TEXICO IS BIG UP FRONT
Texico High School football coach Bob Gilbreath feels good about his roster heading into the 2024 season. “We have a pretty seasoned bunch,” said head coach Bob Gilbreath. “Most importantly we have most of our line back.” That group includes five-year starter Taye Smith (248lb), senior Warren Schooley (266lb), junior Ryan Timberlake (290lb), and junior Branson Willoughby (298lb). The Wolverines have nine players listed on their roster that weigh 248 pounds or more.
The offensive line will be opening holes for running back Alex Fuentes. The senior rushed for over 1,500 yards in back-to-back seasons. “For starters, he’s tough,” described Gilbreath. “He has great vision and runs really well with the pads on. He makes really good decisions carrying the ball and once he gets out in the open, he’s pretty hard to catch.”
Gilbreath expects the quarterback duties to go to junior Bennett Wahlen, who played junior varsity last season. Wallin will be throwing to junior receiver Luke Thompson, last season’s leading receiver. “For us, it’s about maintaining our culture,” said Gilbreath. “I focus on building young men of character first and that becomes our priority. We spend a lot of time talking about living right.”
The Wolverines went 11-2 last year in a season where they finished on top with a 44-7 win over Eunice in the Class 2A State Championship. Gilbreath feels like they have the chance to get there again. “If we can love each other and care for each other to bring the unity we need, I feel like our team will have a chance to play for it all,” said their head coach.
Texico will open the season on August 23rd when they host Santa Rosa.
