It's been a while since the Texas High Tigers have been a force deep in the playoffs. In fact, they only have two postseason wins since 2007.

But from 2002-06, Texas High was considered one of the most elite programs in the state. The Tigers were 58-8 during that five-year span, which included a state championship in '02. After a 9-2 season that featured an undefeated district campaign, 2014 could be the year Texas High re-emerges as a true contender in Class 5A.

Texas High WR Jarion Anderson. (Christopher R. Vinn, ETSN.fm)
Texas High WR Jarion Anderson. (Christopher R. Vinn, ETSN.fm)
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Head coach Barry Norton, now in his 16th season at the helm, has nine starters back off last season's team. And some of the returnees that didn't start games a year ago figure to have major impacts this fall.

It all starts with running back Javon Thomas (6-2, 211), who has committed to Tulsa. Thomas played behind Tre Walker, who signed with Navy, so his sample size was fairly small as a junior. Thomas finished 2013 with 308 yards and two touchdowns on 51 carries.

Coaches are also excited about the return of wide receiver Jarion Anderson (5-11, 170), who will also have the opportunity to play football at the FBS level beyond high school. WR/DB Dale Williamson (5-9, 165), a recent South Dakota commit, is another skill-position standout receiving interest from college programs.

The defense will be led by senior defensive tackle William Brown (6-3, 260), who is drawing interest from the world of college football as well. Meanwhile, linebacker K.J. Reid (6-1, 200) is about as physical as they come. Both men will be contributors to a defense hoping to duplicate its performance from a season ago. Texas High's defense allowed a pedestrian 11.3 points per game in 2013.

Prior to play in District 15-5A, where new 5A member Longview represents the biggest threat to Texas High's quest for a league title, the Tigers will face Whitehouse, Arkansas High and Kilgore.

2014 Texas High Tigers Schedule

DateOpponentTime/Result
Aug. 29WhitehouseL 38-35
Sept. 5Arkansas HighL 20-14 (OT)
Sept. 12OPEN
Sept. 19KilgoreW 19-13 (3OT)
Sept. 26*at Sulphur SpringsW 42-29
Oct. 3*HallsvilleW 24-17
Oct. 10*at Pine TreeW 31-21
Oct. 17*LongviewL 38-20
Oct. 24*at MarshallW 41-14
Oct. 31*at GreenvilleW 28-13
Nov. 7*Mount PleasantW 30-7
Nov. 14vs. John Tyler (at Longview)L 58-23

ETSN.fm Preseason Class 6A/5A Poll

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