Gridiron Guide 07- Region 2 Analysis

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    This is usually the most balanced region of the four.  Last year's playoff results definitely proved that.  Allen emerged from the Division 1, Region 2 bracket and Garland from Division 2.  Both teams had to fight out close games to get to that point.  There doesn't appear to be a clear favorite or favorites this year, so it looks like we'll see another entertaining race for the state semi-finals out of Region 2.  The other regions have 2 or 3 districts they'd probably like to disown, but Region 2 only has one below average district so that definitely lends to the balance we see from these programs every year.  These are the most competitive district races and regional playoff races in the state.

    Allen enters 2007 as the main favorite from Region 2.  The Eagles return quite a bit of talent on offense, particularly at receiver where they enjoy one of the state's best overall units.  Stephen Payne takes over full-time at QB after spot duty in 06.  Lufkin left the playoffs in shocking fashion a year ago, but this program still has a ton of talent.  Junior DL Jamarcus McFarland alone is worth the price of admission to Lufkin games.  East Texas rivals Longview also look strong and could emerge as a legit contender in Region 2 later in the season.

    Mesquite is a very intriguing team because of the return of Kelly Page from injury.  Mesquite looked like one of the top teams in DFW with Page healthy last year, and would still  show well in the end without him anyway.  If the Skeeters stay healthy, they could make some definite noise here.

    Garland, Leander and Klein Forest will all have very good defenses and will be tough to handle as usual once the playoffs roll around.  If Rockwall finds a running back, they could also be poised for another good season because they return quite a few players at the other positions.

    Allen and Westfield both project in Division 1.  According to our pre-season rankings, Lufkin and Longview project as the Division 2 favorites.  One thing that is certain is this region will be extremely competitive and there likely won't be much at all separating the top teams when the dust settles like last season.