This weekend, the El Campo Ricebirds made the long trek to Boerne to play the Champion Chargers. Leading El Campo, 2023 five-star running back Rueben Owens has been off to a hot start to the season, including 283 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns against Port Lavaca Calhoun. However, Champion is the state’s sixth-ranked team in the 5A Division II classification and presented an early challenge for the Ricebirds.
Week Five:
Owens, who de-committed from the Longhorns in June, remains a top priority for Texas in recruiting. Unfortunately for the Longhorns, Owens is also a top priority for many other powerhouse programs, including Georgia, where Owens happened to visit last weekend. Despite interest from other schools, Texas appears to still be well in the mix for Owens, who could (once again) potentially become the first pledge in Texas’s 2023 recruiting class.
Thanks to Owens, the Ricebirds were in the driver’s seat from the very jump. Adding insult to injury for Boerne Champion was 2022 athlete DK Ward, who also had an impressive outing as he showcased his breakaway speed with both a rushing and receiving touchdown.
According to his 247Sports profile, Ward is still waiting to receive a collegiate offer. Yet, I see potential in his ability and believe that he could see a rise in his recruiting stock as the playoffs approach.
It must be noted that Boerne Champion was without seven of their starters due to injury, but El Campo absolutely handled business. Ultimately, the Chargers were able to get on the scoreboard, but it was a lopsided 55-10 loss to the state’s sixth-ranked team in the 4A Division I classification.
Extra Point:
I have covered some great running backs during my time watching Texas high school football, however Owens’ ability to change directions might be the best that I have seen in person. His jukes are not just effective, they are quick. Additionally, Owens is not afraid to bounce off of would-be tacklers – adding to his value as a running back. Furthermore, Owens appears to have the ability to contribute in the passing game, best evidenced by the hand skills he displayed at safety.
Miles Logged:
193 miles (Total)
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