Cy Woods 36, Cy Lakes 33: Off the Canvas

Record: 2-5, 2-4 in District 17-6A

Photo credit: Billy Schuerman, The Crimson Connection

The Cypress Woods Wildcats snapped a school-record-tying four-game losing streak by snatching a 36-33 victory over Cy Lakes from the jaws of defeat onThursday at Cy-Fair FCU Stadium.

No doubt, the Cats needed this win to at least bring back some positive feelings. It's definitely a relieving feeling when a long losing streak is stopped, and to their credit, they've continued to fight, even through the countless lapses. 

Yes, I think this team is better than their 2-4 record in district play, but I'll save that rant for another day.

So, What Happened Was...

Tyrese Miller connected with Reginald Breggs on a 16-yard touchdown pass to open the scoring. However, the Cats swiftly responded as Jacob Kainer found Jake Fennis for a 66-yard score. Just before the end of the opening quarter, Jack Barrientez caught a five-yard touchdown. 

End 1st: Woods 14, Lakes 6

Ansar Richardson scored on a 13-yard run to cut the Wildcats' lead to two points, and then Jack caught a six-yard touchdown pass, his second of the evening. The Spartans got on the board right before halftime thanks to a two-yard touchdown pass from Miller to Colin King.

Halftime: Woods 21, Lakes 19

Jack was intercepted by Julian Hall, who returned it for a pick-six to put Lakes in the lead. He atoned for that miscue with a 68-yard touchdown, and on the ensuing PAT, Matt Ficalora scored two points. The Spartans regained the lead thanks to a three-yard scoring run by King.

End 3rd: Lakes 33, Woods 29

The Spartans downed a punt at Cy Woods' one-yard line with three minutes remaining in the game. On the first play of the drive, Jack busted loose for a 42-yard run. With the Cats facing a 4th & 13, Jacob managed to gain 14 yards. Four plays later, Nijah Surtain caught a screen pass from Jacob and scampered 32 yards for the game-winner with 23 seconds left. 

Collin Fewox sealed the deal by picking off a desperation heave from King.

Final: Woods 36, Lakes 33

Ground

Running backs running the ball. Hmm... hope this concept catches on. Jack's 68-yard touchdown run is the Wildcats' longest running play of the season. Only one of his carries in this game resulted in a loss of yards. In fact, the Wildcats only had four running plays in which they lost yards. I think that's ideal.

Jacob Kainer: 10 carries, 34 yards

Jack Barrientez: 7 carries, 123 yards, TD

Nijah Surtain: 6 carries, 56 yards

Air

This was the second game in which Jacob threw four touchdowns. Julian Hall picked off both Jacob and Jack, and he returned Jack's interception for a touchdown in the third quarter.

Jacob Kainer: 16-28, 264 yards, 4 TD, INT

Jack Barrientez: 0-1, INT

This game was also the first time that someone other than Jack led the team in receptions. Well... he and Nijah tied for the lead in this one. 

Brennan Niles became the second player to reach double figures in receptions and the second player to surpass 200 receiving yards this season. His 46-yard catch in the 3rd is now his longest grab of the year.

Nijah Surtain: 6 catches, 71 yards, TD

Jack Barrientez: 6 catches, 42 yards, 2 TD

Brennan Niles: 2 catches, 70 yards

Jake Fennis: 1 catch, 66 yards, TD

Cullen Sherrill: 1 catch, 15 yards

Defense

Myles Wilson continues to make his presence felt on defense. I've watched him for almost four years, and he has the ability to play at the next level. Collin Fewox finished with 11 tackles and the decisive interception. 

Tackles

Myles Wilson - 13

Collin Fewox - 11

Collin Joyce and Elijah Strang - 10

Neil Chambers - 9

Cody Eggleston - 8

Evan Alexander - 7

Micheal Young and Christian Jones - 4

Tyler Redgrave and Trent Bird - 3

Chris Statom - 2

Tre Minix, Jack Barrientez, and Blake Brown - 1

Fumbles forced: Collin Fewox and Neil Chambers - 1 apiece

Interceptions 

Collin Fewox - 1, returned 18 yards

Micheal Young - 1, returned 21 yards

Special Teams

Luis Reyes went 4-4 on his extra point attempts, and his only punt of the night traveled 41 yards. When he isn't called on to punt often, that's usually a good sign. All but one of his kickoffs went for touchbacks.

Jake Fennis: 3 kicks returned, 31 yards

Nijah Surtain: 1 kick returned, 17 yards

Tre Minix: 1 kick returned, 14 yards

Micheal Young: 1 kick returned, 11 yards

Jack Barrientez: 1 punt returned, 0 yards

Man of the Match

Without a doubt, Jack Barrientez has been the Wildcats' best offensive player this season. With 165 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns, he gets the nod here.

Jacob showed tremendous poise in directing the offense on the game-winning drive. He's a good player; that's why he's the starting quarterback. Once he reins in the turnovers, that is when he can be considered great.

Looking Ahead

It's Homecoming at the Woods. In the ninth Homecoming football game, the Wildcats will take on the Cy-Fair Bobcats at Pridgeon Stadium on Friday, October 21 at 7:00. Naturally, they will be the home team.

Know Your Enemy: Cypress Lakes Spartans

Week 8: Cy Woods Wildcats @ Cy Lakes Spartans
7:00 PM Thursday, October 13, 2016
Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union Stadium

Photo credit: Billy Schuerman, The Crimson Connection

Previously on Cy Woods Football...

The Wildcats lost 27-10 to Cy Falls, giving the Eagles their first win of the season and the Wildcats their fourth consecutive loss, which ties a rather undesirable record. Matt Ficalora caught a 32-yard touchdown pass for the only Cy Woods touchdown.

Now, the Cats will have to contend with a Cy Lakes program that looks to be finally getting themselves off the ground after six torturous seasons.

At this point, I just hope that the kids just play hard. That's really all I'm expecting from here on out.

The Enemy: Cypress Lakes Spartans

2015 record: 1-9, 0-9 (10th) in District 17-6A
Did not qualify for playoffs

Cy Lakes season-to-date

W 33-21 @ Mayde Creek
L 44-13 vs. Cy-Fair
L 53-49 @ Cy Creek
W 31-14 vs. Cy Falls
L 43-30 @ Cy Ridge
L 69-25 @ Langham Creek

All-Time Series


Cy Woods leads 6-0.

Previous Meetings


October 9, 2015: Woods 70, Lakes 20 (Homecoming VIII)
October 10, 2014: Woods 52, Lakes 10
September 28, 2013: Woods 34, Lakes 14
September 29, 2012: Woods 63, Lakes 13
October 6, 2011: Woods 63, Lakes 14
October 7, 2010: Woods 34, Lakes 0

(A Few) Players to Watch

QB Tyrese Miller, RB Ansar Richardson, WR Ted Solomon, ATH Colin King, WR Reginald Breggs, WR Nate Green, DB Brenden Lemon, DB Julian Hall, LB Frank Reed, LB Al'qwaylon Fils

2¢ on Lakes

For better or for worse, the path of the Cy Lakes football program will always be tied to Cy Ranch's path in some way, shape, or form. Both of these schools began competing in varsity football in 2010, and while Ranch has turned into one of the state's top programs, it has been infinitely rougher sailing for Lakes, a team that entered this season with just five wins in six seasons.

In 2016, however, Spartan football has become one of the feel-good stories in the early going of this year in Cy-Fair ISD athletics, and one of the chapters in this story involves snapping a 22-game losing streak in district play dating back to the end of the 2013 season.

You may be tempted to scoff at the fact that this is the first time that Cy Lakes has won more than one football game in a season, or that this feel-good story involves a team that still has a losing record on the season. If you are thinking about scoffing... please don't. One could probably argue that Cy Lakes should be a .500 team right now. Personally, I've found myself rooting for them a little bit this year, because a good Cy Lakes team simply makes this district better.

