The Texas High Tigers (11-0) take on the (11-1) Texas City Stingrays in Lufkin at 7:30 p.m. Friday. The last time the Tigers were in Lufkin they upset the No. 5 ranked Lufkin Panthers.
The team’s focus is all about getting past Texas City and heading on to the third round. The Tigers are coming off a 42-14 home victory against the Fulshear Chargers. That was the last home game for the Tigers this season. Senior running back Braylon Stewart looks to build off the monster performance he had against Fulshear, where he had 27 carries 311 yards and four touchdowns.
It will be interesting to see if the Tigers stick with the running game or use last game’s success to open up the passing attack. The offense has done pretty well this season considering they had to replace four out of five offensive lineman and only one returning wide receiver. Senior Quarterback Brayson McHenry is still the captain of this offense and looks to keep leading them past Texas City.
The second round has been a big hurdle for the Tigers in past seasons. This year’s Tigers are in the same place as last year before the team ran into a red hot Crosby team that made a state championship run. This year’s team feels much more prepared.
Texas City looks to get in rhythm using the running game to open up, roll out passes and play action. Their running game is fueled by an experienced offensive line and a good sophomore running back. Texas City’s only loss on the season came against Crosby.
When the stingrays do pass the ball, it will be interesting to see if they can protect their quarterback versus Texas High’s fast front seven. The defense has caused 36 sacks and 23 turnovers. The Tigers have not allowed a 100-yard rush game, but Texas City’s running back could be the one to break that streak.
The defense has seemed to have the bend but don’t break attitude that causes offensives to try and put together long drives down the field. Whoever can control the line of scrimmage and win the turnover battle should be the winner of this round two showdown.