STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

- DESOTO - The state-ranked Desoto Eagles, champions of District 11-5A, stamped their ranking without doubt as one of Texas’ elite football teams Friday night at their Eagle Field by ushering the A&M Consolidated Tigers from the 2011 playoffs.

The Eagles did it in convincing fashion, a 54-10 walloping of the Tigers, who advanced to the Bi-District round as the third-place club in 12-5A.

DeSoto, who won the right to host the runaway event by virtue of winning the coaches’ coin flip. In that match, Coach Claude Mathis, who formerly coached at Somerville, won the flip over Coach David Raffield, whose club ended the season with a 5-6 record.

DeSoto, which now is 10-1, wasted little time in putting points on the scoreboard. The Eagles, which used an interception as a catalyst for a TD, starting a scoring avalanche on their first six possessions to race in front of the Tigers 27-0 in the first quarter, then stretching their lead to 40-0 by halftime. In the first half, DeSoto had rolled to 308 total offensive yards while the super-quick Eagle defense held Consol to 64. The Eagles didn’t miss the 500-yard total offensive mark by much for the entire game. The Tigers had some pretty good gainers in the final half to register an offensive output of something approaching 200 yards.

The Eagles more than doubled Consol in first downs – 26-12 and completed 18 of 30 passes. Conversely, Consol could complete but four of 16 aerials, and two of those were intercepted. The first one was turned in by Jalen Mills, who has committed to play for the LSU Tigers. The second pick couldn’t be blamed on Consolidated quarterback Jacob Bronowski, since the ball was tipped by the would-be receiver, who couldn’t hold on. That one came with eight seconds to go in the opening half. The Tigers also lost a fumble.

DeSoto, which has one of the fastest teams in the state, featuring overall speed from backs, as well as the defense, didn’t have to punt until well into the third period. That kick was a beauty, rolling to the lip of the Tiger goal line, about six inches away, putting Consol into a deep hole.

The quick-striking Eagles set up the first score with a 38-yard pass from quarterback Raheem Wilson to running back/receiver Devin Rushing, after starting the successful drive from their 48. Dontre Wilson had received to start the game, returning from the six to the 48. Devin Rushing scored from the two, zipping in to his right a minute and 48 seconds deep in the game. A two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving it 6-0.

Thirteen seconds later, Wilson hit Rushing on a 35-yard payoff pass after the Eagles recovered a fumble on the Tigers’ second possession. Bryson Echols booted the extra point, stretching the lead to 13-0.

At the 7:28 mark of the first period, the Eagles completed a 46-yard drive when Rushing scored from the five. Echols kicked the extra point, making it 20-0.

The Eagles, who scored on their first six of eight possessions, struck again, stretching the lead to 27-0 when Ricky Daniels scored from 18 yards out after hauling in a Raheem Wilson pass with 4:47 to go in the first quarter, and after Echols nailed the extra point.

In the second period, DeSoto scored again on Marcus Williams’ four-yard run. Echols kicked the extra point, lifting the Eagles to a 34-0 lead.

A pass to Ridge Jones stretched the lead to 40-0, the halftime score.

Marcus Williams ran in another score on a three-yard run, and Echols’ kick made it 47-0 in the third quarter.

Consolidated got on the scoreboard in the third period when defensive tackle J.J. Bynum, Texas Tech-bound, rammed in from the Eagle two. The big fellow got his moment of glory as a running back in the final game of his high school career. His score came with 21 seconds remaining in the third. Justin Zimmerman booted the extra point. The scoring run was set up on a 46-yard pass from Bronowski to receiver Justin Benden, and completed a 69-yard drive, the most impressive one of the night for Consol.

A 36-yard pass from Bronowski to Benden put the ball on the Eagle seven. With fourth-and-goal from the six, Jeff Steines booted a 23-yard field goal with 6:07 to go in the game. At the time, it was 47-10, but DeSoto scored one more time with 3:33 to go. It came on a Desmon White-to-Kyle Collins pass play. The kick made it 54-10.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

-COLLEGE STATION- Both teams are coming off regular season-ending losses as the A&M Consolidated Tigers face their toughest opponent of the season in Friday night’s Bi-District football game at DeSoto.

A&M Consolidated lost 26-23 at Belton to wrap up the regular season in District 12-5A action, while the DeSoto Eagles lost 23-21 to the Longview Lobos in a game where a late-game safety spelled the difference, knocking the Eagles from their third-place perch in the state, sending DeSoto to a sixth-place tumble in the final poll.

Coach David Raffield of Consol and Coach Claude Mathis of DeSoto flipped a coin to determine site of the game, a home-and-home flip. Raffield lost that coin flip, sending the Tigers to the Metroplex – on DeSoto’s home field – for a 7:30 kickoff to determine who advances to the Area round in the state playoffs.

DeSoto will enter the fray, boasting a 9-1 record, with only the Longview blemish on its record. The Eagles are 5-1 in district warfare.]

The Tigers ended the regular season at 5-5, and 5-2 in district.

Speed, a swarming defense, and a smooth-operating District 11-5A offense awaits the Tigers on DeSoto’s home turf. DeSoto returned six offensive and eight defensive starters from its 2010 Division I Regional finalist club. Raheem Wilson guides the Eagle attack at quarterback, working behind a large and capable blocking offensive line. The attack also features Devin Rushing (good name for a running back) and another RB, Dontre Wilson, along with wide receiver Ridge Jones..

The quick Eagle green-and-gold clad defense spotlights the names of defensive ends Michael Richardson and Denzel Murphy, linebacker Alex Lyons and cornerbacks Bryson Echols and Vondrick Jackson.

Consol, which had some shining stars even in defeat at Belton, hopes they’s shine even brighter this Friday night under DeSoto lights. In the Belton game, the Tigers’ Cameron Cermin and Edison Caldwell showed they know a thing or two about blocking techniques, while running back Quinton White had 51 yards on only eight carries before exiting the game due to a late first-half injury. It’s hoped his return is imminent because Consol will need everyone healthy for this important playoff match. It was Durasis Nutall who led the Tigers in rushing with 54 yards on 10 runs, and he also continued to prove his mettle as slot receiver with four receptions which gobbled up 49 yards of real estate, including a 26-yard touchdown catch. Qaurterback Jacob Bronowski did not suffer an interception while completing 13 of 26 passes for 133 yards. Receiver Justin Benden latched onto three aerials for 44 yards.

Consol, which tied Belton for second place in the final district standings, got some good defensive work from linemen Jimmie Gilbert, Christian LaCouture and J.J. Bynum; linebackers David Levias (eight tackles (two from behind the line of scrimmage) and Marshall Strain, who paced the team with 13 tackles (10 of ‘em solos); and safeties Josue Ordonez (11 tackles) and Brett Mahnke (five tackles and solid pass defense).

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

- BELTON - A late field goal by the Belton Tigers, a missed field goal and extra point by A&M Consolidated, along with Consol’s inability to move the football in the waning seconds combined to send Consolidated to a 26-23 defeat Friday night at Belton.

