ETSN.fm Class 4A Preseason Poll: No. 5 Henderson Lions

Who knows how far Henderson's playoff run would have gone this past season if not for Carthage.

The Lions made it to the regional semifinals before falling to the eventual state champions, 35-0. They finished 11-3.

Henderson returns only nine starters from 2017, but should have a similarly successful season this year. Louisiana Tech commit Keivie Rose returns to the defensive line after sitting out most of last season. Leading tackler Brady Odom also returns to headline what should be a stalwart defense.

The Lions have to replace quarterback Trae Hall, who is entering his freshman season at New Mexico. However, receiver Caleb Medford is back for his junior season after finishing with more than 800 yards in 2017. Kicker Axel Romero nailed four field goals last season, as well at 51 of 52 PAT attempts.

Henderson finds itself in the heralded "District of Doom," along with Carthage, Kilgore, Van, Palestine and Chapel Hill. It won't be easy, but the Lions should find themselves in contention for some of the top spots in the district once more.

ETSN.fm Preseason Class 4A Poll

• No. 5: Henderson Lions
• No. 6: Van Vandals
• No. 7: Pittsburg Pirates
• No. 8: Liberty-Eylau Leopards
• No. 9: Jasper Bulldogs
• No. 10: Rusk Eagles