TarleTon Texan FooTball
Tarleton Texan Football
2013 Signing Class | Player Capsules Jabari Anderson RB • 5-8 • 180 Wylie East HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Jabari is a Top 30 Rated RB by Dave Campbell’s Magazine. Jabari was an explosive, durable RB that carried his team on his back throughout his career. In a 63-56 playoff win over Whitehouse Jabari carried the ball 49 times for 385 yards and 2 TD’s. In his career Jabari carried the ball 712 times for over 5600 yards and 61 TD’s. Jabari’s SR. year he was 13-4A 1st Team AllDistrict RB, 4A Honorable Mention All-State, Wylie East Offensive Team MVP, he was nominated by the Dallas Morning News Sports Day Hero, TXA21 & Children’s Medical Center Player of the Week, voted by Vype Magazine as Player of the Week twice. His JR. year he was 10-4A Offensive Co-MVP, 4A Honorable Mention All-State, Nominated by Dallas Morning News Sports Day Hero and voted Marine Corp Player of the Week. He is also tied for 17th place in the Texas Record Book for rushing attempts for his performance against a play-off game Whitehouse in which he carried the ball 49 times for 385 yards.” Branson Ball WR • 6-0 • 175 Naaman Forest HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “With 4.5 speed and a 38 inch vertical jump, Branson is one explosive athlete. In his senior campaign Branson caught for over 800 yards and 11 TD’s. Branson spent his high school career playing a multitude of positions on both sides of the ball. His best football is ahead of him at the WR position. Branson has great hands and knack for the big play. Branson was an 11-5A all-district WR and was the Offensive MVP for Naaman Forest High School.” Keivaughn Barrett DT • 6-3 • 285 Sacramento City College • Sacramento HS (Calif.) Tarleton Coaches Say: “Keivaughn is originally from Oak Grove, California where he attended Sacramento High School as a 3 Star- Rival Player and later attended Sacramento City College. Keivaughn will be a dominant force for our defensive line this season as he possesses great quickness and athletic ability. While at Sac City College, he lead the Mid-Empire League in tackles for Loss and also posted 66 tackles, 7.5 Sacks, 3 Fumble Recoveries, 1 Forced Fumble and 1 Blocked Kick. Keivaughn was recruited by: Carson Newman, Central Oklahoma, East Central Oklahoma, Eastern New Mexico, and several other Lone Star Schools.” Dalyn Bearden OL • 6-3 • 300 Wolfforth Frenship HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Dalyn is a 2 Star Rivals Prospect at Center, a 3 year started for Coach Brad Davis at Frenship high school. Dalyn was a key component helping the Frenship Tigers reach the quarterfinals in the 4A division 2 state playoffs with a 12-2 record in 2012. Dalyn earned numerous awards during his time at Frenship garnering 1st Team All-District (2011&2012), 1st Team All-South Plains (2011&2012), 1st Team All-City (2011&2012), 4A Honorable Mention All-State (2012), as well as team captain in 2012. Bearden will bring a nasty mentality to the Texas offensive line for years to come. Dalyn graded out at 96% with 82 knockdowns in 2012, as well as paved the way for the Frenship running attack that amassed over 3800 yards in 14 games.” Keenan Blair DB • 6-1 • 175 Duncanville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Keenan was a standout athlete at Duncanville high school District 5 5A who competed in one of the state’s toughest 5A District in Texas. He brings tremendous work ethic and character through hard-work and discipline, while competing in multiple sports at school. Keenan achievements include All-District 1st Team, Defensive Player of the Year and also his teams Scholar Athlete of the Year. Keenan will bring a tone of athleticism to our program. Keenan had 73 Tackles, 1 Fumble recovery, 2 Sacks, and several other defensive stats. Keenan was recruited by: Central Arkansas, Stephen F. Austin, Baylor, Northern Colorado, Abilene Christian, and several other Lone Star teams.”
