Under the guidance of new leadership, optimism is high for a Lehman Lobos football program searching for success.
As such, first year head coach Bruce Salmon isn’t afraid to mix things up a bit. One can see that with the Texas ten gallon hat he wears every practice.
But for Salmon and his staff, wanting to instill confidence and consistency is paramount, especially as the Lobos prepare for play in a tough district.
With a proven track record at his previous stop at Marion High, the Lobos believe changes brought forth by Salmon can lead to success.
“He came in and changed our mindset for everything,” said junior running back Diego Romero. “He pushes us and taught us to never stop, no matter what. We have to keep pushing.”
Salmon inherits a Lobo team that will center on a young nucleus of talent that could provide some spark on the field.
Senior Daniel O’Neal and sophomore Bryant Lewis, who both saw playing time in 2017, lead the quarterback position. Lewis is a versatile and exciting player for the Lobos, as he was second on the team in both passing and rushing yards in 2017. O’Neal is the veteran at the position, and his 768 yards on 111 attempts last season were team highs.
Elsewhere on the field, Lehman will return its leading halfback in Romero, while junior Zack Harris, who reeled in 35 catches for 319 yards last season, also returns on offense
Two-way athletes C.J. Scott and Jake Cude, who will play on both sides of the football, will also be impact players this season.
Experience will guide the Lobo defense in 2018 as well. Linebacker Noe Santos returns after his 68-tackle 2017 season, while Cude will look to hold down the middle of the defense.
Scott and senior Adrian Yanez will lead the defensive backfield for the Lobos.
It’s in trenches where the Lobos will be looking for new faces to step up.
Senior Terry Maher-McGee will look to improve on his 3.5 sacks from a year ago. Joining him will be senior Ty Roaches and junior Isaiah Trevino, both of whom are returning varsity players.
Instilling consistency is something Salmon said is critical for the Lobos, and is an attribute he believes they can attain.
“A big thing for us is to get a little bit better every day,” Salmon said. “A big challenge for any program is to get to where you can play at a high level every day. Consistency is going to be key for us.”
Lehman opens the season at home Friday against New Braunfels Canyon. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Shelton Stadium.
