Thursday, September 21 at 7:00 p.m.
Freedom Field
District 23-6A Opener
This is the District 23-6A opener for both teams. Pearland enters the game with a 2-1 record while Shadow Creek is the No. 4 area-ranked team with a 3-0 mark.
Last season, Pearland led for most of the game until sophomore quarterback Jacorey Watson got loose on a 59-yard scoring run with 4:58 remaining in the game to pull out a 24-20 district win.
Watson has been instrumental in Shadow Creek’s 3-0 mark this season — especially two weeks ago when the Sharks rallied from a 17-6 deficit against Bridgeland to win 41-24.
Who to watch for Pearland
The Oilers got stronger in the off season on the offensive and defensive lines. Pearland has proven they have the skill players to compete against any team.
Leading the way is senior QB Cole Morkovsky who has really stepped up to become the field general for the Oilers.
“Cole is a great leader, super smart, throws the ball well and is a good game manager,” Gotte said. “I believe he is quite capable to getting the job done which is what we need at this time. He is at a key position in our offense.”
Gotte also listed WR Luke Allen and OL Elijah Cavitt as two others who have made an impact and impression on the coaching staff for their effort to improve at their respective positions.
RB LaDamion McDowell (5-8, 160, 4.5) was named 23-6A Offensive Newcomer of the Year. McDowell led the Oilers rushing last year and he is the scoring leader for Pearland this year. WR Patrick Bridges (6-2, 185, 4.6) is also making an impact this season along with WR Jordan “The Jet” Hernandez.
Others include OL JJ Wheeler (6-4, 240, 4.9); WR Quinton Murray (6-1, 175, 4/7); OL Toby Argo; OL Henry Dines; WR/DB Evan Gracia, and WR Luca Sanchez.
Leading the defense will be Texas Tech commit DB Ashton Hampton (6-1, 170, 4.5), DL Jaden Wincher, DL Jaylen Stewart (6-3- 205, 4.8), CB Lazarus Range, and DL Amari Wilks.
The Oilers will also have a talented kicker in Jackson Stagg who was an All-District second-team selection. Stagg is an outstanding offensive weapon to have for field goals and extra points which can make the difference in a win or loss.
Who to watch for Shadow Creek
The Sharks have a potent offensive attack that will be led by junior QB Jacorey Watson (6-0, 175, 4.5). Watson is a “gifted athlete” who becomes a multiple threat any time he has the ball in his hands.
Watson will be complimented by RB Tylik Burton (5-9, 170, 4.5) who can explode for a long gain or touchdown from anywhere on the field.
Others who will contribute on the offensive side of the ball is WR Ashton Jones (6-3, 175, 4.5), athlete Christian Seriale (5-9, 170, 4.5), WR Chris Stewart (5-10, 165, 4.6), RB Justin Qualls, OL Calvin Peete, OL Andre McDaniel, and OL Chase Murray.
The Sharks also have a talented kicker in junior Aiden Bui (5-9, 160, 4.8) who was a unanimous first-team All-District pick. Bui gives the Sharks that extra offensive punch in a tight game that can make the difference in a win or loss.
The real season begins with district play and this opening game for both teams could have an impact on the eventual league championship. Each team has key players who can break the game wide open. Mistakes and turn overs can also impact the outcome of the game.
