By Jimmy Isbell
To kickoff the highly anticipated Texas high school football season, the Richland Rebels host the Arlington Lamar Vikings for a non-district matchup Thursday, August 27th.
Last Season’s Result
The Vikings underestimated the Rebels, trailing them at the half 21-20. Lamar’s signal-caller Shane Buechele responded late in the fourth quarter, commanding his troops to a late touchdown to defeat the Rebels 27-21.
Key players to watch
Lamar
QB Shane Buechele — Verbal to Texas
RB Rashod Polk — District 4-6A’s Offensive Sophomore of the Year
WR Kofi Boateng — Verbal to Arkansas
DE William Page Jr. — First-Team All District
CB Madre Harper Jr. — First-Team All District
Richland
QB Jordan Wiley — Linebacker last season, turned QB
FS P.J. Hill — 49 tackles, four for loss and a forced fumble
DL Coleton Burgess — 33 tackles, nine for loss
Related: Richland Rebels Face Uphill Climb in District 7-6A
Unlike last season, the Vikings won’t keep this game within reach for the Rebels. Lamar’s offensive weapons will be too much for the Rebels’ inexperience on defense, and Richland’s offense won’t be up to par with last year’s squad.
Score Prediction
Arlington Lamar 42, Richland 14
