ROPESVILLE, Texas — The Lockney Longhorns utilized a 39-14 season opening win over the Ropes Eagles to springboard a successful 7-2 campaign in 2020. Now, new Lockney coach Corey McCombs is hoping for similar results to begin the 2021 season under his regime.
“Ropes is an improved program after moving up from six-man to 11-man this time a year ago. They have very good team speed led by a very fast running back in R.J. Medrano (145 pounds). They blitz on defense a lot. We will have to contend that,” McCombs said.
The Eagles went on a five-game winning streak last season after losing their 11-man debut to Lockney. Their 5-5 season ended in the bi-district playoffs.
Senior Austin Rodriguez will start at quarterback for Lockney as three-year starter Pablo Morales is still nursing a turned ankle injury from the first scrimmage against Sanford-Fritch, according to McCombs.
Seniors Jesus Gonzales and Josh Jimenez will alternate at the running back position that Rodriquez was planning on playing this season. They are expected to compliment senior running back Nathan Ceniceros, who was tabbed as the 5-2A-II pre-season offensive MVP by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football magazine.
“We need to execute both offensively and defensively and play with great energy, McCombs said. “I am telling you, Ropes is a good ballclub. We need to play a full four quarters to give ourselves a chance to win.”
Kickoff will be at 7 p.m. on Friday at Eagles Stadium.
Predictions by Harris Ratings including Lockney’s opponents:
Lockney Longhorns over Ropes by 20
Tulia favored over Floydada Whirlwinds by 13
Boys Ranch Roughriders underdog to Bovina by 34
Tahoka picked over Plains Cowboys by 7
New Home by 28 against Odessa Compass Academy Cougars
Memphis Cyclones beating Electra by 28
Ralls Jackrabbits over Farwell by 7
Hamlin Pied Pipers to squeeze past Stamford by 1
Roscoe Plowboys underdog to Hawley by 44
Crosbyton Chiefs falling to Shamrock by 21
