College Park football: What to expect in 2017

THE WOODLANDS, Texas-- The 2016 season left the College Park Cavaliers with a lot to think about. Not only did their team go 1-9 last season and missed another playoff but long-time coach Richard Carson announced his retirement from the team.

Carson called College Park his home since 2005 and left a legacy behind him as he started the football program from scratch. Carson has racked up more than 100 wins as head coach with his three schools (Aldine, Eisenhower, and College Park).

With Carson leaving, College Park has brought in former Klein Collins Defensive Coordinator, Lonnie Madison.

2017 looks promising with Madison in the mix but the Cavaliers still have a lot of question marks on how they will respond to a disappointing 2016 season.

College Park always has a tough schedule and this season they should expect the same. Here are some games to keep your eye out for this season:

9/2 vs. Pasadena Memorial

College Park will face off against an always tough Pasadena squad to start off their season and all their questions will have to be answered by September 2nd to really make a statement this season.

10/13 vs. Oak Ridge

Oak Ridge is another team this season that look like they will have a pretty good season. Although the War Eagles were 4-6 last season they have a lot of important tools returning this season. QB Bishop Durst is one returner that could give College Park a challenge in their meeting this season.

11/10 vs The Woodlands

Of course The Woodlands will always be a key game for College Park because of the rivalry between the two schools. The Woodlands were State runner-ups last season and College Park get to end their season with one of the best programs in the state at number 4 according to MaxPreps.

A big loss for College Park this season is WR Chase Lane. Lane recently transferred to St. Pius X from College Park and that leaves a big hole for College Park. Lane also recently committed to Texas A&M in June and had a monster season as a sophmore. In 2016 he had 42 receptions and more than 400 yards receiving.

College Park has a lot to look forward to this upcoming season and Coach Madison will have to teach a new system but in the end I give College Park a playoff bid and a 5-5 record.