Brownfield Cubs (0-7) vs Denver City Mustangs (2-5) at Denver City, first district game, 7:00 pm kickoff
It is often said that there are three phases in a football season. The Brownfield Cubs are currently entering the second phase of their season. What does a new phase bring? It offers new opportunities, a fresh start, and room for growth. The Cubs will kick off this new phase tomorrow night at 7:00 PM in Denver City against their district opponent. Currently, the Cubs are on a 19-game losing streak, tying them with San Angelo TLC for the fourth-most consecutive losses in both 3A DI & DII. The last time Brownfield emerged victorious was on November 2, 2023, in a district matchup against Slaton, winning 12-8.
As District 2-3A DI action approaches, the situation is somewhat reminiscent of last season when all four teams entered the district with a combined record of 2-26. This year, however, they all come in with a combined record of 7-21. This suggests that District 2-3A DI is wide open for competition. All four squads took their bye last week and are refreshed.
According to Head Football Coach Lawrence Johnson, he feels optimistic as the team has had a great week off and a great week of preparation. He said, “We will carry the good emotions into a new week as we open up district play vs Denver City.” Denver City will certainly challenge the Cubs with speed and physical play up front, and they must put four quarters together and execute in all three phases of the game. Our kids had a great open week to refocus and recharge as we head into championship season. In the past decade, Brownfield has defeated Denver City only once, winning 33-14 in the 2015 season. Since being placed in the same district in 2012, they have won three games against them.
Both teams have faced similar opponents this season, specifically Roosevelt and Littlefield. The Mustangs defeated Roosevelt in week one with a score of 31-14 but lost to Littlefield 34-14 in week two. Meanwhile, Brownfield lost to Roosevelt in week three, 47-32, in a game that was decided by too many turnovers. In week five, the Cubs also fell to the Wildcats, 42-21, with Littlefield dominating in the second half.
One key difference between the teams is that Denver City has been shut out twice: 35-0 by Trinity and 75-0 by Seminole. The Cubs have been shut out once, losing 50-0 to Levelland. Both teams are averaging 16 points per game; however, the Mustangs are allowing 38 points per game, while Brownfield is allowing 49.
In terms of offensive yards, Denver City has totaled 1,981 yards, with 909 on the ground and 1,072 in the air, indicating a more balanced offensive attack. In contrast, Brownfield has accumulated 1,786 offensive yards, with only 298 coming from rushing and 1,488 from passing.
This district matchup is more than just a game; it’s a fierce rivalry. The Cubs can sense victory on the horizon, and tomorrow night, they will certainly break their losing streak.
Current District 2-3A DI Standings
Meadow Broncos (6-2) vs Whiteface Antelopes (5-2) at #6 Whiteface, 7:30 pm kickoff
I’ve heard it said, “Things happen for a reason.” However, that sentiment might not resonate with Coach Jackson and his team. Before the Meadow Broncos’ district opener, they seemed ready to compete strongly in their district. Unfortunately, their momentum was derailed by a series of injuries. Three starters, including their top offensive player, were injured just prior to the district opener. Though the Broncos will finish the regular season with a winning record, they currently sit at 0-2 in district play. In the next three weeks, they will need a mix of favorable outcomes and upsets to reach the postseason.
The Broncos will travel to Whiteface to face off against the #6 Antelopes. Whiteface’s two losses have come against #3 May and #2 Klondike, which, when viewed positively, aren’t too concerning. Meanwhile, Meadow is set to take on the largest 1A school in the state, which has welcomed back some athletes who helped the Antelopes reach the state championship game last season, where they only lost to Gordon. Notably, Gordon hasn’t lost a game since November 24, 2022.
Coach Jackson is optimistic that he’ll have a couple of this players back tomorrow night. Defense will be the key to win. If Meadow can stop the run attack, and be able to break through Whiteface’s defense, an upset could very well happen. The big guys on Meadow’s offense will to protect QB Pancho Arita and RB Brason Parker if the team wants see points put on the board.
Wellman-Union Wildcats have a bye week
Current District 3-1A DI Standings
Current Rankings Week 9
NOTE: Teams in BOLD with YELLOW highlight are from Region I, Teams in Class 1A in BOLD with GREEN highlight are from Region II (DC = Dave Capbell’s Football Rankings; SM = sixmanfootball.com Rankings)
