Oak Ridge War Eagles vs Dawson Eagles


PEARLAND — The Oak Ridge War Eagles will invade The Rig on Friday, Aug. 26 at 7:00 p.m. to take on the Dawson Eagles.

Here is a look at Oak Ridge and Dawson as the 2016 season gets underway.


Oak Ridge War Eagles - District 12-6A

Oak Ridge was 4-6 last season and didn't make the playoffs. They have seven offensive and five defensive starters returning with 27 lettermen.

The War Eagles are picked to finish fourth in their district and to advance to the post-season with a more seasoned team.

Junior QB Bishop Dirst (5-10, 175), returns to run the offense while WR Kyle Townsend (6-1, 200) will be an offensive weapon. OL Jeremy Parker (6-3, 275), OL Tyler Johnson, and OL Kevin Dunk will anchor the offensive line for RB Contrell Green and RB Jimmie Moore.

Defensively, LB Grant Stuard (6-0, 195), S Zachary Johnson (5-11, 175), LB Brennan Young (5-10, 190), DL Gavin Franklin, and DB Jodary McGowen (5-11, 165) will provide strong leadership on that side of the ball.


DAWSON EAGLES - District 23-6A

The Eagles were 8-4 last season and fell to the Friendswood Mustangs in the Class 6A Region III area round.

Dawson took a hit with graduation sending key players to the next level in their journey to get a good education as well as continuing their playing careers.

The Eagles have four offensive and four defensive starters returning for the 2016 season.

Players to watch: QB Zach Smith (6-2, 180, 4.5), LB Patrick Howell (6-1, 235), DE Desmond Clifton (6-4, 225), RB Darrius Smith (5-9, 165) WR Osby Mitchell (6-0, 200), WR Niko Thomas (6-4, 180). Top juniors: OT Payne Hebert (6-5, 260) and TE Spencer Wells (6-4, 225). Top sophomore: DT Cameron Johnson (6-2, 275).

Other prospects include: S Bryce Victorian, ILB Mike Williams, C Jacoby Shelton, OL Justin Parker, WR Mason Pierce, and DE Isaih Chance.

Smith has the most returning firepower on offense as he threw for 2,264 yards and 33 TDs while rushing for 622 yards and 10 more scores. Darrius Smith will be the primary ball carrier to compliment Zach Smith.

Hebert and Wells will anchor the offensive line while the defense will be lead by LB Howell who had 104 tackles, 10 TFL and 3 INTs a year ago. Clinton will also be a key defensive playmaker.