The La Porte Bulldogs are the 2011 District 21-5A champions!!
This is the first district championship for the Bulldogs since 2000. District 21-5A is one of the most competitive in the state of Texas.
Friday night against the very game and state ranked, undefeated Port Arthur Memorial Titans, the Bulldogs showed heart and had the will to win.
Down 20-17 with 5:17 left in the game, La Porte took possession of the ball at their own 18 yard line. The Bulldogs needed a field goal to tie or a touchdown to win. What happened next was a drive for the ages. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely, who had one of the best games in La Porte history after running for 203 yards and two touchdowns and returning an interception for a touchdown, ran for 51 yards on the final drive and capped it off with a 3 yard touchdown run to give the Bulldogs the championship. Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales made a clutch throw on 4th and 9 inside Port Arthur territory to Sophomore Receiver Taejon Wearen for a first down on the drive. The Bulldog offensive line wore out the vaunted Memorial defensive front seven and picked up yards at will and got the game winning score with 28 seconds left for the 24-20 La Porte victory. The 82 yard four minute forty nine second drive was a statement by the La Porte offense that they have arrived.
The game began with both teams getting good drives going, but stalling out. After that the offenses didn't get on track until late in the first half. The Bulldogs finally got on the board after getting the ball into Port Arthur territory and Junior Kicker Eric Medina tied the school record with a 55 yard field goal. It had a couple yards to spare and was a mighty kick! With 2:01 left in the first half it was La Porte 3 Port Arthur Memorial 0.
The Titans took over and had a drive reminiscent of the North Shore drives late in the first half last week. Memorial Senior Running Back Nate Holmes had a huge 38 yard run to get inside LP territory, but he was injured on the play and would not return. On the next play Senior Quarterback Terrence Singleton threw a deep post to Senior Receiver Jhajuan Seales for a 42 yard touchdown. The drive took all of 27 seconds off the clock. Junior Malik Graves blocked the extra point for the second consecutive week.
La Porte drove inside Port Arthur territory with a few seconds left in the half, but had the 49 yard field goal attempt blocked. At the half it was Port Arthur Memorial 6 La Porte 3.
The second half started with La Porte sputtering and looking like momentum had shifted completely to the Titans. Singleton found Senior Receiver Aerian Jackson in the right flat and two Bulldogs missed tackles putting Jackson down the sideline for a 80 yard touchdown. Port Arthur lead 13-3 with 11:45 left in the 3rd quarter.
After a missed La Porte field goal Port Arthur took over and Whitely would take the momentum back for the Bulldogs. Singleton dropped back to pass and Whitely stepped into the passing lane intercepting with only daylight in front of him for a 27 yard interception return for the touchdown. The score was now 13-10 Port Arthur with 4:38 left in the 3rd.
Port Arthur made a statement drive after the interception and Singleton's scrambling lead to a 13 yard score for the Baylor commit and a 20-10 Port Arthur lead with 3:07 left in the 3rd.
Whitely again took over on the next La Porte possession and had a 50 yard run into Port Arthur territory. After a few good runs the Bulldogs were inside the five yard line. Whitely would cap it off with a one yard plunge with no time left in the 3rd quarter and La Porte down 20-17.
The Bulldog's Darkside defense stepped up in the 4th quarter and shut down the Titans offense with big sacks and pressure up front. After both teams traded possessions it came down to the final game winning classic smashmouth football drive for the La Porte win and district championship.
Great performance and heart by all La Porte players this week. The coaches have taken a lot of very special young talent and this team is hitting their stride just in time for the playoffs. The Bulldogs have made the leap into most Statewide top 25 lists after huge back to back wins over state ranked opponents. If you have not made it out to a game this season you are missing out on something special.
La Porte moves to 8-1 on the season and 4-0 in district play. The final game of the regular season will be next Saturday against Beaumont West Brook in Beaumont at 6pm. It appears depending on what happens between the Pasadena schools next week that the Bulldogs will probably get Pasadena High in the first round of the playoffs.
La Porte Bulldog Football Blog
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
La Porte vs Port Arthur History
This week's district 21-5A Championship Game will be the 24th all time meeting between La Porte and Port Arthur. La Porte first faced Port Arthur Jefferson in 1922. This rivalry dates back 89 years!
This season will be the 24th game played between the two cities. Port Arthur Jefferson closed in the late 90's and Port Arthur Memorial became the school in Port Arthur.
Since becoming Port Arthur Memorial, La Porte has won the last four meetings in convincing fashion. Three of the last four meetings have been in the playoffs.
Here is the breakdown of the last 23 meetings!
LP PA
1922 0 20
1978 49 12
1979 24 22
1980 14 41
1981 7 41
1982 21 33
1983 28 14
1984 7 6
1985 17 20
1986 14 17
1987 21 14
1988 17 12
1989 35 20
1990 35 35 Tie
1991 27 22
1992 49 27
1993 37 0
1996 38 6
1997 31 3
2006 56 27
2008 56 28
2009 42 21
2010 37 13
2011 ?? ??
All time La Porte is 16-6-1 against Port Arthur high schools.
La Porte has not been beaten since 1986 with one tie in 1990. That is 13 straight games!!
This season will be the toughest test for the Bulldogs! Port Arthur Memorial is 8-0 and ranked 8th in the state by the AP!
Can the Bulldogs pull the upset this season and keep the trend going??
We find out tonight in La Porte at 7pm.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Week 9 La Porte Vs Port Arthur Memorial Preview
The big games keep coming for the La Porte Bulldogs this week. A week after dispatching North Shore and gaining control of their own destiny in the district title race the Bulldogs will face the Port Arthur Memorial Titans at Bulldogs Stadium in La Porte Friday at 7pm.
La Porte carries a 7-1 overall record heading into this week and have clinched a playoff spot with a 3-0 record in district play. The Bulldogs have victories over the Titans the last 4 times they've played.
Port Arthur Memorial have fought their way to a 8-0 record on the season after dispatching crosstown rival Beaumont West Brook last week 32-27. They will try to finally break through and get past the Bulldogs.
Both teams have played common opponents and beaten North Shore and Channelview this season. The Bulldogs took down North Shore 38-30 last week and Memorial beat them a couple weeks ago 14-7. La Porte beat Channelview 35-21 while Port Arthur held on to victory 47-44 over the Falcons.
Port Arthur Memorial features one of the most explosive offenses in the state averaging 42.5 points per game. Senior Quarterback and Baylor commitment Terrence Singleton guides the offense with 1500 yards passing to go with 800 yards rushing and 26 total touchdowns. The dual threat is hard to slow down. Senior Running Back and Arkansas Recruit Nathan Holmes (1024 yards rushing, 15 touchdowns) leads the Titans in rushing and some scout services have him in the top 30 national recruits at running back. Senior Jhajuan Seales leads Port Arthur in receiving with 670 yards on 30 catches with 9 touchdowns. Senior Offensive Lineman Tre-Von Armstead is also committed to Baylor.
The Titans defense has improved greatly improved this season and it shows on the scoreboard. The defense gives up a little over 17 points per game. Senior Defensive Back Jaylon Howard leads the team with 3 interceptions and is a explosive play-maker. Senior Jereem Augustine leads a good group of linebackers. The Titans have been solid against the run this season and have struggled at times against the pass.
La Porte is averaging 28 points per game on offense and have come through at the right times to win games this season. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely leads the team with almost 800 yards rushing and 6 touchdowns.
The Darkside defense came out with purpose last week and enabled the Bulldogs to pull off the upset over North Shore by causing four turnovers. Sophomore Linebacker Hoza Scott scored two defensive touchdowns in the victory. This week will be even more challenging against the potent Titan offense.
Keys To Victory:
-The Bulldogs defense must force the Titans offense to be one dimensional. Taking the running game away will let La Porte take control of the clock and wear down Port Arthur's defense in the second half.
