By MARIO AGUIRRE | STAFF WRITER
With two weeks of practice and a scrimmage in the books, Valley View is gaining a clearer understanding of who may contribute this season.
At quarterback, Joseph Alvarez has impressed operating a high up-tempo, spread offense, different from the ground-and-pound game the Tigers ran last season. Valley View performed it with such efficiency during a scrimmage against Lyford last week that first-year coach Carlos Saenz noticed the opposing team calling “several timeouts because of our upbeat pace.”
Alvarez eluded tackles all night, thanks in part to an offensive line that entered the season as a question mark, but has since been viewed as a bright spot with Saenz working with that unit.
Carlos Batiz, a 6-foot, 205-pound middle linebacker, also entered two-a-days with some doubt, as he made the transition from defensive end. But he helped contain a formidable offense in Lyford to just one touchdown in the controlled portion of their scrimmage, and another in live action.
“We didn’t know how well he was going to adjust (entering the year),” Saenz said. “But he’s solidified the inside, and there’s a presence there now.”
While he isn’t lighting fast, Saenz said Batiz is getting quicker in making reads, likening him to former Baylor and Chicago Bears linebacker Mike Singletary.
“I know that’s a big comparison, but he’s getting the job done,” Saenz said. “He’s not a blazer. He’s not going to run a 4.5 or 4.6. But when he gets there, he’ll pack a big punch.”
He’s one of two middle linebackers who’ve proved their versatility, with Robert Serna playing backup quarterback and running back. At 5-foot-11, 190 pounds, Serna was used in a short yardage package, and it resulted in a ground score during their scrimmage.
BRIGHT SPOTS
In splitting their scrimmage against Grulla (3-0 win) and Laredo LBJ (3-2 loss) last week, Roma coach Max Habecker Jr. came away pleased with both sides of the ball.
The offensive line has done its part to protect Ramon Espinoza, as he assumes a larger role at running back this year. The junior ran for 189 yards and three touchdowns last week.
On defense, Alexis Escoto, a strong safety, and corner Juan Garcia came away with interceptions, while J.J. Peña, also a corner, broke up two passes.
“Obviously we have a long way to go, but I think we’ve gotten off to a good start,” Habecker said. “We just can’t have any letdowns or take any steps back. As long as we stay hungry, everything’ll take care of itself.”
SHOWING GROWTH
Following a couple days practicing in pads, Edinburg Vela coach Michael Salinas said he’s “happy with the progression” the defense has made.
Last year, the SaberCats allowed the second-most yards in district at 323 per game. But with five defensive returners back, Salinas is encouraged it could improve.
John Treviño, a linebacker, has emerged as one of the leaders, entering his fourth year starting. Free safety Eric Morales, mainly a reserve last year, is enjoying an enhanced role during two-a-days, with Salinas calling him “a bright spot” in the secondary. And Stephen Ramos, a defensive tackle, also figures to play a key role as a senior.