SEASON OUTLOOK
Receiver Chris Lacy
Photo by Keith Owens
A Sept. 29 matchup on the road against Class 5A-II finalist Cedar Hill, a team that might be able to match DeSoto's athleticism, will be a telling challenge for Mathis and his squad.
Question mark: Can DeSoto's running backs, led by Sparks-Brown and a new offensive line, take pressure off returning quarterback White? Can the team's defense live up to lofty expectations and perform in big games?
Local outlook: There are many teams in the DFW area that have the potential to be very good. Which ones realize that potential remains to be seen. In addition to Allen, Coppell and DeSoto, Southlake Carroll, Arlington Bowie, Cedar Hill and Skyline could all figure into the national rankings this fall.
Overall outlook: Each year, DeSoto is among the fastest and most athletic teams in the country. In 2013, that will likely be true again. At least to start the season, the team's defense will probably be far ahead of its offense, something that it might not be accustomed to. If both sides of the ball are clicking in December, there's no reason why White can't lead DeSoto to a state title.
Coach quote: "We feel if we get our offensive line back to where it was, we're going to surprise a lot of people again. We have to make sure our offensive line comes through for us. That's our biggest worry this year."
- Head coach Claude Mathis
