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Consistency is an art that all programs strive for, but few are able to master. Smithson Valley is one of the modern standards. The lack of a state championship win hurts Smithson Valley’s argument in the dynasty debate, but there’s absolutely no denying what this program has accomplished in the last decade. Last year, the Rangers captured their fourth Region 4 crown in seven 5A seasons. Smithson Valley has five region championships this decade including their last 4A season in 2001. Only Katy and Southlake Carroll have won more in that time span.

Smithson Valley found itself in an odd position last year after the 2006 and 2007 seasons ended short of the state semis. The Rangers were inexperienced across the board. They responded with a 9-1 regular season with the only loss coming against district rival Reagan (10-7). The Rangers avenged that loss in the state quarterfinals and beat Reagan (19-14). Smithson Valley finished 13-2 overall after losing to eventual state champions Katy in the state semis. However, the success indicates Smithson Valley’s run of region dominance is not finished.

The Rangers return six starters and 28 lettermen overall this season. Key production must be replaced, most notably at quarterback, but Smithson Valley is certainly in better shape experience wise than they were at this time a year ago.

The offense will groom a new starting quarterback, but there are experienced skill players to help speed up the process. Junior all-purpose talent Matt Hilston (5’10 170 4.5) made a big contribution as the lone sophomore on the roster in 2008. He is gifted as both a runner and receiver, and the offense is designed feature that ability in multiple ways. Senior receiver Garrett Renken (5’8 145) is another downfield threat in the Ranger arsenal. Renken averaged 12.5 yards per catch as a junior.

Senior running back Robbie Mecke (5’11 190) emerged last year when starter Trey Reinhart was injured. Mecke will have a bigger workload this season. Mecke’s the traditional power back Smithson Valley’s had in previous seasons.

Senior OT Ryan Martin (6’2 225) is the most experience offensive lineman. Martin earned honorable mention All-District honors as a junior. Senior tight end Ryan Unruh (6’2 195) also returns. Unruh handles kicking and punting duties as well.

Three starters and two others who played significantly return from a defense that allowed just 14.4 points per game. Senior cornerback Zach Craig (6’2 180 4.5) earned second team All-Distrct honors after recording 83 tackles and four interceptions.

Senior linebackers Alex Rubin (5’10 190 4.6) and Luke Hyde (6’0 190 4.6) were key contributors last season. Rubin piled up 107 tackles. The Ramgers also return experience on the defensive line. Senior defensive ends Blake Sylvester (5’9 205) and Matt Bienek (6’0 185) combined for 96 tackles and five sacks last year.

Smithson Valley has the ability to contend in the district and region again this year if they build successfully around the returning experience. The Rangers return more experienced players than normal to start this season. Smithson Valley’s starting line ups are usually dominated by seniors so they tend to start seasons largely inexperienced overall. As usual, Smithson Valley must contend with tough teams like Madison and Roosevelt in district play in order to prepare for another playoff run. No one should be surprised if Smithson Valley flirts with another region championship. They main keys will be finding a productive quarterback and building depth around the returning experience already in place.