Lions Set to Face All Saints Friday

Gearing up for the season opener against Fort Worth All Saints, the Brownwood Lions have had two scrimmages and now they are looking forward to their fans supporting them Friday, according to Brownwood Lions Head Coach Bob Shipley.

Coming into the season, the Lions are ranked 24th in the Harris ratings; however, Coach Shipley said the 2012-2013 Lions’ roster is already becoming a close knit group that works well together.

“I really like the way this team has a rare cohesiveness,” said Shipley.  “They really love each other and get along.  That will go a long way in helping us this season.”

The team, although ranked lower than usual, has heart as well as new team members and coaches, making it unknown how the season will shape up.

”There have been a lot of questions about this season and what kind of team we’ll have.  I honestly have no idea how good we’ll be in comparison to my first three years here,” said Shipley.  “I do like what I’ve seen so far out of this team.”

After the two preseason scrimmages, Shipley stated that the offensive line has been a bright spot and some new key players have really started to stand out.  One particular new addition is quarterback Chris Keesee, who Shipley said is doing well so far.

“Chris Keesee has really looked good at QB,” commented Shipley.  “He’s new to us and has done a good job and is improving each week.”

Shipley stated that All Saints were one of the best teams the Lions faced last year and that they are looking good again this year.

“I thought they were as good of a team as we faced last year with the exception of Stephenville,” said Shipley.  “They look loaded again.  They give you problems on both sides of the ball.”

He further explained that fans should expect to see All Saints throw and ball and be aggressive.

“They will throw the ball a lot and be wide open. They have a major college running back and quarterback so they have a lot of talent,” said Shipley.  “They’ll be very aggressive with their defensive scheme.  They move a lot of people around and attack you in a lot of different ways. It should be a fun game to watch.”

Shipley stated that there isn’t a particular upcoming game he is most focused on this season, but that every game will be huge.

“Our schedule is stacked with great teams.  Every game will be huge,” Shipley said.

Two of the games have particular sentiment for the Lions coaching staff.

“The Sweetwater game will be interesting and will match father and son – Sam vs. Zach Harrell,” noted Shipley.  “Burnet is my hometown and I was the head coach there for 6 years.  We had a lot of good teams so that will be a special game for me.”
The Lions will travel to Fort Worth Friday and face All Saints at Fort Worth Brewer’s stadium at 7:30pm, which is located just off of Loop 820, north of Interstate 30.  All fans are encouraged to make the trip and support the Lions.

Below is a roster for Friday night’s game: