Mustangs hopeful for playoffs

Eric Moore
August 24, 2008

Hoxie mustangs

Last season the Hoxie Mustangs made it further in the playoffs than any Hoxie team before them, falling in the third round to eventual state champion Glen Rose.

This year, many of the players with significant playoff experience return to the field for the Mustangs.

The whole backfield is back, minus a fullback that graduated and is now at Ouachita Baptist University, head coach Tom Sears said.

Houston Walter led the team in rushing last year, and Brad Cook will take over at fullback this year.

The offensive line will be the strength of the team this year, Sears said. With all but one starter returning, he expects this to be the best line they've ever had.

The key to the defensive line is senior Derek Johnson (6-3, 290), who is signed on to go to the University of Texas. His ability to run and explosive playmaking ability make him dangerous any time he's on the field.

Sears admits there is some pressure for Hoxie to repeat what they did a year ago, but he thinks his team is up to the task. With Clay Hart at quarterback, the Mustangs will be able to mix it up at times and do more on offense.