2019 Pigskin Preview: Ground Offensive by muskogeephoenix

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PIGSKIN Checotah’s Dontierre Fisher, Wagoner’s Chochee Watson, Msukogee’s Jimmie Coleman, Fort Gibson’s Tavien Woodworth and Hilldale’s Darrin Hays are among the top ball carriers returning in 2019.

Ground

Offensive Inside  Team Previews  schedules  Predictions  Trends & Tidbits  Players Tell All

MUSKOGEE muskogeephoenix.com

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Ground

Offensive Inside  Team Previews  schedules  Predictions  Trends & Tidbits  Players Tell All

MUSKOGEE muskogeephoenix.com

PIGSKIN PREVIEW

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

TEAM PAGES MUSKOGEE, 4

Fearless Forecast CLASS 6AI (STATEWIDE) 1. Broken Arrow 2. Union 3. Owasso 4. Jenks 5. Edmond Santa Fe 6. Norman 7. Westmoore 8. PC North 9. Norman North 10. Moore

Class 6A-II 1. Bixby 2. Stillwater 3. Tulsa Washington 4. Muskogee 5. Del City 6. Lawton 7. Midwest City 8. Sand Springs 9. Sapulpa 10. Choctaw

6AII-2 1. Bixby. 2. T. Washington. 3. Muskogee. 4. Sapulpa 5. Sand Springs. 6. Shawnee. 7. Bartlesville. 8. Ponca City.

CLASS 5A (STATEWIDE) 1. Carl Albert 2. McGuinness 3. Collinsville 4. MacArthur 5. Bishop kelley 6. Guthrie 7. Tahlequah 8. Duncan 9. Ardmore 10. Piedmont

5A-4 1. Collinsville. 2. Tahlequah. 3. Skiatook. 4. Claremore. 5. Pryor. 6. East Central., 7. Memorial. 8. Rogers.

CLASS 4A (STATEWIDE) 1. Tuttle 2. Wagoner 3. Bethany 4. Weatherford 5. Poteau 6. Broken Bow 7. Clinton

8. Blanchard 9. Fort Gibson 10. Hilldale

4A-3 1. Wagoner. 2. Bristow. 3. Oologah. 4. Grove. 5. Catoosa. 6. Cleveland. 7. Miami. 8. McLain.

4A-4 1. Poteau. 2. Broken Bow. 3. Fort Gibson. 4. Hilldale. 5. Sallisaw. 6. Tulsa Central. 7. Muldrow. 8. Stilwell.

CLASS 3A (STATEWIDE) 1. Heritage Hall 2. Lincoln Christian 3. Plainview 4. Berryhill 5. Kingfisher 6. Sulphur 7. Stigler 8. Cascia Hall 9. Verdigris 10. Checotah

3A-3 1. Lincoln Christian. 2. Stigler. 3. Checotah. 4. Seminole. 5. Idabel. 6. Okmulgee. 7. Roland. 8. Webster.

CLASS 2A (STATEWIDE) 1. Millwood 2. Metro Christian 3. Jones 4. Washington 5. Holland Hall 6. Beggs 7. Vian 8. Eufaula 9. Kingston 10. Adair

2A-3 1. Beggs. 2. Sperry. 3. Victory Christian. 4. Haskell. 5. Keifer. 6. Morris. 7. Dewey. 8. Caney Valley.

2A-5 1. Holland Hall. 2. Vian. 3. Sequoyah. 4. Spiro. 5. Panama. 6. Keys. 7. Westville. 8. Pocola.

2A-6 1. Eufaula. 2. Hugo. 3. Valliant. 4. Hartshorne. 5. Antlers. 6. Atoka. 7. Heavener. 8. Wilburton.

CLASS A (STATEWIDE) 1. Cashion 2. Minco 3. Rejoice Chrisitian 4. Thomas 5. Frederick 6. Stroud 7. Ringling 8. Boone 9. Gore 10. Pawhuska

HILLDALE, 8 FORT GIBSON, 12 WAGONER, 14 EUFAULA, 16 CHECOTAH, 19 TAHLEQUAH, 20

A-8

SEQUOYAH, 20

1. Gore. 2. Sallisaw Central. 3. Hulbert. 4. Talihina. 5. Porter. 6. Warner. 7. Savanna.

KEYS, 21

CLASS B (STATEWIDE) 1. Davenport 2. Shattuck 3. Laverne 4. Regent Prep 5. Dewar 6. Cherokee 7. Seling 8. Depew 9. Snyder 10. Canadian

HULBERT, 21 STIGLER, 22 HASKELL, 22 VIAN, 24

B-6

GORE, 25

1. Dewar. 2. Keota. 3. Gans. 4. Porum. 5. Cave Springs. 6. Arkoma.

WARNER, 27

CLASS C (STATEWIDE) 1. SW Covenant 2. Pond Creek-Hunter 3. Tipton 4. Graham 5. Sharon Mutual 6. Covington-Douglas 7. Sharon-Mutual 8. Buffalo 9. Coyle 10. Midway

C-4 1. Graham. 2. Midway. 3. Paoli. 4. Webbers Falls. 5. Sasakwa. 6. Bowlegs, 7. Wilson.

PORTER, 28 PORUM, 29 MIDWAY, 30 WEBBERS FALLS, 30 ALSO: Pigskin Preview Preseason team, 7 Trends, 10 Schedules, 11 One final look back, 32

PIGSKIN PREVIEW

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

Almost at 20, and a lot has changed. A lot has come full circle too. And here we go. My 19th year in this spot has arrived. It’s not the well-rounded 20th yet, but close enough that as I gaze at the area’s rosters, I can be assured that in all but a few cases, these kids weren’t born when I headed out to Claremore for a matchup between that Sequoyah school and the Hilldale Hornets on a Friday in 2001 — sadly, the last of the routine work weeks for employees in the Twin Towers. One of those kids in action that Friday night, one Jeramy Branchcomb, is now an administrator at Checotah. He got there by way of Northeastern State and J.C. Penney, and would have made a fine retailer had he not gone the coach/educator route. It was a press box with no flat working surface, a press box not quite finished. Prior to that the last high school football press box I’d been in was the old Texas Stadium in Irving for a playoff game. But then, that wasn’t much of a step up from some of the campus facilities even then. Places like Odessa’s Ratliff Stadium, the long time home of Friday Night Lights, was older at that point than the facility Bob Stoops will coach in next year at the Ballpark in Arlington, even though it has been used for baseball in-

Mike Kays Phoenix Sports Editor

stead of football. That year, settling in as sports editor, I was the Hornets football beat guy. I must say, Hornet Field has changed for the better. There was a hole in the floor of the press box that then stadium announcer Larry Shanks would always warn me about on the climb up. Only once was there a near brush with death — I just had to holler at someone below to run my notepad up to me. I did get one look at the Roughers that year, at Jenks. That trip inspired the column “Can Muskogee be a Jenks?” featuring some thoughts from Ron Lancaster. Bear in mind this transplanted Okie wasn’t fully aware of the impact of Ron Freeman just weeks into my time here, but I was getting acquainted with the other Ron, then at Sallisaw. That Ron wound up in Muskogee a few years later, and the Roughers became a form of Jenks again. The restructure included one of the finest press boxes in Oklahoma. I never had to walk the floors of the old stack box that word has it, when it was torn down, one of the

trusses was rotting. I dodged that one, but I did catch a game one night between a winless Okay team and a winless Hulbert team in a box that, when the wind blew, it became scary. Football at Okay, and that press box, is no more. But now. I begin my 19th year with new hurdles. The OSSAA has decided to not issue “playoff passes” at the outset of the year. Long recognized as a key to entry at every high school facility in the Sooner state from week one, we’re now on our own, which might pose a problem at locations outside the area

— and that’s just to get in. A place in our office away from the office is like winning the lottery these days with radio, a webcast team (which can be an entire classroom) VIP fundraiser sections, and of course, the good ol’ boy networks taking priority. But through it all, it’s been fun. I’ve covered four state championship teams at Wagoner, the resurgence, decline and second resurgence of Muskogee football, and I’ve worked long enough to see a guy named Pookie leave town and return home. Maybe if there’s a

20th, I’ll go back and find 20 of the best highlights, and maybe even an all-career team. But in the meantime, all 19 teams in the semifinals would be perfect for a 19th year. Special to this year’s preview: a contribution from what I call one of the state’s prep historians, Tommy Cobb, on trends and other news heading into this season. Also, I’ve given in to the culture and we now have, for this sport, a preseason team. It’s just a first team, not the expanded 40-man roster type we’ll do in December

with our sister paper in Tahlequah. The focus is narrow, and also speculative, based on what the kids have done and a few projections. Players, if you’re not on there, well, remember the saying — Bob Knight said it, Darrel Royal said it, Bill Parcells said it — potential just means you haven’t done it yet. It’s not where you start, but where you finish. So this is potentially a group for December, but the real race to get there starts Friday. Good luck to all. Remember, 19 teams in the semifinals. Let’s get to kickoff.

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

PIGSKIN PREVIEW

M US KO G E E

Confidence brims in Rougherland Staff, players feel like Muskogee’s time has arrived with evolution of right system By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com This team, Rafe Watkins’ sixth at Muskogee and entering his second quarter century of coaching all told, has him out of his element. He is hesitant to boast too prematurely, hesitant to single Watkins out kids as potential stars. But this team forces his hand a bit. There’s Ty Coleman Williams, his junior quarterback. “I’ve been blessed to have seven all-state quarterbacks in the last 26 years and he’ll be Ashley the best I’ve ever had,” said Watkins. “I’m pretty guarded on how I brag on kids, but the things he can do in the open field with the bootlegs and rollouts, and people don’t realize how far his passing has come along.” Jimmie Coleman is a third-year starter at running back with over 1,400 yards a year ago. Aside

him in a two-tailback alignment is Maurice Chaplin. Two more, Caleb Webb and Isaiah Givens, are more of a power style pair who could see their share of time. The depth and emphasis on the run game reminds Watkins of the place he won four state titles at. Williams He has a new offensive coordinator, John Graham, back at Muskogee after two seasons Biglow at Prague, and two continuing assistants who are all too familiar with those successful offenses at Guthrie Wilson – quarterbacks coach Keaton Callins and running backs coach Kye Staley. “It’s coming together to be everything I like, which is run-oriented, and passing-wise, focusing on the short pass, play-action, bootlegs and roll outs, and it’s because we really have those kind of kids now,” Watkins said.

