Couch.Coach

Looking at the road to state ahead for Memorial......I only see Aledo & Smithson Valley. Not to downplay other teams, but these two are a definite for anyone headed to Arlington in 5A-D1.

Both

They slipped from first in district to fourth, by a few plays. Thomas saved them in several games. I agree they have good players right now. He just needs to figure out how to get the best players on the field, at all positions.

Thanks for bringing the numbers up. In several cases the enrollment doesn't reflect the athletic participation. Even though Nederland is around 1400 kids, i would bet they have more kids in their high school program than Memorial. No one ever talks about the amazing job PA has been able to do. They are around 1700 students also, but over half of their enrollment in hispanic, with absolutely no interest in American football. For many, english is their second language. So while Memorial plays in 5A-D1, their program has the involvement of a Silsbee..........and they still handle business. Maybe Nederland doesn't have as many students enrolled, but they definitely compete in program size & participation....for now. I disagree Rich is a good coach. Maybe a good assistant. But as your first head coaching job, this one might not be the one. Maybe a smaller school, with less visibility and a weaker district. I think he's a good guy, just in over his head. He should have started at an Evadale, not the #1 high school rivalry in the nation.

First, if you don't have a quarterback that can throw...run an offense that caters to his talents. Option, Wing T, whatever.....figure it out by properly evaluating the talent you have on hand. Put the fullback back in the game. Stoker did a good job last year at FB lead blocking for Thomas, and picking up tough yards on dive plays. Rich moved him to TE, barely touched the ball this year. Just one of many bad decisions. Second, if your offense keeps the defense on the field all night, there should be more than the first team touching the field. Keep fresh kids rotating on the field without lowering the intensity/ability. First team is tired. I have more info, but I will end with, "The Standard, Is The Standard". If Rich is going to have expectations for participation, it should be across the board. Depending on the player/parent/donor.......some are held to different standards.

They did have a good year last year. That was the previous coach's efforts. This year is Rich. Ignorance of athletics....far from it. They aren't outmanned, just out coached. 4 year window? Stop it. Are you serious? They way kids are leaving the program, there won't be one in 4 years.

What's going on with Nederland? I thought their new coach was going to do something. I was wrong.