Players Matchup to watch
MLB Eryk Martinez QB Brayden Payne WR Malachi Berry CB Max Mata
to watch
Oct. 31 at Cleburne
J. D. Smith and Gavin McManus.“ He’ s got the athleticism and speed of a running back with a defensive mentality,” said DeArman about McManus.
In the nose tackle spot, Mikey Duran wants to replicate much of 2024’ s success, as Joshua was ranked first in many statistical categories. Calling themselves a“ steel defense,” Duran is ready to take on double teams and be the gap filler once again.
“ They’ re not running it up the middle on me this year,” proclaimed Duran. At the second level, the voice of the defense is Martinez. Calling himself the defensive quarterback who loves hitting dudes, Martinez eyes All-State honors this season while executing the group’ s identity of being physical and pursuing the ball.
The Owls secondary features the most change entering 2025. At cornerback, Dre Wilson returns with his high football IQ and understanding of
the scheme. Wilson is joined by Jaydin Lottie and freshman Max Mata.
Max is the brother of Sergio Mata, who moves to the safety position along with Kade Boone.
With the same schedule as 2024, the Owls get another chance to redeem themselves against many District 7-5A opponents.
After winning four of their five non-district games, Joshua’ s only win in the final two months came against Cleburne.
As much as they’ d love to make up for the mistakes made in Red Oak or Centennial games, Martinez and Duran are set on coming out with a win over their rival and controlling the Johnson County territory once again.“ It’ s different,” said Martinez on what makes the matchup so special.“ Trash talking is definitely there.”
The Owls dominated the Yellow Jackets 31-8 in the 2024 meeting.
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