3-7 is a significant mark of improvement for Hurst L.D. Bell after posting back-to-back 1-9 seasons. Despite opening their season with an overtime loss to Coppell, L.D. Bell began the season at 2-1 and already matched their win total of their previous two seasons combined. But when district play opened in the 5-6A battlefield, Bell would lose momentum and only net one more win the rest of the season.
Led by a senior-laden class of noticeable talent, the 2016 season was the foundation laid for what hopes to be the beginning of a new type of L.D. Bell football caliber. L.D. Bell will now be looking to rise higher within the district as the progress witnessed by the team serves as motivation heading into next season.
Now it’s up to the key returning members to begin a cycle that operates with a winning influence and if they will be able to continue the advancements in the program.
Key Losses
RB Ivan Traylor, RB Terry Pace, WR Ricky Walton, LB Ricky Tatu, DL Keroles Dawed
It will be a sore sight as some of these names were integral components of the team and helped L.D. Bell in the season. Both Traylor and Pace were a viable 1-2 punch out the backfield as the rushed for 878 yards and 493 yards respectively and combined for 16 touchdowns. Receiver Ricky Walton also rushed for 107 yards while catching four touchdowns and posting 523 receiving yards.
Defensively, Tatu and Dawed were dependable pass rushers and were one of the many defensive talents L.D. Bell had this year.
Key Returners
QB Austin Brougham, RB Markel Burnett, LB Nate Alexander
Brougham last year threw for 1,006 yards and four touchdowns and will look to have some help out the backfield from running back Markel Burnett as he looks to be the frontrunner at the running back position. Linebacker Nate Alexander will look to lead the defense and improve more on what was a rather successful defense last season.
The Verdict
It’s hard to not find this team an interesting peg in the District 5-6A competition despite finishing seventh. They have momentum swinging in their favor but it remains to be seen how they will fare against the likes of Flower Mound, Trophy Club Byron Nelson, Flower Mound Marcus and crosstown rival Euless Trinity. L.D. Bell will need a signature win or two against these teams and if anytime were more appropriate for it to happen, 2017 is prime for the opportunity.
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