Phoenix file photo

Muskogee quarterback Ty Williams hands off to Jimmie Coleman. The two will be again integral to the Roughers’ offensive success. Yet, all along, the ultimate success is hidden in the ingredients. Go back to year one. Watkins, just out of a 51-13 loss against Tulsa Washington and looking like he’d been kicked in the gut at the end of a 3-7

campaign, vowed a transformation of the offseason weight lifting program. It took a while to make the changes, but after a year in which Muskogee produced one state champion powerlifter, Nikaury Ruffin, in the second year of

Jason Sexton’s program, the difference is being made up front where undersized linemen are fitting the bill. Ruffin is playing college ball, but he left the baton firmly in capable hands. No one is more thrilled

about that than Josh McMillan, who coaches the offensive line along with first-year coach Dalton Julian. “I think it’s the results. When kids see the results and see how the off-season changes you, they

PIGSKIN PREVIEW

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

MUSKOGEE AT A GLANCE

Phoenix file photo

Davion Williams, flanked by Muskogee defensive coordinator Jason Sexton, is one of the area’s top defensive linemen.

M US KO G E E respond to it,” he said. “It’s just getting that first bit, like Nikaury and those other eight guys making it to state and him winning it. It’s not just football, it’s all the sports. But it’s been two years (of Sexton’s program) and it’s already having an impact.” So the push from guys like Allen Hill at left tackle, Josh Luckey at left guard, Nick Barnes at center, Dadrian Wilson at right guard and either Tyler Kennedy or Savion Adams at right tackle may make the difference between a playoff team and a team that challenges or tops the semifinal run made in 2016. Wilson, Luckey, Adams and Kennedy are returning starters. The run game will loosen up the passing game, which doesn’t have the field-stretching ability of recent teams but instead good route runners with good hands: Kaunor Ashley, Kentrell Mitchum, David Timmons, Kaleb Biglow and Jordan Bradley. It all bodes well for Williams, who won the QB job as a sophomore and had 1,046 yards rushing and 9 touchdowns to go along with 1,147 yards passing and 11 touchdowns. The tools are there, and the confidence is blooming. He sees his own improvement in reading safeties and making the precise throw, with just enough velocity as opposed to an excessive amount last fall. That is expected to improve the 56.5 percent completion rate on 198 attempts. More than that, it’s leadership skills that is expected to raise the game of a guy who is seen by recruiters — for now — as a defensive back in college. North Texas has already offered him. “We talk about leadership and what it takes to be a team, and I know I’m the person who can fulfill this role,” Williams said. “Being the guy at quarterback is Continued on Next Page

Record last year: 6-5 Coach: Rafe Watkins, sixth year. Staff: Jason Sexton, defensive coordinator; John Graham, offensive coordinator; Josh McMillan, offensive line; Ryan Dvorak, special teams; Keaton Collins, quaterback; Kyle Staley, running backs; Dalton Julian, offensive line; Anthony McNac, defensive line; Chris Girdner, defensive line; Don Mayes, defensive backs; Rafe Watkins, linebackers. Returning starters (10 offensive, 7 defensive): Ty Williams, QB, Jr., 6-1, 185; Jimmie Coleman, RB, Sr., 5-9, 185; Keith BIglow, TE/DE, Sr., 6-1, 235; Kaunor Ashley, WR/DB, Sr., 5-11, 170; Jordan Bradley, WR, Sr., 6-2, 210; Kentrell Mitchum, WR/P, Sr., 6-0, 165; David Timmons, WR, Sr., 5-9, 180; Dadrian Wilson, OL, Sr., 5-9, 230; Josh Luckey, OL, Sr., 6-0, 260; Saveion Adams, OL, Sr., 6-3, 215; Tyler Kennedy, OL, Sr., 6-0, 250; Devion Williams, DL, DT, 6-0, 285; Caleb Webb, LB, Jr., 6-0, 200; Darian Davis, LB, Jr., 6-1, 190; Jareed Hagerman, LB, Sr., 5-10, 210; Isaiah Givens, SS, So., 6-0, 180. Others to watch: Maurice Chaplin, RB, Sr., 5-9, 175; Ty Williams, S, Jr., 6-1, 185; Nick Banks, OL, Sr., 6-0, 280; Gavin Winn, OL, So., 5-9, 225); Wendell Johnson, OL/DL, Jr., 6-2, 310; Antonio Zapata, CB, Jr., 5-9, 175; Josh Campbell, CB, Sr., 5-9, 170; Braylin Reed, DL, So., 6-2, 210.

