Port Neches-Groves head coach Brandon Faircloth has to feel good about the upcoming 2019 season. The Indians return 22 lettermen from last years squad that went three rounds deep in the 5A Division 2 playoffs.
Having lost generational talent QB Roshon Johnson to graduation, the Indians will look at five star senior OL Jaylen Garth (6-5, 290) to lead a new offense with a question mark at quarterback.
"You can't replace a Roshon Johnson," said Faircloth, entering his 11th year at PN-G.
"We have an incoming junior with Blake Bost who was Roshon's backup last year. He's got some varsity experience, has a great work ethic and is a great leader. We're excited about what Blake is going to bring our team."
Fortifying Bost will be an offensive line that shapes up to be the best in the district. Along with Garth comes a bright light in sophomore Dalton Dickerson (6-2, 260). Many expect Dalton to develop into an FBS prospect that will only help the Indians on offense for years to come.
"We have a great senior class," said Faircloth.
"It starts with Jaylon on the offensive line and Trey Lisauckis, two great leaders and we also have Zane Hernandez who can play multiple positions for us, he's a very versatile kid."
As it seems like with every year the district crown in 2019 will be a two horse race with PN-G and Nederland but the district has a competitiveness that trickles all the way down to Vidor (2018 season;4-6; 1-6).
"The thing that our district has is great head coaches," said Faircloth.
"Great X's and O's guys and another thing our district has is great players. We always have great talent in this district and the district always has great players coming back. If you're not your best every Friday night you will lose. There are no weeks off."
Friday, November 8 is circled on everyones calendar as that is the date PN-G will host Nederland in the annual "Bum Phillips Bowl" and the winner taking the district championship.
Separated by only four miles the two schools have a unique rivalry passed down from generations.
"Its the number one rivalry in the state of Texas," said Faircloth.
"These kids grow up together, they go to church together, they play on little league baseball teams together. Everybody knows everyone, that's why it's such a special rivalry."