Ty Branch Rover • 6-0 • 175 San Antonio - Reagan HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Ty is a 2 Star Rivals Prospect at Corner for Coach David Wetzel’s San Antonio Reagan Football Team. Ty led his team in 2012 with 3 interceptions and 16 pass break ups as well as accounting for 52 tackles on the year. A two time 1st team all 26-5A selection member, Ty was instrumental in the tough rattler defense that averaged giving up 67.7 passing yards per game in 2012. As a 2 sport athlete, Ty is a 3 year letterman in varsity track winning the 2012 26-5A district championship in high jump at 6ft 3inch as well as qualifying for the State Regionals in high jump.” Jermiah Brown WR • 5-11 • 165 Dallas - Carter HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Jermiah was a part of the rebuilding process of Legendary Carter High School. He help lead his high school to state playoff berth that had been a few years. He will bring great speed to our receiving core that lead his team in receptions and yards his senior year. He will also anchor the sprint relay team in which he has been clocked in the 4.4/10.5 range as a sprinter. Jermaih has tremendous upside as a receiver after his high school made the transition to the spread offense. Great character student-athlete who will do great things here at Tarleton. Jermiah had 29 Receptions for 556 yards with a 19.2 average per catch - he also finished a team high with 8 receiving touchdowns, including the game winning catch to move forward to the second round of the playoffs. He is a big-play maker.” Preston Brown CB/RET • 5-10 • 175 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Preston is a multiple sport athlete who will bring tremendous speed to the Tarleton State Football Team. Preston was clocked at the University of Texas Football Camp at a 4.3 in the 40 and was also clocked multiple times at a 4.3 by his coaches at Stephenville HS. This past season Preston helped lead Stephenville HS to the Division II 3A State Title. This past season Preston had 19 KOR for 541 yards and 3 TD’s having a long return of 90 yards. Defensively he had 43 Tackles, 1 INT and 8 PBU’s. Preston’s awards include: 7-3A 1st Team All-District KR/PR and 7-3A 1st Team All-District CB (2012), APSE 3A 2nd Team All-State CB (2012) and 8-4A Honorable Mention All-District CB (2011).”
Cody Burtscher RB/DB • 5-11 • 180 Glen Rose HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Cody is a multiple sport athlete who will bring toughness and work ethic to the Tarleton State Football Program. Cody does not only excel on the athletic field but also in the classroom. This past season Cody had 163 carries for 1,424 yards and 22 TD’s, 39 Receptions for 718 yards and 6 TD’s on the offensive side of the ball. He also had 51 Tackles, 2 TFL’s, 2 Sacks, 2 INT’s and 2 Blocked FG’s. Cody’s awards include: 7-3A Offensive MVP (2012), 8-3A 2nd Team All District Basketball (2012), 8-3A Offensive MVP (2011), 8-3A 2nd Team All District DB (2010), THSCA Academic All State (2012) and APSE 3A Honorable Mention All-State RB (2012).” Alex Craig QB • 6-5 • 215 Dallas Christian HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “At 6’5 Alex has the vision to see the entire field and the arm strength to make every throw. In his HS career Alex threw for over 4500 yards and 49 TD’s. In his senior campaing Alex lead Dallas Christian to a 12-1 record. Not only was Alex a great football player, but he was also an All-State basketball player as well. Alex is a fierce competitor on the field and in the classroom as well. He will be an asset to the Texans football program over the next 5 years.”
Eddie Day OC/OG • 6-2 • 305 Dallas - Hillcrest HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Eddie is a great pick-up for the Tarleton Texans, because of his long length and range at the center position that provides tremendous athleticisms to our front. Eddie is a young man of great faith and pride in his craft and unwillingness to accept failure. As a unanimous All-District 1st Team Selection, and top scholar athleteEddie will strive for excellence. He comes out of District 12 4A.” Cayden Ferrill LB • 5-10 • 210 Hallsville High School Tarleton Coaches Say: “Cayden was a 4 year varsity starter at Hallsville H.S. He started on both sides of the ball during his career at both RB and at LB. As a RB his sophomore year he was awarded ‘New Comer of the Year’ and ‘All East Texas’. He was also awarded “All East Texas” his Jr and Sr years as a LB/SS. His Sr. year earned APSE All-State HM and ETSN Super Team as a LB/SS. Cayden brings a lot of passion and tenacity to the Texan program.” Alex Gallegos TE/WR • 6-3 • 205 Dallas - H. Grady Spruce HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Alex attended the same high school as the former Tarleton State All-American Rufus Johnson at Spruce high school District 12-4A in Dallas. Alex possess a great new era to Tarleton state football because of his ability to stretch the field with speed and size, but also physical at the point of attack as a tight end. Alex led his team in reception and yardage, while averaging over 12 yards per catch. This Dallas native rank in the top of his class, while also receiving All-District 1st Team Honors. Alex had 362 yards receiving along with 6 Touchdowns. Alex was also recruited by: West A&M, Southern Illinois, and Texas A&M Commerce.” Ernest Gonzales TE/DE • 6-3 • 250 New Braunfels - Canyon HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Ernest is a big athletic athlete that played both sides of the ball for the Canyon Cougars earning 1st Team AllDistrict honors as a TE and Honorable mention as a DE. He will add more athleticism to Tarleton States big skill positions with his speed- running a 4.8 40 yard dash at 250 lbs. with room to grow. With his size, athleticism, and physicality Ernest caused a great deal of problems for opposing teams in District 25-5A. He possesses great hands along with exceptional blocking skills at the TE position. He was a physical presence on the defensive line as well showing his versatility as an athlete.” Elliott Hart DB • 5-11 • 170 Tyler - John Tyler HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Elliot who is a dual sport athlete, helped lead John Tyler High School District 16 4A “home of the mighty rose” to the State Semi-Finals were they played a great game. Elliot is an athlete who possesses great speed and skill with a tremendous passion on defense. As an All-District 1st Team selection and 1st Team All-Region, Elliot Lead his team defensively in interception/pass break-ups, while maintaining above a 3.0 GPA throughout high school. Elliot tallied 68 Tackles, 1 Fumble recovery, 1 Cause Fumble, 6 Interceptions and several other defensive stats. Elliot was also recruited by: Several Lone Star schools.” Brandon Johnson DE • 6-6 • 280 El Camino College • Westside HS (Evans, Ga.) Tarleton Coaches Say: “Brandon is an outstanding defensive lineman coming from El Camino College. Out of El Camino Brandon originally signed on to continue his collegiate career at the University of Cal Berkley. Brandon is a versatile defensive lineman that can play both DE and DT. Brandon was a Scout.com 2 star DE coming out of high school and a Rivals 3 star DE out of El Camino.”