-On offense La Porte will need to loosen up the Titans defense with some deep passes as they did last week against North Shore. This provides a better chance for the running game to be effective.
-Win the line battle on both sides. Last week La Porte held their own against the powerful lines of North Shore and came out with the better play up front in the end. This week that trend must continue.
-Win the turnover battle.
The winner of this game will be the District 21-5A Champion!! The players need a LOUD full house crowd to cheer them on and give them a home-field advantage. Come out this Friday as the Bulldogs go for their first district championship in a long time!
La Porte carries a 7-1 overall record heading into this week and have clinched a playoff spot with a 3-0 record in district play. The Bulldogs have victories over the Titans the last 4 times they've played.
Port Arthur Memorial have fought their way to a 8-0 record on the season after dispatching crosstown rival Beaumont West Brook last week 32-27. They will try to finally break through and get past the Bulldogs.
Both teams have played common opponents and beaten North Shore and Channelview this season. The Bulldogs took down North Shore 38-30 last week and Memorial beat them a couple weeks ago 14-7. La Porte beat Channelview 35-21 while Port Arthur held on to victory 47-44 over the Falcons.
Port Arthur Memorial features one of the most explosive offenses in the state averaging 42.5 points per game. Senior Quarterback and Baylor commitment Terrence Singleton guides the offense with 1500 yards passing to go with 800 yards rushing and 26 total touchdowns. The dual threat is hard to slow down. Senior Running Back and Arkansas Recruit Nathan Holmes (1024 yards rushing, 15 touchdowns) leads the Titans in rushing and some scout services have him in the top 30 national recruits at running back. Senior Jhajuan Seales leads Port Arthur in receiving with 670 yards on 30 catches with 9 touchdowns. Senior Offensive Lineman Tre-Von Armstead is also committed to Baylor.
The Titans defense has improved greatly improved this season and it shows on the scoreboard. The defense gives up a little over 17 points per game. Senior Defensive Back Jaylon Howard leads the team with 3 interceptions and is a explosive play-maker. Senior Jereem Augustine leads a good group of linebackers. The Titans have been solid against the run this season and have struggled at times against the pass.
La Porte is averaging 28 points per game on offense and have come through at the right times to win games this season. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely leads the team with almost 800 yards rushing and 6 touchdowns.
The Darkside defense came out with purpose last week and enabled the Bulldogs to pull off the upset over North Shore by causing four turnovers. Sophomore Linebacker Hoza Scott scored two defensive touchdowns in the victory. This week will be even more challenging against the potent Titan offense.
Keys To Victory:
-The Bulldogs defense must force the Titans offense to be one dimensional. Taking the running game away will let La Porte take control of the clock and wear down Port Arthur's defense in the second half.
-On offense La Porte will need to loosen up the Titans defense with some deep passes as they did last week against North Shore. This provides a better chance for the running game to be effective.
-Win the line battle on both sides. Last week La Porte held their own against the powerful lines of North Shore and came out with the better play up front in the end. This week that trend must continue.
-Win the turnover battle.
The winner of this game will be the District 21-5A Champion!! The players need a LOUD full house crowd to cheer them on and give them a home-field advantage. Come out this Friday as the Bulldogs go for their first district championship in a long time!
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Final La Porte 38 North Shore 30
The 2011 La Porte Bulldogs football team finally cracked the impossible nut. After going 0 for their last 13 games against the North Shore Mustangs, the Bulldogs won their first game against the Mustangs since 1977 with a 38-30 victory in a thriller of a game.
The game did not start out so exciting with La Porte leading 3-0 after the first quarter. Junior Kicker Eric Medina kicked a 38 yard field goal after a long time consuming drive. The La Porte "Dark Side" defense came to play this week and made big plays to stop the Mustangs until late in the first half.
The second quarter North Shore began the march into La Porte territory and after driving down inside the ten yard line Sophomore Linebacker Hoza Scott began one of the wildest sequences of plays ever seen. Five minutes remained in the half. North Shore Senior Receiver Larry McDuffey took the reverse handoff and turned around and threw the ball back across the field where Scott jumped the play and intercepted returning it 84 yards for the score and a La Porte 10-0 lead.
On the ensuing kickoff the Mustangs let the pooch kick hit the turf instead of fielding it and La Porte's Sophomore Running Back Jonathan Lewis recovered. A few plays later Lewis took the handoff and sprinted around the left side for a two yard touchdown run making the score 17-0 La Porte with 3:21 remaining in the half.
North Shore decided to field the kickoff this time and immediately passed their way into La Porte territory, but that's when Hoza Scott would strike again. Junior Nose Tackle Mark Guzman stormed through the line and put his helmet right on the ball exchange between North Shore's Senior duo of Tyrone Newsome and Davonte Milton. The ball popped out and again Scott picked up the fumble and returned it 65 yards for another Bulldog touchdown and a 24-0 lead with 2:42 left in the half. It was a shocking turn of events, but the half was not over yet.
North Shore found all kinds of room underneath the La Porte coverage and stormed down the field with purpose. Newsome found McDuffey all night and the senior combo combined for a nine yard touchdown catch with 1:04 left in the half.
On the ensuing kick La Porte fumbled the pooch kick and North Shore recovered. The momentum began to shift towards the Mustangs. The next play Newsome threw a backwards pass to sophomore backup Quarterback Lawrence McCardell who was lined up at receiver. McCardell threw a absolutely beautiful pass over the Bulldog defender and found Sophomore Wide Receiver Kevian DeLeon for a 23 yard touchdown. That made the score 24-14 La Porte and sent the game into the half. What a wild and frantic finish to the first half!
The second half began with North Shore receiving and driving down to the La Porte 10 where the Dark Side came through with a big stop and forced the Mustangs to kick a Sophomore Kicker Enrique Perez 21 yard field goal. The score was La Porte 24 North Shore 17 with 6:35 left in the 3rd quarter.
A quick stop for the Mustangs and they had completely turned around the game. Tyrone Newsome took the ball on a keeper four yards for a touchdown. However in what may have been the play of the game in a game full of huge plays La Porte Junior Cornerback Malik Graves blocked the extra point. The score with 3:20 remaining in the 3rd quarter was La Porte 24 North Shore 23 and the Bulldogs would never relinquish the lead.
La Porte received the kickoff and used the North Shore heavy pursuit defense against them. The Bulldogs started running misdirection plays and gashed the Mustangs defense. The Bulldogs capped it off with Jonathan Lewis taking the misdirection handoff and he looked like he was shot out of a cannon with Junior Running Back Keith Whitely and Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales leading the way blocking down the left side for a 40 yard touchdown run. The score was now 31-23 Bulldogs with :56 left in the 3rd quarter.
La Porte was not done and forced North Shore to punt. Again the offensive line lead by Juniors Maurice Morris, Tony Briones, Justin King, Corey Lee and Jose Garcia opened huge holes for the La Porte running game and the Bulldogs marched into North Shore territory. A beautiful 37 yard pass from Vidales to Sophomore Wide Receiver Taejon Wearen put La Porte at the one yard line. One play later Senior leader Chad Sutherland plowed into the end zone and a Bulldogs 38-23 lead with 6:47 left.
North Shore however was not done. The Mustangs wasted little time and capped off a quick drive with a 39 yard pass from Newsome to DeLeon. The score was La Porte 38 North Shore 30 with 4:50 left.
La Porte ate some clock on the next drive, but were forced to punt and North Shore would take over at their own 39 with 3:08 left and a chance to score for the tie. However Sophomore Safety Vic Holmes put an end to it with a great interception as North Shore tried to go deep over the Bulldogs safeties. This sealed up the game and the La Porte victory after 34 years of waiting.
