Gridiron Guide 07- Region 4 Analysis

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    Smithson Valley and Converse Judson have largely dominated Region 4 affairs this decade, but that could be changing sooner rather than later if last year is any indication.  Westlake could also be included with those two, but the fact they’ve bounced between Regions 2 and 4 hurts their cause when compared to the Rangers and Rockets. As the rankings indicate, these three are far from done but the rest of the pack may finally be catching up.

    Reagan handed Smithson Valley its only district loss last season, and return what could be San Antonio’s best player in senior RB Marcus Wright.  The Rattlers will have to build on the momentum they generated in the post-season last year if they are to contend again.  Smithson Valley will be very strong on offense if the new QB settles in well, and a definite threat in the Region 4, Division 2 bracket.

    Westlake must replace valuable senior leadership, but they will still be a force thanks to returning experience like K-FS Justin Tucker and senior WR Jordan Etier as well as promising young players such as junior RB Ryan Swope.  Westlake will be out to avenge their loss to Austin High (#5) in front of the home crowd it what will be a key district and region encounter.

    Madison is still attempting to shake the Region 4 monkey they’ve had firmly planted on their shoulders this decade.  However, this group of Mavericks could take them over the top if Devin Thomas can stay healthy, and the defense plays well enough to keep sending an potent offense back onto the field. 

    O’Connor could be the real darkhorse of the region with the talent they’ve got back.  Senior QB Bruno Reno and DL Erik Salinas lead what should be a strong Panthers team.  O’Connor lost in a shootout against Reagan in the area round last year.  They are the 28-5A favorite.

    Reagan and Smithson Valley are projected to battle it out for district, and the top spot in San Antonio overall.  However, the gap between those two and the rest of the top ten isn’t so great that no one else has a shot.  Region 4 could be very entertaining this year with programs like Reagan, O’Connor and Austin High stepping up in recent seasons.