It wasn’t the kind of tuneup for the playoffs which Coach David Raffield and his Tigers had hoped for, as Consol ended its regular-season schedule with a 5-5 record and a 5-2 District 12-5A mark. Belton, also headed for the playoffs, owns an identical 5-2 district record, and is 8-2 for the season.

Consol, which lost a “home-and-home” coin flip, must travel to Desoto next week for its bi-district match.

Consolidated fell behind 14-0 before closing the gap to 14-7 in the first quarter, then tied it 14-14 and trailed 20-17 by halftime. That came when Dillon Moore booted a 40-yard field goal as time expired. Durasis Nutall had ripped off a fine run to set it up, stepping out of bounds with 1.8 seconds left in the half as the field goal unit trotted onto the field.

Belton, led by smooth-operating quarterback Peter Shelburne and some fine runs by 1,000-plus running back Donovan Williams, scored on its second possession. It took just two plays to put the points on the board. The touchdown came on a 55-yard bomb from Shelburne to wide receiver Derick Bates. Carlo Mosnia booted the extra point.

Williams scored on a three-yard run with 3:31 remaining in the opening quarter, and Mosnia kicked the extra point, putting Belton up 14-0.

In that quarter, Consol scored on a beautifully-executed 26-yard screen pass from QB Jacob Bronowski to running back/receiver Nutall, who darted, dodged and eluded would-be tacklers on what might be the flashiest run of the evening. Dillon Moore kicked the point. The score had a catalyst of sorts, set up when Belton tried an onside kick, recovered by Consol to set up the Tigers with a short field.

A deadlock developed at the 8:19 mark of the second quarter when Quinton White jumped over one defender, spun away from another and scored on a nine-yard run. It might have equaled Nutall’s earlier run in entertainment value. Moore kicked the point. In that scoring drive, Nutall ripped off a 21-yard run.

Belton regained the lead with 3:38 to go in the half, with the drive needing seven plays, the payoff coming on a 50-yard pass-and-run from Shelburne to Durham Smythe, the tight end. Moania’s extra-point kick was wide to the left, leaving the score 20-14, Belton. Then came Moore’s 40-yard field goal, as Consol had closed the gap to 20-17 by halftime.

Consolidated took a 23-20 lead with 8:58 remaining in the game when Bronowski gouged out the final yard. Justin Zimmerman tried the extra point this time, but missed it.

Mosnia nailed a 21-yard field goal with 4:30 left, then put on what to be the clincher with a 33-yard field goal with a minute and 20 seconds left.

Consol had one final gasp, starting from its 28-yard line, but couldn’t get close enough to score a TD. The Tigers, however, had a field goal on their minds, which would have tied it and forced an overtime. In those final frantic moments, with the clock working against them, the Consol Tigers managed a first down on a Bronowski pass to Justin Benden. With the clock running, Bronowski spiked the ball to preserve what precious seconds remained – 17.8 seconds. Bronowski got another first on a run. With the clock stopped and owning 4.4 seconds, Zimmerman missed a final field goal attempt, a 44-yarder.

Despite the loss, several Consol defensive gems came to the forefront on plays by David Levias, Christian LaCouture, Marshall Strain, J.J. Bynum and Josue Ordonez,

Quinton White left the game in the second quarter. He was favoring an ankle and he never returned. It’s hopeful that White will be ready when the Tigers face Desoto.

The first downs were dead even at 17 apiece for Belton and Consol. Neither team lost a fumble. Only turnovers for the night came on two interceptions by Consolidated – the first by middle linebacker Joe Waithaka and the other by Jimmie Gilbert in the fourth period. Gilbert’s pick resulted in a 40-yard return to the Belton 30. Consol punting was outstanding, seven kicks for an average of 42.2.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT 

- COLLEGE STATION - The A&M Consolidated Tigers end their regular season schedule Friday night at 7:30, facing another group of Tigers at Belton.

The Tigers, Consolidated variety, are playoff-bound with a 5-4 season mark, wrapped around a 5-1 District 12-5A record as they go against Belton, with a 7-2 mark and boasting a 4-2 district reading.

Coming off the 30-23 overtime win over the Harker Heights Knights at Tigerland last week, Consol enters the district finale at Belton with some Tigers’ having some game-changing plays last week. Defensive line play was exceptionally strong, with some key plays coming from Christian LaCouture, a tackle; end Fredrick Goodman and another end, Jimmie Gilbert, who always seem to make several “big plays” a game.

Put up the names of defensive backs – cornerback Demetrius Willingham, seven tackles while giving fits to the Knights during the OT, and safeties Josue Ordonez (13 tackles) and Brett Mahnke, half a dozen tackles; and never discount senior linebacker Marshall Strain, another gridder who seems to come up with big plays in each contest. Against the Knights, he had 13 tackles.

Offensively, Consol had its standouts – receiver Justin Benden hauled in seven passes for 72 yards, Durasis Nutall rushed for 82 yards on 11 carries; running back Quinton White rushed for 97 yards and caught six passes for 57 yards. In the offensive line, tackle Cameron Cermin had a strong game.

Coach Rodney Southern’s Belton Tigers present wide receiver Derick Bates to give the Consol secondary a test. More receivers in the Belton attack include Levi Jordan and tight end Durham Smythe, 6-5, 215, with 4.8 speed in the 40.

Belton is known for its “sturdy defense,” spearheaded by linebacker Davis Butler, who had 135 tackles and four sacks last season. He took up where he left off for the 2011 campaign. Adding to Belton’s strong linebacker play are Ryan Stinson and Tyler Santellana.

The Belton attack is guided by quarterback Blayten Magana.

Despite the outcome Friday night, the Tigers of Consol will then prepare for their bi-district match, which comes next week.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

- COLLEGE STATION - It was a wounded Tiger early on Friday night at Tigerland.

A&M Consolidated suffered three interceptions and a fumble, which was returned for a touchdown, but overcame those turnovers against the Harker Heights Knights to push its record to 5-4 and 5-1 in District 12-5A.

Despite the turnovers in a game which also saw the first three extra-point kicks fail (two of the Harker Heights kicks were blocked by Consol, which missed one of its own), the Tigers clinched a playoff berth with the 30-23 overtime victory over the Knights.

That’s right! OT, and the Tigers excelled Friday night in that department, getting the ball first at the 25, scoring and then the Consolidated “D” played extremely tough while holding Harker Heights away from the goal on its lone opportunity from the 25.

Harker Heights dropped to 4-5 for the season, and 4-2 in the district race.

In the OT period, with the score knotted at 23-23, faced an illegal procedure call which pushed the Tigers back to the 30 before they could run a play. Not to worry. Jacob Bronowski, coming off a sore ankle and sustaining three earlier interceptions, produced a strike to Quinton White, who “out-quicked” the Heights secondary to the nine. On a third-and-goal, Bronowski hit wide receiver Justin Benden for the score. Dillon Moore, who earlier had hit an extra point and a field goal, booted true on this one to produce the final score of 30-23.

