As the adage goes, the third time is the charm.

Entering his third season at the helm, Jowell Hancock looks to take Rusk to a district title. The Eagles finished 9-3 in Hancock's second season, falling in the area round of the playoffs.

Rusk has 10 starters back from that squad as it gears up to make a run for the District 7-4A D-II title. It won't be easy. Rusk loses its leading passer in Darrian McDuff as well as its leading rusher in Sam Thomas.

Rusk WR/SS Joseph Francis. (© Clint Buckley, ETSN.fm)
Rusk WR/SS Joseph Francis. (© Clint Buckley, ETSN.fm)
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However. the Eagles appear to be fine on defense, where defensive back Joseph Francis and lineman Jermaine Lewis are back. Connor Ellis looks to take over for McDuff at quarterback and get the offense going.

Rusk's biggest challenger in district is likely Brownsboro, but if the Eagles can get past the Bears, they should be in command.

ETSN.fm Preseason Class 4A Poll

  • No. 10: Rusk Eagles

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