This Oct. 12 clash may not only ultimately decide the District 16-4A race, but it could be one of the best matchup of dual-threat quarterbacks all season.

John Tyler’s dynamic senior Greg Ward, a University of Houston pledge, pilots what is surely one of the most explosive offenses in the state. Last season, Ward completed 72 percent of his passes for 3,782 yards and 34 touchdowns to just five interceptions in 2011. He also was JT’s leading ground-gainer with 1,242 yards and 19 TDs.

Corsicana’s Devontay Bell, when he wasn’t handing the ball off to 3,000-yard rusher Cameron Washington (now at Lamar), was doing damage both through the air and on the ground. Bell passed for 1,410 yards and 14 touchdowns and carried it for 1,495 yards and 21 scores.

The Lions and Tigers each advanced to the state semifinals a year ago despite some shortcomings on defense. Both JT and Corsicana allowed more than 28 points per game in 2011. The Lions were young on defense a season ago and return seven starters on that side of the ball, led by 6-3, 225-pound defensive end Tyus Bowser.

JT and Corsicana, which have not met since 1993, played four consecutive seasons from 1990-93 with the Lions winning all four games. The two schools are also among the 10 most winningest football programs in state history. Corsicana’s 670 wins are good for sixth most, while John Tyler is tied with Garland for 10th at 647.

 

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