Much of the overtime drama took place when the Consol defense took over on the Knights’ possession. A lick on Rodriguez, the Heights QB, caused the ball to pop free, but the Knights recovered all the way back to the 38. Rodriguez led his team for a first down at the 15. The Consol “D” rose to the occasion when David Levias and Marshall Strain combined for a sack of the quarterback, followed by a delay penalty against the visitors. Then came an illegal procedure penalty against Harker Heights, moving the ball back to the 31 and bringing up fourth down with 26 needed for the first. Brad Haynes, on a run, was stopped at the 10, ending the game.

In addition to Strain and Levias, the Tiger defense proved too tough in the final analysis, with some key plays’ being made by Fredrick Goodman, J.J. Bynum and Christian LaCouture.

The Tigers racked up 22 first downs to 18 for Harker Heights, which did not have a turnover.

Consol scored on a Quinton White keeper, out of Wildcat formation. White faked to Darasis Nutall, then punctured the middle of the Knights’ defense from 15 yards out 44 seconds deep into the period. It completed an eight-play, 53-yard drive. Moore missed the extra point.

Rodriguez scored to tie it on a trick play after pitching to his running back, who threw it to his quarterback. Jake Harler’s first of two extra-point kicks was blocked.

Nashon Hughes, on the Tigers’ third interception, returned the pick 33 yards for a score, putting the Knights up 12-6. There were no extra points kicked in the first half, since Consol blocked the kick for the second time.

Harker Heights wasn’t through for the first half. Marcus Reo returned a Consol fumble 20 yards to make it 18-6 with 30 seconds remaining. Greg Haynes, holder for extra points, faked in the kicking setup, and pushed in for a two-point conversion, making the score 20-6 at halftime.

Consol began its comeback in the third quarter on an 18-yard run by Nutall after the Knights’ faked punt failed to produce a first on fourth-and-two at the 8:20 mark. Moore’s kick made it 20-13.

Moore nailed a 34-yard field goal with 4:53 to go in the quarter at the 4:53 mark, raising the score to 20-16.

Consol went ahead 22-20 on a one-yard run by Bronowski with 9:57 remaining in the game. Moore’s kick made it 23-20. The score was set up by a 12-yard punt by the Knights, giving Consol a fairly short field on which to work.

Harler tied it with a 37-yard field goal later in the period.

The 1991 team and its coaches, including head coach Ross Rogers, were introduced on field and honored for its State Championship run while in Class AAAA. That championship victory was produced in the Astrodome as Consol beat Carthage 35-16. The Tigers wore throwback jerseys in honor of that club.

Consolidated ends the regular season next Friday night with a road trip to face the Belton Tigers.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

- COLLEGE STATION - The A&M Consolidated Tigers are looking to bounce back Friday night against the Harker Heights Knights after a classic game a week ago in which Consol absorbed its first District 12-5A loss at Copperas Cove. Despite losing by a narrow margin (23-21), a defeat isn’t pleasant, and that’s stuck in Consol’s craw during workouts this week.

In this comeback effort, look for the Tiger defense to continue its improvement, right along with the offense. The late, great coach, Bowden Wyatt of Tennessee once said, “My advice to defensive players: Take the shortest route to the ball and arrive in a bad humor.” Consol’s Coach David Raffield heartily echoes those sentiments as his Tigers prepare for the comeback and try to stretch their district mark to 5-1. A win would push the season mark to 5-4.

Harker Heights comes to Tigerland for a 7:30 kickoff with a 5-3 season record, and hanging in the district race with a 3-2 reading. The Knights are just a few points behind Consol in scoring, with the Tigers’ 248 and Harker Heights’ 237 output. Consol has the best “stat” in defense, allowing opponents 157 while the Knights’ defense has given up 185 points. The visitors come to Consolidated just off a 17-14 win over the Bryan Vikings.

Unsure who might get the starting quarterback call for Consolidated – either Jacob Bronowski, who started the season, or Weston Garner, who has gained some valuable experience in a backup role. Both QBs should be ready to roll against the Knights.

Coach Mike Mullins’ defensive unit is no slouch, particularly with extra strength in the secondary, which has proved its mettle more than once this season. Spearheading the secondary are Naashon Hughes and Jonathan Nava. A big offensive line is led by the “biggest of the big,” Darius James, 6-5, 315, who is joined by the likes of Camrhon Hughes, 6-7, 291.

Running back Marvin Jackson and wide receiver Greg Haynes can be expected to lead the offense against the ever-improving Tiger “D.”

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

- COPPERAS COVE -  It was a classic showdown Friday night at Copperas Cove between the Bulldawgs and the A&M Consolidated Tigers, the kind of game which epitomized Texas High School football.

The Harris Rating System had it as its High Headliner of the Week, and Tigers and Bulldawgs, two hefties of District 12-5A didn’t disappoint the near-capacity crowd on the Cove turf.

Battling it out until the very end, it was Copperas Cove which held on with its tremendous speed to emerge with a 23-21 win for district supremacy. For longtime Copperas Cove coach, Jack Welch, it avenged a defeat at the hand of the Tigers a year ago, while the Bulldawgs upped their season record to 7-1 and 5-0 in the district race.

For Coach David Raffield’s Tigers, it was a bitter pill to swallow. Consol is on the verge of a playoff berth which could come next Friday at home against Harker Heights. The Cove will host Killeen Shoemaker this coming Friday.

Consolidated is 4-4 for the season while owning a 4-1 district mark.

Scoring for the Tigers were Quinton White on runs of one and 30 yards, and quarterback Weston Garner, on a one-yard run. Dillon Moore booted three of three extra points for Consol.

Cove got a 47-yard field goal from Eli Kuhns, who also kicked two extra points and missed on another field goal when the ball hit the left goalpost. Late in the game, Scoring touchdowns for the Bulldawgs were Orlando Thomas, super quick QB, on a 23-yard run and one of 12 yards, and Rashaun Gibson, who hauled in a 21-yard pass from Thomas.

The ‘Dawgs ended with over 350 yards in total offense, while the Tigers amassed a similar number yardage output. Both teams each had 16 first downs.

Lots of the drama took place in the final few minutes of this classic struggle between two of the state’s more interesting clubs. Consol’s large defense came through with several sacks on Thomas, mostly before the speedster could get out of the starting blocks to sweep around end, something he has done with amazing regularity this season. Brandon Hamilton, who came into the game with about 1,100 yards rushing, was held in check pretty well by Consol defenders, although it was Thomas and Hamilton which ate up precious time as Consol used its timesout to get a final chance at victory.

Once that came, there were seconds left, with the Bulldawgs driving the final nail in the coffin with an interception as time expired.

Consol defenders who got in some telling licks on the Copperas Cove offense included Adriel Grant, Josue Ordonez, David Levias, Brett Mahnke, Christian LaCouture, Marshall Strain and J.J. Bynum.

In the third quarter, Darasis Nutall’s 55-yard run set the ball on the Cove one, and providing the catalyst for a one-yard scoring run by Garner, which gave Consol its first lead at 21-20.

