Decatur at Argyle: Decatur has quietly emerged as a powerhouse in Region I, and now they’ll get a chance to test themselves against a legitimate state title contender in Argyle. The Eagles lose a lot of skill talent and will rely on their defense, led by all-state candidates LB Landry Phipps and FS Jackson Carroll, to carry the load. New QB Landon Howell showed promise in a backup role a year ago and now is poised to take the reins of the DHS spread offense. Argyle’s got weapons all over the place with the return of RB Tito Byce, who battled injuries most of last year, and WR Cole Kirkpatrick, who hauled in 25 touchdown passes in 2019. The AHS offensive line is shaping up to the best in the state with multiple FBS prospects pairing with another FBS prospect in TE Jasper Lott. Argyle’s front seven on defense leads the way; they’ll need to pressure the QB early on while their young secondary adapts to varsity football. The ability for Argyle’s defensive front to control the game will be a big edge in this game, and I expect Argyle’s offensive line to dominate Decatur’s defensive front. Stepp’s Pick: Argyle by 14
Brownwood at Lampasas: A young, but talented Brownwood squad fresh off an 11-2 season travels south to Lampasas where they could be walking into an absolute hornet’s nest as the Badgers have their eyes on a state championship in 2020 after a run to the state semifinals in 2019. The Lions will be led by sophomore QB Chance Jones, who has plenty of talent, but is making his varsity start on Friday night. Two-way playmakers WR/DB Khyren Deal and RB/DB Royshad Henderson will be key to provide veteran leadership as Brownwood expects to play as many as 15 sophomores. Lampasas has a few holes to fill on defense, but the offense is going to be flat out dynamic led by QB Ace Whitehead. The Texas baseball commit accounted for nearly 5,000 yards of offense last year and an incredible 75 total touchdowns as a junior. He’s flat out undefendable at times. Add in an experienced offensive line, New Mexico commit WR Michael Murray and RB Jack Jerome, and the Badgers will score points in bunches. This is a brutal opener for a Brownwood squad that has a lot of potential, but the Badgers in Week 1 will have their way with the Lions. Stepp’s Pick: Lampasas by 17