On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, Malakoff Tigers head football coach Jamie Driskell joins the show as the Tigers enter a major district matchup with an unbeaten 7-0 record.

Coach Driskell reflects on last season’s 8-4 finish and area-round playoff loss, explaining how the Tigers used that disappointment as motivation throughout the offseason. With more experience returning this year, Malakoff’s players have bought into the program’s expectations, worked hard during the offseason, and shown greater maturity in understanding their roles.

The conversation also covers the Tigers’ ability to overcome injuries and adapt throughout the season. Driskell explains how Malakoff entered the year with depth at the skill positions but has had to rely more heavily on its offensive and defensive lines as injuries have changed the makeup of the roster. He praises the players who have stepped into larger responsibilities and helped the Tigers stay unbeaten.

Looking ahead, Driskell previews a major matchup against the Winnsboro Raiders. He discusses Winnsboro’s physical style, powerful running game, talented lead back, and disciplined defense. With both programs known for toughness and physical football, the matchup is expected to be another hard-fought battle.

Coach Driskell also reflects on the Malakoff football tradition and the many former Tigers who have gone on to play at the college level. He explains why it is rewarding to see former players return to the program as young men, fathers, and role models for the next generation.

As Driskell approaches 200 career wins, he credits the accomplishment to a total team effort—from talented players and committed assistant coaches to a community that continues to support Malakoff athletics.

Also in this episode, the show discusses the Dallas Cowboys bringing veteran NFL coach Mike Pettine onto the defensive staff to assist first-year coordinator Christian Parker as the team looks to improve its struggling defense.

On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, Kilgore Bulldogs senior running back Rayshaun Williams joins the show after making program history as Kilgore’s all-time leading rusher.

Williams reflects on surpassing 4,000 career rushing yards and what it means to have his name at the top of a list filled with talented Kilgore running backs. He also honors the previous record holder and discusses the pride that comes with representing a program with such a strong football tradition.

The senior talks about growing up around Kilgore football, watching standout backs like Devin Rider, Damion Lawton, and Isaiah Ross, and using their examples as motivation. Williams describes himself as a physical, all-around runner who can use his speed in open space but is never afraid to lower his shoulder and fight for extra yards.

The conversation also highlights Williams’ development from a freshman contributor into a senior leader. He explains how former coaches, current head coach Clint Fuller, and the Kilgore staff have helped him mature as both a player and a person. Williams also gives credit to Kilgore’s offensive line, saying the Bulldogs’ success on offense begins with the work of the big men up front.

Williams previews the rest of Kilgore’s season as the Bulldogs work through a difficult district schedule featuring major matchups against Palestine, Lindale, Chapel Hill, and Henderson. After an 0-2 start, Kilgore has begun to find its identity, and Williams believes the Bulldogs are coming together at the right time for a playoff push.

Also in this episode, the show recaps a thrilling Week Seven of East Texas high school football, including Canton’s win over Van, Longview’s victory over Rockwall, Hallsville’s overtime win against Marshall, Gilmer’s continued hot streak, West Rusk’s win over Arp, Shelbyville’s incredible comeback over Joaquin, and Paul Pewitt’s big victory against Beckville.

On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, former Overton Mustang and current Howard Payne Yellow Jackets quarterback Bryce Still joins the show after an outstanding start to his sophomore season.

Through three games, Still has thrown for more than 1,100 yards and nine touchdowns, while adding two rushing touchdowns. He breaks down his 438-yard passing performance at The Star in Frisco, the excitement of playing in a major venue, and the chemistry developing with his receivers, offensive line, and fellow East Texas teammates.

Still also reflects on his freshman season, when he entered Howard Payne’s quarterback room near the bottom of the depth chart before working his way into a major role. He discusses how competition, preparation, support from teammates, and a strong mindset helped him grow into the player and leader he is today.

The conversation also highlights the strong East Texas presence at Howard Payne, with players from Overton, New Diana, Tyler, and other local communities creating a familiar bond in Brownwood. Still explains how sharing East Texas roots helps the team build relationships that extend beyond football.

Still looks back on his time at Overton High School, where he helped lead the Mustangs to back-to-back 10-win seasons. He shares what playing for Coach Lamance, representing his hometown, and competing at Chester Stadium meant to him.

