Division 4A-1 Week 1 Preview: Argyle vs. Decatur

On Friday, August 28th, there will be an Eagle showdown between Argyle and Decatur. Both of these teams are ranked within the top 15 of Division 4A-1, so this matchup could certainly be one of the more competitive ones across the DFW area this week.

Both of these teams are coming off of devastating playoff losses from last season. Decatur lost at the regionals in a very close 38 to 35 game against Dumas, while Argyle made it to the quarterfinals and was shut down by Waco La Vega in a 44 to 20 final. However, despite both teams’ unfortunate losses, they have consistently made it to the playoffs and continue to be exceptional teams in Division 4A-1.

Argyle and Decatur have played against each other 6 times since 2005 and Argyle has won every match except for their meetup in 2006. Argyle has typically dominated these games, with each of their wins since 2008 being decided by at least 24 points. However, significant changes in these teams could shift that fact this season.

Both teams have lost at least 20 seniors from last year, so the “next man up” mentality could play a huge role in how these teams perform. Compounded by the fact that COVID-19 has impacted the way teams have interacted, the chemistry amongst each team could play an equally important role.

One of the biggest losses for Argyle in this upcoming season is star quarterback Bo Hogeboom. In his senior year, Hoegboom threw for over 3,700 yards and 56 touchdowns. Throughout his four years as an Argyle Eagle, Hogeboom played a tremendous role in earning the team an impressive 49-4 record.

Luckily for Argyle, one of their other biggest offensive weapons in wide receiver Cole Kirkpatrick will return for this season. Kirkpatrick was arguably the best wideout in all of Division 4A last season, receiving for almost 1,700 yards and 28 touchdowns. His overall skill and experience with the team should play a huge role in how this offense pushes the ball all season.

Decatur also lost a big-time quarterback in Roman Fuller, who was second in total passing last season in Division 4A-1 with 3,909 yards thrown. The University of Tulsa commit currently ranks fifth in the Texas High School Football record book for single-season passing completions with 345 completions in the 2018 season. The loss of his presence on the field will definitely impact the offensive identity for Decatur.

On the defensive side of the ball, safety Jackson Carroll will return for Decatur this season. He led the team in total tackles with 156 of them (4th in total tackles in Division 4A-1). His defensive prowess could play a big role in stopping an adjusting Argyle offense. As both a senior and a defensive leader on this team, Carroll will likely have a significant influence on how cohesive that unit will be.

Considering that both teams have lost significant leadership on their teams, I think this game will be close. However, the Argyle squad seems to have more players with overall experience and that should be enough to give them the edge in this matchup against Decatur. However, if Decatur can adjust to losing their seniors better than Argyle, they certainly have a fair chance.

Gavin’s Prediction: Argyle to win by 7 points