VIDOR —
Last year was amazing, now the expectations are extremely high for the Vidor Pirates as they open their season at home Friday against the Santa Fe Indians.
The Pirates finished 10-3 last season, advancing to the third round of the playoffs for the first time ever, led by Coach Jeff Mathews.
The Pirates’ bidistrict win over Crosby was the school’s first playoff win since 1964. The Pirates went on to defeat Montgomery in the area round before falling to Angleton in the Region III semifinals.
The cupboard is far from bare entering the fray this season as the Pirates return 14 starters, nine on defense.
Quarterback Montana Quirante is back to lead the offense after the Pirates averaged 360.5 yards a game. Quirante rushed for 1,030 yards and 20 touchdowns and passed for 353 yards and a score. Look for Sage SMith, Jeremy Stephenson, D.J. Aull, Justin Moore and Michael Godeaux to step up toting the ball.
Quirante, The Orange Leader’s 2011 Player of the Year, sparks the defense as well, along with defensive lineman Johnboy Smith and defensive back Bryce Cooper.
The Indians of Santa Fe finished 3-7 last season, 1-5 in District 24-4A, that includes Pearland Dawson, Texas City, Friendswood, Goose Creek Memorial, Baytown Lee, Galena Park and Galveston Ball.
Coach Jay Buckner has five starters back on offense and four on defense. Players to watch on offense includes quarterback Ryan Skufca and tight end Colton Davis.
The Pirates will take a short road trip Sept. 7 when they head to Bridge City to face the Cardinals.
Sports Headlines
GRID PREVIEW: Santa Fe at Vidor
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Ridge Point steals one from Lady Bears in Game One
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Big early start propels Tigers past Bobcats, 5-1
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Lady Bears ready for 'speedy' Ridge Point
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All-District 20-4A Softball Team
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All-District 21-3A Softball Team
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Sports briefs: Ragsdale All-Region at San Jac
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Mustangs net second-place state track finish
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Lady Bears, Cards, Bobcats playoffs set
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Red-hot Bobcats get Silsbee next
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Bobcats force Game 3 against 21-3A rival Tigers
