Three’s company: Football teams scour for their third dub

This past week was the host of the season’s third non-district set of games for high school football.

No matter the district or what logo is seen on the helmets of the athletes, expectations are one thing and reality is another.

There’s been some great plays by those teams who are “expected” to be solidified squads and to continue establishing a winning tradition.

Then, there are those that surprise you a little bit. Not in a way that is shocking, but you can’t help but give a nod to the work they’re putting in.

For example, the PSJA North Raiders have been seen in the spotlight, with fans of the game agreeing that they are one of the best teams in the Valley, if not, the best.

The black and silver crew has seen some tremendous seasons the past couple of years, with solid runs in the playoffs. Last year, their playoff run was halted by New Braunfels — 35-32 — which is a heartbreaking loss to say the least. Couple years ago, the UIL football playoffs saw Brownsville Veterans Memorial and the Raiders matched up.

However, it is arguable that the win by the Brownsville team was considered an upset, as they marched onto the next round.

This is a new year though, although remnants of past losses can still linger for athletes — no matter the sport or level of play — defeat in a way can make a team stronger.

PSJA North is a perfect 3-0. They’re one of the teams in the Valley with considerable expectations on their shoulder pads. Their defense has only allowed 24 points in three games. Marco Alvarado has helped the effort by leading the team in tackles — the linebacker averages about 12 a game.

What about the offense though?

Well, in three games the Raiders have put up an admirable 168 points this year — that’s an average of 56 points per game. The onslaught has been run by Ethan Guerra — who averages about 170 yards per game. In addition, Isaiah Garza has about 36 yards receiving every game.

On the other side of the line of scrimmage, Economedes has turned some helmets with the display of skill that they’re showing.

The past couple of seasons, the Jaguars have had some struggling seasons. Last year, they finished 5-6, with a 2-3 record in district. The year prior to that one, they finished 1-9 overall, with a 1-4 record in district.

^{Economedes Jaguar Rey Luna pushes off a Brownsville Porter defender in their win on Sept. 4. | Source: ECISD Instagram}

But, you gotta say, these cats kept cool and put the work in. This season, they’re already at the halfway total of the past two years combined. The Economedes Jaguars impressively stand at 3-0.

Offensively, the Jaguars look pretty keen as district play begins to approach. After three games, they’ve put up 168 points — which is about 56 points a game on average. Defensively, the only team to put up any scores against them was Brownsville Porter with 21 points. The Jaguars retorted with 78 of their own that game, the most points put up by a Valley team this season.

Another school that is worth mentioning is the Mercedes Tigers, who are still standing undefeated.

Mercedes Tigers, 28 Nikki Rowe Warriors, 16

Speaking of the Tigers, they had a solid win this past week against the Nikki Rowe Warriors.

Senior Robert Sanchez gained his fair share of yardage as he was close to the 200-yard mark with 193. Sanchez carried the ball 23 times and had himself a touchdown. Quarterback Diego Bravo had himself some carries but found money with two touchdowns in the passing game.

Warrior Eli Garza had a decent game throwing 13-21 on the night. He had himself a touchdown for Nikki Rowe to receiver Landin Barrera. Alexander Lopez Negrete had a touchdown also that came from the ground.

Laredo LBJ, 22 Weslaco Panthers, 20

Although the scoreboard doesn’t reflect a wanted result, the Weslaco Panthers are having a solid season so far.

Senior David Garcia rushed for two touchdowns — he had himself 75 yards on the night. Quarterback Chris Luna is playing steady — he had a touchdown himself with 149 passing yards.

Laredo LBJ is a tough squad though. They continue their season at 3-0. The Panthers continue this week at 2-1.