Whatever Coach Patton is preaching to his team, they are all in on his philosophy, and day by day, they are changing the perception of Cy Lakes football. By all accounts, they're not content with winning just two games. Although, realistically, a playoff spot may be out of reach for 2016, they could mount a legitimate challenge for one as soon as next season.

Tyrese Miller, a left-hander, saw some playing time as a sophomore last year. Now, he has taken the reins of the offense as the #1 quarterback. Colin King and Ted Solomon, who were the previous two starting quarterbacks, still play integral roles in the Spartan attack. King, a three-year letterman, has shown off his versatility at all of the offensive skill positions. Solomon has formed a solid tandem with Nate Green at the receiver spots, which also features a deep threat in Breggs. Solomon also doubles as the punter, and he is second in the district in average yards per punt.

Brenden Lemon, who was the Spartans' only non-honorable mention All-District pick (he was a 2nd-team selection) last season, is one of five players in the district with three interceptions. He leads a secondary that also includes Julian Hall, who has two picks of his own, D'Andre David, and Braelon Herman, a three-year starter. Frank Reed and Al'qwaylon Fils lead a linebacking corps with pretty good depth; Allen Moreira, Tyler Dudley, Emmanuel Iruru, and Jude Keelen will also feature at the second level of the Spartan defense.

Last Time These Two Teams Met

It was a happy homecoming for the Wildcats as they stormed out to a 42-6 lead after the first quarter and strolled to a 70-20 victory. Jared Taylor caught three passes for 78 yards and two touchdowns, and C.J. Jones ran for a touchdown and caught another touchdown.

Sub-Varsity Game Information

Freshmen at Lakes, JV at Woods. Game times are 5 and 7 on Wednesday.

Location of Cypress Lakes High School

Cy Falls 27, Cy Woods 10: ***Simulate to End of Season***

2016 record: 1-5, 1-4 in District 17-6A

The Wildcats were shackled on offense in a 27-10 loss to Cy Falls on Friday, sending them to a fourth consecutive defeat, which, unfortunately, ties the longest losing streak in Cy Woods football history. It is also the first time that the Wildcats have lost four games in a row in the same season. And now.... the possibility of a playoff drought is one step closer to reality.

They have given two previously winless teams their first wins of the season. I.... I just can't right now.

So, What Happened Was...

Luis Reyes opened the scoring with a 21-yard field goal. However, Chhay Hok put the Eagles in front with a 14-yard touchdown run.

End 1st: Falls 7, Woods 3

Jordan Ramos' 12-yard touchdown pass from T.J. Goodwin was the only scoring play of the second quarter.

Halftime: Falls 14, Woods 3

Christian Anderson scored the only points of the third quarter with a three-yard run.

End 3rd: Falls 20, Woods 3

Brighton Gullickson connected with Matt Ficalora on a 32-yard touchdown pass for Cy Woods' only touchdown of the game. Sadly, Devon Hayward sealed the victory by picking off Brighton and returning the interception 52 yards for the final score of the evening with three minutes left.

Final: Falls 27, Woods 10

Ground

Not much to report here.

Jack Barrientez: 11 carries, 27 yards
Jacob Kainer: 5 carries, 25 yards
Brighton Gullickson: 3 carries, 0 yards
Semaj Trahan: 2 carries, 7 yards

Air

Another multi-interception outing for the signal-callers.

PSA: Turnovers kill.

Jacob Kainer: 11-19, 124 yards, INT
Brighton Gullickson: 6-11, 92 yards, TD, 2 INT
Semaj Trahan: 0-1

Jack Barrientez: 5 catches, 53 yards
Angel Laca: 3 catches, 37 yards
Jake Fennis: 2 catches, 44 yards
Matt Ficalora: 2 catches, 36 yards, TD
Bobby Dodson: 2 catches, 16 yards
Brennan Niles: 1 catch, 16 yards
Tanner Sherrill: 1 catch, 12 yards
Sam Landingham:1 catch, 2 yards

Defense

Well, they held an opponent to fewer than 30 points for the first time this season. I suppose there's that.

Special Teams

Luis Reyes hit a 21-yard field goal and his only extra point opportunity of the game.

Man of the Match

I guess I'll go with Matt Ficalora for scoring the Cats' only touchdown.

Looking Ahead

The Wildcats will kick off Week 8 of District 17-6A football as they take on the Cy Lakes Spartans at Cy-Fair FCU Stadium. Kickoff is at 7. Cy Woods will be the visitors in this game.

Know Your Enemy: Cypress Falls Golden Eagles

Week 7: Cy Woods Wildcats vs. Cy Falls Golden Eagles
7:00 PM, Friday, October 7, 2016
Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union Stadium

Previously on Cy Woods Football...

Langham Creek scored on its first five offensive series and returned two interceptions for touchdowns in a 62-35 victory. Cullen Sherrill's two catches both went for touchdowns, so there's that.

Well, on to the second half. The Wildcats are looking for something... anything, to get themselves back in the District 17-6A playoff picture.

The Enemy: Cypress Falls Golden Eagles

2015 Record: 10-3, 7-2 (2nd) in District 17-6A

Lost 28-21 to North Shore in 6A Division I, Region III semifinal

Cy Falls season-to-date

L 25-0 @ Alief Taylor

L 26-7 @ Cy Ranch

L 22-14 vs. Langham Creek

L 31-14 @ Cy Lakes

L 41-24 vs. Cy Springs

All-Time Series

Cy Falls leads 5-3.

Previous Meetings

September 17, 2015: Falls 57, Woods 20
September 20, 2014: Woods 48, Falls 47
October 25, 2013: Woods 37, Falls 15
October 26, 2012: Falls 35, Woods 10
September 10, 2011: Falls 28, Woods 12
September 11, 2010: Falls 28, Woods 20
November 7, 2009: Falls 46, Woods 43
November 8, 2008: Woods 70, Falls 20

Players to Watch

QB T.J. Goodwin, RB Christian Anderson, RB Jordan Ramos, RB Chhay Hok, ATH Starrland Baldwin, DL Cordell Ijoma, DL Kory Toliver, LB Blake Thompson, LB Addy Bikacic, DB Davion Morris, DB Levi Fields

2¢ on Falls

One year after they were the last Cy-Fair ISD team standing, the Eagles are in danger of being the first team eliminated from playoff contention. This is a matchup pitting the district's worst offense (Cy Falls) and the worst defense (Cy Woods) against one another, so something's got to give...

The Eagles' defense has definitely been their strength this season, and they have standouts at all three levels. Cordell Ijoma and Kory Toliver are imposing presences in the trenches. Blake Thompson set the Cy Falls single-season record for tackles last season, and he is arguably the face of Cy Falls' defensive unit. He'll be joined by Bikacic and Tommy Dinh, among others. Davion Morris, a three-year letterman, is the leader of the Eagles secondary; he and Cy Ranch's Rance McInnis currently lead the district with three interceptions apiece.

On the other hand, Cy Falls has a brand-new cast of characters on offense, and they have yet to score 100 points on the season. They have to replace two 1,000-yard rushers (Desmond Hite and Shannon Vaughns), a three-year starter at quarterback (Casey Rosellini), and a three-year starter at cornerback and wide receiver (Jorren Pollard). In addition, they also lost their offensive coordinator.

T.J. Goodwin has shown flashes, but he's enduring growing pains as a sophomore. To replace Hite and Vaughns, the Eagles have a three-back rotation of Christian Anderson, Chhay Hok, and Jordan Ramos. Hok is also the team's leading receiver. Starrland Baldwin can make an impact anywhere on the field, whether on offense, defense, or the return game.

Last Time These Two Teams Met

Desmond Hite and Shannon Vaughns went on a rampage in a 57-20 Cy Falls victory. They both ran for well over 100 yards with three touchdowns, and Hite also caught a touchdown pass. That is probably all you really needed to know about this game.

