Looking to put 2020 behind them, the Plano East Panthers are ready to hit the gridiron.

It will begin much like 2020, with a matchup in the Tom Landry Classic against Allen. One of the strongest programs in Texas high school football, the Eagles represent a tough challenge behind the new head coach and former Arkansas leader Chad Morris. With the challenges ahead, here are the three keys to Plano East beating Allen at Eagle Stadium on Aug. 27.

1. Get pressure in the backfield

Allen comes into the season with one of the best offensive lines in the state of Texas.

Led by four-star recruit Neto Umeozulu, the Eagles have four offensive linemen who are over 260 pounds, and two who stand over 300. Along with Umeozulu, Allen has Jackson Newville, Austin Lopez and Nick Blessing up front who can push people around. That wall of linemen pave the way for running back Jaylen Jenkins, who scored nine touchdowns last season.

It’s a difficult task for Cedric Diggs, Chima Chineke and the Plano East defensive line, but they have to find a way to break through the Eagles at the line of scrimmage. If they cannot do that, it will be difficult to stop an Allen offense that has plenty of firepower at its disposal.

For the full story, see the August 26 issue or subscribe online.

By Kyle Grondin • [email protected]