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

Pigskin preview

M US KO G E E where I’m needed for the team, so that’s where I will be.” Coleman, who has also pocketed an offer (Fort Hays State), had 1,473 yards on 235 attempts and 19 touchdowns a year ago. That followed a sophomore year where he averaged a yard better than the 6.3 average of a year earlier. But that came with a price, a broken collar bone of the last of three touchdowns and his 44th and final carry that year. “I really do believe we will have more success with this offense,” he said. The defense won’t be too far behind, with seven starters back as opposed to 10 on the other side. Devion Williams is one of two returning starters up front, at the tackle spot. Biglow is back at one end. Williams was fifth among heavyweights at the state powerlifting meet. “He’s got good hands. He’ll in better shape in the fact where I don’t see him taking any plays off saying he can’t get there,” said Sexton, also the third-year defensive coordinator. “His attitude about conditioning has gotten so better he’s pushing himself and pushing other people. To me, until I see one, there’s no more dominant defensive specimen in the state.” Ashley is back for his third season as a starter. He’ll play both corner and safety after starting as a safety as a sophomore and as a corner last year. He’s already got one Division I offer from Abilene Christian and several D2

schools. Givens is a returning starter at free safety. Another secondary starter from 2018, Marcus Newton, moved to Wagoner and leaves a vacancy at corner. Webb and Jareed Hagerman fill two linebacker spots again. Darian Davis was a starter at safety that moved to linebacker. Webb had a team-high 11 sacks, averaging 10 tackles per game and caused four fumbles, which was also a team high. “He’s a bigger, faster, stronger version of the beast he was last year,” Sexton said. “He plays as hard as anyone I’ve been around whether it’s defense, offense, special teams. He’s all you want — he shows up every day, he works hard, he’s not out there doing any of the things that takes away

from the team.” It’s a maturity mindset. And it’s in part due to the weight room put in — not just in the trenches. Revert back to Watkins’ first season, This time, instead of the end, go to the opener, a 35-7 loss to McAlester. “I remember three guys coming up to me and asking ‘coach, how many tackles do you think I had?’ I’m like ‘well, obviously not enough, we gave up 35 points,’” Watkins said. “It’s hard battling that in this day and time when they all have their profiles (on the web) showing it off. But this bunch has evolved into taking the attitude that their first priority is worrying about shutting people out.” Maybe because they know, having bought in, they can.

‘We talk about leadership and what it takes to be a team, and I know I’m the person who can fulfill this role.” Muskogee QB/DB Ty Williams

Pigskin Preview

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

Pigskin Preview Preseason Team Williams

Ladd

Coleman

Corn

Williams

Engle

Leathers

Lyons

S. Wright

McWilliams

Woodworth

Deardorff

Adams

Bruce

E. Wright

Brandt

Pippenger

Mills

Dan

Fair

Purkey

Walker

Mitchum

Webb

Barrett

Bennett

OFFENSE QUARTERBACK Ty Williams, Muskogee RUNNING BACKS Jimmie Coleman, Muskogee Dae Dae Leathers, Tahlequah Tavien Woodworth, Fort Gibson Wide receivers Elijah Wright, Vian Brenden Dan, Checotah Tight end Carson Ladd, Fort Gibson Linemen Blake Corn, Tahlequah Will Lyons, Vian Adam Deardorff, Gore Devin Brandt, Hilldale Jesse Fair, Wagoner SPECIAL TEAMS Punter Kentrell Mitchum, Muskogee Kicker Peyton Bennett, Hilldale

DEFENSE Linemen Davion Williams, Muskogee Solomon Wright, Vian Zane Adams, Haskell Linebackers

Tyler Purkey, Sequoyah Caleb Webb, Muskogee Bruce Engle, Stigler Jaden McWilliams, Hilldale Tye Pippenger, Eufaula

Defensive backs James Bruce, Hulbert Drew Mills, Wagoner Dylan Walker, Hilldale Jacob Barrett, Checotah

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

Pigskin Preview

HI LL DA LE

Young, athletic Hornets look to new leadership By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com The grind of summer had come to an end. Before the start of fall drills came a sabbatical for the Hilldale Hornets. But a respite, the type spent in air-condiBlevins tioned comfort, wasn’t enough. So before they parted for the break, first-year head coach David Blevins threw a party. His wife Rachel grilled an assortment of food to munch on after some Parson wet and wild time on some rented inflatables, one of which was a three-story tower slide. Blevins himself even went down it. “It was a heck of a climb getting up there,” he recalled. Every coach has his style. Blevins, once a Hilldale Hornet himself, fits in like he never stopped being one — he graduated from Muskogee after his father switched jobs, then after

a coaching career that began in the junior high level there and made its way to the head coaching gig at Locust Grove, came home to roost this past spring where his experience with Oklahoma football began. “He is always in the McWilliams locker room hanging with us,” said lineman Watson Schiller. “He’s more of a family guy and he’s connected with us. If he’s not there, we’re not there.” Schiller’s aunt went to school with Blevins. It’s one of several dozen such connections Blevins sees with the group of kids in his program right now. “A football team is like family,” Bennett Blevins said. “We spend more time with these football kids this time of the year than we do our own family. My family was here with us. My staff and I do that kind of thing. I think it sends the message to the kids that they are just like us.” For Blevins, it’s been

