District 3-2AD1 may not seem like much, but it will be a tough district come November. The main question everyone will be asking is, what team will set themselves ahead of the others since every team had a record below .500 last season.
A team that could answer that question is Christoval. The Cougars return 10 starters on offense and nine on defense, establishing themselves as one of the most experienced teams this season. The trio of quarterback Christian Mayfield, running back Kaleb Dickey and wide receiver/ defensive back Seth Parker return and will lead the offense to a potential district title. Linebacker Jake Comey and defensive end Gus Silva led the defense in tackles and sacks and will be looking to do the same this season.
The team that is the most experienced in the district is Anthony. The Wildcats return 10 starters on offense and all starters on defense. With experience as a plus for the Wildcats, the bar is set to high standards, hoping to bring a district title in 2016. Quarterback Isaiah Borrego starts for his fourth straight year, as he will lead the Wildcat offense. Defensive lineman Fernando Reyes will lead the defense once again for Anthony.
Eldorado doesn’t have much experience returning compared to Anthony and Christoval, but will be looking to surprise teams in 2016. The Eagles return four starters on offense and two on defense from a 5-6 team. Running back/ linebacker Victor Castro will lead the Eagles on both sides of the ball, as he rushed for 543 all-purpose yards and make two touchdown receptions. On the defensive side, Castro recorded 70 tackles and intercepted four passes.Other returnees include quarterback/ linebacker Javier Garcia and running back/ linebacker Keanu Hernandez.
Ozona missed out in the playoffs after making an appearance for three straight seasons. With new coach Kyle Freeman, who built Bruni to a successful program, the Lions will be optimistic about the season and their future. The Lions will be led by quarterback Jadon Perez and linebacker Mark Ybarra. Other notable returnees include kicker Francisco Rivera, running back Thomas Fay and offensive lineman Juan Mendez.
McCamey saw a 15 straight year of playoff appearances snap after a 2-8 season. The Badgers return five starters on offense and seven on defense, hoping to return to the playoffs this season. Running back/ cornerback Mark Juarez will power the Badger offense along with quarterback/ defensive back Carson Fuentes in the spread offense. Juarez and offensive lineman/ defensive tackle Taelor Pister will power the defense with their strong pass rushing capabilities. In the secondary, running back/ linebacker Zach Rosales and running back/ safety Gunner Adams will also help Juarez and Pister in the secondary.