Sub-Varsity Game Information

The JV will play at Cy Falls, while the freshmen will be at Cy Woods. Game times are 5:00 and 7:00 on Thursday.

Location of Cypress Falls High School

Langham Creek 62, Cy Woods 35: September Doldrums

2016 record: 1-4, 1-3 in District 17-6A

Photo credit: Billy Schuerman, The Crimson Connection

For a second consecutive year, the Cypress Woods Wildcats are in a mid-season swoon. At times, they have looked excellent. At other times, they've looked completely incapable of keeping pace with the opposition, and unfortunately, there have been more occurrences of the latter. In the first game of Week 6 in District 17-6A, the Wildcats looked as though they were simply unable to match Langham Creek's intensity in a 62-35 loss, dropping them to 1-4 on the season and 1-3 in district play.

This.... this is what growing pains on offense and a defense that still has the inability to keep opposing offenses off the scoreboard, gets you. This is an offense that has nine sophomores seeing playing time. Sounds a lot like the Astros in the second half of this season. They're fighting, and that is commendable, but at 1-3, the Cats are really up against it now. They just haven't been able to put a complete football game in the last two weeks, and now a third consecutive defeat has them at the brink, meaning that the only way for them to salvage any hope for the playoffs is if they win out. Never say never, though.

You may think that I'm the mouthpiece for the coaches, but honestly (seriously), I was not overly optimistic about this team heading into the season. They simply have too many questions, and too few, if any, of them have been answered so far.

If (I won't say when just yet) the Cats are formally out of the playoff picture, I wouldn't be surprised if they shift straight to youth movement mode to see what they have for 2017... then again, they're basically undergoing one on offense right now. As an alum, of course I want this team to do well. I do realize that missing the playoffs isn't the end of the world, either. Regardless of how this season turns out, I'm still very interested in seeing how the youngsters develop. There is hope... maybe not for this year, but surely for the future.

So, What Happened Was...

Toneil Carter opened up the scoring with an eight-yard run, and Jack Barrientez put Cy Woods on the board with a five-yard run to tie the game. However, it only took one play for Langham to regain the advantage, as Reagan Coburn scored on a 56-yard pass from Chris Herron, who scored on a seven-yard run shortly before the end of the first quarter.

End 1st: Langham 20, Woods 7

Cullen Sherrill scored the first points of the second quarter by catching his first touchdown pass of the evening, a 22-yard connection with Jacob Kainer. Herron responded by finding Praise Okorie for a 14-yard touchdown pass. Jacob fired a 15-yard touchdown pass to Brennan Niles, giving him a touchdown reception for the second straight week. However, the wheels fell off for them to end the half, as Chase McCray scored on a nine-yard run and Paul Darks returned an interception 30 yards for a touchdown.

Halftime: Langham 41, Woods 21

Cullen's second touchdown reception of the evening was the only scoring play in the third quarter.

End 3rd: Langham 41, Woods 28

The Lobos snuffed out a fake punt attempt, and Herron capped off the Lobos' ensuing drive with a 13-yard touchdown pass to Golden Eke. Nijah Surtain scored on a four-yard run, but Langham buried the Cats with a 29-yard touchdown run from Toneil Carter and a 21-yard pick-six from Brad Pinkerton.

Final: Langham 62, Woods 35

Ground

On a more positive note... welcome back, C.J. His presence in the offense was sorely missed, and while he didn't score in this game, he was able to break off some nice runs. He will likely have to take his game to unprecedented heights to help keep this team in the picture.

Congratulations to Nijah Surtain for scoring his first touchdown at the varsity level.

C.J. Jones: 11 carries, 90 yards
Jacob Kainer: 14 carries, 54 yards
Nijah Surtain: 5 carries, 14 yards, TD
Bobby Dodson: 3 carries, 9 yards
Luis Reyes: 2 carries, 8 yards
Jack Barrientez: 2 carries, 7 yards
Brighton Gullickson: 3 carries, 2 yards

Air

Four interceptions, two pick sixes.... definitely not ideal. Just a rough night against the defense that leads the district in interceptions. Brighton Gullickson got the start, and he played a few series before Jacob assumed control of the offense the rest of the way.

All but one of Cullen Sherrill's catches have resulted in touchdowns this season.

Jacob Kainer: 18-34, 262 yards, 3 TD, 3 INT (2 returned for touchdowns)
Brighton Gullickson: 2-4, 7 yards, INT
Jack Barrientez: 0-1

Jack Barrientez: 7 catches, 59 yards
Tanner Sherrill: 4 catches, 92 yards
Brennan Niles: 2 catches, 32 yards, TD
Cullen Sherrill: 2 catches, 28 yards, 2 TD
Nijah Surtan: 2 catches, 10 yards
Matt Ficalora: 1 catch, 35 yards
C.J. Jones: 1 catch, 8 yards
Connor Faulk: 1 catch, 5 yards

Defense

Can't pin two pick-sixes on the defense, but Langham Creek scoring on their first five offensive possessions of the game... definitely not ideal. The Wildcats didn't have an answer for Chris Herron in this game.

Neil Chambers and Collin Fewox delivered solid performances; Collin recorded six tackles, two of which resulted in a loss of yards, and one was a sack. Neil had two sacks and recovered a fumble.

Tackles

Elijah Strang: 7
Myles Wilson and Collin Fewox: 6
Kason Franklin: 5
Tory Spears and Neil Chambers: 4
Eron Vanduren: 3
Hunter Husbands, Collin Joyce, Cam Howland, Connor Faulk: 2
Hunter Magallan, Micheal Young, Brighton Gullickson, Ellington Shepard, Jack Barrientez, and Tyvon Alexander: 1

Sacks

Neil Chambers: 2, 14 yards lost
Collin Fewox: 1, 6 yards lost

Fumbles Recovered

Neil Chambers: 1

Special Teams

Luis Reyes hit all five of his extra points and punted the ball three times for 104 yards.

Jake Tesch had a 28-yard kick return, his longest of the year.

Jake Tesch: 3 kicks returned, 54 yards
Nijah Surtain: 2 kicks returned, 31 yards
C.J. Jones: 2 kicks returned, 21 yards
Jake Fennis: 1 kick returned, 12 yards
Bobby Dodson: 1 kick returned, 6 yards

Man of the Match

I guess..... Cullen Sherrill? Yeah, I'll go with Cullen.

Looking Ahead

The Wildcats will open up the second half of their schedule with a tilt against the Cypress Falls Golden Eagles at Cy-Fair FCU Stadium on Friday, October 7, at 7:00. Cy Woods is the home team in this game.

Know Your Enemy: Langham Creek Lobos

Week 6: Cy Woods Wildcats vs. Langham Creek Lobos
7:00 PM Thursday, September 29, 2016
Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union Stadium

Photo credit: Billy Schuerman, The Crimson Connection

Previously on Cy Woods Football...

On Saturday, in the 100th game in school history, the Wildcats squandered a 31-17 halftime lead to Jersey Village, who flipped the script by outscoring them 41-15 in the second half to come away with a 58-46 victory. Jacob Kainer finished 22-31 for 333 yards and two touchdowns and also ran for 123 yards and three scores. Jack Barrientez caught seven passes for 116 yards and a touchdown. On defense, Myles Wilson recorded five tackles and recovered two fumbles, returning them (or one of them) for a total of 42 yards.

No doubt, they let that game get away. However, a short week gives them a chance to get back to work and minimize the time spent wallowing over the loss. The Wildcats will kick off Week 6 with a crucial matchup against a Langham Creek squad that is currently in a three-way tie at 2-1. This will be a chance for them to close out the first half of their schedule on a positive note, and also a chance for them to muddle up the early playoff picture in District 17-6A.

The Enemy: Langham Creek Lobos

2015 record: 5-5, 5-4 (6th) in District 17-6A
Did not qualify for playoffs

Langham Creek season-to-date

W 29-28 @ Klein Oak
W 54-20 vs. Cy Creek
W 22-14 @ Cy Falls
L 23-17 vs. Cy Ridge

All-Time Series

Cy Woods leads 5-3.

Previous Meetings

October 16, 2015: Woods 48, Langham 33
October 17, 2014: Langham 55, Woods 31 (Homecoming VII)
September 13, 2013: Langham 48, Woods 20
September 14, 2012: Langham 32, Woods 31 (Homecoming V)
October 14, 2011: Woods 50, Langham 44
October 15, 2010: Woods 55, Langham 27 (Homecoming III)
October 31, 2009: Woods 42, Langham 7
November 1, 2008: Woods 58, Langham 20

(A few) Players to Watch

RB Toneil Carter, QB Jacob Walls, QB Kacey Pryor, WR Chase McCray, WR Praise Okorie, DL Chidi Ogbonnaya, DL Isaac Salazar, LB Corien Azema, LB David Eggleton, DB Jordan Murray, DB Darren Woodson, DB Noah McGee

2¢ on Langham Creek

Langham Creek entered 2015 as the defending district champions, and they had the talent to repeat as champions. Unfortunately... an 0-4 start destroyed those ambitions, and even though they went 5-1 in their final six games, the damage from that awful start was too much for them to overcome.

Since Coach Thompson has taken over, the Lobos' reputation has been built on an explosive offense; guys like the Juergens brothers (okay, they were in the previous era), Conner Feist, Dominique Harris, Quartney Davis, and a host of others have put up gaudy numbers in their frenetic system.

The centerpiece of this offense is Toneil Carter, a four-year letterman, one of the most coveted high school football players in the country, and the face of Langham Creek football. Toneil enters the week a mere 9th in rushing yards, but there's no denying that he is a truly special talent who can carry this team to a victory if need be. The Lobos have a platoon at quarterback with Kacey Pryor and Jacob Walls. Pryor was a defensive back last season and is the runner, while Walls is more of a packet passer. Both have been efficient in throwing the ball; Pryor has yet to throw an interception in 44 attempts this season. The platoon isn't necessarily performance-based, because the two of them have made the most of their opportunities.

Langham has had a solid pipeline of wide receivers, and the torch has been passed to Chase McCray and Praise Okorie. McCray leads the district in receptions and is third in receiving yards, while Okorie is fourth in receiving yards and third in yards per reception among players with more than 20 catches.

The Langham defense enters this matchup allowing the third-fewest yards per game, and Coach Thompson is extremely high on this unit, especially along the defensive line. Ogbonnaya provides an imposing presence, and Salazar has really come on as a playmaker in the trenches. David Eggleton leads a deep linebacker corps, and he'll team up with Brad Pinkerton, Jermaine Wright, and an emerging sophomore in Corien Azema.

The Lobos lead the district with six interceptions. Azema, Eggleton, and Pinkerton all have one, and Jordan Murray, their quarterback in the secondary, is one of six players in the district with two picks. Noah McGee, Darren Woodson, and Paul Darks round out a talented secondary.

Last Time These Two Teams Met

In a game featuring two teams with dwindling playoff hopes, the Wildcats kept theirs alive with a 48-33 victory, breaking a three-game losing streak to the Lobos.

Bryson Powers ran for 160 yards and two touchdowns and threw for 156 yards and two touchdowns, both of which went to Jordan Johnson. C.J. Jones ran for 174 yards and two touchdowns and also returned a punt 57 yards for a touchdown.

Sub-Varsity Game Information

Since the varsity plays on Thursday, the sub-varsity teams play tonight. The freshmen will play at Cy Woods, while the JV will travel to Langham Creek. Game times are at 5 and 7.

Location of Langham Creek High School

Jersey Village 58, Cy Woods 46: Falcons' Supremacy Continues

2016 Record: 1-3, 1-2 in District 17-6A

Photo credit: Billy Schuerman, The Crimson Connection

Jersey Village continued their mastery of the Wildcats, coming away with a 58-46 victory to extend their winning streak over the Wildcats to four games. The Falcons are the second team to have a four-game winning streak over Cy Woods; Cy Falls won four straight over the Wildcats from 2009-12.

Well... the Cats are not in dire straits yet, but this was surely another game that they felt they let get away, especially considering that they led 31-17 at halftime. The Falcons turned the tables in the second half by outscoring the Wildcats 41-15.

After a dud against Cy Ridge, the Wildcat offense reverted to its usual, explosive self. Jacob Kainer had an excellent night as he was responsible for five touchdowns, and Jack Barrientez continues to be an impact player, but someone has to emerge to take some of the burden off of Jacob and Jack while C.J. Jones continues to be on the mend. Nijah Surtain and Jake Tesch have shown promise in their sophomore campaigns, but it's apparent that they are both trying to adapt to the varsity level. Brennan Niles had a solid night catching the ball; he could become a reliable option in the passing game if he gets the targets, and that would take a huge amount of pressure off of Jack, who has really been the Wildcats' one consistent receiving threat this season.

One loss? Fine. Two losses, however, makes things more dicey. Heading towards the second half of the season, each game begins to take on more significance in terms of the playoff picture, and at the same time, the margin for error has virtually vanished. In Cy-Fair ISD, every game counts, and this next game against Langham Creek is the game that the Wildcats must win if they want to stay within striking distance of a playoff spot.

So, What Happened Was...

Emerson Garcia opened the scoring in Jersey Village's favor with a 27-yard field goal. Woods responded with an eight-yard touchdown run from Jacob Kainer and a 28-yard field goal from Luis Reyes.

End 1st: Woods 10, JV 3

Alec Wechsler connected with Jordan Jones for a 36-yard touchdown pass to tie the game, but the Wildcats responded with 21 unanswered points. Jacob punched it in from a yard out, and Jack Barrientez found Brennan Niles on the patented halfback pass for a 28-yard touchdown. Jacob then found Cullen Sherrill for a 61-yard touchdown pass. The Falcons got a three-yard touchdown run from Jireh Thompson just before the half.

Halftime: Woods 31, JV 17

That score before halftime sparked a 28-0 Jersey Village run, and Thompson scored all four of those touchdowns. In the third, he scored on runs of seven, 71, and 12 yards; the 12-yard run gave JV their first lead of the evening. Jacob scored on a two-yard run, his third rushing touchdown of the game, for the Wildcats' only points of the 3rd.

End 3rd: Woods 38, JV 38

Thompson took over in the third quarter, but in the final stanza, he turned it over to his quarterback, Wechsler, who proceeded to torch the Wildcats for three touchdown passes. His second touchdown pass to Jones put the Falcons back in front. Jack caught a 33-yard touchdown pass from Jacob for a score, and then Myles Wilson fought his way into the endzone for the go-ahead two-point conversion, putting Cy Woods up 46-45. Wechsler would have the final say in this one, though, as he hit John Gilbert for a 69-yard touchdown to give Jersey Village the lead for good, and he sealed the deal with a 24-yard touchdown pass to Thompson.

Final: JV 58, Woods 46

Ground

C.J. has been missed, and that really puts the burden of the running game on Jacob, who already has more than enough on his plate. Nijah is still trying to adjust, so the Cats' options at running back are pretty limited. Jack has basically been thrust into a utility role, sort of like the role Jared Taylor played at times last year.

Jacob left the game due to an injury in the fourth quarter, but it doesn't seem to be too serious.

Jacob Kainer: 29 carries, 123 yards, 3 TD
Jack Barrientez: 7 carries, 25 yards
Nijah Surtain: 6 carries, 37 yards
Matt Ficalora: 1 carry, 3 yards

Air

Jacob had a new career-high in passing yards, and this was the best that the passing game has looked all season, because more receivers are getting looks in the passing game. On the other hand, a cynic may say that that may be a product of trying to see who will step up.