SHANE KEETER/Phoenix Special Photo

Hilldale coach David Blevins has emphasized family amid his cast of Hornets. The first-year coach’s ties to the program he takes over goes back to his days as an underclassman player on the line. about family, neighbors, team. Even while coaching in Locust Grove, he never moved from his house here. The community has bought in, with $5,000 sold in hot dogs, much of which was surplus left Schiller from the epic cooldown just days before. As have the kids, which should make a year of youth development accelerate. Five offensive and five defensive starters return from a team that was again stopped out west in the quarterfinal round, this time by Tuttle. That’s

0-7 in quarterfinal matchups in school history. Yet another infamous streak got a boost in the right direction when the Hornets beat Bristow for its second road playoff win in 16 of those. It’s a team with suffiHays cient talent to build new postseason trends. What it’s lacking is game experience. The top offensive weapons a year ago all graduated. Dylan Walker is among the returnees. The wideout and defensive back looms as a multiple threat on offense similar

to Devin Hembry last year as a ball carrier, receiver and return specialist as well as defensive back and top returning tackler with 65. Darrin Hays, a burrowing running back, will handle a lot of the between tackles work, having averaged 6.7 yards in limited duty last year. He’s also a returning linebacker, as is Jaden McWilliams, who also plays fullback and is healthy after repairing torn ligaments suffered in the first round of the postseason against Bristow. There’s also experience up front with Schiller (5-foot-10, 245 pounds), Devan Brandt (6-4, 280) and Jay Stroble (6-4 325). Hunter Parson is back.

He’ll go at both receiver and in the secondary. While Hilldale threw the ball less last year than the Hornets are expected to going forward, he tied for the lead in receptions with 19. One of the vacancies is quarterback. Melchesidech Porter is a 6-2, 190 junior move-in from Owasso who got here in July and thrust himself into the competition. He and Johnnie Durossette (5-10, 175), a junior, are the prime candidates there. Blevins has a track record with quarterbacks. He was Locust Grove’s offensive coordinator when record-setting Mason Fine was there,

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

G OR E

Pirate grad has established culture of changed expectations By Jim Weber Phoenix Correspondent In the five years prior to Brandon Tyler returning to Gore as head coach at his alma mater, the Pirates were 11-37. In his Tyler two years, he’s easily bypassed that win total, going 17-6 with consecutive playoff J. Dover berths. Most of his 145 wins came during a long run at Vian, but it appears the Pirates are on the way to having that kind of success as they close in on Tyler’s 150th career win. “Probably one of the best summers I’ve had at any school I’ve been at as far as the kids showing up and working out,” he said. “They’ve bought in.” Count quarterback Weston Shanks among those. “He’s taught me a lot of things on the field and off the field, including how to be a better guy,” Shanks said of Tyler. Looking to return to the Class A playoffs after posting a 9-3 mark in 2018, Gore will look to the ability of senior James Dover and Shanks to lead the way. Dover accumulated 1,243 rushing yards in 2018 averaging just under

nine yards per carry with 11 rushing touchdowns. Shanks threw for 1,343 yards in 2018 and put 18 passes in the end zone for scores. With 1,661 all-purpose yards last year, Shanks D. Dover will again get the nod to be the starting signal caller this season. “Offensively, I feel like our skill kids will be our strength with two running backs returning plus our quarter- Deardorff back,” Tyler said of a unit where eight starters in all return. “We feel like our receiving corps can be very talented and will give us a chance the throw the deep ball.” “We’re getting a lot of young guys in at the receiver position who have come a long way since we first started who will be great targets,” Shanks said. The main force in opening holes for Dover and protecting Shanks will be offensive lineman Adam Deardorff. The senior and two-year, two-way starter comes back this season two inches taller and 35 pounds heavier at 6-foot-4, 285 pounds, which he feels will improve his game substan-

tially in a unit. “Coach Tyler has defeinitely put some weight on me with these workouts. I’ve been gaining a lot of muscle over the summer and it’s been good.” Tyler will have seven returning defensive starters. Besides Deardorff, Damion Dover, James Bane, Dalton Cearley and Josie Smith return. Cearley, a 5-10, 165-pound defensive back, contributed 50 tackles in 2018. Dover, at linebacker notched 80 stops along with three sacks. Smith (6-0, 250) and Bane (6-1, 210) will return to the line and look to improve on their combined 57 tackles from last year. “Defensively we are bigger and stronger than last season, so hopefully we can stay healthy and make a good run,” said Tyler. Not only is the size there, but a squad with 15 more players on the roster contains some freshmen who he hopes will add to the depth in the event of injuries. In all, Tyler sees this team as being close to a big run. “We were 10 points away from being 10-0 — eight points down to Haskell and two down to Sallisaw Central,” he said. “Being in the playoffs at 10-0 with two home games in the playoffs, there’s no telling what might have happened. “But we’re on the verge of breaking through.”

