VYPE 5A -- No. 11 The Cypress Ranch Mustangs

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Cypress Ranch Mustangs

Hop in the Ford and Let's Ride

Head Coach: Gene Johnson

Overall 2011 Record: 6-4

Postseason: No Appearance

By Matt Malatesta

CUTLINE: The top Ranch Hands for the Mustangs are Hunter Klaifas and Keith Ford.

A year ago, no one picked Dekaney High School to win a state championship. No one. Running back Trey Williams willed his team to take home the hardware and his legacy is now cemented in Texas high school football folklore.

Cypress Ranch running back Keith Ford (Oklahoma-commit) could be that guy in 2012. While he's been a little banged up the past two seasons, Ford could completely steal the Houston-area headlines this year, leading the Mustangs to a playoff appearance.

But he's going to need some help. And that help already has some state championship hardware of their own.

Baseball players Corbin Martin and Bryce Johnson helped lead the Mustangs to the Class 5A state baseball championship back and June and bring some swagger to the football field.

"Corbin could follow up this season with a big fall at quarterback for us, while Bryce is a bona fide receiver for us with college potential," coach Gene Johnson said.

Another nice weapon for the Mustang offense is hybrid Hunter Kliafas (6-foot-3, 210-pounds), who can block and catch passes equally well.

Which brings us to the defensive side of the ball. Cypress Ranch is going to have to make a stand this season against some high-powered offenses. Nick Cornman, Jimmy Russell, Cullen Cox and L.J. Beckford need to pressure the quarterback and slow down opposing running games, while Randy Noel and Miles Flowers will be called on to manage the secondary.

#threepointstance

The offense appears that the pieces will be in place, so it's up to the defense to make stops and keep Cypress Ranch in games. Playing Cinco Ranch in Dynamo Stadium in Week 0 is a great test for both schools, but will reveal what the Mustangs have on the defense line. Keith Ford must stay healthy and be willing to carry this team to the playoffs.

2012 Schedule

8/31 Cinco Ranch (At Dynamo Stadium)

9/07 OPEN

9/13 Cy Creek

9/22 @ Jersey Village

9/28 Langham Creek

10/6 @ Cy Ridge

10/12 Cy Lakes

10/20 @ Cy Woods

10/26 Cy Fair

11/3 Cy Springs

11/9 @ Cy Falls