Texas High School Football: Gregory-Portland ready to break playoff drought

PORTLAND — The confidence level and expectations for the Gregory-Portland have not changed even with a delayed start to the 2020 season.

The Wildcats have not made the playoffs since 2015, and that four-year playoff drought is the longest in the program since the late 1960s. Ending that drought is a prime goal for the team this season.

“This is going to be like a different year, and a different attitude approaching this year,” said senior wide receiver/defensive back Brian Harris. “We see ourselves going deep in the postseason and that’s just the attitude you have to have.”

Harris could be a key reason the Wildcats break the playoff drought. Harris missed four games last season but in the six games he did play, he was player that made defenses take notice. He caught 18 passes for 264 yards and had three touchdowns.

He could also see some time on defense this season. His on-field play, though, is only part of what he wants to do this season and that is be a leader for a team ready to challenge for playoff spot.

“I want to lead the younger guys — and we have a lot of young guys on this team this year — and show them the right way,” said Harris, whose family moved to the area nearly 15 years ago from New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. “I just want to make sure I’m being a great leader on the field and that can transfer to off the field. One leader translates to more leaders and keeping that positive attitude wins all.”

Rhoades said Harris’ athletic ability can make a difference for the Wildcats’ spread offense and they work to find a quarterback this season. Senior Gage Gleinig and Devon Mach are battling for the position during early-season workouts.

“In our offense with the spread, you’ve got to have some playmakers at receiver and that’s the thing … Brian has a different gear,” Gregory-Portland head coach Rick Rhoades said. “He’s got good vision but once he’s in the open he’s got a different gear. He’ll be a big part of our offense, a big part of our special teams.”

GREGORY-PORTLAND WILDCATS

Coach: Rick Rhoades

District: 15-5A Division I

2019 record: 6-4 (3-4 in District 15-5A Division II)

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Len Hayward is the USA Today Sports Network Plains Region sports director and the Caller-Times sports editor. Support more coverage like this by checking out our subscription options and special offers at Caller.com/subscribe