sive tackle Hunter Fay , cornerback / wide receiver Jhett Jones , offensive lineman Trace Rodgers , running back Brett Tutter and defensive end Cam Harris .

The Eagles look to enter this season with an approach of one game at a time .

“ We are smart about it , and our kids are smart about it , too ,” Mathis said . “ They understand it is one week at a time , one day at a time . We have a good group . We believe in taking care of the small things , and the big things will take care of themselves .”

Brock ’ s non-district schedule is stacked , with the Eagles set to face Pleasant Grove ( the No . 5 4A team in the state ), Wichita Falls Hirschi ( the No . 3 4A team in state ), Wimberley ( the No . 7 4A team in state ) and Gunner , ranked No . 1 in 3A .

“ We are playing a gauntlet , but you

have to be able to do that . If you want to be the best , you have to beat the best ,” Mathis said . “ We have to get prepared , and that is the schedule that we put together . Is it tough ? Absolutely , but that is how much confidence that I have in our guys and I don ’ t care who you put in front of us . You could put the Dallas Cowboys in front of us and I think we would have a great chance to win .”

Those early tests will help in exposing any weaknesses to ensure the Eagles are 100 % prepared heading into district play .

“ So that when we get into district we are ready , we are hitting on all cylinders , we have no weaknesses ,” the head coach said . “ I expect us to go out and win a district championship as well as to go out and win the state championship . That is the standard and that is what we like around here .” ★

2022 FOOTBALL PREVIEW 19