Finally, Still previews Howard Payne’s upcoming matchup, discusses the Yellow Jackets’ championship goals, and explains why the program is focused on maintaining a high standard one play, one drive, and one game at a time.

Also in this episode, the show honors former Groveton Indian and Philadelphia Eagles great Lane Johnson following his NFL retirement. The six-time Pro Bowler, two-time first-team All-Pro, and two-time Super Bowl champion leaves the game as one of the greatest right tackles of his generation.

On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, former Gilmer Buckeye and current Northwestern State wide receiver Brendan Webb joins the show to discuss his season, his football journey, and the East Texas roots that continue to motivate him.

Webb has started to find the end zone in back-to-back games, recording 14 catches for 170 yards and two touchdowns so far this season. He talks about staying ready when his number is called, making plays for his teammates, and continuing to lead through a difficult start for Northwestern State.

The conversation also covers Webb’s growth from his freshman to sophomore year. He explains how he attacked the offseason by adding strength, working on his speed, and becoming a more vocal leader for his teammates. Webb discusses the importance of maintaining energy, supporting the running back room and offense, and being the heartbeat of the team even when adversity hits.

Webb reflects on the transition from Gilmer to college football in Louisiana, including adjusting to a new state, new teammates, and a higher level of competition. He says his time with the Buckeyes prepared him to handle the challenge, both on and off the field.

The former Buckeye also looks back on Gilmer’s 2023 state championship run, where he earned Defensive MVP honors in the title game against Bellville. Webb shares what the Gilmer program, Coach Alan Metzel, and the Buckeye coaching staff mean to him, describing the program as a family that helped shape him into both a better player and a better man.

Finally, Webb talks about the continued support he receives from Gilmer and East Texas, why it means so much to know people back home are following his career, and Northwestern State’s focus heading into its matchup with Lamar. He also shares his personal goals of earning all-conference and FCS recognition while staying focused on the next play.

On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, Carlisle Indians head football coach Clay Baker joins the show as the Indians begin district play with an undefeated 4-0 record.

Coach Baker reflects on Carlisle’s fast start, crediting the team’s offseason buy-in, a strong senior class, and the maturity developed during last year’s regional semifinal run. After a timely bye week, the Indians are healthy, rested, and focused on preparing for a major district opener against the Hawkins Hawks.

The conversation highlights senior quarterback Antonio Ibarra, who has thrown for 10 touchdowns and rushed for four more through the first four games. Coach Baker praises Ibarra’s high football IQ, leadership, character, and ability to operate as an extension of the coaching staff on the field.

Carlisle’s offense also features a strong rushing attack led by Elvis Hernandez, who has totaled nearly 500 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Baker discusses Hernandez’s continued growth, understanding of the game, and importance in key situations.

On defense, the Indians are allowing just over 10 points per game. Coach Baker credits defensive coordinator Coach Baker—his father—along with the entire defensive staff and players for building a disciplined, prepared unit. The defense is anchored by a physical front seven and linebacker leaders Brian and Brandon, along with Ivan Garza.

Coach Baker also shares what it means to work alongside his father, who introduced him to coaching and taught him the game from a young age. Having his father’s experience on the sideline is an invaluable asset in game-planning, clock management, and critical Friday-night decisions.

Finally, Baker previews a competitive district with Hawkins, Frankston, Kerens, Cayuga, Como-Pickton, Alba-Golden, and Carlisle. He expects every matchup to be a challenge and emphasizes that the Indians’ focus remains on preparation, playing to their standard, and taking care of business one game at a time.

Also, Coach Baker recognizes the special home-field environment at The Reservation, where Carlisle’s packed stands, passionate community, and energetic band create one of the best atmospheres in East Texas small-school football.

On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, Union Grove Lions head football coach Kyle Adams joins the show as the Lions enter district play with a perfect 4-0 record.

Coach Adams reflects on Union Grove’s strong start, crediting the team’s preparation, focus, and ability to handle difficult situations. He discusses the Lions’ back-and-forth win over Hallsville, the value of a timely bye week, and how the team has used its break to reset and prepare for a major district matchup against Paul Pewitt.

