On Monday afternoon, Lufkin head football coach Carl Abseck participated in a question-and-answer session led by Edwin Quarles, the sports editor of the Lufkin Daily News. The Lufkin Panthers wrapped up their regular season with a commanding 52-14 victory over Galveston Ball, finishing with a record of 7-3 overall and 4-2 in District 9-5A Division I. They are set to enter the playoffs as the No. 3 seed, trailing only district champion Port Arthur Memorial and second-place Barbers Hill.
Lufkin has shown strong momentum, winning their last two games, including a notable 31-16 victory against Beaumont United, who finished fourth in the district. The Panthers will kick off their playoff journey at 2 PM on Saturday against Houston Westbury at Butler Stadium in Houston. Westbury, boasting a record of 9-1 and finishing second in District 10-5A Division I, presents a formidable challenge.
In the Q&A, Quarles inquired about Westbury”s performance throughout the season. Coach Abseck noted that the team has been impressive, losing only once to Houston Madison. He emphasized their high-scoring offense and strong defensive capabilities, making it essential for Lufkin to maintain clear communication regarding their offensive blocking schemes.
The recent success of Lufkin”s offense, particularly in the last two games, was also a topic of discussion. Abseck highlighted the team”s improved execution and practice strategies that have contributed to their scoring success. He mentioned that spreading the ball among various players has made their offense more unpredictable and harder to defend.
Quarterback Javion Johnson has been a key element in this offensive strategy, with an increased number of designed runs recently. Abseck acknowledged that this dynamic adds complexity to the defense”s preparations, making it more challenging for opponents to anticipate their plays. However, the coaching staff has been cautious not to overexert Johnson, aiming to keep him healthy as the playoffs approach.
Special teams have also garnered attention, especially following Devon Wallace“s impressive kickoff returns, which included a 53-yard and a 91-yard touchdown. While Abseck praised these accomplishments, he admitted that there is still work to be done in improving overall coverage during kickoffs.
Defensively, Abseck expressed confidence in his unit”s continued growth. He noted that they have consistently improved throughout the season and that their understanding of the game has deepened, allowing for more effective execution of various defensive strategies. Abseck anticipates that this defensive strength will be crucial as they enter the postseason.
With the playoffs on the horizon, the Lufkin Panthers are focused on their preparations and are determined to make an impact in the postseason.
