Becks Prime Team of the Month: New vibe at Goose Creek Memorial delivers win

There was something new in the air on the east side of Houston last Thursday.

More hype, more juice, more electricity is how the kids would describe it these days.

It was game one of the Shannon Carter-era at Goose Creek Memorial and the Patriots delivered 72-7 over Sam Rayburn.

"Even before the game in the locker room, you could feel it," Carter said. "The music was playing and the kids were hyped. Usually we have a cool-down period, but I just told the coaches to let the music playing. They took the energy out of the field."

Football is different now, especially for a team trying to build a new culture. Coaches don't just coach, they have to market their program.

"We've been intentional with it," Carter said. "We've been pouring our messaging into the school and they are supporting us. From 'Speak Victory' to 'Made Up Minds' – it's resonating. I think the kids feel different. They have a new lease on life as a football team."

Athlete Emerson Haywood went off on the field. He rushed for a score, caught a touchdown and threw for a pair of touchdowns to get things going.

"The game is just slowing down for him," Carter said. "He just got us going and you can tell he's a senior.

"Our offensive line is bigger and stronger, and our defensive line was our Defensive MVP. Our young guys did a great job in their first time under the lights."

Next up is South Houston and the Trojans have some weapons.

"You want them to enjoy the win," he said. "It's hard to win football games. We have to correct some things, especially the penalties. Next week, our margin for error will be a lot thinner."