Xtreme fall in season debut

The Athens based Texas Xtreme semi-professional football team opened the 2008 season Saturday against the host, North Dallas Cowboys and lost the game 18-0.

Xtreme owners Gary Craig and Larry Anding were embarrassed with the team's worst offensive performance in their 7-year team history. Not only did the Xtreme suffer the most turnovers in team history with 8 total as well as suffering the only game ever the Xtreme offense was held scoreless.

Craig and Anding made a decision in October to turn the head coach and offensive coordinator job over to 7-year Xtreme veteran Brandon Thompson. Thompson, an Athens native is a 6-time league All Star and a multiple National All American selection as well as team quarterback and runningback.

Thompson was also disappointed after dedicating many hours of practice to preparing his offense. The Xtreme offense simply never got in rhythm. Thompson will evaluate his offensive players and make adjustments and personnel changes for the next scheduled game. The offensive unit has a mere four returning starters from last year's team. Offensive standouts were Allen Stallings, Chris Ross, Jerry Martin and Eric Williams.

The Xtreme defense with only six starters from last year's team surrendered one touchdown after a short threeplay drive, and the PAT failed as the Cowboys took a 6-0 halftime lead.

During the first half, the Cowboys found themselves in three additional scoring opportunities. Following an interception, the Cowboys started from the Xtreme 39- yard-line followed by an Xtreme 15-yard penalty. The drive was stopped as a result of a Jason Anding interception. Following a fumble the Cowboys recovered the ball at the Xtreme 16-yard line. The Cowboys were once again a recipient of an Xtreme penalty that moved the ball to the 8- yard line.

After a strong defensive stand the Cowboys' field goal attempt was foiled by Jason Anding. Following yet another Xtreme turnover the Cowboys took over at the Xtreme 2-yard-line, but could not convert as a result of another strong defensive stand. The Cowboys scored two defensive touchdowns the second half following botched Xtreme hand-off exchanges. Their PAT and 2-point conversion failed. After another Xtreme fumble the Cowboys took over at the Xtreme 20- yard-line, but were once again held scoreless.

Defensive standouts were Jason Anding, Lonterio Osborn, Kerry Yarbrough, Allen Beasley, Flem Kindle, Lance Powell, Montez Wade, Kalian Vinson, and Brandon Lyons.

The Xtreme will host their long-time rival Greenville Oilers on Saturday, March 1 at Brownsboro High School Stadium. Kickoff time is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. For additional information contact Gary Craig at 903-288-6224 or Larry Anding at 903-677-2248.