Colby Johnson DE • 6-0 • 270 Texas City HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Colby is a DT who plays with a lot of emotion and is a guy who plays whistle to whistle. Colby jumped off the film to us because of his great get-off and how hard he plays the game of football. Colby’s awards include: 244A 1st Team All District DE (2012), 24-4A 2nd Team All District TE (2012), 24-4A 2nd Team All-District DE (2011), 24-4A Honorable Mention All-District DH in Baseball (2010) and THSCA Honorable Mention Academic All-State (2012).” Demarkus Lathan LB • 5-9 • 190 Longview HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Demarkus has had one of the best high school careers in this class. He is an instinctive LB with a nose for the ball. In 2010 he was the 11-5A Defensive Newcomer of the Year. He followed his SO year with an unbelievable JR campaing garnering the Texas 5A Defensive Player of the Year, Collin Street Bakery 5A All-State 1st team, APSE 5A All-State. For his senior year Demarkus was awarded APSE 5A Honorable Mention and 12-5A 1st Team All-District. Demarkus finished his career with 416 tackles, 43 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 14 PBU’s, 3 INT’s and 3 blocked kicks.” Sam Macklin LB • 6-1 • 185 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Sam was a new face this year to the Stephenville Football program. Sam is a long athlete who will bring speed to the football field as he is also a 110 High Hurdler. This was Sam’s first year to play LB and had to battle through an injury while helping the Stephenville Football Team to the Division II 3A State Title. This past season Sam had 76 Tackles (37 Solo / 39 Assist), 2 Sacks, 3 FF, 1 PBU and 3 TFL’s. Sam’s awards include: 7-3A Honorable Mention All-District ILB (2012) and 6-3A 2nd Team All-District OL (2011).” Kedric “Bubba” Mathis WR/RET • 5-7 • 160 Wichita Falls HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Bubba is a quick shifty WR/RET that is a threat every time he gets his hands on the ball. Bubba played multiple positions on the offense side of the ball in order to get the ball in his hands. Bubba will bring athleticism and speed to offensive and special teams of Tarleton. This past season Bubba had 36 catches for 560 yards and 3 TD’s. Bubba’s awards include: 2nd Team All-District and Offensive MVP for Wichita Falls Old High. Bubba’s older brother BJ Mathis also played for Coach Fowler at Midwestern. Tyler Pettit DB • 5-10 • 175 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Tyler is also a multiple sport athlete who will bring toughness to the Tarleton State Football program. Tyler played multiple positions this past season for Stephenville HS which included CB, SAF, and LB. This past season he helped lead the football team to the Division II 3A State Title. Tyler’s awards include: 7-3A 2nd Team All District DB (2012) and THSCA Honorable Mention Academic All-State (2012).”
Ethan Perkins DT • 5-10 • 300 Kilgore College • Nacadoches HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Ethan is from Nacadoches and comes to the Texans by way of Kilgore College. While at Kilgore Ethan helped lead his team to a 8-2 regular season record and bid to play in the Brazos Valley Bowl at Kyle Field. A dominant run stopper in the middle of the defense Ethan tallied 35 tackles, 3 tackles for loss and 2 sacks in 2012. At the conclusion of the 2012 season Ethan was named to All-Conference HM team.”
Mason Powledge TE • 6-5 • 255 Kilgore College • West HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Originally from West HS Mason continued on to play at Kilgore College. With Mason’s size and strength he has the ability to be dominant as a run blocker and as a receiver. Mason helped lead his team to an 8-2 regular season record and a bid to play in the Brazos Valley Bowl at Kyle Field. At the conclusion of the 2012 season Mason was awarded All-Conference HM as a TE.”
