Top 25 Games of 2014: No. 2, John Tyler at Longview

Following a two-year hiatus, old East Texas rivals John Tyler and Longview resume the series with one another on Sept. 5 at Longview's Lobo Stadium.

The battle between the former 5A district foes checks in at No. 2 on ETSN.fm's list of the top 25 games of 2014 for two reasons: 1.) It's a matchup between two of East Texas' highest-profile programs and 2.) Both teams figure to make runs at their respective district titles and are poised for long playoff runs.

John Tyler RB Jeremy Wilson. (Christopher R. Vinn, ETSN.fm)

Since 1958, when Tyler ISD opened up a second public high school, Longview leads the series with John Tyler, 33-18-3. Following JT's statewide dominance in the 90's, Longview has regained control of the rivalry by winning 10 of the last 11 meetings.

The two split their only two meetings since 2007, and both Longview and John Tyler have become among the area's most consistent programs over the last half-decade. JT has a record of 55-14 since 2009, while Longview's mark over that stretch is 55-15.

What makes this season's matchup all the more special is the amount of playmakers John Tyler and Longview will bring to the field on the offensive side of the ball, especially.

The Lions return quarterback Geovari McCollister, who accounted for almost 3,500 total yards, along with eight other starters from last season's district runner-up.

Longview has quite a bit to replace both offensively and defensively, but the return of quarterback Dezmond Chumley (2,250 yards, 33 touchdowns) and running back JaMycal Hasty -- a Baylor commit -- should provide the Lobos with ample explosiveness.