The conversation also highlights Union Grove’s defense, which has held opponents to six points in games against Queen City and Elkhart. Adams explains that great defense takes a special mentality and praises defensive coordinator Coach Gibson for his preparation and game plans. With physical, tough-minded players at key positions, the Lions have built their early-season success around flying to the football and dominating the line of scrimmage.

Adams also discusses his journey with the Union Grove program. After spending nine years as an assistant under his father, he has now led the Lions through steady improvement as head coach, including six wins in his first season and a seven-win, playoff-bound campaign last year. He credits his coaching staff, the character of the players, and the close-knit Union Grove community for helping the program continue to grow.

Looking ahead, the Lions face a major test against the Paul Pewitt Brahmas, a physical, run-heavy team with a dangerous running back, explosive return threats, and a strong defensive front. Adams says Union Grove will need to be sharp in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams—to earn the district-opening win.

Also in this episode, the show recaps East Texas Week Five football action, including Jefferson’s win over Pittsburg, Whitehouse’s dominant victory over Nacogdoches, Carthage’s road win at West Orange-Stark, Gilmer’s win over Sunnyvale, Tatum’s victory over Daingerfield, and Hawkins’ defensive battle against Cayuga.

On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, former Mount Pleasant Tiger and current Tarleton State Texans running back Tylan Hines joins the show after an explosive start to the season.

Hines opened the year with 25 carries for 184 yards and two touchdowns in Tarleton State’s 49-30 victory over Prairie View A&M. He reflects on the electric game-day atmosphere, the excitement of breaking long runs in front of the home crowd, and the role of the offensive line in helping the Texans start the season with a big win.

The conversation also looks back at Hines’ difficult previous season, when he suffered an injury on the opening drive of the first game and missed nine contests. He discusses the challenge of rehabbing, staying mentally positive, leaning on faith, and continuing to lead and encourage teammates from the sideline.

Hines talks about returning healthy to a Tarleton State team with championship ambitions. He explains how the Texans are focused on working every day, trusting their coaches, and pursuing a national championship.

The episode also explores Hines’ college football journey, including time at Air Force Prep and three seasons at the University of Hawai‘i. He shares what it was like living and playing football in Hawai‘i, developing as both a runner and receiver, and preparing for the modern running back role.

Hines also reflects on his East Texas roots, growing up in Mount Pleasant, playing football at Sam Parker Field, and continuing to receive strong support from family, friends, and Tiger fans back home. He discusses his kinesiology and sports management studies, his interest in coaching after football, and the advice he would give to younger athletes: keep God first, stay disciplined, and remain consistent.

Also in this episode, the show recaps an incredible Week Three of East Texas high school football, including Lindale’s dramatic 49-46 win over Van, Rusk’s undefeated start, Paul Pewitt’s historic win over Daingerfield, and reaction to the controversial 105-14 Dallas Life Oak Cliff victory over Bonham.

On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, Cayuga Wildcats head football coach Jacob Magee joins the show to discuss a meaningful and emotional night as Cayuga prepares to honor the family of the late Coach Jenkins before its game against Mount Enterprise.

Coach Magee explains the deep connection between the Jenkins family and the Cayuga community, where generations of the family have played, coached, taught, and supported Wildcat athletics. With Mount Enterprise also closely connected to Coach Jenkins, both communities will come together for a special pregame presentation focused on service, remembrance, healing, and support for the Jenkins family.

The Wildcats enter the matchup with a 2-0 record, including wins over Bishop Gorman and Ore City. Magee discusses what he has liked from Cayuga early in the season, including a defense that is flying to the football, a productive rushing attack, and an offense that has already posted back-to-back 400-yard performances.

The conversation also looks at Cayuga’s team chemistry and leadership. After graduating a talented senior class, Magee says this year’s group has embraced an underdog mentality, plays with a chip on its shoulder, and genuinely cares for one another—qualities that make the Wildcats a fun team to coach.

Coach Magee also previews a competitive district featuring teams such as Carlisle, Hawkins, Frankston, Kerens, Como-Pickton, Alba-Golden, and Cayuga. With multiple athletic teams, different playing styles, and strong coaches across the district, Magee expects a weekly battle for the four available playoff spots.

As district play approaches, the focus remains on steady improvement, identifying the Wildcats’ strengths, correcting weaknesses, and making sure Cayuga is prepared when the games become must-win opportunities.