We already know that Jacob and Jack have already established a solid rapport together, but as the other receivers are getting more acclimated, we're seeing more of them getting involved.

Judging by their numbers, Jake and Brennan were both targeted quite a bit in this game, and I think that's a good sign for this offense moving forward; as I mentioned in the beginning of this post, Jack is clearly the primary option, so one of these guys must emerge as a #2 receiver in the passing game. It could be Jake, whose exciting skill set is reminiscent of Mason Roberts. It could be Brennan, who has steadily improved each year and is getting his shot to shine. It could be one, or even both, of the Sherrills. With their size, they are instant mismatches on the outside.

Jacob Kainer: 22-31, 333 yards, 2 TD
Jack Barrientez: 1-1, 28 yards, TD
Brighton Gullickson: 1-3, 8 yards, INT

Jack Barrientez: 7 catches, 116 yards, TD
Jake Tesch: 6 catches, 68 yards
Brennan Niles: 4 catches, 82 yards, TD
Tanner Sherrill: 2 catches, 38 yards
Sam Landingham: 2 catches, 0 yards
Cullen Sherrill: 1 catch, 61 yards, TD
Connor Faulk: 1 catch, 12 yards
Nijah Surtain: 1 catch, 2 yards

Defense

Unfortunately, the defense was gashed by the opposing team's running back for the second straight week, and the Wildcats could not find an answer for the Falcons' offensive assault in the second half. JV running back Jireh Thompson ran for 242 yards on 23 carries and scored four touchdowns. In addition, Alec Wechsler threw for 368 yards and four more scores, and John Gilbert and Jordan Jones both exceeded 100 receiving yards.

Tackles

Trent Bird: 7 (1 for loss)
Christian Jones, Myles Wilson and Kason Franklin: 5 (all solo)
Cody Eggleston: 5 (1 assisted, 1 for loss [sack])
Elijah Strang and Micheal Young: 4
Tory Spears, Semaj Trahan, and Collin Fewox: 2 (all solo; Fewox had 1 tackle for a loss)
Deon Jones, Eron Vanduren, Chris Statom: 1 (all solo)
Evan Alexander, Matt Ficalora, Collin Joyce: 1 (assisted)

Takeaways

Fumbles forced: Trent Bird, Tory Spears, Christian Jones: 1
Fumbles recovered: Myles Wilson 2

Special Teams

Luis Reyes converted on his first field goal attempt of the season and also hit on all five of his extra point attempts.

1-1 FG (made 28); 5-5 XP; 4 punts, 133 yards (33.3 yards per punt)

Return opportunities have been scarce in recent weeks, but Nijah Surtain got plenty of work with five kickoff returns.

Nijah Surtain: 5 kicks returned, 102 yards
Matt Ficalora: 1 kick returned, 10 yards
Jake Tesch: 1 punt returned, 5 yards

Man of the Match

Before the season, I felt that Jack Barrientez was primed for a breakout season, and his versatility would be a huge asset for the offense. C.J. Jones' absence has thrust Jack into a starring role, and he has responded by putting up All-District caliber numbers in the early going.

Looking Ahead

The Wildcats will alternate between Thursday and Friday games from here on out. They'll kick off Week 6 in District 17-6A with a tilt against the Langham Creek Lobos at Cy-Fair FCU Stadium this Thursday at 7:00. Cy Woods will be the home team in this contest.

Know Your Enemy: Jersey Village Falcons

Week 5: Cy Woods Wildcats @ Jersey Village Falcons
6:00 PM Saturday, September 24, 2016
Pridgeon Stadium

Photo credit: Billy Schuerman, The Crimson Connection

Previously on Cy Woods Football...

Despite leading Cy Ridge 13-8 at halftime with just 26 yards of total offense, it was only a matter of time before Cy Woods' lackluster offensive performance came back to haunt them. The Rams outscored the Wildcats 28-8 in the second half, which included a 21-0 fourth quarter, to come away with a 36-21 victory on Saturday at Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union Stadium. 

Cy Woods was outgained 552-202 on offense, and the offensive woes eventually became too much for the defense to overcome. Semaj Trahan returned an interception 86 yards for a touchdown, while Jacob Kainer ran for 68 yards and a touchdown. Jacob also threw a nine-yard touchdown pass to Jack Barrientez in the third quarter.

Now, the Wildcats will move on to their final Saturday game of the regular season. This will be the 100th game in Cy Woods football history. 

The Enemy: Jersey Village Falcons

2015 Record: 2-8, 2-7 (t-8th) in District 17-6A

Did not qualify for playoffs

Jersey Village season-to-date

L 42-30 vs. Cinco Ranch

L 60-28 @ Cy Ridge

L 35-7 vs. Cy Ranch

All-Time Series

Cy Woods leads 5-3.

Previous Meetings

October 30, 2015: JV 74, Woods 73
October 31, 2014: JV 44, Woods 38
November 9, 2013: JV 42, Woods 0
November 10, 2012: Woods 35, JV 14
October 1, 2011: Woods 63, JV 24
October 2, 2010: Woods 35, JV 14
October 3, 2009: Woods 31, JV 13
October 4, 2008: Woods 56, JV 6

Players to Watch

QB Alec Wechsler, RB Kendon Flowers, WR Jordan Jones, WR Blake Johnson, LB Emerald Blueitt, LB Jacob Clarkson, DL Greyson Newton

2¢ on Jersey Village

After coming up one game away from a playoff berth for two consecutive seasons, the Falcons crashed to the bottom of the standings in 2015. They have had a rough beginning to their 2016 campaign, but this is a team that has had the Wildcats' number in recent seasons. Jersey Village has beaten Cy Woods three years in a row, mainly due to the efforts of Deshun Qualls, who is now at Abilene Christian.

The Falcons, much like the Wildcats, are breaking in a brand-new cast of characters on the offensive side of the ball. Rokeem Paul and Austin Lynch, the district's most productive wide receiver tandem in 2015, have also moved on. Qualls also led the team in rushing, and their top running back, Anthony Ajao, transferred to Alief Hastings.

Alec Wechsler is now at the controls of the Falcon offense, and while he's not the dynamic threat that Qualls was, he's probably a better passer than Qualls. Wechsler enters the week in with 778 passing yards and nine touchdowns; only Cy Creek's Mateo Renteria leads him in those categories. Jordan Jones, a sophomore, has emerged as the Falcons' #1 receiver. Blake Johnson and John Gilbert have also become reliable targets for Wechsler. Kendon Flowers, a transfer from Clear Falls, has made an impact in his first season with the Falcons; he is their leading rusher and is also a threat in the return game.

Defense had been one of the Falcons' strengths, but one of the biggest reasons as to why they finished 2-8 in 2015 was the severe regression that they suffered on defense; they allowed 414 points last season after giving up just 399 in the previous two seasons combined. Jersey Village brings back an experienced group of linebackers led by Jacob Clarkson, Emerald Blueitt, and Victor Abrego, while Greyson Newton anchors the defensive line.

Last Time These Two Teams Met

In a game that we may not see for another decade, maybe even longer, Deshun Qualls did things that I'm pretty sure not even Kyler Murray did in a single night, and both teams re-wrote Cy-Fair ISD's record book. Even now, when I think about that game, I am still in utter disbelief. Not even outstanding individual performances from C.J. Jones, who set a Cy Woods single-game record with 346 rushing yards, and Jordan Johnson, who had 200 receiving yards, and Josh Marvin, a seldom-used linebacker who recorded two sacks and an interception after getting pressed into duty, were enough to keep the Wildcats' playoff hopes alive, because Qualls was simply in another realm that night.

In a game where both teams combined for 1,643 yards of offense, Jersey Village prevailed 74-73, effectively eliminating Cy Woods from playoff contention.

