One of the most consistent high school football programs of the decade have been the Raiders of Denton Ryan High School. The Raiders have finished as state semifinalist for the past three seasons, and if not for the magic of reigning three time 5A state champion, the Highland Park Scots and Coach Randy Allen, who have beaten Ryan in all three state semifinals, the mystique of the Raiders may be looked at a little different.
This year the Raiders are led by a core of offensive starters who were all key contributors to last years state semifinal team. Junior Quarterback Seth Henigan, who last year replaced one of the more successful Quarterbacks in Raider history, current Oklahoma State signal caller Spencer Sanders has had an efficient year to this point throwing for 1,368 yards with 19 touchdowns and only 3 interceptions. Senior Running back Emani Bailey has rushed for 673 yards on the season and added 10 touchdowns.
Ryan has a pair of top rated national prospects that have also played a major role in their season. Junior and 3 year varsity starter Billy Boman Jr. is already committed to the University of Texas Austin. He, along with Senior Alabama commit Drew Sanders have combined for 14 receiving touchdowns and 964 yards. Both see time on both sides of the football.
The Raider defense who uses the “9-5-9” slogan and style of football may be one of the best in all of Texas. Through the first 8 games of the season, they have only given up more than 9 points in one game (a 59-28 win over crosstown rival Denton High). They have three shut outs on their record and have dominated throughout the season. Junior Linebacker Ty Marsh leads the team with 44 tackles, 11 of which have been for loss and a sack. The team has also recovered 12 fumbles on the year.
Ryan currently is tied for first with Birdville High in the race for the 5A District 4 title. They will travel to Birdville on November 7th for a possible championship showdown. The Raiders have not lost a regular season game since 2014, which has their current win streak at an outstanding 48. Although the streak is impressive, it almost means nothing to a Raider program that aspirations of a state championship.
