Who are the best HS football players you have seen?

[Aggie]

1. Rodney Thomas- Groveton
2. Vince Young- Madison
3. Cliff Groce- A&M Consolidated
4. Jerrod Douglas- Converse Judson
5. Marcus Stiggers- Lake Highlands

[singularity]

1. Vince Young
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[Butch Fifield]

Marcus Stiggers still gives me nightmares.

[a&mconsoltiger]

troy walters (from consol)
currently on the vikings

[Aggie]

troy walters (from consol)
currently on the vikings
I think you mean the Colts

[PurpleNation]

Im sorry but Hands down it would have to be Cedick Benson we are missing the only stat that counts 3 State Rings. He ran for over 3,500 yards his Jr seaosn(Scary) I can not think of any other player that even came close to carrying a team like he did. Without Benson and Midland Lee was an below average team. What was there game plan. Feed Benson the ball get a 50 point lead and rest the starters blocking for him.


Cedrick Benson could have played for the Houston Madison team Vince Young was on and won them 3 state tittles. The same goes for Lufkin's McNeal great QB but Benson was truly a man among boys. I can not think of any other player in the modern age that dominated the game like him at this level.

[Aggie]

yeah..but I never saw Benson play at Midland Lee

[KatyTigerDad0407]

What about the Tyler Rose. Did any one ever see him play in Highschool?

[NMHS fan]

Marcus Stiggers still gives me nightmares.

Ditto that! :eek:

[hoo2ers]

Based on only the ones I saw that stuck out:

Billy Ray Smith- Plano
Dale Carr- Permian
Roy Williams -Permian
Cedric Benson- Midland Lee
Earl Campbell- Tyler John Tyler
Steve Needham-Plano
Jesse Armstead-Dallas Carter
85 Yates Defense-(insert name):D

[farmerfan]

Marcus Stiggers still gives me nightmares.

I bet Marcus Stiggers still has nightmares about David Ellen of FM Marcus :D

[YuccaRoot]

RB Earl Campbell - Tyler John Tyler
RB Ivory Lee Brown - Palestine (Adrian Peterson's uncle)
DL Hosea Taylor - Longview
TE Ronnie Lee - Tyler John Tyler
QB Ronnie Blake - Lufkin
OL Randy Grimes - Tyler Lee
WR Sloan Thomas - Klein
QB Chance Mock - The Woodlands
RB Daniel Palmer - A&M Consolidated
DB Leroy Steen - Gonzales

[KT2000]

One name I haven't seen mentioned yet, and this person is the most dominant HS defender I've ever seen:

Derrick Johnson, Waco

[farmerfan]

One name I haven't seen mentioned yet, and this person is the most dominant HS defender I've ever seen:

Derrick Johnson, Waco


yikes
Im still having nightmares about him and what he did to us in 99, he caused about 5 fumbles in that 2nd round game. The guy was a monster. I think it would be appropriate for Lewisville fans to refer to him as "Derrick bleepin Johnson."

[drgnbkr]

Dane Johnson - Southlake Carroll

[farmerfan]

Dane Johnson - Southlake Carroll

ditto

[CCBoy]

I never had the chance to see Derrick Johnson play for Waco, but what about LT from Waco, in which I never had the chance to see either? I've always heard great things about him as well as Adrian Peterson from Palestine.
I think the greatest player's I've ever witnessed was:

Darren Lewis (Carter 86)
Shawn Walters (Arl. Lamar maybe 91)
Reggie McNeal (Lufkin 01)
Greg Hill (Carter 90)

All of these guys where great

[farmerfan]

I never had the chance to see Derrick Johnson play for Waco, but what about LT from Waco, in which I never had the chance to see either? I've always heard great things about him as well as Adrian Peterson from Palestine.
I think the greatest player's I've ever witnessed was:

Darren Lewis (Carter 86)
Shawn Walters (Arl. Lamar maybe 91)
Reggie McNeal (Lufkin 01)
Greg Hill (Carter 90)

All of these guys where great

Shawn Walters was a beast. The only team who could shut him down was Permian. I Lamar was one of the top ranked teams in the nation in 89 and the mojo defense shut him down and Lamar at Tx stadium. In 91 they held him to around 50 yards on 20+ carries. Had he been healthy for the 1990 state title game then they would have given Aldine a run for their money.

Byran Hanspard at DeSoto was also a stud. I wish he would have been healthy in the 93 playoffs, his injury allowed Killeen to upset DeSoto in the playoffs, a lot around the metroplex were hyping a DeSoto/Lewisville semifinal that year.

Chris Sanders of FM Marcus was a very strong leader and a great passer. That offense of FM Marcus remains one of the best I have ever seen and he was the foundation of it. The guy hardly ever made mistakes and could throw the deep ball as well as anyone I have ever seen.

Adam Herrin QB'd Celina to 4 state championships losing 2 games in 4 years. The guy knew how to win and was as tough a competitor that I ever played against.

Kelen Luker and Cody Cardwell of Stephenville in 1998, one of the best pass catch combos this state has ever had. No one could stop them and they broke all sorts of offensive records at pass happy Stephenville.

Scooter Asel of Plano, he gets this nod on name alone, plus he was a pretty good QB.

Odell James anyone who saw the Lewisville/Aldine MacArhur state title game of 93 knows what I am talking about. If not, this guy put on a show against one of the states best defenses. He was a sophmore that ran for 200 and threw for 200, he was fun to watch.

Will Mantooth QB- tough guy who led the 92 Dragons, a QB who knew how to get his team into the endzone as well as a true leader, he was a bullrider so he was often the toughest guy on the field.

John Williams- a RB for Odessa Permian. I saw him shed us in 92 and he is the all time leading rusher at Permian. He ranks near the top of the all time rushing leaderboard in the Little SWC, had Permian not been DQ from the playoffs in 93 he most likely would be second behind Benson.

Dominique Rhodes of Abilene Cooper. I got to see him against Marcus in 95 and 96, the guy was huge with great speed. Gave Marcus fits both years and Marcus had a very tough run stopping defense.

others include

David Ellen-LB FM Marcus
Stephen Ennis- RB FM Marcus
Spencer Stack-QB FM Marcus
Chris Prater-FS FM Marcus
Dwayne Brazzell-RB Lewisville
Shannon Brazzell- LB Lewisville
Micahel Odel-QB Lewisville
Luke Taylor- FB Lewisville
Roylan Bradley-LB La Marque
Chris Robertson-RB Denison
Tate Wallis- LB/QB Ennis
Graham Harrell- QB Ennis
Oneil Peterson- QB Ennis
James Battle- QB Denton Ryan
J.J Joe-QB Arlington Lamar
Delarius Wilson-RB Temple
Gerald Watson-RB Temple
and many many more. list like these are somewhat unfair cause they leave off so many quality players that are deserving but dont get listed.

[LongTallTexan]

Earl Campbell.


No one else any of you have listed come close to his domination in HS. Ask anyone who say him play in HS. You think he was a ****** in college (Heisman) and the pros (all-pro), think about him against HS boys. It was not pretty.

It's interesting yuccaroot mentioned Ronnie Blake. The guy was probably the most gifted athelete I have ever personally known. He once entered a tennis tournament having never played it until a few weeks before. He almost won the entire tourney. And at maybe 5'9", he sank the last second winning basket for Lufkin to win state in basketball against Dunbar.

[CyFallsMom]

Craig James 1978 - Stratford
David Klingler - Stratford
Phil and Paul Tabor - 1975 Spring Branch (went on to the Bears and Giants)

and going way back to when I was a very small girl - the first player I remember watching - Chris Gilbert from Spring Branch - who went on to Texas and was a Heisman runner up. I saw him the other day at our all school reunion and the guy looks great - never ages it seems.

I know the guys have gotten bigger and stronger since these guys played but the question was who was the best I had seen and these are my picks.

[dada]

As far as I can remember

The first guy I ever saw and was like WOW was a guy named Gibson who played WR for Forest Brook

Steve Clements- Huntsville
Wilbert Biggens- MacAuthur
Kalief Muhammad -Elsik
Vince Young -Madison
Morris Crosby-Elsik

[implacable44]

Ty Detmer
Jessie Armstead - I thought I was listening to a broken record in the state game -- AllI heard was that guys name.

Jerrod Douglas - Converse Judson
Darnell Stephens - Converse Judson ( dude played DB, ran back kicks and played QB all at the 5a level). incredible athlete

[ktchamp97]

Great list farmerfan. That's a Hall of Famer folks! CyFallsMom is well on her way too.

Of guys I've seen...
1. Vincent Young - "In my 35 year coaching career, I've seen two guys that were men amongst boys. One was Earl Campbell. The other was Vincent Young." - Former Katy coach Mike Johnston

2. Derrick Johnson - not many guys can control a game playing solely on defense

3. Cedric Benson - he was simply incredible

4. Robert Ferguson - it's hard to dominate from the WR position, but Ferguson did. Perhaps the greatest testament to his ability is that he took Spring Woods to the playoffs :D. I'm telling you, that guy was unbelievable. He currently plays for the Packers.

5. Gerome Sapp - former Hou. Lamar and Notre Dame safety (I think he's in the league somewhere). He was a one-man wrecking crew.

6. Kendrick Bernard - former West Brook QB ('94). Led the nation's #1 ranked team until his temper got the best of him, costing his team a shot at two-time defending champs, Converse Judson, and costing himself a shot at a major D1 offer.

7. Webster Patrick - former Westfield RB currently among the national JUCO rushing leaders. I can't wait until he gets with a major program. He's got an extra gear that most humans don't. I saw him go 'plaid' once.

[CCBoy]

Earl Campbell.


No one else any of you have listed come close to his domination in HS. Ask anyone who say him play in HS. You think he was a ****** in college (Heisman) and the pros (all-pro), think about him against HS boys. It was not pretty.

It's interesting yuccaroot mentioned Ronnie Blake. The guy was probably the most gifted athelete I have ever personally known. He once entered a tennis tournament having never played it until a few weeks before. He almost won the entire tourney. And at maybe 5'9", he sank the last second winning basket for Lufkin to win state in basketball against Dunbar.
I can't mention those guys because I never saw them play, but I bet Earl Campbell was like a man against boys.

[shooter]

Who is the best HS football player I've ever seen?

hmmmmmm.

me.

[Pineywoodsrooter]

Bobby Taylor - Longview
Reggie Mcneal-Lufkin
Derrick Johnson-Waco
Terrence Kiel-Lufkin
Cedric Benson-Midland Lee
Jessie Armstead-Dallas Carter

[hoo2ers]

I bet Earl Campbell was like a man against boys.

Yes he was;)

[rowlettoline64]

Although he got into some trouble which ultimately ruined his HS career. Mark Green was definately a top player. He was a big guy with good speed. He played MLB for Mesquite back during the '01 season for those of you who don't know him. He set the school record tackles, I believe. Not to mention, was the game MVP during the state title game as a FRESHMAN, a game that Mesquite won.

Terrell Brown.. I saw him dominate Rowlett putting up 42 points in the first half when I was a Sophomore, the kid was a monster.

I don't really get out of the GISD games much so I can't say I've "seen" alot of the state's top guys.

But the top guy that I've actually played against would have to be Antwine from Garland... big, fast, strong.. that kid will be making waves on Saturdays for the next few years.

[svrangerfan]

QB's Chris Sanders FM Marcus
Marcus Stiggers LH
Alex Van Pelt SA Churchill
Graham Harrell Ennis-Hell of an arm. Can't wait to watch him next year
Rhett Bomar GP See above

RB's Jerod Douglas COJU
Tyson Thompson Irving Tigers
Dmitri Nance ET
OL 1987 Plano Wildcats They were huge and good. 4 went D1.

DL David Warren CUJO

LB Jessie Armstead Carter
Joe Bowden North Mesquite
(Same game best defensive slugfest I ever saw. They made every tackle)

[WildcatFan]

Ryan Lyons Arlington Lamar 1988-90 got hurt in the Play-off game against Permian if not Lamar would have won state!

[dragonsdaddy]

What about the Tyler Rose. Did any one ever see him play in Highschool?
undoubtedly the most dominating player i've ever seen, was earl. he played like you were strangling his pet puppy and putting you on the ground while running to the endzone was the only way to save its life. he made you pay to play, in painful scrip that was redeemed out of your hide on every play.