GORE AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 9-3 Coach: Brandon Tyler, third year. Staff: Brandon Ellis, offensive coordinator/quarterback/running back/linebacker; Caleb Dan, special teams/wide receivers/defensive backs, Rob Boyd, offensive liners/defensive line; Martin Lincoln, wide receivers/defensive liners; John Mayes, wide receivers/defensive backs. Returning starters (7 offensive, 6 defensive): James Dover, RB/DB, Jr., 5-11, 180; Weston Shanks, QB/DB, Jr., 5-11, 175; Damion Dover, RB/LB, Sr., 6-0, 215; Adam Deardorff, OL/DL, Sr., 6-4, 285; James Bane, TE/OL, Sr., 6-1, 210; Dalton Cearley, DB, Sr., 5-10, 165; Josie Smith, DL, So., 6-0, 250. Others to watch: Keiston Davison, TE/LB, Sr., 6-2, 205; Jason Hubler, WR/DB, Sr., 5-9, 150; Damien Page, WR/DB, Sr., 5-10, 170; Jesus Thomas, WR/DB, So., 5-11, 165; Andrew Foster, LB, Sr., 5-10, 160; Gage Grant, OL/DL, So., 5-11, 190; Gabe Dozier, OL/DL, Fr., 5-11, 220; Wyatt Marrell, OL/DL, Fr., 5-11, 190; Keigan Reid, WR/DB, Fr., 6-1, 170; Gunnar Dozier, RB/LB, Fr., 5-10, 165; Dayne Perriman, RB/LB, Fr., 5-10, 165; Cas Moore, OL/DL, Fr., 6-0, 195.

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

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VIAN

TAHLEQUAH

Continued from Page 24

guys having another year in the system and with what fensive starters from a team we’re doing, we expect them to be better,” Willis said. that posted five shutouts “When I say it could it and allowed 148 points in 14 could be seven or eight guys games. Gunnar Griffith had that could be that type of 108 tackles a year ago. player, I’m not being arroThere’s plenty on hand to gant. We’re pretty blessed extend that defensive award there.” streak. Vian will not play a home “We believe we’ll be again game until their fifth week, one of the top defenses in meaning every non-district any classification, with nine game will be on the road.

Continued from Page 20

flashed greatness and was the workhorse on offense in 2018. He broke the school’s single-season rushing mark, finishing with 1,586 yards, and also reached the end zone 19 times. Averaging over five yards per carry, he rushed for 200 yards or more on three occasions, including a career-high 295 against

Sallisaw. Jaxon Jones, Kobey Baker and Simeon Armstrong are the top returning receivers. Baker led the team with 28 receptions and had 445 yards and three TDs. Jones had 368 yards on 19 catches with a team-high five scores, and Armstrong had five grabs for 58 yards and a touchdown. The defense starts with Blake Corn up front at defensive end and inside lineback-

er Dylan Parish, seniors who have started in every game since the start of their sophomore seasons. Corn was disruptive in every way in 2018. He logged six sacks, five hurries, had 11 tackles for losses and 53 total tackles. Parish led the team with 97 tackles, eight of those for losses. He also had 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble and had a fumble recovery.

ONE ON ONE James Dover, Gore

Trenton Harris, Sequoyah

Comfort item for practice or game day: Phone Favorite football player of all time: Saquan Barkley Favorite pregame meal: Hot Cheetos Something I’d eat to inspire my locker room: Something hot

Comfort item for practice or game day: Bracelets I wear Favorite sports movie: “Friday Night Lights” Favorite pregame meal: Logstore Chicken School subject I hit with the same intensity as football: Chemistry.

Gunnar Griffith, Vian

Claude Sheppard, Porter

This part of football is like an allergy: Losing Favorite sports movie: “Remember the Titans” Favorite pregame tune: Enter Sandman Favorite NFL team: Texans

What part of football is addictive: Scoring points Favorite sports movie: “The Blind Side” Favorite pregame meal: Body Armour and Subway Favorite NFL team: Cowboys

Mason Jim, Warner

Jacob Beall, Hulbert

Favorite pregame music: Juice WRLD Favorite athlete of all time: Arnold Schwarzenegger What part of football is like an allergy: Two a days What would you eat on a dare to inspire your locker room: Cat food

Favorite sports movie: “Facing the Giants” Favorite college team: Oklahoma State Favorite pregame tune: “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers This is a practice pet peeve: Stretching the same way every practice

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

WAR NE R

Eagles hope growing pains of 2018 will ease up in 2019 By Jim Weber Phoenix Correspondent Last season was a building year for the Warner Eagles with a squad that consisted almost Capps

entirely of underclassmen. Prime example:

Warner stuck with freshman Hayden McElyea as the signal caller for most of the season. Now a year older, with a new head coach in Chuck Cannon

Capps along with a season under their

belt, the Eagles will look to improve on the 0-10, 2018 record. The team returns 13 starters along with several players who may get a startJim

ing nod in 2019. However, they will still be without a single senior. McElyea and the O-line will have to play a major role if Warner Elders looks to improve. Last year McElyea had little help with pass protection from his offensive line netting a season total of sub-zero yardage through the air. When asked what he learned as a freshman last season, sophomore running back Mason Jim said “the fast pace of the game and the speed.” But with a year under his