Kuhn came back to kick a 24-yard field goal, which proved to be the deciding points.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

The Tigers got off to an extremely slow start, losing their three non-district games, but who’s counting now?

What’s important is that A&M Consolidated makes the trek to Copperas Cove this Friday night for a game matching the only undefeated teams in District 12-5A – the Tigers and Bulldawgs – both standing at 4-0. The Cove has a 6-1 record overall, while Consol is 4-3.

As the 12-5A titans’ showdown for undisputed district supremacy nears, it would appear that Coach David Raffield’s style of attack is jelling at just the right time. While Quinton White and Durasis Nutall seemingly are more comfortable and finding their running grooves, the Consolidated defense continues to make some big plays, such as holding off opponents in the red zone and forcing some turnovers to get the ball back into the hands of the Tiger offense.

Some of the big-play defensive names in the Tiger “D” have been linemen J.J. Bynum and Fredrick Goodman, who spearheaded the unit that was devasting in last week’s win over Killeen Shoemaker, liming the Greywolves to 68 yards of total offense. The secondary is no less spectacular. For instance, safety Brett Mahnke broke up a pass, had a quarterback sack interspersed with seven tackles. His running buddy, strong safety Josue Ordonez, registered three tackles against the ‘Wolves and picked off a pass. Added to the defensive mix in that game were linebackers David Levias, Marshall Strain and Joe Waithaka. They have indicated they’ll have their “game faces” on at Copperas Cove in this all-important district contest.

Offensively, while Nutall and White are also proving to be dangerous inside receivers, the offense continues to be in good hands with QBs Jacob Bronowski and backup Weston Garner.

Coach Jack Welch, who seems to be a fixture at the Cove, calls on his quarterback, Orlando Thomas, to guide the ‘Dawg attack. Thomas, a University of Texas commit, is surrounded by plenty of talent to move the football, including 6-0, 210 running back Brandon Hamilton and wide receiver Johnny Sirmans, and not to be overlooked, junior tight end/wide receiver Girod Fluelen. Also look for sophomore running back Vondarenz King, who shows much promise.

Kickoff for the big showdown is set for 7:30.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

COLLEGE STATION - 

The Tigers of A&M Consolidated disposed of the Killeen Shoemaker Greywolves Friday night at Tigerland with a 37-0 victory that extended the Wolves’ 29^th loss in a row, currently the state’s longest losing streak.

The win pushes Consol’s season mark to 4-3, with all four victories coming in District 12-5A after going winless in the non-district schedule.

Next Friday night, the gridiron stage is set for what should be a big battle between the Tigers and Bulldawgs at Copperas Cove, which also remained unbeaten in district with a win over the Bryan Vikings at Merrill Green Stadium last night.

The Tigers, who took the opening kickoff only to lose a fumble inside the one-yard line after driving 67 yards, turned that adversity into a quick opportunity, turning the tables on the Greywolves on their first play from scrimmage, tacking up a safety for a 2-0 lead. Consolidated used that turnaround to fashion a 51-yard scoring drive, culminating with Quinton White’s one-yard zip into the end zone with 4:51 to go in the opening period. Dillon Moore nailed the extra point, his first of three for the evening. Justin Zimmerman booted the other two extra points.

White’s TD was one of two for the night, his other coming on a 34-yard run on which he shook free from two Greywolves, put on a quick move and roared free into the end zone with 53 seconds remaining in the first quarter, propelling the victors into a 15-0 advantage, followed by Moore’s second extra point. That touchdown opportunity was provided by Killeen Shoemaker’s second fumble at the Killeen 48.

Consol bolted ahead 23-0 when backup quarterback Weston Garner found Josh Patton on a beautifully-executed 44-yard reception-and-run. Moore again kicked the point. Garner had come in for starting QB Jacob Bronowski, who came out limping.The score came a minute and one second deep into the second quarter.

The margin rose to 29-0 in the third quarter when Durasis Nutall scored the first of his two touchdowns on a 49-yard run. Zimmerman kicked the extra point.

The final score came on Nutall’s 13-yard run around the right side with 9:38 left in the game. Zimmerman’s kick added the final point.

Things got a bit sloppy for both clubs late in the game. Shoemaker particularly suffered from penalties and experienced much difficulty on the center snap to the QB and Wildcat formation running back Johnny Jefferson, the Greywolves’ leading rusher for the season.

Consol had something in the neighborhood of 420 yards in total offense, while the Greywolves continue to struggle with 44 total yards, which can be largely attributed to a fierce-rushing Consol defensive crew featuring some telling licks from David Levias, Brett Mahnke, Adriel Grant, Marshall Strain, Christian LaCouture, Fredrick Goodman, Josue Ordonez and J.J. Bynum. Ordonez intercepted a pass in the second period, while Levias picked one in the third.

Bronowski and Garner combined for 16 completions in 23 tries, and the Tigers registered 16 first downs to only six for the Greywolves.

Shoemaker drops to a season 0-7, and 0-4 in district.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

Tough schedule, but the A&M Consolidated Tigers have a greater degree of confidence as they head into Week No. 4 for District 12-5A warfare this Friday night on the turf of the friendly confines of Tigerland Stadium at 7:30.

The confidence factor got a big boost at Kyle Field when the Tigers thumped the Bryan Vikings in their cross-town rivalry in a victory which proved to be much more decisive than predicted (49-21).

The new Tiger offense appears to have found its comfort zone, while the defense continues to make some key big plays. In the Tiger-Viking showdown, Consol quarterback Jacob Bronowski continues to improve in his ability to operate Coach David Raffield’s new offense, puncturing the Vike defense for three running touchdowns and throwing for two more TDs to Quinton White, who had successfully nursed an injury.

Consolidated has done a complete turnaround from a slow start (0-3) in the non-conference schedule to 3-0 when it counts the most in district contests. While the Tigers pulled their record to 3-3, the Vikings are 4-2 for the season and 2-1 in district games.

Coach Bob Bellard’s Bryan team still is a solid football club and should make waves in the league chase. The Vikings host Copperas Cove this Friday night at 7:30 at Merrill Green Stadium. The Cove, like Consol, is 3-0 in district competition, and boasts a 5-1 season mark.

Against Consol, junior Bryan running back Kevin Jefferson carried 23 times for 100 yards and caught two passes for 63 yards, including a 51-yard scoring pass from QB Chris Johnson. Zac Slaydon and Granger Dewitt sparked the Viking defensive linemen.

In that cross-town showdown, the Tigers got stellar play from defensive linemen J.J. Bynum, Fredrick Goodman and Jimmie Gilbert, while the secondary strutted its stuff with interceptions turned in by senior safeties Josue Ordonez and Brett Mahnke. Also throw into the star mix, the names of cornerbacks Adriel Grant and Demetrius Willingham (five tacks apiece), and linebackers Marshall Strain (a game-high 10 tackles) and Joe Waithaka.

