San Antonio Reagan had a very solid 2016 season, even if it didn’t end the way they wanted it to. In the regular season, the Rattlers only lost to Laredo United by three points. Otherwise, they were excellent, often winning games by multiple touchdowns.
The defense was stellar, only allowing double digit points in six of their eleven games played. They scored a huge win over Harlingen in predistrict competition, the Cardinals aren’t an easy team to beat, especially how the Rattlers won. They were devastating in a 41-7 win.
The unfortunate part was their first round draw: Austin Westlake. The Chapparral defensive line was all over the field in the Rattlers’ loss, and Reagan’s season was over. The Rattlers will have a solid squad in 2017, but ultimately they’ll have to make it out of an incredibly tough area.
Key Losses
RB Marquis Duncan, OL Derek Kerstetter, QB Cade Bormet, DL Kody Fox, LB Kyle Andersen, LB Leighton Dimando
The Reagan defense is going to have to replace some huge pieces on the defensive front with Fox, Andersen, and Dimando graduating. The bell cow of the Rattler offense, Marquis Duncan, will graduate as well, along with Derek Kerstetter, who paved the way for his incredible season.
Key Returners
WR Drew Ureste, QB Justin Tibbs, OL Brandon Smith, DB Spencer Gilliam
Justin Tibbs will be the full time starter, and he has the potential to be a breakout star in the San Antonio area. He’ll have serious help from Drew Ureste and Brandon Smith as well. Spencer Gilliam is a turnover creating machine, and he’ll be leaned on a lot as the new Rattler defense gels.
The Verdict
Well, it’s going to be a much different team in terms of the faces, but Reagan’s strategy should remain essentially the same. There’ll be some defense, there’ll be a running game, there’s just going to be a few minor tweaks.
I like what Reagan brings back, and I really like what Justin Tibbs has the potential to bring to the table. If the defense gels, then Reagan will be a very scary team to some of those area powers. They have a tough route, but this team should be a lock to at the very least be a district title contender and challenge bigger name teams in the playoffs.
Brought to you by:
