This is the 17th of The Athlete’s Connection’s 30 football previews in 30 days leading up to the season-opening games beginning Thursday, Aug. 28. Today, Chad Washington takes a look at Morton Ranch and Seven Lakes in District 17-5A: 

 
MORTON RANCH
Nickname: Mavericks
Colors: Purple and Black
Enrollment: 2,880
2007 record: 1-9, 0-6 in district
Coach: Scott Svendsen
Returning lettermen: 4

A team still looking to find itself, Morton Ranch hopes that new coach Scott Svendsen can turn the young Maverick program around. In two years, the Mavs have only one win, and that came on the last game of last season against Alief Taylor.

The offense will rely on leadership from quarterback Joseph Mitchell and running back Owen Venson, while wide receiver Nashon Davis will use his 6-foot-2 frame to help the passing game. The offensive line will be led by Martin Balch.

On defense, the Mavs will go with a 5-2 defensive scheme, meaning that they will be tough to run against. Svendsen will look to linebacker Rashaad Patterson to be the leader of the front seven, with end Etuale Zahnley hoping to control the line. Defensive back Trey Horton will lead the secondary.

Morton Ranch will face tough teams like Langham Creek and Tomball, but could get wins in games against Fort Bend Travis and Foster. The Mavs’ district opener will be a tough one against Katy on Oct. 10.

SEVEN LAKES
Nickname: Spartans
Colors: Orange and Blue
Enrollment: 2,325
2007 record: 1-9, 1-4
Coach: Kevin O’Keefe
Returning lettermen: 18

Despite winning one game in two years at the 4A level, some believe that Seven Lakes will not only start to win at the 5A level, but maybe even garner a playoff spot.

That optimism comes from the returning players on offense, including quarterback Dalton Livingston and wide receivers Anthony Kendrick and Steve McCormack. Kendrick -- with his 6-foot-3 frame -- is quick and can make tough catches, especially downfield. McCormack is Livingston’s go-to guy and can be a very reliable option. Running back Dominique Harris is the starter, with sophomore Dominic Rose as his backup. The line should be strong with tackle Devin Shaw and center Collin Fissell.

The defense also has some key players back, including linebacker Brad Snowden, defensive tackle Jacob Solaita, linebacker Andre Schmitt and safety Lyle Beloney.

Seven Lakes should benefit from its non-district schedule, with games against Dulles, Foster and Northbrook to open play. The Spartans first-ever game against another Katy ISD team will be against Mayde Creek Oct. 10 at Rice Stadium.

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