Body
After back-to-back non-conference losses, including a close 28-24 setback to Class 5A Joe T. Robinson’s junior varsity, Rison Coach Chris Vereen reminded his Wildcats that the “real season” begins at 7 p.m. Friday when they host the unbeaten Palestine-Wheatley Patriots to open 8-3A conference play. The Patriots are led by standout sophomore running back Adron Cooper and senior quarterback Brody Parker. Despite outgaining Robinson, four turnovers hurt Rison. Vereen said the Wildcats must improve ball security and defensive discipline, stressing that they need to play better assignment football. Vereen said he could be down to only 22 players after a couple came up ill this week.