WARNER AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 0-10 Coach: Chuck Capps, first year Staff: Cody Prater, defensive coordinator/running backs; Scott Mayfield, offensive linebackers/ tight ends; Charlie Parkers, defensive/offensive line; Tyler Capps, safeties/quarterback; Tyson Hume, cornerbacks/wide receivers. Returning starters (3 offensive, 5 defensive): Hayden McElyea, QB, So., 5-9, 150; Trace Elders, OL/DL, Jr., 5-9, 265; Brody Cannon, OL/DL, Jr., 5-9, 240; Hunter Girty, LB, So., 5-8, 165; Jeremiah Pearson, DB, So., 5-8, 150; Callen Park, WR/DB, So., 155; Mason Jim, RB/DB, So., 5-7, 156. belt, he’s more confident. “I like playing with the big boys,” he said. “Hard work pays off.” Another bright spot for the Eagles will be the return of Trace Elders. Elders, Warner’s big man, comes in at 265 pounds and is the mainstay of the O-line at guard and a run-stopper at defensive tackle.

The well-spoken Elders displayed maturity beyond his years at media day and showed he should be one of the Eagles’ inspiring influences in the locker room. “You can’t go 0-10 without it getting hard,” he said. “Me personally, I’ve always wanted to be successContinued on Next Page

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

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PORTE R

Understanding sparks crew chemistry on Pirates’ ship in 2019 By Kenton Brooks kcbrooks@muskogeephoenix.com To paraphrase, familiarity breeds content for the Porter Pirates this season. Coach Prentice Joseph and his team went through a contemptible season last year in finishing 3-7. But they used Joseph that to get to know each other better and it bodes for a better season. “Last year, I got the job at the end of June and early July and these kids had one month to learn the offense,” Joseph said. “They didn’t learn the offense until the last couple of games. It

PORTER AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 3-7 Coach: Prentice Joseph, second year Staff: Kyle Kuban, offensive coordinator; Travis Hollis, defensive coordinator; Pat Reeder, wide receivers/defensive backs; Jon Brewer, running backs/linebackers, Alan Cox, wide receivers/defensive backs. Returning starters (7 offensive, 7 defensive): Isaac Moore, OL, Sr., 5-11, 250; Bo Tramel, QB, Jr., 5-10, 185; Garrett Todd, LB, Sr., 6-2, 215; Logan Jones, WR, Sr., 6-4, 215. Others to watch: Jackson Cole, WR, Jr., Cortez Broadnax, WR, Sr., Claude Sheppard, WR, Jr., George Collins, RB, Jr.

was more rushed last year.” Joseph and the players are rushed to get this season underway. Moore “They’ve had the whole offseason, spring and summer,” the former Bacone College standout, in his third year at the

District A-8 school, said. “They really understand it more.” Nobody understands it more than Tramel Bo Tramel, the 5-foot-10, 185-pound junior quarterback. He played in the last four games after fracturing his collarbone

CAN’T GO TO THE GAMES? Radio: Muskogee: KTFX 102.1 FM Sequoyah: Billy Country 96.3 FM/1150 AM Tahlequah:.,LakesCountry 102.1 FM Webstream: Muskogee: rougher.tv Hilldale: Facebook Live via Hilldale Quarterback Club Fort Gibson: fortgibsontigers. tv Sequoyah: Cookson HIlls Sports Network chsn.tv or facebook.com/chsnlive Wagoner: wagonerbulldogs.

com Stigler: StiglerSports.com (facebook.com/stiglersports) Tahlequah: TahlequahTigers. tv Bravado Wireless webcasts: Aug. 29 — Gore vs. Haskell Sept. 6 —Tahlequah vs. Fort Gibson Sept. 20 —Eufaula vs. Checotah Oct. 4 — Tahlequah vs. Skiatook Oct. 11 —Stigler vs. Checotah Oct. 17 —Checotah vs. Idabel OR Hilldale vs. Muldrow

and passed for 600 yards and eight touchdowns. “I say we’re more comfortable because we know how he’s going to run things,” he said. “The more comfortable you’re with a coach, the more you connect. I think we’re closer as a team now.” Joseph could sense the team unity growing in the off-season. “I feel like our guys

had a great spring and great summer. We grew as a team,” he said. “A lot of the kids were out there working on their Sheppard own and working on the right things and not just tossing the ball around. They were running precise Cole routes, the quarterback was taking the right steps. The players were actually getting better on their own.” One of those players who got better was junior wide receiver Claude Sheppard (5-

10, 185). He returns after catching 10 passes a season ago. “We’re very coachable and that helps us,” he said. Joseph said his team enters 2019 “with a chip on their shoulders” about not having another losing season. “We know how it feels to lose and it didn’t feel good,” he said. “We don’t want to have the same season we had last year. We’re not going to make excuses why we had that season last year. “Last year, we set the foundation on what to do and what not to do. We’re turning the corner. We’re in phase two. We’re going to do everything possible not to have the same outcome.”

