Off the field, they're nearly inseparable and rarely miss a pre-football power nap. On the field, the Belton receivers still are very similar, running great routes and rarely dropping a pass thrown in their direction.

The senior captains have become so dependable during the past two seasons that their steady, non-flashy performances can easily get overshadowed by other Tigers, particularly their stout defense of late. They always seem to be right there when Belton needs them. They've developed such a consistency that they even think the same way.

When both were asked how they'd describe their roles on the team, the 6-6, 195-pound Lepak answered: "Leaders and playmakers."

The 6-3, also 195-pound Thornton agreed: "Leaders especially."

It's their leadership that helped the Tigers (8-1 overall, 5-1 District 12-5A) earn a playoff berth this season for the first time since 2003. And their leadership has Belton on the cusp of a league championship if it beats Bryan (5-4, 4-2) at 7:30 p.m. Friday on Senior Night at Tiger Field.

It's debatable that no Belton combination has been as important to the Tigers' turnaround. Thornton and Lepak have combined for 150 of their 167 total catches, including several for key third downs during the past two seasons.

cmeister@temple-telegram.com