It seemed like every player made at least one big play in the game and the seniors really shined. Senior Linebacker Cameron Whilley and Senior Safety Aaron Nance-Garrett had big games with some big hits. Also Senior Linebacker Chris Hickey, Defensive ends Tyrone Graves and Blake Turlington, Juniors Defensive end Alex Jones and Cornerbacks Ellis Hutchinson and Malik Graves all made big plays denying the Mustangs victory. I tried to mention as many as I could, but it was really a complete team effort with great heart shown by all the Bulldogs players.
Most didn't think it could be done, but boy did the La Porte Bulldogs prove them wrong!
The game did not start out so exciting with La Porte leading 3-0 after the first quarter. Junior Kicker Eric Medina kicked a 38 yard field goal after a long time consuming drive. The La Porte "Dark Side" defense came to play this week and made big plays to stop the Mustangs until late in the first half.
The second quarter North Shore began the march into La Porte territory and after driving down inside the ten yard line Sophomore Linebacker Hoza Scott began one of the wildest sequences of plays ever seen. Five minutes remained in the half. North Shore Senior Receiver Larry McDuffey took the reverse handoff and turned around and threw the ball back across the field where Scott jumped the play and intercepted returning it 84 yards for the score and a La Porte 10-0 lead.
On the ensuing kickoff the Mustangs let the pooch kick hit the turf instead of fielding it and La Porte's Sophomore Running Back Jonathan Lewis recovered. A few plays later Lewis took the handoff and sprinted around the left side for a two yard touchdown run making the score 17-0 La Porte with 3:21 remaining in the half.
North Shore decided to field the kickoff this time and immediately passed their way into La Porte territory, but that's when Hoza Scott would strike again. Junior Nose Tackle Mark Guzman stormed through the line and put his helmet right on the ball exchange between North Shore's Senior duo of Tyrone Newsome and Davonte Milton. The ball popped out and again Scott picked up the fumble and returned it 65 yards for another Bulldog touchdown and a 24-0 lead with 2:42 left in the half. It was a shocking turn of events, but the half was not over yet.
North Shore found all kinds of room underneath the La Porte coverage and stormed down the field with purpose. Newsome found McDuffey all night and the senior combo combined for a nine yard touchdown catch with 1:04 left in the half.
On the ensuing kick La Porte fumbled the pooch kick and North Shore recovered. The momentum began to shift towards the Mustangs. The next play Newsome threw a backwards pass to sophomore backup Quarterback Lawrence McCardell who was lined up at receiver. McCardell threw a absolutely beautiful pass over the Bulldog defender and found Sophomore Wide Receiver Kevian DeLeon for a 23 yard touchdown. That made the score 24-14 La Porte and sent the game into the half. What a wild and frantic finish to the first half!
The second half began with North Shore receiving and driving down to the La Porte 10 where the Dark Side came through with a big stop and forced the Mustangs to kick a Sophomore Kicker Enrique Perez 21 yard field goal. The score was La Porte 24 North Shore 17 with 6:35 left in the 3rd quarter.
A quick stop for the Mustangs and they had completely turned around the game. Tyrone Newsome took the ball on a keeper four yards for a touchdown. However in what may have been the play of the game in a game full of huge plays La Porte Junior Cornerback Malik Graves blocked the extra point. The score with 3:20 remaining in the 3rd quarter was La Porte 24 North Shore 23 and the Bulldogs would never relinquish the lead.
La Porte received the kickoff and used the North Shore heavy pursuit defense against them. The Bulldogs started running misdirection plays and gashed the Mustangs defense. The Bulldogs capped it off with Jonathan Lewis taking the misdirection handoff and he looked like he was shot out of a cannon with Junior Running Back Keith Whitely and Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales leading the way blocking down the left side for a 40 yard touchdown run. The score was now 31-23 Bulldogs with :56 left in the 3rd quarter.
La Porte was not done and forced North Shore to punt. Again the offensive line lead by Juniors Maurice Morris, Tony Briones, Justin King, Corey Lee and Jose Garcia opened huge holes for the La Porte running game and the Bulldogs marched into North Shore territory. A beautiful 37 yard pass from Vidales to Sophomore Wide Receiver Taejon Wearen put La Porte at the one yard line. One play later Senior leader Chad Sutherland plowed into the end zone and a Bulldogs 38-23 lead with 6:47 left.
North Shore however was not done. The Mustangs wasted little time and capped off a quick drive with a 39 yard pass from Newsome to DeLeon. The score was La Porte 38 North Shore 30 with 4:50 left.
La Porte ate some clock on the next drive, but were forced to punt and North Shore would take over at their own 39 with 3:08 left and a chance to score for the tie. However Sophomore Safety Vic Holmes put an end to it with a great interception as North Shore tried to go deep over the Bulldogs safeties. This sealed up the game and the La Porte victory after 34 years of waiting.
It seemed like every player made at least one big play in the game and the seniors really shined. Senior Linebacker Cameron Whilley and Senior Safety Aaron Nance-Garrett had big games with some big hits. Also Senior Linebacker Chris Hickey, Defensive ends Tyrone Graves and Blake Turlington, Juniors Defensive end Alex Jones and Cornerbacks Ellis Hutchinson and Malik Graves all made big plays denying the Mustangs victory. I tried to mention as many as I could, but it was really a complete team effort with great heart shown by all the Bulldogs players.
Most didn't think it could be done, but boy did the La Porte Bulldogs prove them wrong!
La Porte - North Shore Highlights
La Porte 38 North Shore 30
Freshman Game
La Porte 24 North Shore 24
Freshman Game
La Porte 24 North Shore 24
Thursday, October 20, 2011
La Porte vs North Shore History
This is no fun to look at for La Porte fans. North Shore High has double the students of La Porte, which plays into the one-sided nature of this series dating back to the 70's. La Porte has not beaten North Shore since 1977 and the close games have been few and far between. North Shore leads the all time series 15-2.
If you're squeamish cover your eyes:
LP vs NS
1974 6 38
1975 32 14
1976 19 34
1977 35 13
1996 13 35
1997 19 24
1998 0 52
1999 14 16
2000 6 21 Playoffs
2001 17 40 Playoffs
2002 0 41
2003 3 49
2004 0 24
2005 14 51
2006 17 59
2007 0 35
2010 7 37
-------------------------------------------
202 583
Hopefully La Porte can get something going this season!
If you're squeamish cover your eyes:
LP vs NS
1974 6 38
1975 32 14
1976 19 34
1977 35 13
1996 13 35
1997 19 24
1998 0 52
1999 14 16
2000 6 21 Playoffs
2001 17 40 Playoffs
2002 0 41
2003 3 49
2004 0 24
2005 14 51
2006 17 59
2007 0 35
2010 7 37
-------------------------------------------
202 583
Hopefully La Porte can get something going this season!
Monday, October 17, 2011
Week 8 La Porte At North Shore Preview
This Friday Night at 7pm the La Porte Bulldogs will face the North Shore Mustangs at Galena Park Stadium.
North Shore has dominated the series for as far back as I can remember and are having a "off" year by the Mustang's standards with a 5-2 record on the season. North Shore has suffered losses to Katy and Port Arthur Memorial, who the Bulldogs will face next week at home. The Mustangs took care of business against Beaumont West Brook last week in Beaumont 17-3.
La Porte comes into this week with a 6-1 record after squeaking by Baytown Sterling last week. The Bulldogs have had some struggles on offense and will face one of Houston's top defenses this week.
On offense the Mustangs have gone through a transition when Senior Quarterback Tyrone Newsome was injured in the first game of the season against Katy. Junior Quarterback Micah Thomas took over the reins and mixed the pass and run, but he was also injured. Newsome returned to the lineup last week against West Brook and struggled through the first half, but got things turned around after halftime. For the game he threw for 154 yards and a score against a good Beaumont defense. North Shore's ground game is lead by Senior Running Back Davonte Milton (750 yards, 7 touchdowns). Senior Receiver Larry McDuffey gives the Mustangs a great deep threat has he has burned opposing defenses for 400 yards on 14 catches with 6 of them for touchdowns.
North Shore's defense is as dominant as usual this season with size and speed all over the field. Seniors Kevin Alexander, Jarius Moore and Caleb Young lead the way for the Mustangs. The Bulldogs will have to step it up on offense to knock off the North Shore Mustangs.
La Porte's offense has been the weakness this season as they try to rebuild after major losses to graduation this season. The new offense has taken a while to get it's rhythm and will need to improve quickly over the next three weeks to get the Bulldogs where they want to go come playoff time. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely has lead the way on offense with 700 yards and 6 touchdowns on the season. Whitely will need to lead the way again this week.
La Porte's defense will by trying to stop the North Shore zone read offense. The Mustangs take the snap and the quarterback will read whether he should give it to the running back Milton or keep it for himself, usually at the last possible second. This works against most teams, but the Bulldogs match up well with that style of offense with their great linebacker play from Seniors Chad Sutherland, Cameron Whilley and Chris Hickey.
Keys To The Game:
-La Porte will need a great effort on defense and will need to win the turnover battle to create short fields for the offense.
-The offense must find what will work early and stick to that game plan.
-Playing mistake free football is a key to getting to the Mustangs
The game will be broadcast online at legacysportsnetwork.com
A win this week would set up a possible district championship game with Port Arthur in La Porte next week, but it has been a long time since La Porte has taken down North Shore. The Bulldogs hope to have their usual great traveling support this week!
North Shore has dominated the series for as far back as I can remember and are having a "off" year by the Mustang's standards with a 5-2 record on the season. North Shore has suffered losses to Katy and Port Arthur Memorial, who the Bulldogs will face next week at home. The Mustangs took care of business against Beaumont West Brook last week in Beaumont 17-3.
La Porte comes into this week with a 6-1 record after squeaking by Baytown Sterling last week. The Bulldogs have had some struggles on offense and will face one of Houston's top defenses this week.
On offense the Mustangs have gone through a transition when Senior Quarterback Tyrone Newsome was injured in the first game of the season against Katy. Junior Quarterback Micah Thomas took over the reins and mixed the pass and run, but he was also injured. Newsome returned to the lineup last week against West Brook and struggled through the first half, but got things turned around after halftime. For the game he threw for 154 yards and a score against a good Beaumont defense. North Shore's ground game is lead by Senior Running Back Davonte Milton (750 yards, 7 touchdowns). Senior Receiver Larry McDuffey gives the Mustangs a great deep threat has he has burned opposing defenses for 400 yards on 14 catches with 6 of them for touchdowns.
North Shore's defense is as dominant as usual this season with size and speed all over the field. Seniors Kevin Alexander, Jarius Moore and Caleb Young lead the way for the Mustangs. The Bulldogs will have to step it up on offense to knock off the North Shore Mustangs.
La Porte's offense has been the weakness this season as they try to rebuild after major losses to graduation this season. The new offense has taken a while to get it's rhythm and will need to improve quickly over the next three weeks to get the Bulldogs where they want to go come playoff time. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely has lead the way on offense with 700 yards and 6 touchdowns on the season. Whitely will need to lead the way again this week.
La Porte's defense will by trying to stop the North Shore zone read offense. The Mustangs take the snap and the quarterback will read whether he should give it to the running back Milton or keep it for himself, usually at the last possible second. This works against most teams, but the Bulldogs match up well with that style of offense with their great linebacker play from Seniors Chad Sutherland, Cameron Whilley and Chris Hickey.
Keys To The Game:
-La Porte will need a great effort on defense and will need to win the turnover battle to create short fields for the offense.
-The offense must find what will work early and stick to that game plan.
-Playing mistake free football is a key to getting to the Mustangs
The game will be broadcast online at legacysportsnetwork.com
A win this week would set up a possible district championship game with Port Arthur in La Porte next week, but it has been a long time since La Porte has taken down North Shore. The Bulldogs hope to have their usual great traveling support this week!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Final La Porte 14 Baytown Sterling 13 Postgame Analysis
This one was ugly from the beginning, but the La Porte Bulldog's defense ruled the day and preserved victory late in the fourth quarter. The Baytown Sterling Rangers put up a great effort and caught the Bulldogs off guard, almost pulling off the last minute victory.
With La Porte up 14-7 and 5:34 left in the game the Rangers took over possession at the Bulldogs' 44 yard line. A big run gave Sterling a first down at the La Porte 20, but a big hit by La Porte Senior Defensive End Tyrone Graves who had a great game drove the Rangers back for a 3rd and 17. The ensuing play ended in a offensive pass interference penalty driving the Rangers back to the La Porte 42 yard line and a 3rd down with 32 yards to go. Sterling's Sophomore Quarterback Jaime Acosta threw a pass as high and far as he could and standout Junior Wide Receiver Jamar Gibson answered the prayer to put Baytown Sterling inside the ten yard line. Two runs and the Rangers were on the one yard line with Acosta taking the keeper into the end zone to make the score 14-13 La Porte with the extra point coming up. Sterling called timeout and ultimately decided to go for 2 and the win. The toss to the right was stuffed by the Bulldog defense and La Porte held onto the lead and the win. Baytown Sterling's onside kick would sail out of bounds untouched and the Bulldogs would form the victory formation to run the rest of the clock.
This game was not expected to be this close as Baytown Sterling came in with a 0-6 record while La Porte entered the contest at 5-1. The Bulldogs had two touchdowns called back by penalty on the night while the Rangers had a long touchdown run called back. How did we get to this exciting conclusion to the game Friday?
The game began with La Porte moving the ball down the field mostly through the air with short passes with Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales slinging the ball around to the speedy Bulldog receivers. With the ball inside the Rangers 20 a missed exchange on the shotgun snap was picked up by Sterling's Chad Whitaker and taken 71 yards the other way to open up the scoring for Baytown Sterling with a 7-0 lead.
For the remainder of the first quarter and half the second the Bulldogs offense struggled to get on track, but the Bulldog's Dark Side defense came through after Sterling drove the ball on the ground into La Porte territory with a big fumble recovery. The Bulldogs took over and tied up the game on a slick pass from Vidales to Sophomore Fullback Trevor Nelson for a 5 yard touchdown. Nelson has been much more involved with the offense the last two weeks and has good hands for a big guy. It was 7-7 with 3:52 left in the half.
After La Porte forced Sterling into a quick three and out the Bulldogs took over at their own 49 with three minutes remaining. The next play Vidales found Senior Wide Receiver Aaron Nance-Garret for a 50 yard touchdown, but penalty took the points off the board. The drive stalled from there, but not before Junior Kicker Eric Medina could attempt a 56 yard field goal which I believe would have set the school record. However Medina was a few yards short on a kick that had the right trajectory.
Halftime stats were lopsided towards the Bulldogs with a 120-45 advantage in total yards. Sophomore Quarterback Jordan Jackson entered the game to start the half and proceeded to drive the Bulldogs down the field culminating with a 15 yard pass from Jackson to Nance-Garrett and a 14-7 La Porte lead.
The Bulldogs continued to look fired up and Junior Cornerback Ellis Hutchinson got a interception on one of the many jump balls played by the Rangers passing game. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely who had success running on the night (131 yards on 19 carries) had a long touchdown run called back by penalty eventually the drive ended on a failed 4th down conversion and La Porte's momentum seemed to fizzle away.
The Darkside defense kept the Bulldogs in it throughout the 4th quarter including an interception by Junior Cornerback Malik Graves with a little help on a tip by Junior Linebacker Cameron Whilley. More offensive mishaps and the final Baytown Sterling drive took place leading to La Porte's victory. La Porte was playing with two starters missing from the young offensive line.
The Bulldogs may have been looking ahead to next week's North Shore match up in Galena Park, but barely got out of this one with the win and it should ensure a playoff spot for the Bulldogs. One thing that's for sure is that they will not be looking past the North Shore Mustangs this Friday.
