No. 29 Fabens looks to make gains in Class 4A, Division 1

Editor's Note: The El Paso Times continues its high school football countdown with No. 29 Fabens. The Wildcats compete in Class 4A, Division 1 and begin practice on Monday, Aug. 5. The first game is Friday, Aug. 30.

Outlook for 2024 season

Fabens was solid in non-district play last year, going 3-2 in non-district play, but went 0-5 in district. The belief this year is that the team can build off a strong offseason and can be competitive in a nine-team district, which includes old rivals Clint, San Elizario and Mountain View.

A look back at 2023

The Wildcats defeated Chaparral, San Elizario and Tornillo and lost to Cathedral and Mountain View in close games. They also played Clint well in a late-season loss before falling, 28-7.

How the offense rates

Big things are expected from quarterback Jesus Jimenez-Martinez, who was a major playmaker last season and scored 10 touchdowns. Wide receivers Pedro Aguirre, Marcos Luna and offensive lineman Thomas Cruz will be key to the offense finding consistency.

More: HS football rankings What does Dave Campbell's Texas Football say about El Paso High School teams?

How the defense shapes up

Defensive end Johnathan Escobar is expected to be a leader on defense. Last year, he had 40 tackles and three sacks. Defensive back Javier Hernandez had 67 tackles last season and will be key to the team's success. Defensive linemen Francisco Ramos and Matthew Delgado will help anchor things up front.

What the coach George Levario is saying

"I like our quarterback a great deal, he's a playmaker," Fabens coach George Levario said. "We had a full offseason this year and that has been key for us. Our kids have put in good work. We are facing a new challenge with a bigger district, but I think we'll rise to the occasion."

What players Johnathan Escobar, Jesus Jimenez-Martinez are saying

"We're ready to take a shot at making the playoffs," Escobar said. "We have some good personnel on both sides of the ball and we have worked hard leading up to the season."

Added Martinez-Jimenez: "I'm excited for the season. We have a good group of playmakers on offense and I feel confident in our team going into the season. We'll have to improve in some areas but the potential is there."

More: HS Football News What does Dave Campbell's Texas Football say about El Paso High School teams?

Felix F. Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; @Fchavezeptimes on X

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: No. 29 Fabens looks to make gains in Class 4A, Division 1