No. 13 Coppell (Texas) - Team preview / Preseason photo gallery
Strengths: Coppell accomplished something in 2012 that no other team can say it achieved:
It defeated Class 5A-I state champion Allen. It also dismantled Longview and downed Denton Ryan. In 2013, Coppell's strength is its balance, as it returns at least a half-dozen starters on both sides of the ball. Defensive end
Solomon Thomas is one of the state's top defenders and he's joined in the front seven by linebackers
John Herubin and
Collins Okotcha. The running back duo of
Gavin McDaniel and
Charles West should power the team's offense. They will run behind an outstanding offensive line that features three returning all-region picks in
Bill Weber, Kevin Gray and Chris Biggurs.
Question marks: Quarterback is the most obvious area of concern for Coppell heading into the fall. Junior Skyler Bonneau may be the favorite to win the job, but sophomore Myles Paschal is one to watch. Head coach Joe McBridge is comfortable with his options. However, the team will need to stay healthy. It was plagued by injuries in 2013.
Outlook: Texas is deep with very good teams that could potentially be great. Coppell has the experience, leadership, and talent to make that leap in 2013. It could emerge as the state's top team--or it could end up not even being among the state's Top 10 or 15 teams. A match up with Allen on September 27 is worth circling on the calendar.
