Vitals:

    The Mesquite Skeeters enter 2007 as one of the most experienced teams in the state returning 53 lettermen from last year's 7-5 squad that won games at Plano East, at Abilene, and at Dallas Carter.  The common thread between those wins was a healthy Kelly Page.  Page is one of the top QB's in the state, but he's fallen victim to major injuries each of the past two years.  With Page healthy, Mesquite can play with anyone.  A healthy Kelly Page combined with a roster full of talent and experience points to a big year for the Skeeters.

    Aside from Page returning, the Skeeters will also enjoy the luxury of returning Jr. QB Luke Halpin and DB/RB/QB Jeremy Hernandez.  While Page was out, both Halpin and Hernandez proved they could hold their own at QB.  Halpin passed for over 1,300 yards and 14 TD's, while Hernandez rushed for over 400 yards from the QB position.  Whoever lines up behind center will certainly look to WR Adrian Richards as the go-to target.  Last season, Richards hauled in 49 passes for 665 yards and 9 TD's and he should top those numbers quite easily this fall.  Another potential weapon for the Skeeters' offense is TE/DE David (D.J.) Marshall who transferred in from Lancaster.  Marshall is 6'4 230 of pure athleticism and could be a deadly option in the passing game.  The only glaring weakness for Mesquite's offense is having to replace a majority of their offensive line.

    Defensively, Mesquite should be in great shape.  Last year's unit gave up 20 ppg, but their 59-42 second round track meet with Allen skewed that stat a bit.  The aforementioned Jeremy Hernandez returns as one of the top DB's in the Metroplex.  Also returning for the Skeeter D are three very talented LB's.  Both Marquis Wadley and Terrance Baker were named to the All-District squad and Jr. Robert Lewis is capable of making the list this fall.  D.J. Marshall tallied 52 tackles for loss for Lancaster last year and adds a disruptive force to the Mesquite defensive line.

    There's no question that Mesquite has talent and coaching on par with just about anyone, but the main thing that could hold them back is if Kelly Page can't stay healthy.  With him in the lineup, they can utilize Halpin and Hernandez in other positions giving them that many more weapons in their arsenal.  Mesquite's schedule is as tough as any you'll find, but they'll be more than ready for playoff competition when the time comes.  If all goes well, a trip to the state semifinals and beyond is not out of the question.

The Bottom Line:

2007 Schedule

Strengths:

Weaknesses:

Forecast:

Overall Experience, Outstanding QB(s), Depth

Injury-prone star, Young OL

Should contend for district; If healthy, could win Region 2

Top Players: