SIMMS, Texas—When talk turns to football contenders in District 17-A, James Bowie is rarely in the conversation.

Defending champion Maud with the majority of last year’s state semifinalist team returning and newcomers Big Sandy and Hawkins, down from Class 2A, are generally considered as the three postseason favorites in the league.

James Bowie’s 3-0 start, its best since 1991, may not have changed many opinions so far, but it is cause for excitement in the Simms community. And while fourth-year head coach Jamey Thomas shares in the exuberance, he’s probably the least s...

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