The 2025 season kicks off in 10 days. And many of us have been waiting for about 250 days. The Jackets have taken two paths over the past twelve months. This time last year there were so many questions.

Having a 5-5 season in 2023 was a kick in the pants with so many players. Not even making the playoffs. Something that had seemed so automatic. 2020, 2021, and 2023 the Jackets won every district game, and went a combined 33-5. So with the 5-5 season in the rear view mirror, what could 2024 produce?

We questioned the quarterback position. Luke Davis started five games as a freshman. Injuries put so many questions in front of the Coaches. How could the Jackets rebound. Dave Campbell’s Texas Football magazine had Randolph winning the District this time last year as well as being highly ranked. To be honest, the complete unknown was worrisome.

The first game last August with Lytle and they were picked to win. The Pirates had all their skill players returning. Quarterback, receivers and running backs. I really knew this was going to be a true test for our young and in some positions, inexperienced players. Could we get going fast enough to stay up with Lytle? I had real concerns.

The 12-2 Jackets were a surprise to many…maybe not the players and coaches..but to many. The Jackets again sweep the 13-3AAA District. Beat Randolph on their field with last second defense that left some of us in disbelief. The “come down to earth game” was when the Comanche Indians beat the Jackets in Comanche by two scores. Maybe the best loss Llano has had in years. The Jackets never looked back after that loss.

This season is completely different. Dave Campbell thinks Llano will win our District. He thinks we should start the season rated # 8. Highest ranking in the history of LHS. He thinks Luke is fine, and the Jackets will have a 2020 like season. This again is where the worrisome part begins.

You never can figure out 15 to 18 year old kids. Did they read Texas Football and believe it, or did they put it down and remember only hard work, continually making practice as important as games can only make predictions come true.

The Jackets can be special. But special only comes when the season is over. Think for a second when Lytle comes to Llano next Friday night they won’t be thinking revenge. Think for a second Comanche is intimidated by Llano? Do you ever wonder how Randolph is thinking in regards to the Jackets? Marion is picked second this year. Sure hope they aren’t imagining an upset of the Jackets. And Goliad!! Think for a moment a few of their players have laid awake at night…thinking about the Jackets. This season could be special. But there are many hard hard days ahead for Llano. Being high up the ladder sure gives lots a folks a clear shot at you. Llano needs to make sure it is ready for the adversity that comes with being so fell thought of.