Sub-Varsity Game Information

The junior varsity games will take place at Cy Woods, while the freshmen will play at Pridgeon, because the track and the playing field at Jersey Village is undergoing renovations. Game times, as always, are at 5 and 7.

Cy Ridge 36, Cy Woods 21: Coming Undone

2016 Record: 1-2, 1-1 in District 17-6A

Photo credit: Billy Schuerman, The Crimson Connection

The Wildcats held a potent Cy Ridge offense to just six points (the other two came on a safety) and actually led 13-8 after the first 24 minutes of action despite accumulating just 27 yards of offense. Unfortunately, the offense did not fare much better in the second half, and a defense that held out valiantly against the Rams in the first half eventually cracked, and Ridge outscored the Wildcats 21-0 in the fourth quarter to emerge with a 36-21 victory. The Cats did win the turnover battle in this contest, but again, a lackluster offense meant that most of those opportunities went by the wayside.

One loss is not a backbreaker, and district play is just getting underway. Cy Woods is definitely still in the mix, but their margin for error has shrunk quite a bit.

So, What Happened Was...

The Rams opened the scoring..... with a safety. On their ensuing offensive possession, however, Semaj Trahan scored his first touchdown at the varsity level.... with an 86-yard pick six. Woods had the ball for less than two minutes in the first quarter and managed to come out with the lead.

End 1st: Woods 6, Ridge 2

TyRae Thornton muffed a punt inside the five, and the Wildcats pounced on the ball at the Rams' two-yard line. Jacob Kainer parlayed the miscue into the game's first offensive touchdown with a one-yard run. Kevin LeDee caught an 11-yard touchdown pass right before halftime.

Halfitme: Woods 13, Ridge 8

Jack Barrientez caught a nine-yard touchdown pass from Jacob, and Connor Faulk ran the ball in for two points to put Cy Woods up 21-8, but Cy Ridge finished this game on a 28-0 run. Trelon Smith scored his first touchdown of the evening from nine yards out with just under three minutes to go in the third.

End 3rd: Woods 21, Ridge 15

Smith opened up the fourth quarter with a bang, scoring from 88 yards to give Ridge the lead. Alex Jacobs finished off the Cats with two touchdown runs from one yard and 23 yards.

The Wildcats have been outscored 41-7 in the fourth quarter this season. This is the first game in which the fourth quarter was not garbage time.

Final: Ridge 36, Woods 21

Ground

A lot of carries, not a lot of yards. Nijah Surtain is a sophomore who was recently made eligible for varsity competition; he is one of three sophomores who were promoted to the varsity this past week, bringing the total number of tenth-graders on the roster to nine.

Jacob Kainer: 24 carries, 68 yards, TD

Nijah Surtain, 10 carries, 45 yards

Jack Barrientez: 7 carries, 15 yards

Bobby Dodson: 1 carry: 0 yards

Brighton Gullickson: 2 carries, -9 yards

Air

Sounds like drops haunted the Cats in this game. Jack Barrientez has caught ten passes this season. Ten other Wildcats have combined for 18 receptions; none have caught more than three. Someone is going to have to step up and become a threat in the passing game, or else the Cats will be running a bunch for very few yards.

Jacob Kainer: 6-17, 106 yards, TD, INT
Bobby Dodson: 0-1
Brighton Gullickson: 0-1

Jack Barrientez: 3 catches, 22 yards, TD
Angel Laca: 1 catch, 43 yards
Bobby Dodson: 1 catch, 27 yards
Tanner Sherrill: 1 catch, 14 yards

Defense

The offense's woes ensured that it would be a long night for the defense. They did well to hold the Rams offense to just six points in the first half, but you get the feeling that it would only be a matter of time before they cracked. On the other hand, they must have realized that taking the ball away from the other team is a beneficial tactic. Too bad the offense couldn't get more points off of those turnovers.

Kason Franklin and Myles Wilson had 13 tackles apiece for the Cats. Semaj Trahan scored Cy Woods' first touchdown with his pick six.

Interceptions: Semaj Trahan 1, returned 86 yards for a touchdown
Fumbles forced: Elijah Strang and Micheal Young, 1 apiece
Fumbles recovered: Tory Spears, Myles Wilson, Micheal Young; Spears returned his fumble 12 yards.

Tackles

Kason Franklin 13
Myles Wilson 13
Elijah Strang, Tory Spears, Neil Chambers 7
Micheal Young and Collin Fewox 4
Cody Eggleston 3
Ryan Kenny, Connor Faulk, Tyler Redgrave 2
Nine players recorded one tackle.

Special Teams

It was a pretty adventurous Saturday night for Luis Reyes. He hit one of his two extra point attempts; the first one was blocked following a bad snap. Luis also had a snap sail over his head when he was lining up to punt, and that resulted in a safety.

Luis Reyes: 1-2 XP; 6 punts, 235 yards (39.2 yards per punt)

Jack Barrientez now has the longest kickoff return this season for Cy Woods.

Jake Tesch: 1 kick returned, 21 yards; 2 punts returned, 10 yards
Jack Barrientez: 1 kick returned, 43 yards
Matt Ficalora: 1 kick returned, 18 yards
Jake Fennis: 1 kick returned, 8 yards

Man of the Match

I'll have to go with Semaj Trahan. I know he would probably rather stay on offense, but this team is in dire need of difference makers on defense, and especially in the secondary. Five years ago, Cy Woods had the best secondary in the district, hands down. Semaj is an incredibly talented player who can make a difference at any skill position. On Saturday, in his first game at a position he just started learning, he held his own against Kevin LeDee, one of the district's top receivers.

Semaj seems to have handled the transition well... I'm sure he had some reservations at first, but now that he knows that he can make an impact on defense, I hope he's there to stay. 

Looking Ahead

The Wildcats will take on the Jersey Village Falcons on Saturday, September 24 at Pridgeon Stadium in the 100th game in Cy Woods football history. The Cats will be the away team in this contest. Kickoff is at 6:00.

Know Your Enemy: Cypress Ridge Rams

Week 4: Cy Woods Wildcats vs. Cy Ridge Rams
6:00 PM, Saturday, September 17, 2016
Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union Stadium

Previously on Cy Woods Football...

The Wildcats started off District 17-6A play on the right foot by blowing away Cy Springs 69-34 in the new-look Pridgeon Stadium on Friday. Jacob Kainer accounted for seven touchdowns in the win, throwing for 241 yards and four touchdowns while adding 133 yards and three scores on the ground. Jack Barrientez caught four passes for 109 yards and two touchdowns.

Next up for Cy Woods... a very intriguing early-season matchup against a resurgent Cy Ridge squad.

The Enemy: Cypress Ridge Rams

2015 record: 4-6, 3-6 (7th) in District 17-6A

Did not qualify for playoffs

After edging Morton Ranch 35-30 in their season opener, the Rams dominated Jersey Village in all facets of the game on Saturday, cruising to a 60-28 victory.

All-Time Series

Cy Woods leads 5-3.

Previous Meetings

September 11, 2015: Woods 59, Ridge 31

September 13, 2014: Woods 59, Ridge 28
September 19, 2013: Woods 28, Ridge 26
September 20, 2012: Ridge 54, Woods 21
October 29, 2011: Woods 45, Ridge 13
October 30, 2010: Woods 49, Ridge 40
September 25, 2009: Ridge 46, Woods 20 (Homecoming II)
September 26, 2008: Ridge 43, Woods 41

Players to Watch

RB Trelon Smith, RB Alex Jacobs, WR Kevin LeDee, QB Tyson Williams, DB TyRae Thornton, DL D'Juan Matthews, DB Kobe House, LB Yusuf Sham, LB Josh McDade, DB James Froehlich

2¢ on Ridge

After the Rams took the first two meetings between these two schools, Cy Woods has won five of the last six meetings to seize control of the series.