With La Porte up 14-7 and 5:34 left in the game the Rangers took over possession at the Bulldogs' 44 yard line. A big run gave Sterling a first down at the La Porte 20, but a big hit by La Porte Senior Defensive End Tyrone Graves who had a great game drove the Rangers back for a 3rd and 17. The ensuing play ended in a offensive pass interference penalty driving the Rangers back to the La Porte 42 yard line and a 3rd down with 32 yards to go. Sterling's Sophomore Quarterback Jaime Acosta threw a pass as high and far as he could and standout Junior Wide Receiver Jamar Gibson answered the prayer to put Baytown Sterling inside the ten yard line. Two runs and the Rangers were on the one yard line with Acosta taking the keeper into the end zone to make the score 14-13 La Porte with the extra point coming up. Sterling called timeout and ultimately decided to go for 2 and the win. The toss to the right was stuffed by the Bulldog defense and La Porte held onto the lead and the win. Baytown Sterling's onside kick would sail out of bounds untouched and the Bulldogs would form the victory formation to run the rest of the clock.
This game was not expected to be this close as Baytown Sterling came in with a 0-6 record while La Porte entered the contest at 5-1. The Bulldogs had two touchdowns called back by penalty on the night while the Rangers had a long touchdown run called back. How did we get to this exciting conclusion to the game Friday?
The game began with La Porte moving the ball down the field mostly through the air with short passes with Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales slinging the ball around to the speedy Bulldog receivers. With the ball inside the Rangers 20 a missed exchange on the shotgun snap was picked up by Sterling's Chad Whitaker and taken 71 yards the other way to open up the scoring for Baytown Sterling with a 7-0 lead.
For the remainder of the first quarter and half the second the Bulldogs offense struggled to get on track, but the Bulldog's Dark Side defense came through after Sterling drove the ball on the ground into La Porte territory with a big fumble recovery. The Bulldogs took over and tied up the game on a slick pass from Vidales to Sophomore Fullback Trevor Nelson for a 5 yard touchdown. Nelson has been much more involved with the offense the last two weeks and has good hands for a big guy. It was 7-7 with 3:52 left in the half.
After La Porte forced Sterling into a quick three and out the Bulldogs took over at their own 49 with three minutes remaining. The next play Vidales found Senior Wide Receiver Aaron Nance-Garret for a 50 yard touchdown, but penalty took the points off the board. The drive stalled from there, but not before Junior Kicker Eric Medina could attempt a 56 yard field goal which I believe would have set the school record. However Medina was a few yards short on a kick that had the right trajectory.
Halftime stats were lopsided towards the Bulldogs with a 120-45 advantage in total yards. Sophomore Quarterback Jordan Jackson entered the game to start the half and proceeded to drive the Bulldogs down the field culminating with a 15 yard pass from Jackson to Nance-Garrett and a 14-7 La Porte lead.
The Bulldogs continued to look fired up and Junior Cornerback Ellis Hutchinson got a interception on one of the many jump balls played by the Rangers passing game. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely who had success running on the night (131 yards on 19 carries) had a long touchdown run called back by penalty eventually the drive ended on a failed 4th down conversion and La Porte's momentum seemed to fizzle away.
The Darkside defense kept the Bulldogs in it throughout the 4th quarter including an interception by Junior Cornerback Malik Graves with a little help on a tip by Junior Linebacker Cameron Whilley. More offensive mishaps and the final Baytown Sterling drive took place leading to La Porte's victory. La Porte was playing with two starters missing from the young offensive line.
The Bulldogs may have been looking ahead to next week's North Shore match up in Galena Park, but barely got out of this one with the win and it should ensure a playoff spot for the Bulldogs. One thing that's for sure is that they will not be looking past the North Shore Mustangs this Friday.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
La Porte vs Channelview Highlight Videos
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XoBVnP5UX4&feature=youtube_gdata_player
http://blog.chron.com/prepsports/2011/10/week-6-video-highlights/
http://www.yourtowntv.com/video/361/c/4/la-porte-game-time
http://news.yahoo.com/video/houston11news-15750765/friday-night-lights-chita-johnson-kicks-it-with-la-porte-high-school-bulldogs-26856388.html
Chron Game Story With Pictures
http://www.chron.com/sports/highschool/article/La-Porte-runs-its-way-to-district-win-over-2208624.php
http://blog.chron.com/prepsports/2011/10/week-6-video-highlights/
http://www.yourtowntv.com/video/361/c/4/la-porte-game-time
http://news.yahoo.com/video/houston11news-15750765/friday-night-lights-chita-johnson-kicks-it-with-la-porte-high-school-bulldogs-26856388.html
Chron Game Story With Pictures
http://www.chron.com/sports/highschool/article/La-Porte-runs-its-way-to-district-win-over-2208624.php
Monday, October 10, 2011
Week 6 La Porte vs Baytown Sterling Preview
This week the 5-1 La Porte Bulldogs take on the 0-6 Baytown Sterling Rangers at Bulldog Stadium in La Porte 7 pm Friday.
The Bulldogs are coming off their third win in a row including two consecutive big victories over Deer Park and Channelview.
The Rangers have a new coach this season and are looking for their first win. The team has shown improvement as the season has gone on and La Porte should not look past Sterling. Last week they fell 49-21 to Beaumont West Brook.
The Rangers have turned to Sophomore Quarterback Jaime Acosta on offense and he has put up some good stats over the last couple of weeks with 275 yards on the ground to go with 102 through the air and two total touchdowns. Baytown Sterling hired the former Clear Lake coach Troy Aduddell in the offseason and his triple option offense came with him. La Porte has had many run-ins with this offense in the past and the Bulldog's coaches will be familiar with the grind it out attack. Junior Running Back Antoine Franklin is the Rangers' leading rusher. Senior Play-maker and Texas A&M recruit Jamar Gibson has struggled to get on track this season with the offensive changeover, but is a very explosive athlete.
Baytown Sterling's defense has struggled this season to slow down any opposing team's rushing attack. La Porte will force them to stop the run to pull off an upset.
La Porte's run offense showed good improvement last week with Junior Keith Whitely going over 200 yards. Sophomore's Jonathan Lewis and Taejon Wearen also carried the ball effectively multiple times. Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales had a accurate week through the air last week and will continue to keep the defense honest with quick passes. The offensive line dominated the line of scrimmage against Channelview and will look to keep their momentum this week.
On defense La Porte will match their strength, run stopping, against Sterling's strength, run offense. The Bulldogs defense averages giving up 87 yards per game, but have only given up 82 yards total on the ground over the last three games.
Keys to a La Porte victory:
-Defense has to keep their assignments and lanes to cover for the misdirection plays Sterling will run.
-Offense needs to continue to dominate line play and run downhill at the Ranger offense.
-Don't look ahead to that North Shore game. Finish the task at hand!
The Bulldogs are coming off their third win in a row including two consecutive big victories over Deer Park and Channelview.
The Rangers have a new coach this season and are looking for their first win. The team has shown improvement as the season has gone on and La Porte should not look past Sterling. Last week they fell 49-21 to Beaumont West Brook.
The Rangers have turned to Sophomore Quarterback Jaime Acosta on offense and he has put up some good stats over the last couple of weeks with 275 yards on the ground to go with 102 through the air and two total touchdowns. Baytown Sterling hired the former Clear Lake coach Troy Aduddell in the offseason and his triple option offense came with him. La Porte has had many run-ins with this offense in the past and the Bulldog's coaches will be familiar with the grind it out attack. Junior Running Back Antoine Franklin is the Rangers' leading rusher. Senior Play-maker and Texas A&M recruit Jamar Gibson has struggled to get on track this season with the offensive changeover, but is a very explosive athlete.
Baytown Sterling's defense has struggled this season to slow down any opposing team's rushing attack. La Porte will force them to stop the run to pull off an upset.