Justin Rayside DE • 6-3 • 260 Univ. of Indiana • Roosevelt HS (Corona, Calif.) Tarleton Coaches Say: “Justin is transferring from the University of Indiana by way of Riverside Community College. Rayside played two seasons for head coach Tom Craft at Riverside (Calif.) Community College. He posted 45 tackles, 6.5 sacks (41 yards), 12 tackles for loss (50), nine quarterback hurries, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble in 2011. Riverside finished the year 11-0 with a No. 5 national ranking and won the Golden State Bowl. Rayside was named a team captain and earned all-conference recognition. In 2010, Rayside delivered 52 tackles, four sacks (32), 11.5 tackles for loss (52), eight quarterback hurries, one fumble recovery, one forced fumble and two blocked kicks. Riverside posted a 10-1 record.”
Glenn Roberts RB/RET • 5-7 • 180 East Chambers HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Glenn is a shifty running back that will bring speed and elusiveness to the backfield. In his 3 year career he rushed for 5760 yards on 582 carries averaging 9.7 yards a carry. He totaled 99 TD’s scoring every way possible. Glenn was the Built Ford Tough Player of the Week and was named the Southeast Texas player of the year in all classifications. He is a two time All-State player, as well as Academic All-State. Glenn is also an AllRegion basketball player, and a regional qualifier in track running a 10.7 in the 100 meters.”
Jaylon Roberts WR • 5-10 • 170 Comanche HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Jaylon is a dynamic WR who played in a run oriented offense and was still able to garner all-district honors. Jaylon displayed great toughness this past season while battling a shoulder injury. This past season Jaylon had 19 Receptions for 280 yards and 5 TD’s, 12 Carries for 73 yards and 1 TD. Jaylon’s awards include: 4-2A 2nd Team All-District WR (2012) and 4-2A All-District WR (2011).”
Alex Sanchez WR/RET • 5-10 • 180 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Alex is a hard-nosed, tough, physical WR who competes in every aspect of football and life. We noticed Alex this summer during a 7 on 7 competition and was impressed with his competitiveness and it carried over throughout this past season. Alex also helped the Stephenville Football team to the Division II 3A State Title. This season Alex had 11 Carries for 188 yards and 1 TD; he had 51 Receptions for 735 yards and 5 TD’s. Alex’s awards include: 7-3A 1st Team All-District Utility Player (2012), 8-4A 1st Team All-District Utility Player (2011).” Torean Sheppard LB • 5-9 • 190 Longview HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Torean finished his senior year tied with another future Texan (Lathan) for their team lead in tackles with 138 on the year. Also, he was awarded one of the highest honors being named an THSCA Academic All-State selection. Torean was a 12-5A All-District 2nd team selection at LB for the 2012 season. He finished his career with 223 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 6 PBU’s and 3 forced fumbles.
EJ Speed QB/WR • 6-4 • 215 North Crowley HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “EJ is a 2 Star Rivals and 247 Sports Athlete. He is also a Top 30 QB in Dave Campbell’s Magazine this past fall. EJ is a special athlete that will bring tremendous size and speed to the offensive side of the ball. This past season EJ was 30/66 for 341 yards and 2 TD’s passing; he carried the ball 65 times for 349 yards and 3 TD’s; he had 30 receptions for 395 yards and 2 TD’s and he had 13 KOR for 306 yards. EJ’s awards include: 1st Team 3-5A All District WR. EJ was also recruited by Oklahoma State, Colorado State, Western Kentucky and UTEP.” Jared Thames DT/RB • 6-0 • 260 Glen Rose HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Jared is a 2 Star Rivals and 247 Sports DT. Jared is a great Defensive Tackle who also played multiple skill positions on the Offensive Side of the ball this past season. He will bring great athleticism and strength to the Tarleton DT position. This past season Jared had 75 Tackles, 15 TFL’s, 7.5 Sacks and 17 hurries playing DL. He also had 10 carries for 19 yards and 2 TD’s and 13 Receptions for 175 yards. Jared’s awards include: 7-3A Defensive Lineman of the Year (2012), THSPA Division II Power Lifting Champion (2012), Academic All-State (2012); and 8-3A Defensive Lineman of the Year (2011). Jared was also recruited by the Air Force Academy.” Chase Varnado DE • 6-1 • 235 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Chase a dynamic football player who brings great emotion and effort to the table. It did not take long for us to realize what kind of impact that Chase made on Stephenville’s 3A Division II State Title Team. He demonstrates great leadership qualities on and off the field and will bring great passion to the Tarleton State Football Team. This past season Chase had 130 Tackles (45 Solo / 85 Assist), 14 Sacks, 44 TFL’s, 1 INT, 3 FF, 10 PBU’s and 1 Blocked Punt. On the Offensive side of the ball Chase had 7 Receptions for 128 yards and 2 TD’s. He also had3 KOR’s for 46 yards. Chase’s awards include: MaxPreps 2nd Team All-American DE (2012), 7-3A Defensive MVP (2012), THSCA All-State Honorable Academic All-State (2012), APSE 3A 1st Team All-State DL and 8-4A Honorable Mention DE (2011). Chase was also recruited by many schools in the LSC.”
2013 Signing Class | Player Capsules Jabari Anderson RB • 5-8 • 180 Wylie East HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Jabari is a Top 30 Rated RB by Dave Campbell’s Magazine. Jabari was an explosive, durable RB that carried his team on his back throughout his career. In a 63-56 playoff win over Whitehouse Jabari carried the ball 49 times for 385 yards and 2 TD’s. In his career Jabari carried the ball 712 times for over 5600 yards and 61 TD’s. Jabari’s SR. year he was 13-4A 1st Team AllDistrict RB, 4A Honorable Mention All-State, Wylie East Offensive Team MVP, he was nominated by the Dallas Morning News Sports Day Hero, TXA21 & Children’s Medical Center Player of the Week, voted by Vype Magazine as Player of the Week twice. His JR. year he was 10-4A Offensive Co-MVP, 4A Honorable Mention All-State, Nominated by Dallas Morning News Sports Day Hero and voted Marine Corp Player of the Week. He is also tied for 17th place in the Texas Record Book for rushing attempts for his performance against a play-off game Whitehouse in which he carried the ball 49 times for 385 yards.” Branson Ball WR • 6-0 • 175 Naaman Forest HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “With 4.5 speed and a 38 inch vertical jump, Branson is one explosive athlete. In his senior campaign Branson caught for over 800 yards and 11 TD’s. Branson spent his high school career playing a multitude of positions on both sides of the ball. His best football is ahead of him at the WR position. Branson has great hands and knack for the big play. Branson was an 11-5A all-district WR and was the Offensive MVP for Naaman Forest High School.” Keivaughn Barrett DT • 6-3 • 285 Sacramento City College • Sacramento HS (Calif.) Tarleton Coaches Say: “Keivaughn is originally from Oak Grove, California where he attended Sacramento High School as a 3 Star- Rival Player and later attended Sacramento City College. Keivaughn will be a dominant force for our defensive line this season as he possesses great quickness and athletic ability. While at Sac City College, he lead the Mid-Empire League in tackles for Loss and also posted 66 tackles, 7.5 Sacks, 3 Fumble Recoveries, 1 Forced Fumble and 1 Blocked Kick. Keivaughn was recruited by: Carson Newman, Central Oklahoma, East Central Oklahoma, Eastern New Mexico, and several other Lone Star Schools.” Dalyn Bearden OL • 6-3 • 300 Wolfforth Frenship HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Dalyn is a 2 Star Rivals Prospect at Center, a 3 year started for Coach Brad Davis at Frenship high school. Dalyn was a key component helping the Frenship Tigers reach the quarterfinals in the 4A division 2 state playoffs with a 12-2 record in 2012. Dalyn earned numerous awards during his time at Frenship garnering 1st Team All-District (2011&2012), 1st Team All-South Plains (2011&2012), 1st Team All-City (2011&2012), 4A Honorable Mention All-State (2012), as well as team captain in 2012. Bearden will bring a nasty mentality to the Texas offensive line for years to come. Dalyn graded out at 96% with 82 knockdowns in 2012, as well as paved the way for the Frenship running attack that amassed over 3800 yards in 14 games.” Keenan Blair DB • 6-1 • 175 Duncanville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Keenan was a standout athlete at Duncanville high school District 5 5A who competed in one of the state’s toughest 5A District in Texas. He brings tremendous work ethic and character through hard-work and discipline, while competing in multiple sports at school. Keenan achievements include All-District 1st Team, Defensive Player of the Year and also his teams Scholar Athlete of the Year. Keenan will bring a tone of athleticism to our program. Keenan had 73 Tackles, 1 Fumble recovery, 2 Sacks, and several other defensive stats. Keenan was recruited by: Central Arkansas, Stephen F. Austin, Baylor, Northern Colorado, Abilene Christian, and several other Lone Star teams.”
Ty Branch Rover • 6-0 • 175 San Antonio - Reagan HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Ty is a 2 Star Rivals Prospect at Corner for Coach David Wetzel’s San Antonio Reagan Football Team. Ty led his team in 2012 with 3 interceptions and 16 pass break ups as well as accounting for 52 tackles on the year. A two time 1st team all 26-5A selection member, Ty was instrumental in the tough rattler defense that averaged giving up 67.7 passing yards per game in 2012. As a 2 sport athlete, Ty is a 3 year letterman in varsity track winning the 2012 26-5A district championship in high jump at 6ft 3inch as well as qualifying for the State Regionals in high jump.” Jermiah Brown WR • 5-11 • 165 Dallas - Carter HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Jermiah was a part of the rebuilding process of Legendary Carter High School. He help lead his high school to state playoff berth that had been a few years. He will bring great speed to our receiving core that lead his team in receptions and yards his senior year. He will also anchor the sprint relay team in which he has been clocked in the 4.4/10.5 range as a sprinter. Jermaih has tremendous upside as a receiver after his high school made the transition to the spread offense. Great character student-athlete who will do great things here at Tarleton. Jermiah had 29 Receptions for 556 yards with a 19.2 average per catch - he also finished a team high with 8 receiving touchdowns, including the game winning catch to move forward to the second round of the playoffs. He is a big-play maker.” Preston Brown CB/RET • 5-10 • 175 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Preston is a multiple sport athlete who will bring tremendous speed to the Tarleton State Football Team. Preston was clocked at the University of Texas Football Camp at a 4.3 in the 40 and was also clocked multiple times at a 4.3 by his coaches at Stephenville HS. This past season Preston helped lead Stephenville HS to the Division II 3A State Title. This past season Preston had 19 KOR for 541 yards and 3 TD’s having a long return of 90 yards. Defensively he had 43 Tackles, 1 INT and 8 PBU’s. Preston’s awards include: 7-3A 1st Team All-District KR/PR and 7-3A 1st Team All-District CB (2012), APSE 3A 2nd Team All-State CB (2012) and 8-4A Honorable Mention All-District CB (2011).”
Cody Burtscher RB/DB • 5-11 • 180 Glen Rose HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Cody is a multiple sport athlete who will bring toughness and work ethic to the Tarleton State Football Program. Cody does not only excel on the athletic field but also in the classroom. This past season Cody had 163 carries for 1,424 yards and 22 TD’s, 39 Receptions for 718 yards and 6 TD’s on the offensive side of the ball. He also had 51 Tackles, 2 TFL’s, 2 Sacks, 2 INT’s and 2 Blocked FG’s. Cody’s awards include: 7-3A Offensive MVP (2012), 8-3A 2nd Team All District Basketball (2012), 8-3A Offensive MVP (2011), 8-3A 2nd Team All District DB (2010), THSCA Academic All State (2012) and APSE 3A Honorable Mention All-State RB (2012).” Alex Craig QB • 6-5 • 215 Dallas Christian HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “At 6’5 Alex has the vision to see the entire field and the arm strength to make every throw. In his HS career Alex threw for over 4500 yards and 49 TD’s. In his senior campaing Alex lead Dallas Christian to a 12-1 record. Not only was Alex a great football player, but he was also an All-State basketball player as well. Alex is a fierce competitor on the field and in the classroom as well. He will be an asset to the Texans football program over the next 5 years.”
Eddie Day OC/OG • 6-2 • 305 Dallas - Hillcrest HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Eddie is a great pick-up for the Tarleton Texans, because of his long length and range at the center position that provides tremendous athleticisms to our front. Eddie is a young man of great faith and pride in his craft and unwillingness to accept failure. As a unanimous All-District 1st Team Selection, and top scholar athleteEddie will strive for excellence. He comes out of District 12 4A.” Cayden Ferrill LB • 5-10 • 210 Hallsville High School Tarleton Coaches Say: “Cayden was a 4 year varsity starter at Hallsville H.S. He started on both sides of the ball during his career at both RB and at LB. As a RB his sophomore year he was awarded ‘New Comer of the Year’ and ‘All East Texas’. He was also awarded “All East Texas” his Jr and Sr years as a LB/SS. His Sr. year earned APSE All-State HM and ETSN Super Team as a LB/SS. Cayden brings a lot of passion and tenacity to the Texan program.” Alex Gallegos TE/WR • 6-3 • 205 Dallas - H. Grady Spruce HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Alex attended the same high school as the former Tarleton State All-American Rufus Johnson at Spruce high school District 12-4A in Dallas. Alex possess a great new era to Tarleton state football because of his ability to stretch the field with speed and size, but also physical at the point of attack as a tight end. Alex led his team in reception and yardage, while averaging over 12 yards per catch. This Dallas native rank in the top of his class, while also receiving All-District 1st Team Honors. Alex had 362 yards receiving along with 6 Touchdowns. Alex was also recruited by: West A&M, Southern Illinois, and Texas A&M Commerce.” Ernest Gonzales TE/DE • 6-3 • 250 New Braunfels - Canyon HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Ernest is a big athletic athlete that played both sides of the ball for the Canyon Cougars earning 1st Team AllDistrict honors as a TE and Honorable mention as a DE. He will add more athleticism to Tarleton States big skill positions with his speed- running a 4.8 40 yard dash at 250 lbs. with room to grow. With his size, athleticism, and physicality Ernest caused a great deal of problems for opposing teams in District 25-5A. He possesses great hands along with exceptional blocking skills at the TE position. He was a physical presence on the defensive line as well showing his versatility as an athlete.” Elliott Hart DB • 5-11 • 170 Tyler - John Tyler HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Elliot who is a dual sport athlete, helped lead John Tyler High School District 16 4A “home of the mighty rose” to the State Semi-Finals were they played a great game. Elliot is an athlete who possesses great speed and skill with a tremendous passion on defense. As an All-District 1st Team selection and 1st Team All-Region, Elliot Lead his team defensively in interception/pass break-ups, while maintaining above a 3.0 GPA throughout high school. Elliot tallied 68 Tackles, 1 Fumble recovery, 1 Cause Fumble, 6 Interceptions and several other defensive stats. Elliot was also recruited by: Several Lone Star schools.” Brandon Johnson DE • 6-6 • 280 El Camino College • Westside HS (Evans, Ga.) Tarleton Coaches Say: “Brandon is an outstanding defensive lineman coming from El Camino College. Out of El Camino Brandon originally signed on to continue his collegiate career at the University of Cal Berkley. Brandon is a versatile defensive lineman that can play both DE and DT. Brandon was a Scout.com 2 star DE coming out of high school and a Rivals 3 star DE out of El Camino.”
