Stepp's 5A DI Region III Picks: District Projections and Playoff Outlook
Lufkin didn’t originally get aligned into 9-5A D1 last February, but after an appeal the Panthers got placed into this loop and promptly took home the district crown. They’ve got a new head coach from district rival Barbers Hill, they’ve got depth at the skill spots, but playoff success will depend heavily on their play up front. Port Arthur Memorial is loaded with talent and three-year starters and they’ve been good, but unable to take the next step as a true regional threat, is this the year? A lot will come down to a young defensive line and how they address the QB situation. Barbers Hill has a new coach and some exciting talent returning, but the Eagles will be young across the board. The battle for fourth between a much-improved West Brook bunch and Galveston Ball who has a new coach, will be one to watch.