Division II bi-district: defeated Itasca, 22-14; area: defeated Evadale, 32-6; regional: lost to Maud, 42-22

State playoff appearances (14) -- 1932, 1963, 1964, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1997, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 9 (4 offensive, 4 defensive starters)

Key players -- DE-SB Cody Wolfe (6-0, 170, Jr); DT Luke Sams (6-4, 210, Jr.) QB-S Dominique Barton (6-1, 170, Soph.); S-WR Whitley Reed (6-0, 175, Sr.); SE J.R. Shaw (5-7, 140, Sr.); CB-SB - Kolton Reyes (5-9, 165, Sr.); LB-RB Colin Reed (5-10, 170, Soph); G-DT Josh Graham (6-2, 215, Sr.); T-DL Jimmy Smith (5-10, 235, Sr.); T-DE Eric Walker (6-1, 185, Sr.); C Trey Watkins (6-0, 230, Sr.)

Team strength -- Offensive line

Team weakness -- Loss of skill players

Key games -- Non-district: Aug. 28 -- break-in game for many new starters; District: Oct. 16 vs. Bremond -- rival in town for homecoming

Notes -- A strong group of seniors, which kept Normangee at a high level of play, has graduated. Sophomore QB Barton highlights the Panthers' potential. The new backfield will benefit from a solid unit in the offensive line. Returning Associated Press all-state defensive back Whitley Reed, who also played wide receiver and kicker, was severely injury on August 13 in an electrocution accident that killed his brother.

Calvert Trojans

Head coach -- Coylin Grimes (98-12 overall; 98-12 at Calvert)

2008 record -- 9-1 (3-0 in 16-A 6-man Division I)

2008 playoffs -- Division I regional: defeated Milford, 56-8; quarterfinals: lost to Abbott, 38-28

State playoff appearances (24) -- 11-man (14): 1923, 1938, 1946, 1947, 1949, 1952, 1958, 1967, 1968, 1970, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1994; 6-man (10) - 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 10 (1 offensive, 0 defensive starters)

Key players -- QB Jamarcus Ashley (5-10, Jr.); E Andre Ross (6-2, Jr.); S-RB D'vincent Williams (5-9, Jr.); C Deshun Pleasant (5-10, Sr.).

Team strength -- Veteran quarterback

Team weakness -- Lack of experience overall

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 25 at Trinidad - quality opponent on the road; District: Nov. 6 at Lometa - 2008's other playoff team

Notes -- Calvert's returning players will grow if end Andre Ross can return from a torn ACL. Ashley hit 58 of 108 passes for 1,280 yards and 14 TDs his sophomore season. D'vincent Williams has been impressive in workouts this summer and will likely be a major contributor at running back and wide receiver. Williams was second-team all-district as a special teams player. Pleasant was also on that team. The Trojans graduated three first-team all-state players and face one of their largest rebuilding jobs since moving to six-man in 1998. Three other projected starters transferred to larger schools.

Bremond Tigers

Head coach - Jerry "Slugger" Hamrick (111-109 overall; 100-40 at Bremond)

2008 record -- 11-2 (4-1 in 22-A)

2008 playoffs -- Division II bi-district: defeated Dawson, 55-8; area: defeated West Hardin, 49-8; regional: lost to Cayuga, 35-32

State playoff appearances (22) -- 1951, 1955, 1957, 1962, 1963, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1990, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 11 (5 offensive, 6 defensive starters)

Key players -- LB-RB Justin Williams (5-9, 165, Sr.); LB-RB D.Ray Morgan (5-11, 185, Sr.); DB Jacob White (5-8, 155, Soph.); QB Johnathon White (Jr.); DE Jeffrey Drymalla (Jr.).

Team strength -- Linebackers, recent success

Team weakness -- Inexperienced skill positions, offense

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 25 at Chilton -- former district foe should be good again; District: Oct. 9 at Lovelady -- vs. team with most experience.

Notes -- Williams (166 tackles) and Morgan (133 tackles) are a pair of outstanding linebackers, who will also share carries in the backfield. Morgan ran for 268 yards. Johnathon Johnson takes over at quarterback. The move might mean less spread offense for the Tigers. He is the state champion in the 800 meters and had two interceptions and 76 tackles defensively last season.

Milano Eagles

Head coach -- Craig Jentsch (first-year head coach overall; first-year head coach at Milano)

2008 record -- 4-6 (0-5 in 26-A)

2008 playoffs -- Did not qualify

Returning lettermen -- 17 (6 offensive, 4 defensive starters)

Key players -- QB/LB Matthew Jentsch; RB/DB Thomas Sanders; OL/DL Christian Serna; TE/DE Michael Griffin.

Team strength -- Skill positions

Team weakness -- Number of players

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 4 at DeLeon -- coming off a 10-1 season; District: Oct. 9 at Granger -- need a breakthrough in opener.

Notes -- Injuries are the big fear here, as the team is talented but not deep. Jentsch and Sanders form a potent backfield tandem. Both can play quarterback, which will help confuse defenses even more in the newly-implemented spread offense.

Burton Panthers

Head coach -- Clinton Smith (8-3 overall; 8-3 at Burton)

2008 record -- 8-3 (4-1 in 27-A)

2008 playoffs -- Division II area: defeated Bosqueville, 41-27; regional: lost to Falls City, 35-19

State playoff appearances (3) -- 1992, 1995 and 2008.

Returning lettermen -- 17 (7 offensive, 1 defensive starters)

Key players -- RB Montrell Crenshaw; LB Michael Moore; WR Xavier Bethany.

Team strength -- Experience in offensive system

Team weakness -- Offensive and defensive lines

Key games -- Non-district: Sept. 3 vs. Austin Hyde Park -- only 2008 non-district loss; District: Oct. 23 at Ganado -- state semfinalist handed Panthers their only district loss

Notes -- The Panthers may have lost senior tackle Jon Hodde to Rice University, but they won't miss much in the running game. A talented pair of junior RBs in Montrell Crenshaw and Gabriel Patterson will key the option attack, led by senior QB Bobby Mathis. Senior LB Michael Moore anchors the other side of the ball as the only returning defensive starter.