Former University of Texas quarterback Todd Ford is in his third year as the Head Football Coach at Lucas Lovejoy. The Wildcats face the Leopards Friday (September 7) night at Prim Stadium in a rematch of a bi-district game played last November. Lovejoy opened the season last Saturday (September 1) with a 42-26 win over Frisco Heritage at the Tom Landry Classic in Allen.
Coach Ford said he is excited about his kids this year. He called his team a blend of experience and younger players. He noted that the Leopards will be meeting the Wildcats Friday for the second time in their last four games. Coach Ford said Wildcats Coach Greg Owens does a super job and he added that the Leopards will have to play well to win Friday.
The Leopards are led by quarterback Carson Collins, a three year starter. Big running back Jahi Rainey has worked hard in the off season according to Coach Ford. Rainey gained 281 yards on 25 carries last week. He also gained 197 gained against the Wildcats last November. The Leopards also return two solid receivers, Beau Iovinelli and Jake Terwilliger.
On defense, Coach Owens was impressed with the Leopards front four, which includes two big defensive tackles, Logan Sigmon and Tyler Beidleman, and two active defensive ends, Matthew Jonke and Nathaniel Finch. Coach Ford said his three linebackers, Cole Christensen in the middle and Hunter Broughton and Austin King outside, work well together. Coach Ford said Lovejoy is having to replace one of the most productive players in the Metroplex. Bumper Pool is now playing his football at the University of Arkansas. Coach Ford said you can’t replace Pool, actually. He said he is asking several players to work together to get the production that Pool provided.
Like the Wildcats, Lovejoy will also begin district play next week. Coach Ford expects the Leopards to be in the mix for the district championship along with teams like Lake Dallas, Frisco Reedy and Denison.
