KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
RIO HONDO — The Rio Hondo Bobcats will begin their 2018 season with a stiff road test at 7 tonight at La Joya Juarez-Lincoln tonight.
Last season, the Bobcats looked shaky during the opening minutes by giving up a kickoff returned for a touchdown, but this year Rio Hondo is eager to get a little payback against a tough 6A squad.
“We came out of our scrimmages healthy, and that is always a plus,” Rio Hondo coach Rocky James said. “I’m happy on where we are sitting right now as we’re getting ready to play the Huskies.”
Rio Hondo’s defense will have its work cut out for it as running back Albert Martinez looks to lead the Huskies’ rushing attack. Last year, Martinez rushed for 1,375 yards and eight touchdowns.
The Bobcats will counter with senior back Danny Vasquez who is slated to have a strong year. Jesus Garay and Adrian Torres also will get some touches against a strong defensive front.
“The Huskies are a running team, and for our defense it is simple, we need to stop the run,” James said. “We want to put them in a position that they’re not used to, and it will be a test for our defense.”
Senior Josiah Ortega will make his regular-season debut under center. Ortega had a strong offseason and preseason that has Rio Hondo buzzing.
“Josiah has started for me since he was a sophomore, he started out at safety, but made the move to quarterback and he has done an excellent job on leading the guys,” James said. “He has always been a leader; he leads by example.”
One of Ortega’s weapons will be senior wideout Cross Gonzalez. The speedy wideout had high praise for his QB and is eager to hit the field with a new field general.
“Josiah has done a great job,” Gonzalez said. “Over the offseason we worked on our routes and timing, and we all have confidence in him to get the job done. It’s Week 1 of the season and we’re all ready, we want to start the year off right with a win, and anytime you can do that against a 6A school, that is a plus.”