After coming on top against previous teams, the Leopards physically and mentally prepare for the homecoming game against Denison at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25. Following a win in their last game and a bye week, the Leopards come into the first district game confident.

On Sept. 11, the Leopards defeated Lake Dallas, 31-24, at Toyota Stadium. The team was down the first quarter (7-6), but took the lead in the second quarter and didn’t look back.

Denison High School is currently 2-1 with a week two loss from Argyle (2-1). Denison’s last game resulted in a 48-40 win against private school Trinity Christian Academy. Denison wide receiver Steven Wagoner caught for 268 yards and four touchdowns against TCA. Quarterback Hunter Watson threw for 312 yards and four scores, all to Wagoner. Denison tends to gain yardage by receiving instead of ground game.

“We watched film and learned from it,” senior safety Dakota Michaels said. “And we adjust to our mistakes and work on some little things that help us excel.”

Last season, the Leopards beat Denison, 55-42, also the first district game. Last year Lovejoy gave up 225 rushing yards, which might change due to Denison relying on pass game this season.

“[I’m very prepared for the game because] I feel very comfortable,” senior wide receiver Aaron Fuller said. “‘Cause I know I’m prepared and enjoy the competition.”

Fuller caught for 143 yards and three touchdowns against Lake Dallas. Senior quarterback Bowman Sells added 41 yards on the ground and a touchdown. The Leopard defense forced and recovered one fumble, and intercepted two passes from Lake Dallas quarterback Spencer Frederickson.