It's a history making season for Cedar Park. The Timberwolves are one win away from
a state title, and teams across Texas are finding out what "Black Rain" is all about.

"We've been calling our defense at Cedar Park Black Rain for a long time it's been a tradition. The guys before us set standards and then we've got our standards. Black Rain, that's what we've been calling ourselves ever since," Cedar Park linebacker Jackson Paine said.

The Black Rain defense soaked Manor in Saturday's state semifinal forcing six turnovers and scoring on a fumble recovery. Defense like that has been the formula for Cedar Park success all season.

"Getting a turnover on defense and scoring on defense is a great thing, and if you can get the ball back to the offense or you can put points up, even on the defensive side of the ball, than you're doing something right," said Paine.

Paine has been doing a lot things right. He's the team's co-captain, one of the district's
standout defensive players and a powerhouse of playoff experience.

"They're huge leadership wise. Our seniors, that's a group a guys that have been through the playoff experience, they've been through the heartache," Timberwolves coach Joe Willis said.

Cedar Park beat Manor 40-14, avenging a loss in last year's quarterfinal round.

"Hard work is what we've been doing," Paine said. "We've been working since last off-season everyday. Hard work, blood and tears and sweat. It's what we do. Getting here is just a relief. We've got one game left."

Cedar Park plays Lancaster Friday night at Cowboys Stadium in the Class 4A, Division II championship game.