TAFT, Texas — The Taft Greyhounds are coming off a trip to the bi-district round of the playoffs last year.
They are led by all-district quarterback David Davis Jr., bringing confidence to the role from his playoff experience. Taft Head Football Coach Joe Riojas said they will rely on Davis Jr. to lead them through challenges this season.
Riojas said for the Greyhounds to make it further in the playoffs this year, they must stay healthy because of the team's lack of depth. But he said they make up for it with versatility since many kids play multiple positions, including Davis Jr.
Scrimmages start to feel like a game week, Riojas explained, which helps his players get into a routine.
"This'll be the best practice we've had all week right here," Riojas said. "When you get somebody in front of us, because the energy, the anxiety. All that stuff builds in and you get tired, you get more winded. So, this is great for these young guys to kind of get used to that and understand what it means to play on a Friday night."
Riojas said there are many new faces on both sides of the ball this year. He stressed the importance of players building chemistry during scrimmages.
Taft begins the season against Mathis on August 30.