Decatur football is on track to be one of the best teams in the state, if not the country, soon. With the team's ability to focus, train, and succeed, there's no question as to how they ended up near the top of the VYPE DFW 1A-4A Preseason Football Rankings. VYPE DFW takes a look at the team and what fans can expect this fall:
REWIND
Last season, the Decatur Eagles opened their schedule with a tough three losses against Anna, Wichita Falls Rider, and Stephenville. After the initial losses, the Eagles refocused and faced the rest of their non-district opponents with dominance. Defeating Pampa (42-13), Alvarado (59-29), and Wichita Falls Hirschi (35-19), the team was able to trot into district play with a 3-3 record and an intention to get the job done.
With a fast-paced style of play, Decatur finished at the top of their district standings remaining undefeated against district opponents like Burkburnett (55-21), Wichita Falls (31-27 in overtime play), Springtown (47-6), and Mineral Wells (28-7). With a fantastic entry into playoffs, the team defeated Pampa (55-0), Andrews (42-15), Amarillo Randall (41-0), and Wichita Falls (35-21) before eventually falling to China Spring in a hard-fought 33-27 battle.
LOOKING AHEAD
Fans can expect big plays from the likes of Nate Palmer, Landon Felts, Cade Braziel, Abram Graham, Cole Mihecoby, Rhion Jimenez, Lane Hesteande, and more as Decatur enters the 2023-24 season. Looking to secure another playoff spot will start from the beginning-- as soon as the Eagles leave the tunnel in their first non-district game against Anna on Friday, August 25th.
The team can be expected to play strong against their non-district opponents after learning from last season. Taking account for every moment on and off the field, the Eagles are able to focus on the plays as they come while keeping their goals in mind. District play begins on the road against Burkburnett on October 6th where the fans will watch the team attempt to take control of their district for a second season in a row.