ETSN.fm Class 6A/5A Preseason Poll: No. 2, Longview

The 2016 season was a mixed bag for the Longview Lobos. On one hand, Longview captured a share of the District 11-6A title, by finishing in a first-place tie with rival John Tyler.

However, Longview suffered its first loss in the opening round of the playoffs since 2005.

Longtime Lobos head coach John King welcomes back 12 starters from last year's group, and they'll begin the year ranked No. 2 in ETSN.fm's Class 6A/5A poll.

Longview is replacing its quarterback, top two leading rushers, and a couple of multi-year starters along the offensive line.

The Lobos do bring back standout tight end Jaylin Brown, and are excited about the receiving duo of Eric Timberlake and Kamden Perry.

Longview has three quarterbacks -- seniors Adarius Carter and Jordan Lawson, and sophomore Haynes King -- it can turn to, while junior offensive lineman Marcus Williams is already attracting the attention of major Division I college programs.

The defensive side of the ball is where Longview should shine in 2017.

Among the seven returning starters are linemen Ke'Andre Mauldin and JC Blakemore, and defensive back Jephaniah Lister.

A non-district schedule of Lufkin, Dallas South Oak Cliff, and Marshall will lead Lobos into a tough league slate against powers like John Tyler and Rockwall, and improving programs like Rockwall-Heath, Mesquite Horn, and Tyler Lee.