Preseason Review - Waxahachie Indians

The Waxahachie Indians are coming off an impressive 9-4 season, including a 5-2 mark in district play, and they're looking to keep that same momentum rolling into 2025. The Indians are led by head coach Shane Tolleson, who continues to set the standard for toughness and discipline within the program. With a strong core returning and a culture built on grit and effort, Waxahachie is aiming to be a serious contender once again this fall. The Indians have stud on both sides of the ball, here are some of the key players who will make an impact on the field:   Date – Opponent – Game Info 8/29 – @ Ennis 9/5 – @ Coppell 9/12 – vs Forney 9/19 – vs Duncanville 9/26 – @ DeSoto 10/10 – vs Horn 10/17 – @ Cedar Hill 10/24 – vs Skyline 10/31 – @ Lancaster 11/6 – vs Mesquite    Jerry is a high level quarterback prospect with the arm talent, poise, and production to back it up. With multiple offers from Texas Tech, Ole Miss, Purdue, Houston, Nebraska, and TCU, he's one of the most sought-after signal-callers in the state. Last season, he threw for over 3,000 yards and 29 touchdowns, displaying elite touch, timing, and decision-making.   On film, Jerry stands out for his ability to read coverages pre- and post-snap, stay composed in the pocket, and deliver with precision to all areas of the field. He throws with anticipation, can layer the ball over defenders, and shows the arm strength to drive passes outside the numbers. Whether it's picking apart zone coverage or extending plays when protection breaks down, Jerry consistently looks in control. He's a field general with next-level traits and a ceiling that continues to rise.      [player_tooltip player_id='284176' first='Kohen' last='Brown'] is an explosive and dynamic wide receiver who recently flipped his commitment from USC to Texas, choosing to stay home and represent the Longhorns. A playmaker with elite speed and sharp route-running, Brown put up impressive numbers in 2024, hauling in over 1,000 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. On film, he consistently creates separation with a quick release and smooth acceleration, making him a threat at all three levels of the field. He's not just a vertical weapon his ability to turn short throws into big plays makes him a perfect fit in Texas's high-powered offense. Brown also brings versatility, having made plays as a rusher and defensive back, and his track speed (10.69 in the 100m) shows up every time he touches the ball. With his natural instincts, athleticism, and production, Kohen is poised to make a major impact at the next level.      Jordan is an explosive athlete who began his high school career at Groesbeck and has quickly turned heads with his elite speed and big play ability. His burst at the second level is dangerous once he gets in space, he's a home-run threat on every touch. What separates Jordan is his versatility; he's not just a running back, he's an all around weapon. Now at Waxahachie, he enters a spread system that's built for his skill set. Whether he's in the backfield or lined up out wide, Jordan will be a mismatch nightmare and a game changing presence in the Indians' offense this season.      Jayquan is a highly touted four star safety with offers from national powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, Arkansas, and Arizona and for good reason. He's a rangy defender with elite instincts, showing the ability to cover ground quickly and close downhill with authority. Whether playing over the top or coming up to stop the run, Jayquan consistently puts himself in the right position to make plays. His ball skills stand out he tracks passes like a receiver and has a knack for creating turnovers. Physical, smart, and versatile, Jayquan is the kind of safety who can erase mistakes on the back end and bring energy to an entire defense. With his blend of size, speed, and football awareness, he's one of the premier defensive backs in his class.      Jordan is a speedy wide receiver who transferred in from Las Vegas and is set to bring a spark to the Indians' offense this season. With offers from Colorado State and Delaware State, he's already drawing college attention thanks to his explosive playmaking ability. Jordan's speed jumps off the film he gets in and out of his breaks quickly and can stretch the field vertically or turn a short pass into a big gain. His agility and burst make him tough to cover in space, and he adds another layer of versatility to the offense. As he adjusts to his new environment, expect Jordan to be an immediate impact player and a consistent threat in the passing game.      Carmelo is a physical and instinctive linebacker who plays with relentless energy. He's quick to diagnose plays and doesn't hesitate to shoot gaps and meet ball carriers in the hole. Carmelo brings a toughness to the middle of the defense, wrapping up with authority and finishing tackles consistently. He also moves well laterally, allowing him to cover ground sideline to sideline. With his motor, physicality, and growing awareness, Carmelo is the kind of linebacker who sets the tone and brings an edge to every snap.      Kaden is a downhill linebacker with a natural feel for timing and disruption. He thrives on contact and does a great job slipping blocks to get into the backfield. What sets Kaden apart is his ability to anticipate plays before they fully develop whether it's reading a pulling guard or recognizing screen action, he's usually a step ahead. He plays with an edge and brings a physical presence to the second level, making him a key asset in stopping the run and setting the tone early in games.           Hector is a physical linebacker who plays with power and aggression on every snap. He's known for his strong tackling ability and his willingness to take on blockers head on. Hector consistently fights through traffic to make plays and uses his size and strength to control the point of attack. His physicality helps set the tone for the defense, and he's the kind of player opponents respect when running between the tackles. With continued growth in his instincts and coverage skills, Hector has the potential to be a force all over the field.      Talyn is a powerful defensive lineman who brings strength and tenacity to the front line. He uses his size and leverage effectively to disrupt blocking schemes and control the line of scrimmage. Talyn shows strong hands and quickness off the snap, allowing him to penetrate gaps and pressure the quarterback. His relentless effort and ability to finish plays make him a vital part of the defense.      Reid is a technically sound and physical offensive lineman who anchors the offensive front. He shows strong footwork and balance, consistently sustaining blocks in both the run and pass game. Reid's ability to maintain leverage and use his hands effectively helps open running lanes and provide clean pockets for the quarterback. His toughness and consistency make him a reliable presence in the trenches.      Elijah is a talented and disciplined player who has earned a commitment to Houston Christian. He brings a strong work ethic and a solid skill set that makes him a dependable contributor on both sides of the ball. Elijah consistently performs well in key moments and shows great toughness and determination. As he moves to the next level, his drive and physicality will be important assets for Houston Christian's program.      Ethan is a reliable and steady kicker known for his consistent accuracy and strong leg. He handles kickoff duties with distance and hang time that put opposing teams in tough field position. Ethan's calm demeanor under pressure allows him to deliver clutch field goals in critical moments. His technique and focus make him a trusted member of the special teams unit as Westlake looks to capitalize on scoring opportunities.      Lane is a versatile linebacker with the ability to impact the game both inside and on the edge. He combines speed and strength to set the edge against the run while also dropping into coverage when needed. Lane's athleticism allows him to rush the passer effectively, making him a threat in multiple roles. His adaptability and aggressive play style give his defense flexibility and an extra edge in key situations.        Malik is a promising young offensive lineman with plenty of upside. Still developing his technique, he shows good natural strength and quickness for his age. Malik's coachability and work ethic stand out as he steadily improves his footwork and hand placement. With continued growth, he has the potential to become a reliable and physical force on the offensive line in the coming seasons.      [player_tooltip player_id='1247921' first='Mark' last='Piper'] is a competitive and instinctive defensive back who brings grit and energy to the secondary. With an offer from Sacramento State, he's starting to gain well-deserved attention for his ability to cover ground and make plays on the ball. Mark plays with confidence, showing quick feet, solid technique, and a physical edge when challenging receivers. Whether in coverage or stepping up against the run, he's a reliable presence and a key contributor to the defense.      Zaeden is an electrifying playmaker who lights up the field whenever he touches the football. His speed, agility, and sharp instincts allow him to make defenders miss and turn small gains into explosive plays. Whether as a receiver, runner, or return specialist, Zaeden consistently shows the ability to change the momentum of a game in a heartbeat. His dynamic skill set makes him a constant threat and a game-changer for his team.      Aaron is a young defensive lineman with a lot of promise and room to grow. He shows natural strength and aggression at the point of attack and is eager to develop his technique and understanding of the game. Aaron's work ethic and physicality stand out as he gains experience, and with continued development, he has the potential to become a disruptive force on the defensive front.     Waxahachie enters the 2025 season with momentum and key additions poised to make an immediate impact. With a blend of returning talent and new contributors like transfer Jordan, the Indians look ready to compete at a high level. Their speed and playmaking ability on offense, combined with a defense that's steadily improving, set the stage for a season full of potential. If Waxahachie can stay healthy and execute consistently, they have what it takes to make noise in the district and beyond.

The Waxahachie Indians are coming off an impressive 9-4 season, including a 5-2 mark in district play, and they're looking to keep that same momentum rolling into 2025. The Indians are led by head coach Shane Tolleson, who continues to set the standard for toughness and discipline within the program. With a strong core returning and a culture built on grit and effort, Waxahachie is aiming to be a serious contender once again this fall. The Indians have stud on both sides of the ball, here are some of the key players who will make an impact on the field: