ETSN.fm Class 2A/Private Schools Preseason Poll: No. 1 Tenaha

With at the very least a state semifinals appearance in each of the past three seasons, Tenaha is East Texas' Class 2A poster child.

The Tigers are the No. 1 team in the ETSN.fm Class 2A/Private Schools Preseason Poll.

Head coach Terry Ward's program has produced teams with a winning record for the past  eight years, dating back to Scott Tyner's time at the school. The team does not seem to rebuild.

Tenaha took a moderate graduation hit, but it returns 11 starters that have obviously seen good days on the field.

Running back Cobe Caraway is back. He averaged more than 100 yards per game before a season-ending injury and is expected to be at full health. All-around athlete T.J. Thomas has been around since the 2011 state championship season and returns as a senior.

The Tigers appear to be the team to beat in District 11-2A Division II, and the region is not terrifying. It's very plausible the program is in for another deep run. It has experience on its side.

Tenaha's non-district schedule is difficult though.

It consists of Joaquin, Bullard Brook Hill and Alto for starters. All three teams are ranked in the poll. Brook Hill is the No. 2 team.

Ward also went big with the scheduling of White Oak, a school more than twice its size. On the road.

The Tigers have their work cut out for them, but we've learned not to doubt them.

Tenaha's 2014 Football Schedule

ETSN.fm Class 2A/Private Schools Preseason Poll

• No. 1 -- Tenaha
• No. 2 -- Bullard Brook Hill
• No. 3 -- Tyler Grace
• No. 4 -- Alto
• No. 5 -- San Augustine
• No. 6 -- West Sabine
• No. 7 -- Union Grove
• No. 8 -- Groveton
• No. 9 -- Joaquin
• No. 10 -- Cayuga