Offensively, the Tigers, in addition to Bronowski, got outstanding play from receiver Durasis Nutall, who paced the Consol running game with 104 rushing yards with a touchdown, and caught a couple of passes. Among offensive linemen who paved the way for Consol’s passing game and a rushing output of 266 yards, were Wyatt Smith, Edison Caldwell, Dillon Smith and Cameron Cermin.

White caught five passes for 122 yards, including touchdown tosses of 31 and 35 yards.

This week’s Consol opponent, Killeen Shoemaker, has struggled with the 0-3 district record. The Grey Wolves are winless in six outings. Coached by Ken Gray, the Wolves are getting top play from running back Johnny Jefferson, quarterback Jammie Blunt and defensive tackle Jordan Salinas.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

KYLE FIELD – Post-Game wrap-up coming soon!

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

The competition and traditions of two cross-town rivals are two key ingredients which showcase Texas high school football at its best.

Friday night on the hallowed grounds of Kyle Field, the “showcase” will continue, matching the unbeaten Bryan Vikings (4-0-1; 2-0) against the A&M Consolidated Tigers (2-3; 2-0).

Bryan is designated as the “visitor” for the 7:30 kickoff, but that doesn’t mean a thing. Both clubs have their cross-town battle each year on Kyle, and the importance of the game is not limited to just another football game. Both are members of District 12-5A with both wanting to continue its league unbeaten skein, thus enjoying a temporary “in the driver’s seat” mentality.

Coach Bob Bellard’s Bryan team had a close call this past Friday night, getting past Killeen Shoemaker 21-19 at Killeen’s Leo Buckley Stadium, where the night before, Coach David Raffield’s Tigers belted Killeen Ellison 49-0.

Coach Bellard was highly pleased with his Vikings, particularly with their first-half performance against Shoemaker, while Raffield thought his club performed well, and happy about the way backups came in during the last half and continued what the starters had begun. A couple of the Tigers who had not touched the ball this season, scored in that second half. The “gaining experience” factor for the backups brought smiles to Raffield, whose wide-open offensive style of attack shows signs of taking root, just in time for the district grind against clubs such as Bryan.

The good news for Consol is that running back-receiver Quinton White, who got a prodigious lick on his knee late in the third quarter against Ellison, will return to the lineup for the big cross-town rivalry.

The Tigers proved to be opportunists against the Eagles, getting four interceptions and recovering a fumble. Safety Brett Mahnke provided two of those picks, while linebaker David Levias and senior tackle (that’s right-tackle) got the other interception. He also returned the lone Eaqle fumble, returning it 53 yards to set up a score, and was also credited with 11 tackles. Evidence that the new style of attack is taking shape came when quarterback Jacob Bronowski rushed for a career-high 181 yards on 11 carries, mostly on designed plays although the senior signal caller had to scramble a couple of times when his receivers were covered.

Registering some key defensive plays for the Vikings in their win over Shoemaker were Barry Densey and Granger DeWitt. Alex Pappas also proved his mettle with half a dozen tackles and four assists. Defensive lineman Zac Slaydon and defensive back Bykece Campbell made key tackles to preserve the victory. Helping to move the Vike offense were QB Chris Johnson, who rushed for 96 yards on 18 carries and completed 10 of 15 passes for 88 yards and two TDs. Kevin Jefferson scored all Bryan points, two touchdowns on receptions and another rushing.

 STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

KILEEN - After a 20-minute lightning-threat delay Friday night at Leo Buckley Stadium in Killeen, the A&M Consolidated Tigers put together some offensive lightning of their own with a 49-0 victory over Killeen Ellison’s Eagles while going 2-0 in the District 12-5A race. Overall, the Tigers pulled their season mark to 2-3, after a rocky non-conference start while becoming more familiar with their new wide-open attack’s offensive schemes.

In tuning up those schemes, and after the lightning danger had subsided, the Tigers produced a little weather mix of their own, raining down seven touchdowns on the Eagles, while thundering down the field for a total offense of 409 yards.

The Tiger “D” held Ellison to a 147-yard output, featuring some defensive heroics of Kyle Chisum, J.J. Bynum, old reliable Marshall Strain at linebacker, and secondary folks Demetrius Willingham, Josue Ordonez and Adriel Grant.

Bynum, all 270 pounds of him, had a night to remember, lining up as running back, and tacked up a two-yard touchdown run, untouched off right tackle just 48 seconds deep into the third quarter, pushing the score to 28-0. J.J. also intercepted a pass in that quarter, at the 3:34 mark. It was one of four picks turned in by the Tigers. David Levias picked off an aerial in the second period, while Brett Mahnke had two interceptions – one in the second (he returned that one 28 yards), and the other in the third, when he was in the right spot at the right time to snuff out a fourth-down pass by the Eagles at the Tiger seven..

It might not have been the touchdown that was Bynum’s shining moment at Buckley Stadium. Rather, it could have been a fumble recovery in the final quarter. J.J., who refused to be downed on several occasions during that entertaining return, covered 60 yards on the return, and was only downed by a facemask violation which tacked on an additional 15 to the Ellison 32. That led to yet another Tiger TD, capped off by a fourth-and-nine connection on a 20-yarder from quarterback Weston Garner, who had come in for Jacob Bronowski. Garner located receiver Justin Binden with 5:31 to go in the game. Dillon Moore, who booted five of five extra points, toed it over the goal post. It was 35-0 at the time.

Consol added another score after a partially blocked kick at the Eagle 14 set up the opportunity. Alex Moore scored on a seven-yard run with 3:39 to go. Jeff Steines kicked the first of his two extra-point tries, making it 42-0.

The final Tiger score came with backups staying in the lineup for Coach David Raffield. Zerrick Merchant swept right for 30 yards and the final payoff punch.

The scoring had gotten underway in the opening period when Bronowski found an open running seam and zipped 34 yards on the Tigers’ initial possession.

Next touchdown was a 48-yard pass-and-run from Bronowski to Quinton White in the second period. That scoring drive took just 59 seconds and had been set up by Levias’ pick.

Bronowski again found running room in the same period, scoring on a 50-yard run, then continued to find the all-important “daylight” and took it 86 yards, setting up Bynum’s two-yard scoring run.

Putting the only damper on Friday night’s win was an injury in the fourth quarter to Quinton White. He received big attention from trainers on the sideline, and hopefully the injury will quickly heal in time for next week’s annual district showdown with the Bryan Vikings at Kyle Field.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT 

The A&M Consolidated Tigers are seeking their second straight win Thursday night, departing from the usual Friday Night Lights, when they hit the road for Leo Buckley Stadium and an engagement with the Killeen Ellison Eagles.

Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m., also a departure from the normal 7:30 time.

Regardless of the night and time, the Tigers would like nothing more than to go up 2-0 in the District 12-5A race following last Friday’s Homecoming win over the Temple Wildcats at Tigerland. Right now, chances are good Consol can pull off a win. While Consolidated is 1-3 for the season, the Eagles are winless in four games and are 0-1 on district.