La Porte's run offense showed good improvement last week with Junior Keith Whitely going over 200 yards. Sophomore's Jonathan Lewis and Taejon Wearen also carried the ball effectively multiple times. Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales had a accurate week through the air last week and will continue to keep the defense honest with quick passes. The offensive line dominated the line of scrimmage against Channelview and will look to keep their momentum this week.
On defense La Porte will match their strength, run stopping, against Sterling's strength, run offense. The Bulldogs defense averages giving up 87 yards per game, but have only given up 82 yards total on the ground over the last three games.
Keys to a La Porte victory:
-Defense has to keep their assignments and lanes to cover for the misdirection plays Sterling will run.
-Offense needs to continue to dominate line play and run downhill at the Ranger offense.
-Don't look ahead to that North Shore game. Finish the task at hand!
Final La Porte 35 Channelview 21
Last Friday night at Bulldog Stadium the 4-1 Channelview Falcons came into town to face the 4-1 La Porte Bulldogs in the first game of play in district 21-5A.
Channelview entered the game with the best passing attack in the Houston area. La Porte came into the game with one of the Houston area's best defenses. Something had to give this week.
The first half began with Channelview receiving and three quick incomplete passes and a punt. It seemed from the very beginning La Porte could put pressure on Falcon's Senior Quarterback Averion Hurts whenever they wanted. This was the story of the first half as Channelview managed below 50 yards of total offense and only two first downs. The Bulldogs disguised blitzes and by the time Hurts could read the defense and coverage he was under heavy pressure from La Porte's front seven.
The first drive for La Porte started at Channelview's 48 yard line. Lead by the running of Junior Running Back Keith Whitely and Sophomore Jonathan Lewis. The Bulldogs marched down the field and took a 7-0 lead on Junior Linebacker/Running Back Chad Sutherland's one yard run. That was Sutherland's 4th rushing touchdown of the season.
After the teams traded punts back and forth along with a missed Bulldog's field goal. La Porte commence their second scoring drive of the night in the second quarter with the three headed monster of Whitely, Lewis and Sophomore play-maker Taejon Wearen. After driving inside the 20 yard line Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales rolled to his right and hit Sophomore Fullback/Linebacker Trevor Nelson with an amazing fingertip catch in the end zone. La Porte lead Channelview 14-0 with 6:48 left in the first half.
Just before halftime La Porte fumbled giving the ball to the Falcons at the Bulldog 20 yard line. Two plays later Hurts under heavy pressure found Senior Wide Receiver Stanley Wesley for a 17 yard score after Wesley snuck behind the Bulldogs blitz and took it to the end zone making the score La Porte 14 Channelview 7 going into halftime. After a good start La Porte lost their momentum as the second half started.
La Porte received to start the half, but had a quick three and out. Channelview capitalized when Hurts found Senior Wide Receiver Marquis Johnson for a big gain into Bulldog territory and capped the drive with another Hurts to Johnson pass for a 25 yard touchdown. This made the score La Porte 14 Channelview 14 with 8:33 left in the third quarter. Momentum had shifted completely to the Falcons.
After a La Porte punt, Channelview again with a connection from Hurts to Wesley moved deep into La Porte territory. However this time La Porte's Dark Side Defense decided it was time to take the momentum back. La Porte sacked Hurts on 4th down and the Bulldog's took over.
Bulldogs running backs Whitely-Wearen-Lewis combination gashed the Falcon's defense. La Porte used the outside zone running plays moving the ball down field with ease and Lewis took home the one yard run with 1:31 left in the 3rd quarter the Bulldogs lead 21-14.
Another Channelview punt and a good return for Whitely started the drive at midfield for the Bulldogs. Again the outside running game was unstoppable and Whitely capped off the drive with a 12 yard touchdown giving La Porte a two touchdown lead 28-14.
The teams would trade touchdowns one more time with Hurts finding Johnson over the top for 65 yards and then connecting again for a 8 yard touchdown making it 28-21 La Porte. The Bulldogs would make sure Channelview would not get the ball again as Whitely capped off the game with his second touchdown, this one from 32 yards out and a La Porte 35-21 victory.
The Bulldog's offensive line together with Whitely's 205 yards on 27 carries dominated possession of the ball and kept it out of Hurt's hands for the win. La Porte held Channelview to negative twelve yards rushing and overall slowed down the Falcons enough for the offense to play ball control in the second half. Hurts finished the game with 278 yards passing, mostly in the second half after La Porte dropped more players into coverage and he had more time to throw. The front 7 of La Porte's defense was a destructive force all night.
A win this week over Baytown Sterling will almost lock up a playoff berth for the Bulldogs.
Channelview entered the game with the best passing attack in the Houston area. La Porte came into the game with one of the Houston area's best defenses. Something had to give this week.
The first half began with Channelview receiving and three quick incomplete passes and a punt. It seemed from the very beginning La Porte could put pressure on Falcon's Senior Quarterback Averion Hurts whenever they wanted. This was the story of the first half as Channelview managed below 50 yards of total offense and only two first downs. The Bulldogs disguised blitzes and by the time Hurts could read the defense and coverage he was under heavy pressure from La Porte's front seven.
The first drive for La Porte started at Channelview's 48 yard line. Lead by the running of Junior Running Back Keith Whitely and Sophomore Jonathan Lewis. The Bulldogs marched down the field and took a 7-0 lead on Junior Linebacker/Running Back Chad Sutherland's one yard run. That was Sutherland's 4th rushing touchdown of the season.
After the teams traded punts back and forth along with a missed Bulldog's field goal. La Porte commence their second scoring drive of the night in the second quarter with the three headed monster of Whitely, Lewis and Sophomore play-maker Taejon Wearen. After driving inside the 20 yard line Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales rolled to his right and hit Sophomore Fullback/Linebacker Trevor Nelson with an amazing fingertip catch in the end zone. La Porte lead Channelview 14-0 with 6:48 left in the first half.
Just before halftime La Porte fumbled giving the ball to the Falcons at the Bulldog 20 yard line. Two plays later Hurts under heavy pressure found Senior Wide Receiver Stanley Wesley for a 17 yard score after Wesley snuck behind the Bulldogs blitz and took it to the end zone making the score La Porte 14 Channelview 7 going into halftime. After a good start La Porte lost their momentum as the second half started.
La Porte received to start the half, but had a quick three and out. Channelview capitalized when Hurts found Senior Wide Receiver Marquis Johnson for a big gain into Bulldog territory and capped the drive with another Hurts to Johnson pass for a 25 yard touchdown. This made the score La Porte 14 Channelview 14 with 8:33 left in the third quarter. Momentum had shifted completely to the Falcons.
After a La Porte punt, Channelview again with a connection from Hurts to Wesley moved deep into La Porte territory. However this time La Porte's Dark Side Defense decided it was time to take the momentum back. La Porte sacked Hurts on 4th down and the Bulldog's took over.
Bulldogs running backs Whitely-Wearen-Lewis combination gashed the Falcon's defense. La Porte used the outside zone running plays moving the ball down field with ease and Lewis took home the one yard run with 1:31 left in the 3rd quarter the Bulldogs lead 21-14.
Another Channelview punt and a good return for Whitely started the drive at midfield for the Bulldogs. Again the outside running game was unstoppable and Whitely capped off the drive with a 12 yard touchdown giving La Porte a two touchdown lead 28-14.
The teams would trade touchdowns one more time with Hurts finding Johnson over the top for 65 yards and then connecting again for a 8 yard touchdown making it 28-21 La Porte. The Bulldogs would make sure Channelview would not get the ball again as Whitely capped off the game with his second touchdown, this one from 32 yards out and a La Porte 35-21 victory.
The Bulldog's offensive line together with Whitely's 205 yards on 27 carries dominated possession of the ball and kept it out of Hurt's hands for the win. La Porte held Channelview to negative twelve yards rushing and overall slowed down the Falcons enough for the offense to play ball control in the second half. Hurts finished the game with 278 yards passing, mostly in the second half after La Porte dropped more players into coverage and he had more time to throw. The front 7 of La Porte's defense was a destructive force all night.
