LOCKNEY – Jonathan Thiebaud thinks he has a good football team, but wants some proof against outside competition Friday against the Sanford-Fritch Eagles. The Longhorns will take their first test against the 2A-1 classified Eagles that made the playoffs with a 4-7 record in 2021. “We have had good workouts so far. I am so anxious to see what we look like against another team. We will be working on parts of the game that we think needs work. Plus, we want tape of the team competing for the coaches and players to both see where we are,” explained Thiebaud.
At Saturday morning’s photo day for the Longhorns at Mitchell-Zimmerman Field, the Floyd County Record visited with some of the players who could play key rolls this fall. “I think we stack up to be a good team. I think we have good experience returning and a good young quarterback,” said senior tight end-defensive end Jonathan Cienfuegos. “I feel what I bring to the team is wanting to hit someone, and rushing from the edge on defense,” Cienfuegos added. The lanky 6’3” end has exhibited a warrior type mentality in playing athletics and he is not shy to be aggressive.
“I feel this team is really coming together. We are tight like a brotherhood. We have size and speed,” noted sophomore quarterback Dyllan Thiebaud. “I think I am more effective passing from the pocket created by my offensive line. But, I am willing to tuck it and run if necessary to make a play. I think the baseball season helped me absorb varsity competition as a freshman. I think I can play with the older players,” Thiebaud commented with confidence like a true leader.
“I am excited that good things can happen this season. There is a tight bond on this team and the ability to fight with the opponent, ” said senior safety and running back Dax Poole. “I am anxious to get back on the field after a shoulder injury during last season that required surgery. I think I am stronger and 100-percent healthy. I think I can help the defense at free safety and alternating at running back. I need to improve on being patient. I am aware I have some big shoes to fill in the secondary from last year’s team, and I am ready to make the challenge,” Poole added.
Coach Thiebaud has said the 2022 Longhorns have depth at nearly every position. There could be multiple players contribute any given Friday night. He feels the Longhorns will be able to run the ball effectively, but will not be afraid to go to the air. Thiebaud will get his first look at outside competition in a gloried workout in the scrimmage against the Sanford-Fritch Eagles on Friday at 6:00 p.m. at Eagle Stadium.
