ETSN.fm Preseason Class 3A Poll: No. 5, Elysian Fields Yellowjackets

The Scott Ford era at Elysian Fields didn't get off to an ideal start in 2013, but the Yellowjackets followed it up with an eight-win campaign that included a playoff win.

And with the bulk of last season's impact performers returning, the 'Jackets enter the new season at No. 5 on ETSN.fm's preseason Class 3A poll.

Elysian Fields finished third in the ultra-competitive District 8-3A Division II in 2014, but played a difficult schedule and wound up among East Texas' hottest teams down the stretch.

The 'Jackets suffered losses in two of their first four games of the year, but responded by winning six of their next seven, before ultimately being knocked out with a 28-27 overtime loss to S & S Consolidated in the area round of the postseason.

Elysian Fields has 14 returning staters, including eight on the offensive side of the ball.

The 'Jackets top overall threat on offense, running back Kyree Ratliffe, will be welcomed back for his senior season. The 6-3, 215-pound back rushed for 1,247 yards and 15 touchdowns on 154 carries as a junior, to go along with three receiving touchdowns.

Defensively, Elysian Fields will be anchored by senior linebacker Reese Mathews, who led the 'Jackets in tackles in 2014.

2015 Elysian Fields Yellowjackets Football Schedule

ETSN.fm Preseason Class 3A Poll

• No. 5: Elysian Fields Yellowjackets
• No. 6: Arp Tigers
• No. 7: Corrigan-Camden Bulldogs
• No. 8: New Boston Lions
• No. 9: Frankston Indians
• No. 10: White Oak Roughnecks