BURLESON ELKS |
In nearly every game from 2025, the Elks recalled one play that determined the result. In the program’ s second consecutive 4-6 season, five plays placed Burleson seventh instead of one of the top three teams in the district. In Dave Campbell Texas Football’ s 2026 preview, they called it a“ could have been year” for the Elks. But the phrase doesn’ t sit well with the team.
“ Football is football at the end of the day,” said linebacker Lawson Blanchard.“ We had a great team. I just think we couldn’ t respond to a lot of the things that happened.”
Injuries, strength of schedule and self-inflicted wounds were some of the takeaways that impacted a promising season for the program. Instead of feeling frustrated by missed opportunities, the Elks are motivated to right wrongs.
“ I think if it’ s frustration, then that’ s the wrong type of player or coach we want on staff,” said head coach Phillip Tanner.
Blanchard and quarterback
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Andrew Sparks have played on varsity since their freshman year and have one more opportunity to bring a winning season to Burleson for the first time in five years.
A hunger from the pair to lead their groups and bring postseason success to Burleson was apparent, as their goal for 2026 is to bring home gold balls.
“ As soon as the clock went out on the last game, more gold balls is what we need,” said Sparks.
Blanchard assured that Burleson will win playoff games this year, saying,“ We see people talking, and we stay quiet for a reason. So expect to see Burleson on top.”
After realignment, the odds are in favor of the Elks, who see a combination of former foes and new competition. District 7-5A features eight teams, including Midlothian Heritage, Mansfield Timberview, Arlington Seguin and Joshua.
Although there is excitement for district play, the Elks are ready to go regardless of who they face.“ It’ s about us,” said Tanner.“ If we go out and do what we’ re supposed to do, it doesn’ t matter who’ s lined up across from us.”
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foundation for the Elks. The rest of the line features juniors Conner Barnes( RG) and Paxton White( LT), who offer plenty of size and looked promising during the squad’ s scrimmages last month.
A lot of confidence was built from Burleson’ s scrimmages and showed what the offense can offer,
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Offense
A large graduating class impacted both sides of the ball, but 3-year starters at quarterback with Sparks and center with Bryce Beach are a great
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