36. Allen (Texas)Last season’s record: 10-1, lost in first round of Class 5A/I playoffs
Coach: Tom Westerberg
Key players: QB Matt Brown (6-0, 175, Jr.), WR Uzoma Nwachukwu (6-0, 180, Sr.), DB Steven Terrell (5-10, 175, Sr.), DT Nate Bonsu (6-2, 250, Sr.), RB Jeremiah Williams (5-11, 185, Sr.), OT Cody Milam (6-4, 315, Sr.), OT Justin Esparza (6-5, 295, Sr.), LB Matt McBride (5-11, 220, Sr.), LB Jason Butler (6-0, 200, Sr.), LB Cheyenne Urban (5-11, 215, Jr.), OT Luke Burleson (6-5, 260, Jr.)
Biggest strength: Returning skill players, linebackers, depth
Question mark: Defense must improve
Outlook: The Eagles have as much returning talent as any team in Texas. There are 12 starters back, including eight who were all-district selections. The senior and junior classes boast at least 12 Division I prospects. Allen had no trouble scoring in '07, averaging 40 points per game. The problem was the Eagles’ defense gave up 27 per contest. Texas A&M-bound cornerback Terrell is one of seven returning regulars on a unit that should be greatly improved. Bonsu was all-district at tackle, plus all three starting linebackers return led by last year’s district sophomore defensive player of the year Urban. The offense should still put up big numbers with Brown steering the ship. As a sophomore, he passed for 2,420 yards and 30 touchdowns. He also ran for 928 yards and 10 touchdowns. Nwachukwu, another Texas A&M commit, runs great routes and is a big-time talent. The offensive line has great size and is led by all-district honoree Milam and Esparza.
Toughest games: Aug. 30 vs. Longview, Sept. 20 vs. Euless Trinity, Oct. 17 at Plano
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