[IGot2Rings]

No one has mentioned Chris Pryor! Former 5A all-time leading rusher Conv. Judson 1983.

Jerod Douglas is the best back to lace up the cleats in 5A history in my opionion. He broke Chris Proyor's all time rushing record. Hes also a Judson product! Go figure?

[Dusty Bottoms]

my top 10 list in no particular order (only players I saw in HS)

Reggie Mcneal - Lufkin
Byron Evans - Lamarque
Cliff Groce - A&M Consolidated
Tommy Preston - A&M Consolidated
Rodney Thomas - Groveton
David Warren - Tyler John Tyler
Marcus Stiggers - Lake Highlands
Rock Cartwright - Conroe
Marc Broyles - Tyler John Tyler
Jerrod Douglass - Judson

[WildcatFan]

Stoney Case.....Just Kidding

[Jive Turkey]

Of the guys I've seen in person, the first name that came to my mind was Marcus Stiggers.

Also, Craig James and Kevin Williams of Roosevelt High (then U of Miami and Dallas Cowboys).

[DirtyHarry01]

Warren McVea - S.A. Brackenridge
Eric Dickerson - Sealy
Doyle Johnson - Galena Park
Bert Coan - Pasadena

[farmerfan]

One name I forgot to mention and needs to be brought up is Dexter Butler from Vernon. I know dgkbkr remembers him. In 92 Vernon and Carroll met at Pennington Field in a game that Carroll dubbed "The War". It was a classic back and fort clash that saw the Dragons win on the strength of the Great Dane. However Dexter Butler carried Vernon litterally by himself. He had the talent to make it to the NFL but I heard he got in some trouble after HS. Anyone who had the chance to see him play would just be jaw dropped. My buddy has the video of that Carroll/Vernon game and it is just truly remarkable to see the battle between Dexter Butler and Dane Johnson.

[DirtyHarry01]

Farmerfan, you're correct. I saw Dexter Butler play twice that year, but I couldn't get into the Vernon/SLC game. I also have it on video. Butler was a pretty good punter too. Another great sub-5A (sub-4A at the time) player was Steve Worster from Bridge City.

[PurpleDawg]

Here are some I've seen that haven't been mentioned -

Shaud Williams - Andrews - great running back and all around athlete
Toby Shain - Seminole - great individual performance in playoff game (300+ yards rushing)
David Hodge - Brazoswood - man among boys in Oil Bowl

Cedric is still the best I've seen. Shea Morenz wasn't too shabby. Also, the Daingerfield defense of ?80? that was basically unscored on.

[Pearland1]

1. craig james

2. chris gilbert

[dragonsdaddy]

craig james was very good.

from the same era, billy ray smith, jr from plano was a man-child. he could take half the field away from his de spot. he was an awesome force.

[SvFootball]

Jamaal Charles- port arthour now at UT thats my pick

[kttigersrock]

Jamaal Charles- port arthour now at UT thats my pick

Best I have seen in person.....

Vince Young - Madison
Eric Dickerson - Sealy
Thurman Thomas - Willowridge
Reggie McNeil - Lufkin
Bill Jatzlau - Katy
James Aston - Katy

[WILDCAT27]

definately reggie mcneal of lufkin. i remember watching his incredible arm for a hs qb and also the way he could run. it was awesome

[GarlandOwl06]

Reggie Mcneal-LP
B.J. Johnson-SGP
Marcus Stiggers-LH
Javorskie Lane-LP
Jamal Branch-Katy
Brandon Antwine-GHS
Donte Heart-GHS

I think everyone can still feel the breeze left by stiggers

[TheDawghouse]

biased but Vontez Duff and T.J. Hollowell, both from Cove.

[MRmaverick]

if we can list lower classifications

1)quan cosby-mart
2)john garrett-mart

quan is the most dominant high school football player ive evr seen he could play both sides of the ball and could play d 1 on either side. just amazing!!

[Alamo_Mojo]

Roy Williams -Odessa Permian
Terry Orr - Abilene Cooper
Cedric Benson - Mildand Lee
Jerod Douglas- Converse Judson
Priest Holmes - San Antonio Marshall

[TigerTrusty]

Roger Staubach-- New Mexico Military Institute

Tommy Kramer-- San Antonio Lee

[oldtiger]

No particular order

-Devaughn Darling- FB Austin
-Odell James- Aldine McArthur
-Vince Young - Madison
-Robert Ferguson- Spring Woods
-B.J. Johnson-SGP
-Dan Neil Cypress Creek
-Eric Gray Aldine
-Donnie Embra Elsik
-Cedric Jones Lamar
-Kalief Muhammad Elsik
-Jerod Douglas- Converse Judson
-Mike Miller Willowridge
-Derrick Johnson - Waco

[maverick523]

I'm basing this on guys that deserve much of the credit for their respective team success. I also am qualifying these guys because I saw them play "live" and not on TV. Each of these guys could and often did dominate the games they played in to their team's benefit. All of these guys also lead their teams at least four games deep into the state playoffs. In no particular order:

Koy Detmer '90 Mission High (Colorado) - Although it was his junior year no body other than Koy (with the help of his father, coach Sonny Detmer) could have lead this undersized, athleticly inferior team to the state semifinals. At 5'11" and 160lbs. this pee wee QB who was knocked to the ground on almost every play passed for over 350 yards and 5TD's in the second half of the state quarterfinals against a big physical defense in San Antonio Madison.

Preist Anthony Holmes '91 SA Marshall (Texas) - After missing five games during the regular season with a deep thy bruise. Holmes returned to spark SA Marshall to a State Final appearance. In eleven games he rushed for over 2,300 yards, if it were not for the injury he would have almost definetly had a 3,000 yard season. For those of us that played with him or against him he was a no brainer future NFL star, although we all would have guessed his road would have been easier than it was.

Jacob Gutierrez '02 SA Madison (Oklahoma) - "Mighty Mouse in Cleats", for anyone who ever saw him tear up the gridirons of South Texas they know what I mean. With his short body, exceptional balance, speed, quickness, and raw power, Jacob could do things on the field that I had only seen done by video game running backs (he was more entertaining to watch than Barry Sanders). He was more than just another weapon in SA Madison's "Shock and Awe" offense of the early part of this new millenium. Jacob shared his backfield duties for three years with another 1,000 yard partner each season. His career rushing mark of over 4,500 yards and 54 TD's is impressive, but imagine what it would have been if he was a solo featured running back. He only twice had to do it alone (because of G. Green shoulder injury in early '02) and he rushed for 229 yards and 309 yards respectively!

Harold Williams '91 SA Madison (Angelo State) - "Balance Personified", he was a beautiful (style not face) running back that resembled a smaller Hershel Walker. This guy would literally run out of his jersey before being tackled (he really did this twice as defenders were left holding a shreaded jersey). His 1,981 rushing yards in '91 still stands as the single season record at SA Madison. The '91 Mavericks road Harold to the state quarterfinals. He was one of the most under recruited "naturally talanted" running backs in state history. He Mysteriously quit football after starting at RB for Angelo State as a true freshman. He was named to the Lone Star Conference's all conference team that same season. He held all freshmen RB records until they were broken just this year by former Judson RB Kyle Fox.

Jerod Douglas '92-'93 Converse Judson (Baylor) - "Where did he go", I once thought to myself after a then sophmore Douglas buzzed by me on the field. He was probably the only guy that I played against that I could not run down from behind with or without an angle. He was "Mr. Speed and Quickness Personified". Had injuries not killed his college career we would likely still be seing Jerod run back punts or kickoffs in the NFL.

I saw Cedric Benson play (2000 Kick Off Classic) in what was probably his worst high school performance so because of him getting beaten down by a weak Victoria Memorial defense I can not add him to this list.

[caseman]

Quincy Morgan and Denard Walker were both awesome athletes from S Garland, and now both get paid to play on Sundays (alma mater plug)

Jessie Armstead was a man among boys for Carter back in 88

Another Carter player, David Warren, DE of CU Buffaloes fame was the most dominant lineman I have ever seen at the HS level

Cedric Benson looked like he was a pro and the opponent (Duncanville in this case) was Pee Wee Herman. Once took 7 players holding onto him to get him down.

Odell James was the best QB I have seen at the HS level. Shame he didn't amount to squat at Baylor U (another alma mater plug)

[caseman]

Old Tiger - BJ Johnson was waaaaaaaaay overrated. He had 2 mistakes in the State Semifinal game against Garland that paved the way for the Owls to win the title (fumble on a reverse in overtime, silly personal foul as SGP was attempting to run out the clock in regulation)

[CCBoy]

Quincy Morgan and Denard Walker were both awesome athletes from S Garland, and now both get paid to play on Sundays (alma mater plug)

Jessie Armstead was a man among boys for Carter back in 88

Another Carter player, David Warren, DE of CU Buffaloes fame was the most dominant lineman I have ever seen at the HS level

Cedric Benson looked like he was a pro and the opponent (Duncanville in this case) was Pee Wee Herman. Once took 7 players holding onto him to get him down.

Odell James was the best QB I have seen at the HS level. Shame he didn't amount to squat at Baylor U (another alma mater plug)
You are probably speaking of Jesse Warren. He was also a great basketball player as well. If it is David Warren let me know, but I figured your speaking of Jesse.

[dada]

No particular order

-Devaughn Darling- FB Austin
-Odell James- Aldine McArthur
-Vince Young - Madison
-Robert Ferguson- Spring Woods
-B.J. Johnson-SGP
-Dan Neil Cypress Creek
-Eric Gray Aldine
-Donnie Embra Elsik
-Cedric Jones Lamar
-Kalief Muhammad Elsik
-Jerod Douglas- Converse Judson
-Mike Miller Willowridge
-Derrick Johnson - Waco
Donnie Embra??? LOL......I think Donovan Greer was the best defensive guy on that team...or me..lol

[caseman]

You are probably speaking of Jesse Warren. He was also a great basketball player as well. If it is David Warren let me know, but I figured your speaking of Jesse.

You are right. It was Jesse. His play in the second half of the regional semifinal basketball game against Bryan basically carried his team to the Region title...he was arguably better at basketball in HS.

[JagDad07]

Hmmmm - guys I actually saw. So everyone remember - this isn't a list of best ever - but the best ween with my own eyeballs.:

- LaDanian Tomlinson, Waco University - Man amongst boys.

- David Warren, Tyler John Tyler - A beast. I got to see him play in that woild Plano East Game.

and a couple n one has mentioned from the private ranks:

- Gary Kubiak - An NFL level player playing AAA private school ball. Threw the ball harder than anyone I'd ever seen.

- Johnny Hoge - The best high school kicker I've ever seen. Played for Dallas Bishop Dunne in the late 70's. If we crossed midfield, we could score. Went on to OU where Switzer proceeded to ruin him.

[bubbacoach]

I saw Waco Midway play Gregory Portland in a playoff game in San Marcos. Midway had LT in their backfield and GP had a kid named Dossett in their backfield. Both went for about three hundred yards that day. Of course now LT has made a name for himself with the San Diego Chargers.

And if you never saw Dat Nguyen play linebacker in high school, Oh my god! Rockport was only a 3A team when he was there, but he made the other teams running back refuse to go back in the game a couple of times. If you could have seen him, it was like he knew the play before the ball was ever snapped. And when he got there ,Ouch.

[PACK]

What about the Tyler Rose. Did any one ever see him play in Highschool?

Yea I did. At that time JT was all about Earl. Give the ball to Earl and you have your win. Same thing at Texas and Houston. He was good at NO but life was taking a toll on him at that point. Probably why the guy can't walk right now.

As far as best all round player I've seen was Reggie McNeil but maybe that is because I got to watch him for 4 or 5 years. Great kid!

McGee from Longview is one of the best as well in HS.
Javorski Lane gets a lot of kuddos but when you're a 260lb RB in HS, you can't help but look good. He's done ok this year at A&M and I can tell the coaches have been helping him develope into a good running back.

Rodney Thomas was a good RB as well and I saw him at Groveton a few times. In 3A he was great. In 5A he would have been very good.

As far as a dominating player on the field, I'd have to go with TJ Turner. You said that I've seen! He was awesome in HS and had a decent carrer at Miami.

Back in the 70's, Texarkana had a WR that was an American Native and could fly with grace and had hands like a vaccum. Everything was fluid with this kid. I didn't know his name nor ever saw him again but 30 years later I still remember seeing him play.

[JagDad07]

Tomlinson played for Waco University.

[DawgDave]

Giving away my age here, but here goes:

I went to high school in Valley Forge, PA. Played in high school against a kid from Camden, NJ. He was their fullback and a linebacker. He went on to a great college and pro career. His name was Jack Tatum. (By the way, we beat them that day).

Others:
Didn't play against him, but saw him play against my hometown high school when I went home for a visit - Tom Cousineau. Went on to play for Ohio State, was #1 overall draft pick of the Buffalo Bills and later all-pro for the Browns.

Local - Vontez Duff, Copperas Cove RB, went to Notre Dame, All-American.
Ramonce Taylor, Belton RB now with UT.

[rowlettoline64]

Reggie Mcneal-LP
B.J. Johnson-SGP
Marcus Stiggers-LH
Javorskie Lane-LP
Jamal Branch-Katy
Brandon Antwine-GHS
Donte Heart-GHS

I think everyone can still feel the breeze left by stiggers

Wasn't it Donte Hart, not Heart? If it is, that's the same guy that lived across the street from me years ago, when he was going to Garland. But I remember seeing him in the papers when I was like 7. What year did the guy you list graduate?

[CoveBullDawgFB]

vontez duff copperas cove
was all state sophmore junior and senior year
was all american senior year
played for notre dame and set all time return record now on the steelers

[fbjones]

1. Vince Young
2. Steve Kirkland(played at Arkansas early 70's. Then played for the old Baltimore Colts) He played his high school ball at Pasadena High back in the late 60's. I saw him match up in a Quarterback Duel with a player named David Friesleven(sp?) Friesleven went on to pitch for the San Diego Padres for seven years. Friesleven played for Sam Rayburn.
3.Chip Ambrose- Beaumont Westbrook Awesome HS QB!
Had a scholly to A&M, but went to play pro baseball. I saw him make a throw 15-20 yds downfield while diving parallel to the ground and threw it under the armpit of a incoming defensive lineman.
4. Chad McCullar. He was great high school reciever. He got a scholarship to Uof H, but did not make his grades. I don't think he is fast enough for the pro's but he was fun to watch and had great hands and an extra gear when the ball was in the air.

[oldtiger]

Donnie Embra??? LOL......I think Donovan Greer was the best defensive guy on that team...or me..lol
I could had Donovan on the list but I figured I was listing too many. The Blue Monster was loaded for those couple of years..Its to bad they could never beat IKE in the playoffs.

[Favpack]

Call me a homer - but the best defensive back I've ever seen play is Leonard Hewitt, class of 2006 from Lufkin.

19 interceptions in two years (and counting), 3 returned for TD's. Any questions?

[SLCDad]

One name I forgot to mention and needs to be brought up is Dexter Butler from Vernon. I know dgkbkr remembers him. In 92 Vernon and Carroll met at Pennington Field in a game that Carroll dubbed "The War". It was a classic back and fort clash that saw the Dragons win on the strength of the Great Dane. However Dexter Butler carried Vernon litterally by himself. He had the talent to make it to the NFL but I heard he got in some trouble after HS. Anyone who had the chance to see him play would just be jaw dropped. My buddy has the video of that Carroll/Vernon game and it is just truly remarkable to see the battle between Dexter Butler and Dane Johnson.I was at that game. Since Pennington Field was oversold by 3000-4000 people I sat on the field at about the 10 yard line. Dexter Butler was right in front of me when he fumbled allowing SLC to save the victory. He was a running back, line backer, punter and place kicker. Great player. I heard he was so distraught over the loss that he never played football again and didn't finish school.

[kttigersrock]

Giving away my age here, but here goes:

I went to high school in Valley Forge, PA. Played in high school against a kid from Camden, NJ. He was their fullback and a linebacker. He went on to a great college and pro career. His name was Jack Tatum. (By the way, we beat them that day).

Others:
Didn't play against him, but saw him play against my hometown high school when I went home for a visit - Tom Cousineau. Went on to play for Ohio State, was #1 overall draft pick of the Buffalo Bills and later all-pro for the Browns.

Local - Vontez Duff, Copperas Cove RB, went to Notre Dame, All-American.
Ramonce Taylor, Belton RB now with UT.

Dawg:

Jack Tatum! Wow! Never saw a bigger hitter - being from Texas I always remeber the highlight film of Jack Tatum and Earl Campbell colliding and Earl falling into the end zone. Awesome.

BTW - I am from Katy, TX. But just so happen to be on a business trip this week right down the road from your home town (in Newtown Square, PA.) Beautiful part of the country.

[farmerfan]

Ryan Lyons Arlington Lamar 1988-90 got hurt in the Play-off game against Permian if not Lamar would have won state!


Lyons and Walters were both injured for key games during Lamars run from 88-90. They led Permian 10-0 in 89 before losing 20-10. Walters did not play against Aldine and I think had he been healthy they would have had a great chance to beat Aldine.

[drgnbkr]

I was at that game. Since Pennington Field was oversold by 3000-4000 people I sat on the field at about the 10 yard line. Dexter Butler was right in front of me when he fumbled allowing SLC to save the victory. He was a running back, line backer, punter and place kicker. Great player. I heard he was so distraught over the loss that he never played football again and didn't finish school.

I'm sorry to say, he was not the greatest of human beings..got shot being in the wrong part of town in Vernon and did'nt have the grades anyway to move to the next level...could definately carry the ball though! I was there too & Carroll & Dane Johnson imposed thier will on Vernon at the end & either team would have won State as Carroll did...

[Butch Fifield]

I was at that SLC-Vernon game too. I was told at the time that Dexter had some kind of mental handicap. Not sure if that was true or not.

[drgnbkr]

I was at that SLC-Vernon game too. I was told at the time that Dexter had some kind of mental handicap. Not sure if that was true or not.

He was not held in high esteem in Vernon...got shot..dissappeared...

[farmerfan]

The crazy thing about 3A from 90-93 was that it was all about Carroll and Vernon. With the 93 game being a blowout. In 91 Burnett had 3 ties in a row where they won the game on either penetrations or first downs, 2 of those ties were Carroll and Vernon. The Carroll/Burnett game had some controversy from what I remember about a ref blowing a call on a XP or Field goal? maybe someone can refresh my mind. Burnett's luck ran out in the state title game as they lost to Groesbeck.

[drgnbkr]

The crazy thing about 3A from 90-93 was that it was all about Carroll and Vernon. With the 93 game being a blowout. In 91 Burnett had 3 ties in a row where they won the game on either penetrations or first downs, 2 of those ties were Carroll and Vernon. The Carroll/Burnett game had some controversy from what I remember about a ref blowing a call on a XP or Field goal? maybe someone can refresh my mind. Burnett's luck ran out in the state title game as they lost to Groesbeck.

I got here in 92 so I'm no help....We won it all in 92 & 93

[ThEgReAtOnE]

It's so crazy.....I see my name on a few of you guys' lists!!! The craziest thing is, when you're out there playing the game you never think about your legacy.....that's until you're off the field and/or a fan brings it up!!! Thanx for the props guys!!!;)

I think the best players I've seen and/or played with/against are.....

Marcus Stiggers
Mike Gandy
Odell James
Jamelyn Brown
Jerod Douglas
Samir Al-Amin

[farmerfan]

It's so crazy.....I see my name on a few of you guys' lists!!! The craziest thing is, when you're out there playing the game you never think about your legacy.....that's until you're off the field and/or a fan brings it up!!! Thanx for the props guys!!!;)

I think the best players I've seen and/or played with/against are.....

Marcus Stiggers
Mike Gandy
Odell James
Jamelyn Brown
Jerod Douglas
Samir Al-Amin

did you play at lakeview

[Primetime536]

1.Romance Taylor-Belton
2.Tommie harris-Elison
3.Dominique Zeigler-Harker Heights
4.Wakeem Inglasious-misspelled-killeen 4 tds in the first half against HH-now starts for OU
How the hell did UT,aTm,and OK pass up on Zeigler?

[SeguinMatadors]

It's so crazy.....I see my name on a few of you guys' lists!!! The craziest thing is, when you're out there playing the game you never think about your legacy.....that's until you're off the field and/or a fan brings it up!!! Thanx for the props guys!!!;)

I think the best players I've seen and/or played with/against are.....

Marcus Stiggers
Mike Gandy
Odell James
Jamelyn Brown
Jerod Douglas
Samir Al-Amin

Thegreatone, why not just tell us who you are?

[SeguinMatadors]

Thegreatone, why not just tell us who you are?

If I get bored I am going to figure it out. I know you played at OU and you were mentioned in this post. Anyone else got any info on where he played his pro ball? Dont worry the great one, I wont tell anyone who you are when I figure it out.

[farmerfan]

If I get bored I am going to figure it out. I know you played at OU and you were mentioned in this post. Anyone else got any info on where he played his pro ball? Dont worry the great one, I wont tell anyone who you are when I figure it out.

he says Garland, and I think lakeview, but I dont recall seein any lakeview players on this list. I think he is trying to toot his own horn a little.

[SeguinMatadors]

he says Garland, and I think lakeview, but I dont recall seein any lakeview players on this list. I think he is trying to toot his own horn a little.

Idk but there can't be many players on that list that played for Barry Switzer at OU. I will figure it out.

[CCBoy]

Lyons and Walters were both injured for key games during Lamars run from 88-90. They led Permian 10-0 in 89 before losing 20-10. Walters did not play against Aldine and I think had he been healthy they would have had a great chance to beat Aldine.
Well, Walters sure was healthy when they played Carter my senior year in the state semi-final, the game before Aldine. That dude was a wreckin ball.

[farmerfan]

Well, Walters sure was healthy when they played Carter my senior year in the state semi-final, the game before Aldine. That dude was a wreckin ball.

I believe he injured his ankle early in teh state title game against Aldine. I know once he left the game the Vike offense wasn't the same of course if any offense lost a player of his caliber they wouldnt be the same. He in my mind was as good a back as Benson and I believe he was better than the likes of Byron Hanspard, Jerod Douglus, Wes Daniher and Rodney Thomas.

[dada]

I could had Donovan on the list but I figured I was listing too many. The Blue Monster was loaded for those couple of years..Its to bad they could never beat IKE in the playoffs.
Yep....never could beat those 21-5A(Back then) guys. Ike, Aldine and Kingwood.

[BigDaddy]

I would have to say William Thomas, Bam Morris, and Chris Pryor
Thomas had one heck of a career at Linebacker. After A&M he was drafted and was all-pro a few times with the eagles and then finished out a long NFL career with the Raiders:cool: Bam Morris and Pryor were two great HS and college standouts, but too damn dumb to realize their own potential. Morris played with the Chiefs and Ravens before a long stay at in the Texas Penal System Hotel, and Chris Pryor was just too damn dumb to get through his first two years at Tech...P.S. Ty Detmer was one bad mamajamma in HS. I think he is still in the record books with some of his stats, Tomlinson, Drew Brees, and the legendary Mike Singletary. When you think about it, this is such a loaded question you could realistically come up with ton of names....

[DawgDave]

Kttigersrock: I went to school there. It wasn't my hometown. I grew up in a small city west of Cleveland, Ohio. That's where I saw Cousineau play.

[FootballJunkie]

Ronald Curry, Plaxico Buress, Terry Kirby, great in high School to watch but the best I saw in high school was Dre Bly.

[dada]

Ronald Curry, Plaxico Buress, Terry Kirby, great in high School to watch but the best I saw in high school was Dre Bly.
Didn't Curry "Over shadow" Vick? That guy had all kinds of Hype going to N.Carolina.

[Eagle81]

I'll just go off of this year.

Justin Johnson - QB Berkner
Jared Lund - LB Berkner
Jeremy Beal - LB Creekview
Matthew Stafford - QB HP
The Harrell kid from Ennis
Riley Dodge - SLC
#6 - SLC
Byron Batch - Midland
Lyle Leong - Abilene
Taylor Potts - Abilene
Colby Mayberry - Rowlett
The RB for Horn
The RB for Fossile Ridge

That's just to name a few. The two QB's in the HP vs Ennis game were a pleasure to watch.

[FootballJunkie]

Didn't Curry "Over shadow" Vick? That guy had all kinds of Hype going to N.Carolina.

Yea it was pretty interesting at the time..no one really knew who Vick was because Curry had all the attention. Few years later Curry had got hurt and Vick was going 11-0 at Vtech. Just one of those deals. Curry was a good basketball player as well...lot of people thought he should have went that route.

[dada]

Yea it was pretty interesting at the time..no one really knew who Vick was because Curry had all the attention. Few years later Curry had got hurt and Vick was going 11-0 at Vtech. Just one of those deals. Curry was a good basketball player as well...lot of people thought he should have went that route.
He played both for the Tar heels right? I remember then hyping Curry up before the FSU game...FSU knocked him and his back up out of the game...and he was never the same since.

[FootballJunkie]

He played both for the Tar heels right? I remember then hyping Curry up before the FSU game...FSU knocked him and his back up out of the game...and he was never the same since.

Yea he was point for awhile on the BBall team hurt his ankle doing that...his college career did not go well at all. It seems he is OK now though playing Wide Receiver for the Raiders.

[Dawg Fan]

The best I have seen

Cedric Benson - Midland Lee
Roy Williams - Odessa Permian
Eric Winston - Midland Lee
Baron Batch- Midland High (homer pick)

[B2BStateChamps92_93]

Darnell Stephens - Converse Judson ( dude played DB, ran back kicks and played QB all at the 5a level). incredible athlete


Don't forget he went DIV 1 (Clemson) and the then to Tampa Bay Bucs

[ktchamp97]

Oh Lord, I'm an idiot (he knew that already)...

How did I leave Jamaal Charles off my list? I was one of the few people on Orangebloods.com who was saying, from the beginning, that he should be our #1 target at RB. He was one of those guys that no words could describe...you just shook your head at the things he did on the field...he made it look so easy.

[TxLawDawg]

When I was in high school we lost in the playoffs to the Waco University Trojans, with none other than Ladamian Tomlinson as as senior. That guy was a beast!

[ThEgReAtOnE]

Ya LT out of Waco U was a beast........


...and that Will Thomas kid was pretty awesome too!;)

[ruffshod]

Lawrence Vickers- Forest Brook. Currently at Colorado-starting fullback.
Kid played every down of every game.

[gldneagles]

thread name "who is best I ever saw"...........my son. so proud of him and what he did with what he had!

[WildcatFan]

Lyons and Walters were both injured for key games during Lamars run from 88-90. They led Permian 10-0 in 89 before losing 20-10. Walters did not play against Aldine and I think had he been healthy they would have had a great chance to beat Aldine.

You don't have to tell me I was a Viking class of 90' kiils me to think about it!

[lonny23]

I could had Donovan on the list but I figured I was listing too many. The Blue Monster was loaded for those couple of years..Its to bad they could never beat IKE in the playoffs.
That just means they would've lost to Ike's daddy later on!:p

[farmerfan]

You don't have to tell me I was a Viking class of 90' kiils me to think about it!

Man those Lamar teams were some of the best teams I have ever seen. When I first started going to playoff games with my father, it usually meant seeing many Lamar games. We followed you guys from 88-91 pretty regularly. I loved watching those teams play, you guys were great. I wish for Coach Peach's sake and yours that it would have worked out differently.

[hoo2ers]

thread name "who is best I ever saw"...........my son. so proud of him and what he did with what he had!

Thats a Classy choice glndeagle!! Good enough for me.:cool:

[CHS98]

Rock Cartwright - Conroe High c/o 1998

[ThEgReAtOnE]

Rock Cartwright - Conroe High c/o 1998

Better late than never, bro!:eek: ;)

[Texasfrog]

Vince Young, Thurman Thomas, Earnest Jackson (popeye) real Texas football people remember him, Cedric Benson, Derrick Thomas, Hart Lee Dykes, man let me think. I've seen a lot of Texas kids in person that went on to All-Conf, All-american and NFL careers.

[jakerz]

Carl Sims, Waco High. Derrick Johnson...like everyone else.



I also saw that Trinity vs. ACM last year @ Waco when that kid kicked like a 65 yarder. that was amazing.



best single game i saw was this 3-a player 2 years ago named Jordan Peterson. he had 21 tackles, 4 touchdowns running and 3 passing and a kick return. he went to a&m though:confused: :confused: :confused: :confused:

[Maroon Cathead]

Great old thread.


Jessie Armstead – a man among boys, like an Earl Campbell on defense

Craig James – tremendous athlete, punishing runner, and if I recall, the kicker to boot

Marcus Stiggers – blinding speed on the football field, would blow by defenders that had the angle on him

Jerod Douglas – high school standout

Reggie McNeal – fantanstic athlete

Billy Ray Smith – rare defensive talent

[cy-fair dad]

Predictions:
CyFalls vs Lufkin in State Title Game
You mean cy-fair right not falls

[panamamyers]

Vince Young, Jerald Moore, Columbus Wooley

[Rockwall HS]

I must say that Bailey Jones, junior #15, wide-reciever, is the best High School player I have seen in a while. He is fast and skinny and can catch really good. He also could put Vince Young to shame...

[78 Spartan]

1. Vince Young (QB/S, Hou Madison). No one else compares to his ability to single-handedly control a HS football game. And you should have seen him play safety.
2. Craig James (RB, Hou Stratford). If we'd have given him the ball 20-25 times a game, he would have had over 3,000 yards that year. He could run past you or run over you. Great teammate, too.
3. Tommy Kramer (QB, SA Lee). Filled the air with great passes during a time when running was king. Best passer the state ever produced.
4. Earl Campbell (RB/LB, Tyler JT). You know all about him.
5. Mike Ford (QB, Mesquite). Took his team to the championship game as a soph. Big and tough. Bad knees kept him from impacting the NFL.
6. Jack Mildren (QB, Abilene Cooper). Best option quarterback ever.
7. David Boston (WR, Humble). Amazing physical specimen.

[nevaplayedk9]

jerod douglas (converse judson) best rb i've seen in hs football.

cedric benson (midland lee) a monster on the turf

a kid by the last name of "womack" can't remember his first name,was a qb from aldine was awesome.

darnell stephens(converse judson) a defensive sensation

cliff kingsbury(new braunfels) a coach on the field type player

to be honest, there is too many to choose from, that's what makes texas highschool football great!!!!!!!!!

[BeauxGeezy]

What about the Tyler Rose. Did any one ever see him play in Highschool?


My Dad loves to tell the story about watching Earl play against Lufkin back in the day. He was in the stands watching and Coach Royal was sitting right behind him. The final was 7-0...John Tyler won on a goal line run by Earl. Would have been awesome to see that but I was just a wee little tot at the time.

[dada]

jerod douglas (converse judson) best rb i've seen in hs football.

cedric benson (midland lee) a monster on the turf

a kid by the last name of "womack" can't remember his first name,was a qb from aldine was awesome.

darnell stephens(converse judson) a defensive sensation

cliff kingsbury(new braunfels) a coach on the field type player

to be honest, there is too many to choose from, that's what makes texas highschool football great!!!!!!!!!
Doug Womack from Aldine.....yeah...he was alright.

[cy-fair dad]

SAM MCGUFFY CY-FAIR 06

[LUFPAN]

You guys just revived a thread that was a year old.

[Down n' Out]

Jarrad Kaspar QB - Katy

[Mr_Lucci]

Dane Johnson - Southlake Carroll


WHo?

[Mr_Lucci]

jerod douglas (converse judson) best rb i've seen in hs football.

cedric benson (midland lee) a monster on the turf

a kid by the last name of "womack" can't remember his first name,was a qb from aldine was awesome.

darnell stephens(converse judson) a defensive sensation

cliff kingsbury(new braunfels) a coach on the field type player




Nice list!

[da hawaiian]

Man those Lamar teams were some of the best teams I have ever seen. When I first started going to playoff games with my father, it usually meant seeing many Lamar games. We followed you guys from 88-91 pretty regularly. I loved watching those teams play, you guys were great. I wish for Coach Peach's sake and yours that it would have worked out differently.

I thought the Lamar team of 2003 before they lost their starting quarterback to an acl in the second quarter against Trinity...was the best team I saw that year...but I didn't see North Shore. All I know is that while he was in the game, lamar built a 21-0 lead in notime during the second quarter - The Trojan defense was reeling trying to defend a physical running game with an equally effective play-action, it was also a year in which Trinity's own QB play was very sub-par. Once the backup came in - they were clearly a lesser team and went on to win 28-14. I wish the rest of the state could have seen them with their starting qb. It was also the second year in a row I saw Papa Peach out-coach Lineweaver

[smoak281]

Warrick Dunn and Major applewhite together at Catholic High

[slcsportsfan]

Without sounding like a homer... add Luna to the list. Nothing the kid couldn't do.

[zippy]

Without sounding like a homer... add Luna to the list. Nothing the kid couldn't do.

If you add Luna, you have to add Clint Haney. I would also add Joe Pawelek. Graham Harrell was not bad either.

[nevaplayedk9]

jerod douglas. darnell stephens

[bobcatDL07]

josh beckett in baseball :p

[ourgalsal]

Vince Young
Warren Mc Vea
Earl Cambell
Eric Dickerson
Johnny Bailey
Joe Washington
Ivory Lee Brown
Cedric Benson
Jarrod Douglas
Jamal Charles
Thurman Thomas

[CPMScoach]

Okay so heres one...

Javorskie Lane-Lufkin
Derrick Johnson-(?) I was young


oh yah...

Tyler Smith and Quinton Smith-Cedar Park

[TrojanMan0507]

Demetri Nance is one of the best backs Ive ever seen. He's the only one in texas hs football history besides benson to go over 3000 yrds and 40 td's in one season.

[jcon]

jamal broussard, bobby reid

[pack_90]

My Dad loves to tell the story about watching Earl play against Lufkin back in the day. He was in the stands watching and Coach Royal was sitting right behind him. The final was 7-0...John Tyler won on a goal line run by Earl. Would have been awesome to see that but I was just a wee little tot at the time.
I'm told I was at that game, too young to remember it.
As far as players I remember seeing:
Jessie Armstead
Vince Young-(although its worth mentioning that Chad Shroeder from Austin Westlake was the best on the field the day I saw Young play)
Reggie McNeal
Denvis Manns

[pack_90]

Call me a homer - but the best defensive back I've ever seen play is Leonard Hewitt, class of 2006 from Lufkin.

19 interceptions in two years (and counting)3 returned for TD's. Any questions?

I agree about Hewitt. Amazing. Especially before injury. Lots of electricity in the air when the other team punted.

[CoveMom]

What about the Tyler Rose. Did any one ever see him play in Highschool?

Yes. And just ditto all the other posts about seeing him play.

I also think Donald Buckram (Cove grad 06) was really fun to watch as a HS player. He will be remembered for a long time here. Now at UTEP and the red shirt is off!

[Tigerwideout#1]

devin hester and reggie bush non-texans though

[Raider'01]

Ben Gay, Spring HS. Hands down the most physically impressive player I was ever on the same field with. Had all the talent God could grant to one player, but with that he was slighted on the brains. Never got it together at Baylor. Ended up running with the Cleveland Browns briefly a few years ago. He was a sick, sick man with the ball in his hands. Think Eddie George.

[tigerdback083]

Chase Daniel- Southlake Carroll
Matt Stafford- Highland Park
Dez Bryant- Lufkin
Detron Lewis- AMC


I havent been around HS ball that long but these are just some of the guys that really stood out to me

[GHSalumni]

Byran Hanspard at DeSoto was also a stud. I wish he would have been healthy in the 93 playoffs, his injury allowed Killeen to upset DeSoto in the playoffs, a lot around the metroplex were hyping a DeSoto/Lewisville semifinal that year.

I'll also vouch for Byran Hanspard of DeSoto. He was an extraordinary athlete. Hated seeing him return kicks against Garland in the Early 90's. He and Marcus Stiggers from Lake Highlands are the two most talented players I personally have witnessed.

I would also mention the best kicker I've seen is from the Garland 99' state team, Chris Sims. Kid was clutch, consistent, and had a very promising career ahead of him if his back didn't get hurt. Has anyone else mentioned kickers yet? = P

[KT2000]

The top three that I've seen...

Vincent Young, QB, Houston Madison
Derrick Johnson, LB, Waco
Robert Ferguson, WR, Houston Spring Woods