Top 25 Games of 2014: No. 14, Lufkin at Nacogdoches

Lufkin and Nacogdoches need no introduction to each other. It's no secret both schools are looking forward to settling a year's worth of talk on Sept. 26 in the two squads' District 16-5A opener.

One of the most heated rivalries in the region, Lufkin at Nacogdoches is No. 14 on ETSN.fm's list of the top 25 game in 2014.

The Panthers have controlled their series against the Dragons through most of its history, but Nacogdoches topped Lufkin for the first time in 12 tries this century last season with a 28-24 win. That game served as a huge milestone in the Dragons' turnaround under Bobby Reyes.

Lufkin receiver KeKe Coutee will be another serious test for Nacogdoches' rich secondary. (Christopher R. Vinn, ETSN.fm)

Reyes is entering his third season with Nacogdoches.

Lufkin returns a good chunk of its young 2013 squad with six starters on both sides of the ball. It should have a strong offense led by receivers KeKe Coutee and Terry Mark, a great offensive tackle in Erik McCoy and quarterback Trey Cumbie.

The Panthers' defense also should be very competitive with Tyrick Spencer and Bronson Massie along the defensive line and defensive back Dre Hooper patrolling the skies.

Nacogdoches' primary strength is its secondary, headlined by senior cornerback Jaylon Lane and junior safety Brandon Jones. The two players have more than 60 college football offers combined.

Coronado Tolbert will serve as a durable running back for the Dragons and there are a handful of talented receivers for quarterback Hunter McClellan to progress through.

A short trip for the Lufkin faithful, this game should easily fill Nacogdoches' Dragon Stadium to its 8,000-seat capacity.

It's definitely a game that the casual East Texas fan should circle on the calendar.