’Hounds to fight for playoff lives

By PETE BANDA
Special to the NEWS

After starting the year with high hopes of an undefeated season, which appeared plausible with wins over Los Fresnos and Harlingen, the San Benito Greyhounds now have s their playoff hopes hanging by a thread after three heartbreaking district losses.

With the McAllen High Bulldogs (6-1) rolling into town this Friday, the Greyhounds (4-3) have a chance to propel themselves back into the playoff race if they can shut down a talented Bulldog squad.

If the ’Hounds have made one thing clear this year, it’s that their defense is nothing short of elite. Led by seniors Rene Chavez, Jr., Nate Mireles and Adrian Zuniga, the D-crew has allowed an anemic 12.8 points a game in a district known for offensive firepower.

In addition to keeping teams out of the end zone, the defense has come up with countless game-changing plays ranging from interceptions, to sacks, to forced fumbles and even a safety earlier in the season. There is no doubt the usually explosive McAllen High offense has not faced a defense the caliber of the Greyhounds all season.

As long as the Greyhound defense continues to play at the level it has been, the offense is expected to have chances to score. Senior quarterback Jesse Jimenez feels that the ’Hounds were just a couple of plays away from possibly being undefeated and has confidence that better days are ahead for his team. “We’ve had some really tough losses so far this season, but we still have three games to play and we plan on making the most of them,” said Jimenez. “God gives his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers, and we are ready for what’s ahead.”

Jimenez and company will try to keep their undefeated home record intact this Friday, along with their chances at capturing a playoff spot. The game is set to kick-off at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at Bobby Morrow Stadium.

Read this story in the Oct. 17 edition of the San Benito News, or subscribe to our E-Edition by clicking here.