Colby Johnson DE • 6-0 • 270 Texas City HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Colby is a DT who plays with a lot of emotion and is a guy who plays whistle to whistle. Colby jumped off the film to us because of his great get-off and how hard he plays the game of football. Colby’s awards include: 244A 1st Team All District DE (2012), 24-4A 2nd Team All District TE (2012), 24-4A 2nd Team All-District DE (2011), 24-4A Honorable Mention All-District DH in Baseball (2010) and THSCA Honorable Mention Academic All-State (2012).” Demarkus Lathan LB • 5-9 • 190 Longview HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Demarkus has had one of the best high school careers in this class. He is an instinctive LB with a nose for the ball. In 2010 he was the 11-5A Defensive Newcomer of the Year. He followed his SO year with an unbelievable JR campaing garnering the Texas 5A Defensive Player of the Year, Collin Street Bakery 5A All-State 1st team, APSE 5A All-State. For his senior year Demarkus was awarded APSE 5A Honorable Mention and 12-5A 1st Team All-District. Demarkus finished his career with 416 tackles, 43 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 14 PBU’s, 3 INT’s and 3 blocked kicks.” Sam Macklin LB • 6-1 • 185 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Sam was a new face this year to the Stephenville Football program. Sam is a long athlete who will bring speed to the football field as he is also a 110 High Hurdler. This was Sam’s first year to play LB and had to battle through an injury while helping the Stephenville Football Team to the Division II 3A State Title. This past season Sam had 76 Tackles (37 Solo / 39 Assist), 2 Sacks, 3 FF, 1 PBU and 3 TFL’s. Sam’s awards include: 7-3A Honorable Mention All-District ILB (2012) and 6-3A 2nd Team All-District OL (2011).” Kedric “Bubba” Mathis WR/RET • 5-7 • 160 Wichita Falls HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Bubba is a quick shifty WR/RET that is a threat every time he gets his hands on the ball. Bubba played multiple positions on the offense side of the ball in order to get the ball in his hands. Bubba will bring athleticism and speed to offensive and special teams of Tarleton. This past season Bubba had 36 catches for 560 yards and 3 TD’s. Bubba’s awards include: 2nd Team All-District and Offensive MVP for Wichita Falls Old High. Bubba’s older brother BJ Mathis also played for Coach Fowler at Midwestern. Tyler Pettit DB • 5-10 • 175 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Tyler is also a multiple sport athlete who will bring toughness to the Tarleton State Football program. Tyler played multiple positions this past season for Stephenville HS which included CB, SAF, and LB. This past season he helped lead the football team to the Division II 3A State Title. Tyler’s awards include: 7-3A 2nd Team All District DB (2012) and THSCA Honorable Mention Academic All-State (2012).”
Ethan Perkins DT • 5-10 • 300 Kilgore College • Nacadoches HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Ethan is from Nacadoches and comes to the Texans by way of Kilgore College. While at Kilgore Ethan helped lead his team to a 8-2 regular season record and bid to play in the Brazos Valley Bowl at Kyle Field. A dominant run stopper in the middle of the defense Ethan tallied 35 tackles, 3 tackles for loss and 2 sacks in 2012. At the conclusion of the 2012 season Ethan was named to All-Conference HM team.”
Mason Powledge TE • 6-5 • 255 Kilgore College • West HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Originally from West HS Mason continued on to play at Kilgore College. With Mason’s size and strength he has the ability to be dominant as a run blocker and as a receiver. Mason helped lead his team to an 8-2 regular season record and a bid to play in the Brazos Valley Bowl at Kyle Field. At the conclusion of the 2012 season Mason was awarded All-Conference HM as a TE.”
