When Arlington Martin’s season ended in a tight-knit bi-district playoff game against Keller Timber Creek, it proved the resiliency and persistence that had come to define the team in 2016. Even though the scoreboard read 54-51 in Timber Creek’s favor, the path Martin had to take to get to that point showed that Martin is always nipping at the heels of the competition despite what a record may show on paper.
Martin started their season at 2-4, but they trudged through the remainder of the schedule and rallied off four straight wins including a regular season win-and-in finale against Arlington Lamar to make the playoffs for the 11th consecutive year.
Martin finished second in District 4-6A behind Mansfield but perhaps even more impressive than their finish towards the end of the season is the pivotal players they will have returning.
Key Losses
QB Matt Cook, OL Brandon Lawson
On offense, the Warriors will be missing an experienced offensive lineman that garnered All-District honors along with their signal caller.
Lawson’s ability to hold the defensive pressure allowed for Cook to pass for 1,858 yards and 14 touchdowns and help balance the offensive attack of Martin.
Key Returners
WR Sorrell Brown, RB Juma Otoviano, TE Brayden Willis, OL Jacob Hollind, DL Spencer Trussell, LB Montrell Smith
Martin has a slew of talent returning to their squad which should have them competing at a high level and possibly give Mansfield a run at the title.
Juma Otoviano returns after posting a season where he ran for 1,481 yards and 24 touchdowns and could lay claim to the best back in the district now. Sorrell Brown will be back after hauling in 50 receptions as will tight end Brayden Willis that hauled in three touchdowns last season.
Defensively, both Trussell and Smith will be able to help contain the outside edges of the defense at their respective positions.
Verdict
Martin has the talent capacity to keep their playoff streak alive and well come next season. Mansfield seems to be at a higher tier within the district but anything can happen within a season as evident by Martin’s run to the playoffs.
If Martin can avoid a slow start like last season and stave off their district foes, a district title could well be in the discussion for them. Martin will have their work cut out for them with Bowie, Lamar and Arlington High constantly jostling with them in the district, but Martin will have the experience and talent necessary in order for them to try and gain ground in the district race.
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