Despite the home advantage for Ellison, Consol appears to have too many weapons for the Eagles. The Tigers also appear to be jelling at the right time as Coach David Raffield’s new wide-open style of offense seems to become more effective. Quarterback Jacob Barnouski has some impressive numbers in the Consol passing game, and triple-threat Quinton White is fitting more comfortably in the new offensive scheme with running and catching. He particularly has posed danger to opponents in the receiving department. He and Durasis Nutall, once completely comfortable in Raffield’s attack, comprise a lethal 1-2 running punch. Also shining as a pass catcher has been Justin Binden, a glue-fingered receiver who has tacked up some yardage.

The Tigers are particularly interested in cutting down on turnovers. Early-season interceptions and fumbles slowed the attack.

Defensively, Consol has made a couple of impressive goal-line stands and is led on that side of the ball by linemen J.J. Bynum, Fredrick Goodman and Jimmie Gilbert, linebacker Marshall Strain, who has turned in several shining moments in slowing the opposition, and backs Brett Mahnke and Josue Ordonez.

The Eagles, coached by Buddy McBryde, does have speed and so far has received top play from free safety Sean McBryde, cornerback Darius Phillips and defensive end Wesley Washington.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

College Station - The Temple Wildcats came into Tigerland Friday night for the District 12-5A opener, boasting the top offense among the district’s teams.

The Consolidated Tigers are no slouches either when it comes to producing offensive fireworks.

But, before a large crowd at Tigerland, it all came down to one last bit of heroics by the Consol defense to preserve a 33-30 victory by the Tigers. Thoughts might dub Adriel Grant the Homecoming Hero since he sealed the deal with the Tigers’ lone interception with 15 seconds to play. That pick made sure that Consol would pick up its first win of the season. The important thing here is that when it counted the most, Consol stands at 1-0 in the district race, sandwiched between a season mark of 1-3. Temple is 0-l in district, also with a 1-3 overall record.

Just how important was that interception? Highly, since Temple’s explosive offense is capable of scoring from anywhere on the field. Coach Mike Spradlin implemented his new offense in this, his first time to be head coach of the Wildcats. The combatants at Tigerland Friday evening are similar in many ways. First year head coach David Raffield also implemented his version of a wide-open attack this season, and also is capable of tacking up some impressive offensive numbers. Combined last night, the two teams didn’t miss the 1,000-yard mark by much.

While Consol has struggled this year once the Tigers entered the “red zone,” they picked the right time to push across enough points to come away with a victory. The scoring included a couple of field goals – a 31-yarder set up by a short Temple punt late in the third period and a 36-yarder set up by running back Quinton White’s 43-yard run in the fourth period. Dillon Moore booted both three-pointers.

While White made a couple of critical runs featuring some outstanding moves, Consol’s big hosses up front provided blocking prowess to give White just the necessary creases in the Wildcat defense, springing the Tulsa-bound back room to put his own brand of moves for yardage. That line includes Cameron Cermin, Trey Salas, Wyatt Smith, Ruben Pensado and Dillon Smith. That blocking held up while the Tigers registered 24 first downs to 18 for the visitors. Jacob Barnouski, returning to the lineup at quarterback, triggered 34 passes and completed 16, while Temple’s junior phenom QB Zach Allen passed on 23 occasions and connected on nine of ‘em.

Consol is still experiencing penalty woes, getting seven stepoffs for 80 yards.

White, who also handled punting chores, kicked five times for a 42-yard average.

The Consol defense showed they can still play, and do it well, stopping Temple on a couple of crucial fourth-down plays. Making some timely plays in the Tiger “D” were Demetrius Willingham, Grant, Brett Mahnke, David Levias, Marshall Strain, Jimmie Gilbert (spilled QB Allen for a couple of losses), Josue Ordonez, Fredrick Goodrum, Christian Laconture and J.J. Bynum.

Consol held a first quarter advantage when Bronowski hit wide receiver Justin Binden on a 37-yard scoring strike in getting the scoring underway in the first quarter at the 7:08 mark. That capped a 76-yard drive, followed by Dillon Moore’s extra point boot.

Temple’s Joseph Pickett brought the Wildcats to within 7-3 on a 24-yard field goal.

Consol later in the period parlayed a fumble recovery into another TD, after Durasis Nutall got the ball on a reverse for 22 yards, setting up Bronowski’s 14-yard scoring run. Moore’s kick made it 14-3.

In the second quarter, Gaylon Sanders used his speed and quick moves to explode right past the Consolidated defense for 36 yards, ending a 70-yard drive. Pickett’s kick drew the ‘Cats to within 14-10.

Later in the period, Zach Allen scored from 16 yards out, capping an 87-yard march. Pickett’s kick made it 17-14, Temple.

Dillon Moore’s 31-yard field goal tied it in the third, and put the Tigers ahead in the final quarter with his 36-yard field goal, set up by Quinton White’s 43-yard run, making it 20-17.

That lead lasted but a few seconds, when Keith Buhl returned the ensuing kickoff 95 yards, putting the Wildcats back in front, 23-20. Pickett’s kick sailed wide to the right.

Consol went ahead 27-23 late in the final quarter on some crisp blocking and some outstanding runs by White, who got 18 yards to the five, then four more to the one. Quinton apparently scored from there, but Consol was penalized back to the 11. With some more great running, including a couple of spin moves, White scored from the 11 to make it 26-23, followed by Moore’s kick, upping the lead to 27-23.

After Allen scored and the kick followed, Temple was up 30-27.

A 52-yard scoring run by White put the Tigers back up 33-30. Then came the game-saving interception by Grant.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

The Temple Wildcats visit Tigerland Friday night for a 7:30 kickoff which will usher in “play for keeps” as the A&M Consolidated Tigers begin 12-5A district play.

Neither Tigers nor Wildcats have found easy going during the non-district schedule which has seen the Tigers drop all three of their outings while Temple comes into district with a 1-2 mark.

The Tigers, who have suffered costly interceptions over the course of the season, keep believing their wide-open style of attack brought in by new coach David Raffield, will take flight any time. For Consol and their loyal fans, that “any time” cannot come too soon, as the Tigers adjust to the new offensive style. They have come so close to winning all three, and despite the trio of disappointments, the Tigers continue their great work ethic and believing in each other as they get down to the nitty gritty of the district race.

Could be that Jacob Bronouski, Consol’s senior quarterback, will return to the lineup Friday evening on home turf after sitting out a couple of games to make sure an injury is properly healed. Weston Gardner, filling in for Barnouski, has completed 36 of 65 passes, but has fallen victim to four picks in the young season.

Consolidated has had to depend heavily on its big, quick, hard-hitting defense to keep the Tigers close in their first three games. That defense has shown signs of greatness, and the coaching staff hopes that trend will continue. The defense is anchored by linemen J.J. Bynum, Jimmie Gilbert and Fredrick Goodman. Each has flashed signs of brilliance in their containment of opposing runners, and with pass rushes, picks and fumble recoveries.

Linebacker Marshall Strain, and defensive backs Brett Mahnke and Josue Ordonez have been pretty consistent in making big plays.

