After losing their first three games and scoring only six points, the Longhorns caught fire as they won five of their next seven to end an 18-year playoff drought. They lost to Clarendon in bidistrict, 10-7, after losing 46-0 to the Broncos in the second week.

Two key returnees are quarterback Cameron Gruhlkey and linebacker Brady Harwell, who was the district’s most valuable player on defense last season.

Chip Morris gives Gruhlkey a tall target to throw to at tight end, while Jordan Cook and Mikey Marasco anchor the offensive and defensive lines.

If the Longhorns pick up where they left off, they should contend for their second straight playoff berth.

2008 Record: 5-6 overall, 3-2 in District 3-1A. Lost to Clarendon, 10-7, in bidistrict.

Returning Experience: 22 lettermen; six offensive and eight defensive starters.

Players To Watch: Brady Harwell, RB-LB; Cameron Gruhlkey, QB-DB; Chip Morris, TE-DL; Mikey Marasco, OL-DL; Jordan Cook, OL-DL.

Promising Newcomers: John Tooley, OL-DL; Mason Cook, OL-DL; Reese Morris, TE-LB; Cody Roark, RB-DB; Chad Fangman, RB-DB.

Basic Offense: I-formation.

Basic Defense: 4-3.

Keys To Success: The Longhorns need to capitalize on the experience of Gruhlkey, who threw for more than 1,760 yards, and Chip Morris, who caught 13 passes and had five sacks. With eight returning starters on defense, they should be strong on that side of the ball.

High School Enrollment: 98.

2008 JV Record: None.

Playoff History: 1963, 1966 (regional championship), 1967, 1971, 1973 (state finalist), 1977, 1978, 1982 (regional), 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989 (area), 2008.