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Football prognosticators rank Rockdale team in top 10
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As football season inches closer, TexasFootball.com released their Class 3A Division 1 Preseason Rankings this past Thursday. The Rockdale Tigers came in at No. 7.

“I’m not a big fan of rankings because they don’t mean very much,” said RHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Jacob Campsey. “I’m sure some of the guys think it’s cool but I don’t want to hear too much about it. We haven’t done anything yet.”

Texas Football’s Fizz Rankings, a social media ranking system that uses algorithms, also released their numbers of the top 10, 3A I, fiveyear dynasties and Rockdale came in ranked at No. 9.

“To me that’s a little bit more important, ” Campsey said. “We have been a top 10 program for a while now. I want these kids to take pride in that, and I want to continue the winning tradition.”

As the Campsey Era begins, the Tigers return with a talented roster and one that’s ready to win. He expects to have an explosive offense as the Tigers have many returning playmakers at its disposal.

Key players include Cam’ron Valdez who ranks as the number four all-purpose running back in the country, according to rivals.com, a college recruiting website. Another player to watch is wide receiver Kesean Raven, the Tiger who leads the team with 42 catches and 864 yards last season.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Tigers will return eight starters from last season. Campsey said he couldn’t name just one player who he expects to make an impact.

“I’m really excited about our entire front seven,” Campsey said. “We’re returning all four of our linebackers and they are all very talented. I expect our three defensive linemen to play well also.”

Since Rockdale enters t he season with high expectations, Campsey explained his two goals for the team this season.

“One of our goals is to win the tough district ball games,” He said. “We’ve struggled when the lights are the brightest, and we will have to find a way to win the close games. Also, this group hasn’t won a bi-district title yet, so we have to start winning more playoff games.”

The Tigers will open the season on the road against the La Grange Leopards on Aug. 28.