Once that defense and the offense jell and erase some costly turnovers, the Consol Tigers could turn in one lethal unit, while living up to pre-season predictions, which placed them second in the district race.

The problems posed by the visiting Wildcats, coached by another first-year head coach Mike Spradlin, could come from junior QB Zach Allen, who has led the 12-5A pack in non-conference action with 40 completions on 73 attempts, producing three touchdowns. What really stands out is that he has not been intercepted. However, it should be an interesting matchup since Consol has some DBs who are pretty adept at picking off opposing passers. Junior Keith Buhl has 332 yards in receptions, while for the Wildcats, junior running back Gaylon Sanders is credited with gobbling up 378 yards of real estate enroute to scoring five touchdowns.

Should be an entertaining evening at Tigerland with Consol to observe its Homecoming. Should be an enjoyable time for exes if the Tigers can “put it all together” when it counts the most for the district opener.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

AUSTIN - For the third week in a row, the Tigers failed to produce a victory.

Without starting quarterback Jacob Bronowski, sitting out a week to nurse an injury, A&M Consolidated came out snortin’ fire and brimstone to bolt ahead 14-0 at Chaparral Stadium over the homestanding Westlake Chaps.

The Chaparrals, behind the running of super-quick Brice Dolezel and field generalship of Brandon Box, the Westlake offense roared back like a runaway train to score five unanswered touchdowns to take away the Tiger edge, sending Consol reeling to a 0-3 start in the 2011 season. The Tigers are now strapped with a 39-29 defeat.

Westlake, now 2-1 following the Friday night victory in Austin, sends Consol into Week 4 with an open date, something which Coach David Raffield’s club sorely needs to allow Bronowski to properly heal, and perhaps moreso to allow the Tigers time to re-trench in preparation for the District 12-5A opener two weeks from now at Tigerland when the Temple Wildcats come to town.

Weston Garner filled in admirably for Bronowski, guiding the Tigers to that two-touchdown lead in the opening period, but later ran into some snags including two interceptions, one of which resulted directly into a five-yard touchdown run by cornerback Noah Thompson.

To be sure, the Tigers had enough total offense (460 yards) to win, but Consol simply could not contain the runs of Dolezel and the passing of Box when the chips were down. Consol came to within three points late, but heartbreak came for the Tigers as Westlake continued to puncture the defense for key yards that registered first downs, keeping the drive alive. Westlake amassed 431 total offensive yards, but made those yards pay in points while dousing hopes of a Consolidated comeback.

The Tigers always have a defense gem to come to the forefront. Last night it was Fredrick Goodman, who proved to be the chief tormentor of Westlake. Jimmie Gilbert, Josue Ordonez, Brett Mahnke and J.J. Bynum also manifested their defensive talents.

Garner pulled the trigger on 37 occasions and completed 23, but suffered those two interceptions, which considerably slowed the Consol offensive machine, still in the throes of trying to find its comfort zone with Coach Raffield’s wide-open style of attack. The Consol team registered 20 first downs to 17 for the Chaps. Box went to the airlanes 24 times and completed 10, while also being picked twice – by Ordonez at the 5:22 mark of the second quarter and by Mahnke at the Tiger six to stave off what could have been another Chaparral TD. However, on the very next play, Thompson scored by picking Garner for the score.

About midway of the third period, Anthony Catino stripped a Consol runner of the football and scored on a short-yardage situation, adding insult to injury.

Quinton White, taking over punting duties for Bronowski, did well in this department, booting six for a 47-yard average, including a 53-yard boomer.

Consol got the scoring underway when Garner pulled his Houdini act, producing a great fake then bolting right down the gut of the Chaparral defense enroute to a 64-yard scoring run just 22 seconds deep into the game. That run came on the game’s third play from scrimmage and followed a Garner strike to Quinton White, a guy with some quick, good moves of his own. Justin Zimmerman booted the extra point.

White zipped left and scored from the Chaparral 20 at the 5:36 mark of the opening period to cap an 83-yard drive. At that juncture, it appeared the Tigers were off to the races, although it was to be short lived. Zimmerman again nailed the extra point.

Westlake began answering in a big way in the second quarter when running back Dolezel zipped 45 yards on a counter play. The extra point was blocked, leaving it 14-6

Then came Thompson’s pick, returned for a touchdown, closing the gap to 14-12. Again, Westlake experienced difficulty with the conversion when a pass fell incomplete on a two-point try.

Box connected with Lewis Guilbeau on a five-yard score, putting Westlake up 18-14, and the Chaps never trailed from that point. Another pass conversion fell incomplete, but the Chaps proved they could indeed move the football, having driven 95 yards for the score. Another pass from Box to Guilbeau, this one for 19 yards, propelled the Chaps into a 25-14 advantage. Kick was good. The eight-play drive covered 61 yards.

The stripping of the ball took place moments later, resulting in the Catino score from the Consol nine. Kick again good, and suddenly the Chaps owned a 32-14 lead.

Consol tried to chip away at the lead. Garner hit Daniel Hulse on a 45-yard bomb, moving into scoring territory, setting the stage for White’s six-yard scoring run at the 4:10 mark of the third quarter. Zimmerman booted the extra point, making it 32-21.

The Tigers scored again after getting the ball at their 10. On the first play, Durasis Nutall headed left, shook one tackler and ran 90 yards for a touchdown. Garner hit Justin Binden for the two-point conversion, closing the gap to 32-29.

But, the Tigers couldn’t contain Dolezel, who ran for a 45-yard touchdown, closing out a 75-yard drive with 3:51 left. That closed out scoring.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT 

Third time’s a charm, or so the saying goes.

The A&M Consolidated Tigers will be perfectly content if the Lone Star State’s third weekend of football proves to be the time for their propulsion into the win column.

The Tigers, who are getting some good performances on both sides of the ball, are still trying to nail down a victory as they face the Austin Westlake Chaparrals Friday night at 7:30 at Chaparral Stadium. With a 0-2 mark, the Tigers will have their hands full against a Westlake team which is 1-1, after starting the season with a 47-33 victory over Abilene Cooper before falling to state-ranked 4-A power Lake Travis, 35-7.

Westlake is the favorite to win District 15-5A this year, while Consol is a favorite to capture top honors in District 12-5A. Hopefully, the contest at Westlake will help along Consolidated to jell into a winning unit as Coach David Raffield attempts to get his new style attack of wide-open football installed at Tigerland. Once that offense jells into a unit taking up more points, the Tigers could become a lethal opponent for anyone on the schedule.

The Consolidated defense, which has turned in four great stands on fourth downs in its two outings, continues to make some great plays. That unit has been anchored with heroics from defensive linemen Jimmie Gilbert, Fredrick Goodman, tackle J.J. Bynum, linebacker Marshall Strain, and safeties Brett Mahnke and Josue Ordonez.

In their first two games, the Tigers have dropped 17-9 and 27-21 decisions to Klein Oak and Cypress Woods, respectively.

Jumping into the win column this week against the Chaps won’t be easy. Coach Darren Allman’s club has some prime talent, notably quarterback Lewis Guilbeau, running back Brice Dolezal and wide receiver Chris Irvin. The Chaparral defensive line stacks up well against Consol with key leadership coming from Brayven Hager and Anthony Patino.

