FREDDY GONZALEZ | Staff Writer
Last week’s matchup between Port Isabel and Rio Hondo was the contest everyone thought it would be. A great rushing offense against a great defense, statistically one of the best in the Valley, produced a game many will remember for a while, but it was also the first of many great games to come.
In District 16-4A DII, Rio Hondo will face another challenge when the Bobcats host the 6-1 Orange Grove Bulldogs at Bobcat Stadium.
Holding the Tarpons to their lowest offensive production of the season with 267 yards, the Bobcats defense solidified its place amongst the Valley’s best, however this week’s opponent will be completely different.
Unlike Port Isabel, Orange Grove’s offensive fire power will come through the air.
With 1,843 yards passing, 17 passing touchdowns and 10 rushing touchdowns, Hondo Harris is easily the district’s leading passing quarterback.
Both teams come into the contest with identical 6-1, 2-0 records and the winner could have a clear path to the district title.
TOUGH ROAD AHEAD: With three district games remaining, the Bearkats have a difficult stretch of games in front of them.
After dismantling West Oso 42-6, Raymondville will face Progreso, Rio Hondo and Port Isabel to finish the season.
This week the Bearkats will be counting on the speedy running back Miguel Tristan, who has 913 yards on 93 carries.
Raymondville accumulated 285 rushing yards against the Bears to improve to 1-1 in district.
GOING FOR GLORY: In District 16-4A DI, the La Feria Lions will face another sturdy test in the Kingsville Brahmas this week.
The Lions host 3-4 Kingsville after starting 6-1, 2-0 this season and can possibly clinch a playoff spot and a share of the district title with a victory.
The Lions’ good start is attributed to a variety of factors.
On defense, La Feria Ozzy Cisneros has led the team with six interceptions.
On the offensive side of the ball, quarterback Isaac Galpin leads the team with 849 yards passing on 64 of 127 attempts.