A win this week over Baytown Sterling will almost lock up a playoff berth for the Bulldogs.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Game Week Happenings
Another big game this week for the Bulldogs.
La Porte's Sophomore Linebacker Hoza Scott with a nice article about the Scott family and their football legacy in La Porte: http://www.chron.com/sports/highschool/article/Hoza-might-be-the-best-of-La-Porte-s-Scott-2204960.php
Channelview's Averion Hurts was rated the #1 QB in Houston by the Houston Chronicle: http://www.chron.com/sports/highschool/gallery/Top-5-high-school-QBs-31127/photo-1633723.php
Also tune in tomorrow to Channel 11 as they have La Porte-Channelview as their game of the week.
The game as always will be broadcast online at http://www.legacysportsnetwork.com/
La Porte's Sophomore Linebacker Hoza Scott with a nice article about the Scott family and their football legacy in La Porte: http://www.chron.com/sports/highschool/article/Hoza-might-be-the-best-of-La-Porte-s-Scott-2204960.php
Channelview's Averion Hurts was rated the #1 QB in Houston by the Houston Chronicle: http://www.chron.com/sports/highschool/gallery/Top-5-high-school-QBs-31127/photo-1633723.php
Also tune in tomorrow to Channel 11 as they have La Porte-Channelview as their game of the week.
The game as always will be broadcast online at http://www.legacysportsnetwork.com/
Monday, October 3, 2011
District 21-5A Preview
Preseason is over and it's time for district play. 21-5A is really turning into a gauntlet with 5 out of 6 teams with only one loss or fewer. Only four teams can make the playoffs, so every game will be very important and affect playoff positioning. I will preview the teams in the order of La Porte's schedule.
District Standings:
5-0 Port Arthur Memorial Titans
4-1 North Shore Mustangs
4-1 La Porte Bulldogs
4-1 Beaumont West Brook Bruins
4-1 Channelview Falcons
0-5 Baytown Sterling Rangers
La Porte Bulldogs
-The Bulldogs were taken down by a very tough Klein Forest team for their only loss so far.
-La Porte's defense has been very stout and disruptive with 10 turnovers caused through five games.
-On offense La Porte is very young and will need to find their rhythm in district play to get into the playoffs and make some noise.
-The kicking game with Junior Kicker Eric Medina and Senior QB/Punter Josh Vidales has been a big key to field position and has helped La Porte's defense create short fields for the Bulldog Offense.
Channelview Falcons (at La Porte 10/7 7pm)
-Senior Quarterback Averion Hurts has put up shocking numbers with 1800 yards and 20 touchdowns through five games. Last week against Dobie he threw for 496 yards and 5 touchdowns.
-It's been a long time since the Falcons were last in the playoffs (1993). This is their best chance and with all of their seniors it's playoffs or bust this season.
-The defense will need to improve for the Falcons to survive 21-5A and battle for a playoff spot.
Baytown Sterling Rangers (at La Porte 10/14 7pm)
-After an 0-5 start, it's a dire situation for Baytown's only 5A school. They would need to pull off a titanic upset to win a game this season.
-The Rangers may have settled on a Quarterback with Jaime Acosta taking over and getting some good yards on the ground. He is not listed on their roster, so I assume he is a freshman or sophomore.
-The Rangers utilize the old Clear Lake triple option attack and are still learning the system.
-Explosive playmaker and Texas A&M recruit Jamar Gibson has had a tough season fitting into the offense.
North Shore Mustangs (at North Shore 10/21 7pm)
-After a disastrous season opener against Katy, the Mustangs have reeled off 4 straight victories against some decent competition.
-North Shore began the season with a two quarterback system, but Tyrone Newsome was injured week 1 and the keys to the Mustang offense have been handed to Micah Thomas who has impressed with a mix of run/pass.
-The Senior combination of deep threat receiver Larry McDuffey and running back Davonte Milton has been great and both players have racked up six touchdowns through five games.
-North Shore's defense has been great as usual and the defending 21-5A champs will continue to be the best until someone knocks them off.
Port Arthur Memorial Titans (at La Porte 10/28 7pm)
-Five games and five blow outs for the Titans. Three of those games were against 4A competition and the others were against a couple of 5A teams in down years.
-The real season starts in game one this week against North Shore.
-Senior Quarterback and Baylor Commit Terrence Singleton has been a force this season with over 1000 yards passing and 500 yards rushing with a combined 19 touchdowns
-Senior Running Back and Arkansas Commit Nate Holmes has kept opposing defenses off balance with 562 yards and 10 touchdowns.
-The Titan defense appears to be improved and will be an important part for a good run in the playoffs and in district play
Beaumont West Brook Bruins (at Beaumont 11/5 (Sat) 7pm)
-West Brook was also a victim of the powerhouse Katy Tigers for their only loss of the season.
-A stingy defense has been the key with Senior Defensive End/Linebacker and UT commit Caleb Bluiett leading the way.
-Senior Quarterback and coaches son Joshua Stump has shown poise and leadership leading the Bruin offense, however he did pick up an injury against Katy. He should be back in charge for district play.
-Senior Running Back Percy Johnson is a small back, but he has put up good numbers with 533 yards so far including 121 yards against a very strong Katy D.
District Standings:
5-0 Port Arthur Memorial Titans
4-1 North Shore Mustangs
4-1 La Porte Bulldogs
4-1 Beaumont West Brook Bruins
4-1 Channelview Falcons
0-5 Baytown Sterling Rangers
La Porte Bulldogs
-The Bulldogs were taken down by a very tough Klein Forest team for their only loss so far.
-La Porte's defense has been very stout and disruptive with 10 turnovers caused through five games.
-On offense La Porte is very young and will need to find their rhythm in district play to get into the playoffs and make some noise.
-The kicking game with Junior Kicker Eric Medina and Senior QB/Punter Josh Vidales has been a big key to field position and has helped La Porte's defense create short fields for the Bulldog Offense.
Channelview Falcons (at La Porte 10/7 7pm)
-Senior Quarterback Averion Hurts has put up shocking numbers with 1800 yards and 20 touchdowns through five games. Last week against Dobie he threw for 496 yards and 5 touchdowns.
-It's been a long time since the Falcons were last in the playoffs (1993). This is their best chance and with all of their seniors it's playoffs or bust this season.
-The defense will need to improve for the Falcons to survive 21-5A and battle for a playoff spot.
Baytown Sterling Rangers (at La Porte 10/14 7pm)
-After an 0-5 start, it's a dire situation for Baytown's only 5A school. They would need to pull off a titanic upset to win a game this season.
-The Rangers may have settled on a Quarterback with Jaime Acosta taking over and getting some good yards on the ground. He is not listed on their roster, so I assume he is a freshman or sophomore.
-The Rangers utilize the old Clear Lake triple option attack and are still learning the system.
-Explosive playmaker and Texas A&M recruit Jamar Gibson has had a tough season fitting into the offense.
North Shore Mustangs (at North Shore 10/21 7pm)
-After a disastrous season opener against Katy, the Mustangs have reeled off 4 straight victories against some decent competition.
-North Shore began the season with a two quarterback system, but Tyrone Newsome was injured week 1 and the keys to the Mustang offense have been handed to Micah Thomas who has impressed with a mix of run/pass.
-The Senior combination of deep threat receiver Larry McDuffey and running back Davonte Milton has been great and both players have racked up six touchdowns through five games.
-North Shore's defense has been great as usual and the defending 21-5A champs will continue to be the best until someone knocks them off.
Port Arthur Memorial Titans (at La Porte 10/28 7pm)
-Five games and five blow outs for the Titans. Three of those games were against 4A competition and the others were against a couple of 5A teams in down years.
-The real season starts in game one this week against North Shore.