Guilbeau could provide the most trouble for Consol’s defense. At QB, he is a fine leader and comes armed with some top stats from a year ago, including 1,917 yards passing (13 touchdowns), and 714 yards rushing.

STORY BY: BOB WRIGHT

CYPRESS- The A&M Consolidated Tigers dropped to 0-2 Friday night at the Berry Center in Cypress-Fairbanks, but showed vast offensive improvement over the 17-9 loss to Klein Oak a week ago. This week’s loss came at the hands of Cypress Woods of District 13-5A.

The 27-21 loss to the Wildcats was a season opener for the victors. Cy Woods blocked two Justin Zimmerman field goals, while Consol had another field goal to sail wide right as the kicking game broke down at the wrong times.

A week ago, the Tigers amassed only 200 yards in total offense, but picked up the tempo last night with 351 total yards. Both teams registered 21 first downs, but Cy Woods’ offense racked up 423 yards in total offense. Despite Consol making a couple of fourth-down stops on the Wildcats, the latter somehow found enough offensive magic to cross the end zone four times.

Defensive end Jimmie Gilbert of Consol turned in his second straight standout defensive game, intercepting two passes, returning one into the end zone on an 18-yard ramble with 8:32 to go in the third period, and the other pick came at the 8:31 mark of the third quarter. Zimmerman was perfect on all three of his extra-point kicks.

Gilbert wasn’t the only standout in a tough Consol defense. Also turner in stellar performances were Texas Tech bound tackle J.J. Bynum; end Fredrick Goodrum, junior tackle Christian LaCouture, and cornerback K.J. Dukes and linebacker David Levias.

Coach David Raffield and staff will work this coming week on eliminating mistakes, which included 11 penalties for 98 yards, and blocking in the kicking game, notably on field goal attempts.

Goodman recovered the game’s only fumble, a Wildcat miscue with 8:02 to go in the game.

Weston Garner, a junior, relieved Jacob Barnouski for much of the second half as the starting QB was held out as a precautionary measure after taking a lick from the Wildcat defense.

Barnouski found daylight right down the gut of the Wildcat defense with 5:26 left in the opening period to put Consol up 6-0. That run completed a 56-yard drive that needed just five plays. Zimmerman booted the point.

Cy Woods quarterback answered with 4:13 to go in the quarter on a seven-yard scoring pass to Gary Tesch, completing an 80-yard drive. Gustavo Rabadan kicked his first of three extra points, tying it 7-7.

Gilbert’s interception return and subsequent extra-point kick by Zimmerman put Consol up 14-7.

Gabe West zipped in from 20 yards out to tie it 14-14 after Ramadan’s kick with 2:07 left in the third period. It ended a 78-yard march.

Tailback Quinton White lofted a 35-yard scoring pass on a busted play to wide receiver Justin Benden for Consol. Zimmerman’s kick put Consol up 21-14. That was to be the Tigers’ final score.

West connected with Samuel Stewart on an 18-yard touchdown play and Ramadan’s kick deadlock it again at 21-21.

The clincher came when West slid over from the six with just 55 seconds left in the game.

After A&M Consolidated lost its season opener last Friday 17-9 to Klein Oak, the Tigers reported in Saturday with an attitude of wanting to correct mistakes, get better, put the loss behind them and make amends this Friday night on their first road trip – a 7 o’clock engagement at Cypress Woods.

A duplication of their 38-24 win over Cy Woods a year ago would suit Coach David Raffield and the Tigers, looking to evening their record.

While the defense stayed on the field way too long at Tigerland in the loss to Klein Oak, that unit made two terrific stands twice inside the five, or the loss could have been a bit uglier.

Consol, once it has mastered the wide open offensive style of new head coach Raffield, could begin to tack up considerably more points to go with a tough defense. That offense has excellent on-field leadership from senior quarterback Jacob Bronowski, who hit 20 of 36 passes for 164 yards against Klein Oak. Bronowski will take Raffield’s passing show on the road with some glue-fingered receivers, including Justin Benden, five aerials for 32 yards; Xavier Jones, half a dozen receptions for 43 and Quinton White, stopped for just 12 yards by the Klein defense, but who caught seven passes for 47 yards. Benden has those “good hands,” having been a QB for three prior seasons, but converting to wide receiver for the 2011 campaign.

Bronowski and Co. operate behind a huge, quick line, while the defense is not small by any standards. The latter group is spearheaded by junior end Jimmie Gilbert, was credited with seven tackles against Klein, while senior linebackers Marshall Strain and David Levias, and secondary safeties Josue Ordonez and Brett Mahnke both turned in strong performances. Strain and cornerback K.J. Dukes both were credited with instrumental stops on the two defensive stands inside the 5-yard line.

Simply stated, Coach Raffield was pleased with the hustle and work ethic of his club in the opener, but is seeking better offensive execution for game No. 2 this week at Cy-Woods.

By BOB WRIGHT

COLLEGE STATION – Speed proved to be the difference Friday night before virtually a full house at Tigerland in A&M Consolidated’s season opener as the Tigers dropped a 17-9 decision to the Klein Oak Panthers.

The Tigers, learning a new wide-open offense under new Coach, David Raffield, are in the process of converting to a pass offense from a run-oriented attack over the past few seasons.

Notre Dame bound quarterback Nicky Baratti, directed the Klein Oak attack, pushing over for a touchdown from the Consol six in the second quarter, then clinched the win with a one-yard run with 3:01 to go in the third quarter to close out scoring. Kwame Koffour kicked both extra points and a 34-yard field goal to get the scoring underway to put the Panthers up 3-0 in the opening period.

Later in the period, a fast-rushing D line downed Bernatti in the end zone for a safety when the ball sailed over his head back in the shotgun. At that juncture, it looked more like a baseball score than football, at 3-2.

Consol took the lead when Durasis Nutall zipped in on a 15-yard reverse, going ahead 8-3. Justin Zimmerman’s kick made it 9-3 late in the second quarter.

The Panthers tied it on Baratti’s six-yard run. Koffour’s kick put the Panthers ahead to say, although they would add another touchdown on Baratti’s one-yard zip into the end zone.

Consol was forced to punt 10 times as a speedy time and again shut down the Tiger offense on third-down situations. Consol registered 10 first downs to 12 for Klein Oak. Consol absorbed some big losses on running plays, which cut heavily into their ground total. Beratti and RB Jaylon Brown led a punishing rushing attack for the visitors, while Baratti triggered a 216-yard attack through the air.

Despite the heavy offensive numbers, the Tiger defense played tough despite having to be on the field a lot on a hot and humid night. Tackle J.J. Bynum, end Jimmie Gilbert and linebacker Marshall Strain spearheaded the battling Tiger defense.

Jacob Bronowski lofted 29 passes and completed 15 for 100 yards. Quinton White threw one pass.

Consol’s next game will be next Friday night at Cypress Woods.