Eight months of fruition comes to roost today as the Southside Mavericks open the 2017 season against the No. 1 state-ranked Har-Ber Wildcats.

There is plenty of reason for optimism.

“I think it is the unknown it is the part of the journey that each football team goes through,” Williams said. “We like to call it the process. There are different steps in a season, and this is step one.”
The Mavericks didn’t waste time prepping for the 2017 season. On the heels of a 3-7 campaign, the Mavericks are eager to put their work to the test.

“Our guys have been very committed going into this season,” Southside coach Jeff Williams said. “We know we have a young football team, but our guys are looking forward to the season.”

The Mavericks’ roster includes a dozen seniors.

Junior quarterback Taye Gatewood, who earned some playing time last season, takes over on a full-time basis. The re-vamped offensive line hopes to clear a path for Ricardo Savoy and newcomer Kale Barcheers.

Southside’s new-look offense will be tested early against a stout Har-Ber defense. The Wildcats and Mavericks have played a lot of close games throughout the years — except for the last two

Har-Ber defeated Southside, 37-7, in 2015, and the Wildcats opened the season last year with a 47-0 victory.

The key, Williams said, is simple.

“Well, you run your system offensively,” he said. “Yes, they do have a very good defense; one of the best in the state. We have to take care of the football and some some explosive plays and execute.”

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