Justin Rayside DE • 6-3 • 260 Univ. of Indiana • Roosevelt HS (Corona, Calif.) Tarleton Coaches Say: “Justin is transferring from the University of Indiana by way of Riverside Community College. Rayside played two seasons for head coach Tom Craft at Riverside (Calif.) Community College. He posted 45 tackles, 6.5 sacks (41 yards), 12 tackles for loss (50), nine quarterback hurries, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble in 2011. Riverside finished the year 11-0 with a No. 5 national ranking and won the Golden State Bowl. Rayside was named a team captain and earned all-conference recognition. In 2010, Rayside delivered 52 tackles, four sacks (32), 11.5 tackles for loss (52), eight quarterback hurries, one fumble recovery, one forced fumble and two blocked kicks. Riverside posted a 10-1 record.”
Glenn Roberts RB/RET • 5-7 • 180 East Chambers HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Glenn is a shifty running back that will bring speed and elusiveness to the backfield. In his 3 year career he rushed for 5760 yards on 582 carries averaging 9.7 yards a carry. He totaled 99 TD’s scoring every way possible. Glenn was the Built Ford Tough Player of the Week and was named the Southeast Texas player of the year in all classifications. He is a two time All-State player, as well as Academic All-State. Glenn is also an AllRegion basketball player, and a regional qualifier in track running a 10.7 in the 100 meters.”
Jaylon Roberts WR • 5-10 • 170 Comanche HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Jaylon is a dynamic WR who played in a run oriented offense and was still able to garner all-district honors. Jaylon displayed great toughness this past season while battling a shoulder injury. This past season Jaylon had 19 Receptions for 280 yards and 5 TD’s, 12 Carries for 73 yards and 1 TD. Jaylon’s awards include: 4-2A 2nd Team All-District WR (2012) and 4-2A All-District WR (2011).”
Alex Sanchez WR/RET • 5-10 • 180 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Alex is a hard-nosed, tough, physical WR who competes in every aspect of football and life. We noticed Alex this summer during a 7 on 7 competition and was impressed with his competitiveness and it carried over throughout this past season. Alex also helped the Stephenville Football team to the Division II 3A State Title. This season Alex had 11 Carries for 188 yards and 1 TD; he had 51 Receptions for 735 yards and 5 TD’s. Alex’s awards include: 7-3A 1st Team All-District Utility Player (2012), 8-4A 1st Team All-District Utility Player (2011).” Torean Sheppard LB • 5-9 • 190 Longview HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Torean finished his senior year tied with another future Texan (Lathan) for their team lead in tackles with 138 on the year. Also, he was awarded one of the highest honors being named an THSCA Academic All-State selection. Torean was a 12-5A All-District 2nd team selection at LB for the 2012 season. He finished his career with 223 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 6 PBU’s and 3 forced fumbles.
EJ Speed QB/WR • 6-4 • 215 North Crowley HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “EJ is a 2 Star Rivals and 247 Sports Athlete. He is also a Top 30 QB in Dave Campbell’s Magazine this past fall. EJ is a special athlete that will bring tremendous size and speed to the offensive side of the ball. This past season EJ was 30/66 for 341 yards and 2 TD’s passing; he carried the ball 65 times for 349 yards and 3 TD’s; he had 30 receptions for 395 yards and 2 TD’s and he had 13 KOR for 306 yards. EJ’s awards include: 1st Team 3-5A All District WR. EJ was also recruited by Oklahoma State, Colorado State, Western Kentucky and UTEP.” Jared Thames DT/RB • 6-0 • 260 Glen Rose HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Jared is a 2 Star Rivals and 247 Sports DT. Jared is a great Defensive Tackle who also played multiple skill positions on the Offensive Side of the ball this past season. He will bring great athleticism and strength to the Tarleton DT position. This past season Jared had 75 Tackles, 15 TFL’s, 7.5 Sacks and 17 hurries playing DL. He also had 10 carries for 19 yards and 2 TD’s and 13 Receptions for 175 yards. Jared’s awards include: 7-3A Defensive Lineman of the Year (2012), THSPA Division II Power Lifting Champion (2012), Academic All-State (2012); and 8-3A Defensive Lineman of the Year (2011). Jared was also recruited by the Air Force Academy.” Chase Varnado DE • 6-1 • 235 Stephenville HS Tarleton Coaches Say: “Chase a dynamic football player who brings great emotion and effort to the table. It did not take long for us to realize what kind of impact that Chase made on Stephenville’s 3A Division II State Title Team. He demonstrates great leadership qualities on and off the field and will bring great passion to the Tarleton State Football Team. This past season Chase had 130 Tackles (45 Solo / 85 Assist), 14 Sacks, 44 TFL’s, 1 INT, 3 FF, 10 PBU’s and 1 Blocked Punt. On the Offensive side of the ball Chase had 7 Receptions for 128 yards and 2 TD’s. He also had3 KOR’s for 46 yards. Chase’s awards include: MaxPreps 2nd Team All-American DE (2012), 7-3A Defensive MVP (2012), THSCA All-State Honorable Academic All-State (2012), APSE 3A 1st Team All-State DL and 8-4A Honorable Mention DE (2011). Chase was also recruited by many schools in the LSC.”
