Early Longhorns seek their first District 5-3A Division II victory following a narrow 26-25 loss to Clifton. Under first-year coach Randall Case, the team stands at 1-6 and faces the Brady Bulldogs, who boast a strong 6-1 record, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. on Friday. While Early's offense shows promise, highlighted by Cameron Love's impressive rushing performance, turning over the ball has been a key issue. Brady's defense, led by top performers like Johnny Menefield, presents a significant challenge, requiring the Longhorns to tighten up on both sides of the ball for a chance at a win.

By the Numbers
  • Brady has scored an average of 34 points per game this season and is on a five-game winning streak.
  • Early averages 21 points per game but has turned the ball over 13 times so far this season.
Yes, But

Despite the Longhorns' struggles, their recent performance against Clifton displayed their potential, suggesting they are improving, although they need to address turnover issues to succeed against stronger opponents like Brady.

State of Play
  • Early has only three games left to secure a playoff position, needing to win the upcoming match against Brady.
  • Brady is currently leading the district, with top talents on offense and a robust defensive line.
What's Next

The outcome of Friday's game against Brady will be crucial for Early's playoff ambitions; a win could shift momentum and bolster confidence heading into the remainder of the season.

Bottom Line

For Early to turn their season around, they must prioritize ball security and capitalize on scoring opportunities, especially against formidable opponents like Brady who exploit weaknesses effectively.