In 2014, the Rams posted their worst record ever. That year, they underwent a massive youth movement, in which players like Trelon Smith, Kevin LeDee, TyRae Thornton, Kobe House, and James Froehlich, who were all sophomores that season, were pressed into feature roles.

Although Ridge also missed the playoffs in 2015, they proved to be a tough out for the district's playoff representatives, and they also came away with three of the district's four individual accolades; Smith was named the district's Offensive MVP, while Lucky Jeffery, who has since moved on to Lamar, was chosen as Defensive MVP. In addition, D'Juan Matthews shared Defensive Newcomer of the Year honors with Cy-Fair's Jace Bobo. 

Now, it's 2016. The sophomores who took their lumps in 2014 are now seniors, and they are looking to return the favor to the rest of the district. 

Smith, an Arizona State commit (Go Devils) is probably one of the five best players in the entire district. He has picked up right where he left off in 2015, leading the district in rushing and scoring in the early going. Smith has enjoyed playing against the Wildcats in the past; he returned a kickoff for a touchdown as a sophomore and scored three touchdowns in the first quarter last year. Alex Jacobs has also been an effective second option in the running game. Kevin LeDee has firmly entrenched himself as the Rams' #1 receiver, and his blend of size and speed gives him the advantage in any matchup. Tyson Williams has waited for his turn to operate the Rams offense, and he has been excellent; he was 14-15 against the Falcons last week.

Cy Ridge's defense, year after year, has featured some truly talented players, and this year is no different. The Rams boast a veteran secondary that features TyRae Thornton, Kobe House, James Froehlich, Zac Lancaster, and Chavous Gwynn. Thornton, a Rice commit, was a third-team selection on Dave Campbell's Texas Football's Super Team in the preseason and has turned himself into a shutdown corner, while Froehlich led them in interceptions a year ago. D'Juan Matthews, like his former teammates Kamari Staton and Lucky Jeffery, is a disruptive, high-motor player in the trenches. McDade and Sham, who has also played tight end in his career, lead the linebackers. 

Last Time These Two Teams Met

Trelon Smith tore the Wildcats apart in the first quarter, single-handedly giving the Rams a 21-7 lead after the opening 12 minutes. Woods wound up turning the tables by outscoring Ridge 52-10 over the final three quarters on their way to a 59-31 victory. Bryson Powers threw for five touchdowns, three of which went to C.J. Jones, who recorded 110 receiving yards. Kason Franklin returned an interception 96 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter.

Sub-Varsity Game Information

The freshmen will play at Cy Woods, while the JV will play at Cy Ridge. I believe that Ridge is only fielding one JV team. Game times are 5 and 7.

Location of Cypress Ridge High School

Cy Woods 69, Cy Springs 34: Friday Fireworks

2016 Record: 1-1, 1-0 in District 17-6A

Photo Credit: Billy Schuerman, The Crimson Connection

For a third consecutive season, the Cypress Woods Wildcats shook off a season-opening beatdown at the hands of the Klein Collins Tigers by starting off District 17-6A play with a victory. 

The Cats lit up the new-look Pridgeon Stadium and blew away the Cy Springs Panthers on Friday by a score of 69-34, further compounding their dominance in a series that has been utterly lopsided since its inception. C.J. Jones played a little bit after getting banged up against Klein Collins, but he was not required to carry a significant load on offense because the underclassmen shined in this game. 

This game featured a couple of explosive offenses, but Cy Woods had more unknown quantities on that side of the ball, so there was some concern as to whether they had enough to keep up with the Panthers. Well... not only did they keep up, they completely drubbed Cy Springs.

This was definitely a much-needed victory in the sense of trying to bring back some positivity after virtually nothing went right for them against Klein Collins, and it provides them with momentum heading into a crucial matchup with Cy Ridge. 

Some of the kids on this roster, especially on offense, have been pressed into duty on the varsity squad, and most of them are making the jump much earlier than anticipated. It will be very intriguing to gauge their response to being thrown into the fire, and their development as the season progresses is going to be a crucial factor for the team's success in 2016.

Turning Point

It did not take long for the Wildcats to seize control of this game, as they set the tone by winning both of their opening series on each side of the ball. They surprised the Panthers with an onside kick to begin the game and ended up getting a touchdown on their first offensive possession. On their first defensive series of the night, Tory Spears managed to pick off Taye Barber on the second play.

So, What Happened Was...

After Woods recovered the opening onside kick, Jacob Kainer opened the scoring with a 12-yard run. About two minutes later, he connected with Sam Landingham for a 43-yard touchdown pass. Springs got on the board courtesy of a one-yard run from Taye Barber, but Jacob answered with a 35-yard scoring run.

End 1st: Woods 21, Springs 7

O'Shae Clark scored on a 49-yard pass from Barber to cut the Wildcats' lead to 21-14, but that was as close as Springs got for the remainder of the evening. After that, Cy Woods scored the next 41 points. Cullen Sherrill caught a four-yard pass for a touchdown, and following a turnover on downs, Jake Tesch scored on a 27-yard pass.

Halftime: Woods 35, Springs 14

If there were any doubts regarding the outcome of this contest, the Cats erased all of them in the third quarter, outscoring the Panthers 27-7. Jacob fired his fourth touchdown pass of the evening, connecting with Jack Barrientez from 22 yards out. He concluded his night with a four-yard touchdown run. C.J. Jones found the endzone for the first time this season by scoring on a 68-yard pass from Brighton Gullickson. Following C.J.'s touchdown, Jah'marea Sheread returned the ensuing kickoff 103 yards for the Panthers' only score of the quarter. Jack provided the response by scoring on a 19-yard pass from Brighton.

End 3rd: Woods 62, Springs 21

Springs got a pair of touchdown passes from 30 (Clark) and 13 yards (Sheread) out of backup quarterback Xayvion West, and Bobby Dodson capped off the night with a three-yard touchdown run.

Final: Woods 69, Springs 34

Ground

If he wasn't slicing the Panther defense to shreds through the air, Jacob Kainer gashed them in the running game. 

Congratulations to Bobby Dodson for scoring his first touchdown at the varsity level.

Jacob Kainer: 19 carries, 133 yards, 3 TD

Jack Barrientez: 8 carries, 62 yards

C.J. Jones: 6 carries, 35 yards

Bobby Dodson: 5 carries, 63 yards, TD

Semaj Trahan: 1 carry, 4 yards

Jake Tesch: 1 carry, 1 yard

Air

If he wasn't gashing the Panther defense on the ground, Jacob Kainer sliced them to shreds in the passing game. 

Kevin Cook, the new man behind the Cy Fair Sports Twitter account, mentioned that Brighton Gullickson had "impeccable" command of the offense after coming on. 

Jacob Kainer: 9-13, 241 yards, 4 TD

Brighton Gullickson: 3-3, 93 yards, 2 TD

Semaj Trahan: 1-2, 6 yards

When a majority of the pass plays go for 20 yards or more, either the receivers are making defenders miss after the catch, or the quarterbacks are hitting them in stride. Or both. Everyone involved was definitely on the same page on Friday. 

C.J. is now just four touchdowns away from becoming Cy Woods' all-time leader in touchdowns scored.

Jack Barrientez: 4 rec, 109 yards, 2 TD

C.J. Jones: 2 rec, 75 yards, TD

Jake Tesch: 2 rec, 33 yards, TD

Sam Landingham: 1 rec, 43 yards, TD
Connor Faulk: 1 rec, 41 yards

Matt Ficalora: 1 rec, 29 yards

Defense

Tory Spears picked off Taye Barber on Cy Springs' first drive of the evening. Cody Eggleston chipped in with a couple of sacks. 

I wasn't there, so I can only assume that a good chunk of the Panthers' yards came with the game well in hand. Nevertheless, if this unit figures out a way to get themselves off the field as quickly as possible, the offense is going to be downright scary.