WARNER ful. I grew up in Warner and I’ve always wanted our team to be good. I put in as many hours as a freshman to make Warner be the best it can. It’s like the saying you have to spend money to make money, you got to put in the work and dog it out before you can rise up.” On the field this season he will get some additional help from a larger, stronger Brody Cannon at center. A 5-9, 240 junior, Cannon will be filling the same positions as last sea-

son but will be sporting an additional 40-plus pounds. On the defensive side the Eagles will have five returning starters. Besides Elders and Cannon, Connor Parks will be returning to the defensive line as a 6-3, 220 lineman. They also will rely on Jase McKenzie. As a freshman McKenzie managed 94 stops as a linebacker for a nine tackles per game average. McKenzie will be returning with Haden Peters, a 6-1, 220 junior middle linebacker, who also served

as a fullback on the offensive side of the ball last season. Peters averaged 8.7 tackles per game as a sophomore. In his first season as head coach, the Warner grad Capps will have his oldest son Tyler on staff as a quarterback and safeties coach. He says he sees a hunger for success among his staff and players. “We want to be the best that we can be and just get better each week. … We just want to put some wins in the win column.”

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

P ORU M

The players pick Polled at this year’s Media Day activities, these was their tallies To win national championship: Oklahoma 41 Alabama 12 Clemson 12 Next closest: OSU 2 To win Super Bowl: Browns 25 Chiefs 15 Patriots 8 Cowboys 5 Rams 4 Packers 4 Saints 4

Panthers look to break run-oriented tradition By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent

PORUM AT A GLANCE

It’s all about numbers for the Porum Panthers as the 2019 season approaches. The first number that pops up is eight. That’s the number of seniors lost to graduation for a program that has had challenges in the past attracting enough numbers to staff a football team. “We lost several experienced players so our biggest challenge this year will be trying to figure out where to plug everyone in

Record last year:4-7 Coach: Mitchell Girty, second year Staff: N/A Players to watch for: Eli Benton, Sr., 5-10, 170; Briley Berry, Sr., 6-0, 175; Miguel Leon, Jr., 5-11, 220; Kolby Brown, So., 5-8, 200; Khyle Flynn, Sr., 6-1, 190; Jacob Briscoe, Sr., 5-10, 185. that’s best for the team,” said second-year coach Mitchell Girty, who in his first season led the Panthers to their first playoff berth since 2005 Flynn and its second overall appearance. And sometimes that decision isn’t always what best fits the player. Take senior Khyle Girty Flynn for example. “At 6-1, 190 Khyle would be a tight end or maybe even a running back normally,” said Girty. “But because of our numbers and inexperience, I’ll

probably have to use him in the line on offense and I hope I can keep him at linebacker on defense.” Another number that comes up for the Panthers is three. That’s the number of players Berry who are vying to land the quarterbacking spot this season. There’s a sophomore in the mix along with seniors Eli Benton and perhaps the front-runner, Briley Berry. Girty hopes that Berry will become a strong enough passer that the Panthers can add some diversity to their offense to complement the running of tailback Jacob Briscoe and fullback Kol-

by Brown. “Traditionally we’re a running team but I think we’ll try to pass a little more this year since we have the personnel to do that,” said Girty. As one of the seniors on the roster, Berry understands he will have to be a team leader whether he’s at quarterback or some other position. “I’ll tell them to treat every game like it’s your last and go hard on every play. Don’t take playing the game all out for granted,” said Berry. “I would like to emulate someone like Baker Mayfield at quarterback. I like the way he always gets after it. He has that “it” factor and you know you always get 100 percent from him.” Another numbers challenge for the Panthers is just that-numbers. Now that he’s been around a year, Girty is hopeful that he knows the school and the students well enough that he can make the football program more attractive to would-be players. “Our goal is to try to make the program more exciting and fun to attract more students to come out,” he said. “I think if we can establish a winning tradition, growth will follow. A key part of that will be maintaining a positive attitude throughout the year,” said the head coach. Porum opens with at rival Webbers Falls.

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

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W E B B E R S FA LLS

Warriors’ adversity was tested before first preseason practice By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent It’s said that tragedy brings out the best in Oklahomans. It also has a way of putting something like football in proper perHolt spective. When the Arkansas River came roaring out of its banks in late May and inundated the town of Webbers Falls, coach

Trent Holt wasn’t sure what to think about the 2019 football season. “The flooding was tragic for a lot of families who lost everything they had,” said Holt. “At the Mason school the water ruined the fieldhouse, our locker room and weight room and we ended up with only about 19 usable helmets and 13 pair of

shoulder pads.” But true to our nature, help arrived for the program. “Rafe Watkins at Muskogee helped us out with a bunch of shoulder pads and some old junior high helmets as well as a couple of blocking dummies. We also got help from Gore and Sallisaw to name a couple of others,” Holt said. As to the outlook for the upcoming season, the team, like the town, is bouncing

WARRIORS AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 2-7 Coach: Trent Holt, fifth year. