MCGREGOR, Texas — Football games are won and lost in the trenches, and the McGregor Bulldogs hope an experienced returning offensive and defensive line can carry them back into the playoffs in 2022.
"The first goal for us is always to make the playoffs," Head Coach Mike Shields said. "I don't care if you're fourth or if you're first. Just get in the playoffs, and then, toward the end, if we've got a chance, sure. Everybody wants a district championship"
The Bulldogs fell short of either goal in 2021, finishing with a 3-7 record and missing the playoffs.
"We don't want to be the same as last year," sophomore running back Sebastian Torres said. "We want to have a winning record, make the playoffs. We don't want to be like last year. That's the motivation."
McGregor had a successful spring and summer, punctuated by powerlifting titles and a district championship in track. Daerius Dixon, a multi-sport athlete, brought home the 400-meter state title.
Shields believes the Bulldogs' biggest strength will be on their offensive and defensive fronts. McGregor returns four of five starters on the offensive line.
The Bulldogs will have to learn how to compete without Chad Lorenz, a multi-year starter and key offensive weapon, who signed with Hardin-Simmons this spring. He ran for more than 1,500 yards as a junior.
In his stead, McGregor will turn to Dixon, another multi-year starter, at wide receiver to help shoulder the offensive load.
"He's a leader for us," Shields said. "And I hope he says, 'Hey. Give me the ball, and see how many times I can run the ball or receive and catch it.' We hope he has that type of year."
Despite some uncertainty at the quarterback position, the Bulldogs believe their experience in the trenches can help them earn some victories in the ever-difficult District 11-3A I.
McGregor is projected to finish last in District 11-3A I this season.
2022 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE:
8/26 at Hillsboro 7:30
9/2 vs Groesbeck 7:30
9/9 vs Gatesville 7:30
9/16 at Clifton 7:30
9/23 at Franklin* 7:30
9/30 vs Troy* 7:30
10/7 at Lorena* 7:30
10/14 vs Cameron Yoe* 7:30
10/21 at Little River Academy* 7:30
10/28 Open
11/4 vs Rockdale* 7:30
*District Game
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