The Maud football program is seeking to remain one of the top teams in its district. The Cardinals have been one of the top teams in their district for several seasons in a row, combining for an 11-1 district record and one district title the past two seasons.

Team Goals

Head coach Josh Turner said the team’s goals are to win the district and win a playoff game. Maud won its district two seasons ago but came up short in the first round of the playoffs. Last season, Maud only lost to Cumby in district play but also lost in the first round.

Maud is 24-3 in district play over the past five seasons. With some prolific talent coming back, they believe they can advance past bi-districts this season. The Cardinals return a dynamic athlete at the quarterback position in Ryker Bailey, who took on a heavy load of the offense last season en route to being named Co-MVP of the district.

Offense and Defense

The Cardinals’ offense will focus on the ground attack, but they will not be afraid to air it out. Huntley Ott ran for 582 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Ty Aldridge will serve as a problem for opposing defenses, and Rex Foster will anchor the line once again this season.

On defense, the Cardinals will be in an ‘attacking’ 4-3 defense. Players like Ott and Noah Howerton at linebacker will lead the way. Bailey also stepped up as a defensive back, recording 60 tackles.

DCTF projects the Cardinals to win the District 10-2A Division II title this season. The head coach hopes a strong offseason will pay dividends during the season, which begins Aug. 28 at home against Rivercrest.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.