Special Teams

Luis Reyes hit nine of his extra points; a tenth was not attempted, presumably due to a bad snap. He punted the ball three times for 87 yards. It was a quiet night in the return game thanks to the Wildcats' huge lead.

Luis Reyes: 9-9 XP; 3 punts, 87 yards (29 yards per punt)

C.J. Jones; 1 kick returned, 17 yards

Matt Ficalora: 1 kick returned, 15 yards

Myles Wilson: 1 kick returned, 5 yards

Jake Tesch: 1 punt returned, 0 yards

Men of the Match

Last year as a sophomore, Jacob Kainer showed us a glimpse of what he can do in spot duty before a horrific leg injury cut his season short. He's worked incredibly hard to return to form, and this game served as his coming-out party. He is just beginning to scratch the surface of his immense potential.

Jack Barrientez led the Wildcats in all-purpose yards in each of the first two games; he put up 171 (109 receiving, 62 rushing) and caught two touchdown passes.

Cody Eggleston also deserves a shoutout with his two sacks. He certainly made Taye Barber's life tough on Friday night.

Looking Ahead

The Wildcats will take on the Cy Ridge Rams on Saturday, September 17 at the Berry Center Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union Stadium. Kickoff is at 6:00 PM, and they will be the home team in this contest.

Know Your Enemy: Cypress Springs Panthers

Week 3: Cy Woods Wildcats @ Cy Springs Panthers
7:00 PM, Friday, September 9, 2016
Pridgeon Stadium

Previously on Cy Woods Football...

The Wildcats were soundly trounced 42-14 on Opening Night by Klein Collins. The 120 yards of offense that they recorded was the second-lowest amount in a single game in team history. Jack Barrientez was one of the few bright spots on what was otherwise a rough Saturday for the Cats, rushing for 55 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries.

And now, the real season begins. The Wildcats will open up district play against the team they beat in the 2015 season finale. Cy Woods and Cy Springs have typically met in the middle of the season, or at the end, but this will be the first time that they will play each other in September.

The Enemy: Cypress Springs Panthers

2015 record: 3-7, 2-7 (t-8th) in District 17-6A

Did not qualify for playoffs

The Panthers began their 2016 campaign with a 55-42 victory over Conroe. James Brooks and Taye Barber both ran for three touchdowns; Barber, who ran for 190 yards, also completed seven of his 17 passes for 225 yards and two touchdowns.

All-Time Series

Cy Woods leads 8-0.

Previous Meetings

November 7, 2015: Woods 49, Springs 39

November 6, 2014: Woods 70, Springs 44

October 4, 2013: Woods 57, Springs 14 (Homecoming VI)
October 5, 2012: Woods 48, Springs 13
November 5, 2011: Woods 47, Springs 0
November 6, 2010: Woods 51, Springs 41
October 16, 2009: Woods 23, Springs 13
October 17, 2008: Woods 48, Springs 14 (Homecoming I)

Players to Watch

QB Taye Barber, RB James Brooks, WR/DB Jah'marea Sheread, WR O'Shae Clark, OL/DL Marcus Royal, DL Kolbi Lewis, DB Leon O'Neal, LB Jared Simon

2¢ on Springs

The Panthers have been regarded as a sleeping giant, but two straight 3-7 seasons following two years of improving win totals may have stagnated their momentum somewhat. Springs is still loaded with tremendous upside, but moral victories don't guarantee a playoff berth. In order to end the district's longest active playoff drought, they will have to, well... actually win the games. One thing is for sure, though... these are not the Cy Springs Panthers who routinely brought up the rear in Cy-Fair ISD football.

The Panthers' offensive attack all starts with Taye Barber. Apparently, he was not at full strength last year, and yet, he still put up outstanding numbers as a sophomore. (How was he not the Offensive Newcomer of the Year, again?) Barber's skill set is highly reminiscent of D'Eriq King, the former Manvel standout who is now at Houston. Donell Dunn and Drake Carter may have moved on, but he still has proven weapons out wide with O'Shae Clark and Jah'marea Sheread, who may also see some time in the secondary. Marcus Royal is a three-year starter who will play on both sides of the line.

Springs' struggles last season could be partially attributed to Barber having to carry them on offense nearly every week. James Brooks scored three touchdowns on the ground against Conroe, so his emergence will really take some of the burden off of Barber.

Although Springs won two weeks ago, they still gave up 42 points, and a significant portion of the damage that Conroe inflicted against them came on the ground. Last season, the Panthers were the worst team in 17-6A against the run, and no team in 17-6A allowed more points than they did. For the first game, at least, their run defense was once again a weak point. That's not to say that the Panther defense is devoid of talent; Royal will be joined by Kolbi Lewis, who possesses an imposing presence in the trenches. Leon O'Neal racked up 14 tackles from his safety spot against the Tigers, and Simon will lead the Panthers' linebacker corps. No doubt, they will be looking to tighten up on that side of the ball in order to give Barber more chances to operate.

Last Time These Two Teams Met

In the 2015 season finale for both squads, the Wildcats outscored the Panthers 22-6 in the final quarter and came away with a 49-39 victory on a rainy November afternoon. C.J. Jones spent the majority of this game at quarterback and only completed four of his ten pass attempts, but he recorded 155 yards on those four completions, and three of them resulted in touchdowns. In addition, he also ran for 141 yards and two touchdowns.

Sub-Varsity Game Information

Freshmen are at Springs, while the JV will play at Woods. Game times, as always, are 5:00 for the Gold and 7:00 for the Cardinal.

For Freshmen Games: Location of Cypress Springs High School

Welcoming the Cy Park Tigers

While the elder Wildcats had a bye week, the freshmen took part in history; they were the first opponents of the Cypress Park Tigers, the newest high school in Cy-Fair ISD.

With the spotlight all to themselves, the Class of 2020 did not disappoint as they swept the Tigers on Thursday. The B-team came out on top by a score of 28-8, and the A-team romped to a 61-8 win. Despite the lopsided scores, there was definitely excitement in the air and the newly-minted Tiger faithful cheered on their team until the end.

For me, it felt like stepping back in time to when Cy Woods began its journey ten years ago. (Now that I think about it, I can't believe that it has been ten years since Cy Woods opened its doors. I'm old, guys.) Getting an opportunity to build a tradition from the ground up is not something that comes often for kids entering high school, and I hope that the first class at Cypress Park High School embraces this opportunity to build a tradition and set the standards that future Tigers will be expected to uphold. Although the results were not what they expected, I hope that being a part of the first game in their high school's history is a moment that they will fondly remember. I also hope that Thursday's results do not dampen the Cy Park fans' enthusiasm for their new team. As the old adage goes... Rome was not built in a day.

Good luck to Cy Park in their inaugural season. We'll look forward to formally welcoming them to the big stage in 2018. 

Now, back to Cy Woods. I do not know all the kids in the freshman class, but one kid who definitely bears watching is Christian Scott. He is the A-team running back and wears #2. I had a chance to get a glimpse of what he brings to the table during the two-day freshman mini-camp earlier in the summer, and he made all of the drills look effortless, and the coaches, particularly Coach Whitmore, raved about his ability. He reminds me of Samuel Stewart when he started at Woods.

Christian looks like he is well on his way towards becoming the next in a lineage of outstanding Cy Woods running backs, and believe me, there have been plenty of fine running backs who have worn the crimson and gold. On Thursday, he made short work of the Cy Park defense, and when he opened the scoring in the A-team game, I have to say that I was momentarily shocked, because it felt like all eleven defenders bounced off of him as he slashed and dashed to the end zone. He would go on to score two more times and added a two-point conversion for the Cats. I will refrain from making any sweeping declarations, but it is probably safe for me to say that Christian Scott is Cy Woods' #1 football prospect for the Class of 2020.