-Senior Quarterback and Baylor Commit Terrence Singleton has been a force this season with over 1000 yards passing and 500 yards rushing with a combined 19 touchdowns
-Senior Running Back and Arkansas Commit Nate Holmes has kept opposing defenses off balance with 562 yards and 10 touchdowns.
-The Titan defense appears to be improved and will be an important part for a good run in the playoffs and in district play
Beaumont West Brook Bruins (at Beaumont 11/5 (Sat) 7pm)
-West Brook was also a victim of the powerhouse Katy Tigers for their only loss of the season.
-A stingy defense has been the key with Senior Defensive End/Linebacker and UT commit Caleb Bluiett leading the way.
-Senior Quarterback and coaches son Joshua Stump has shown poise and leadership leading the Bruin offense, however he did pick up an injury against Katy. He should be back in charge for district play.
-Senior Running Back Percy Johnson is a small back, but he has put up good numbers with 533 yards so far including 121 yards against a very strong Katy D.
Week 5 La Porte vs Channelview Preview
Back to football and more importantly week 1 of district play this week as the La Porte Bulldogs take on the Channelview Falcons Friday 7pm at Bulldog Stadium in La Porte.
La Porte comes into district play with a 4-1 record after a huge victory over rival Deer Park in overtime 34-31.
Channelview begins district play also at 4-1 after beating Dobie 51-43 to finish out their pre-district schedule on a four game winning streak.
This game has major playoff implications as the winner of this game will have the inside track on one of the four available playoff spots out of district 21-5A.
The Falcons offense has become a juggernaut over the last four games. Senior Quarterback (and coaches son) Averion Hurts has put up video game numbers with over 1800 yards passing and 20 touchdowns (only 2 interceptions. He is completing passes at a 66% clip. His targets have been equally great with Senior Wide Receivers Stanley Wesley (45 catches 761 yards and 5 tds) and Marquise Johnson (24 catches 520 yards and 7 tds) combining to provide a target for Hurts. At running back Senior Terrell Williams (413 rushing yards, 197 receiving yards, 5 total tds) has provided enough threat to open up the passing lanes. Channelview has not faced a defense like La Porte this season, but could do some serious damage after Deer Park threw for 340 yards last game. The key for the Falcons will be their offensive line and giving Hurts time to throw. The Bulldogs will be coming after him this week.
Channelview's defense will be trying to slow down La Porte's multi-back running game. The last two weeks the Falcons have given up over 40 points in victories and has relied on the offense to outscore their opponent. They are lead by Junior Defensive Back Robbie Miller (2 interceptions) and Senior Defensive Tackles JaMarcus Dorsey and Toddrick Cane.
La Porte's offense got the tough yards playing a physical game against Deer Park. Playing most of the game with a two score lead played into their grind it out offense. Once the Deer got 10 men in the box (the safety was also headed that way) a pass over the top loosened it up again. With better overall athletes up front for the Bulldogs they will be looking to dominate the Falcons up front and grind the clock. A couple of stops on defense and the time of possession advantage could dominate the game. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely (377 yards, 6 touchdowns) leads the Bulldogs in rushing, but I expect to see more of Sophomore Jonathan Lewis (215 yards, 6.4 yards per carry) this week as Whitely should see an increase of duty on defense. Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales will look to keep the Falcons defense honest with Senior Wide Receiver Aaron Nance-Garrett (11 catches, 162 yards, 2 tds) and Sophomore Taejon Wearen getting loose. The Bulldogs must control the line of scrimmage and the offensive line lead by Juniors Maurice Morris and Tony Briones will be looking to open up the running lanes.
The Bulldogs defense will be stepping into the spotlight this week against the Falcons surprising rise in the passing game. They will need to force Channelview and Hurts into bad throws by not giving him time to throw. Hurts can scramble, but La Porte should have a better time containing him than they did against Klein Forest and Matt Davis. The defensive line will need to eat up blockers and the linebackers will need to get to Hurts quick before he can get comfortable and complete easy passes. Senior Linebackers Chad Sutherland, Cameron Whilley and Chris Hickey along with Sophomore Hoza Scott will be disguising blitzes and trying to confuse the Falcons into making mistakes. Through five games the Dark Side has caused 10 turnovers and will be looking to add to that total this week.
Keys to La Porte Victory:
-Control the clock, keep the Falcon offense off the field
-Win the turnover battle
-Get pressure in the backfield before Channelview can get their passing game going.
The Bulldogs need a big crowd this week at home! Come on out and fill up the stands. A win this week will greatly increase La Porte's playoff chances.
La Porte comes into district play with a 4-1 record after a huge victory over rival Deer Park in overtime 34-31.
Channelview begins district play also at 4-1 after beating Dobie 51-43 to finish out their pre-district schedule on a four game winning streak.
This game has major playoff implications as the winner of this game will have the inside track on one of the four available playoff spots out of district 21-5A.
The Falcons offense has become a juggernaut over the last four games. Senior Quarterback (and coaches son) Averion Hurts has put up video game numbers with over 1800 yards passing and 20 touchdowns (only 2 interceptions. He is completing passes at a 66% clip. His targets have been equally great with Senior Wide Receivers Stanley Wesley (45 catches 761 yards and 5 tds) and Marquise Johnson (24 catches 520 yards and 7 tds) combining to provide a target for Hurts. At running back Senior Terrell Williams (413 rushing yards, 197 receiving yards, 5 total tds) has provided enough threat to open up the passing lanes. Channelview has not faced a defense like La Porte this season, but could do some serious damage after Deer Park threw for 340 yards last game. The key for the Falcons will be their offensive line and giving Hurts time to throw. The Bulldogs will be coming after him this week.
Channelview's defense will be trying to slow down La Porte's multi-back running game. The last two weeks the Falcons have given up over 40 points in victories and has relied on the offense to outscore their opponent. They are lead by Junior Defensive Back Robbie Miller (2 interceptions) and Senior Defensive Tackles JaMarcus Dorsey and Toddrick Cane.
La Porte's offense got the tough yards playing a physical game against Deer Park. Playing most of the game with a two score lead played into their grind it out offense. Once the Deer got 10 men in the box (the safety was also headed that way) a pass over the top loosened it up again. With better overall athletes up front for the Bulldogs they will be looking to dominate the Falcons up front and grind the clock. A couple of stops on defense and the time of possession advantage could dominate the game. Junior Running Back Keith Whitely (377 yards, 6 touchdowns) leads the Bulldogs in rushing, but I expect to see more of Sophomore Jonathan Lewis (215 yards, 6.4 yards per carry) this week as Whitely should see an increase of duty on defense. Senior Quarterback Josh Vidales will look to keep the Falcons defense honest with Senior Wide Receiver Aaron Nance-Garrett (11 catches, 162 yards, 2 tds) and Sophomore Taejon Wearen getting loose. The Bulldogs must control the line of scrimmage and the offensive line lead by Juniors Maurice Morris and Tony Briones will be looking to open up the running lanes.
The Bulldogs defense will be stepping into the spotlight this week against the Falcons surprising rise in the passing game. They will need to force Channelview and Hurts into bad throws by not giving him time to throw. Hurts can scramble, but La Porte should have a better time containing him than they did against Klein Forest and Matt Davis. The defensive line will need to eat up blockers and the linebackers will need to get to Hurts quick before he can get comfortable and complete easy passes. Senior Linebackers Chad Sutherland, Cameron Whilley and Chris Hickey along with Sophomore Hoza Scott will be disguising blitzes and trying to confuse the Falcons into making mistakes. Through five games the Dark Side has caused 10 turnovers and will be looking to add to that total this week.
Keys to La Porte Victory:
-Control the clock, keep the Falcon offense off the field
-Win the turnover battle
-Get pressure in the backfield before Channelview can get their passing game going.
The Bulldogs need a big crowd this week at home! Come on out and fill up the stands. A win this week will greatly increase La Porte's playoff chances.
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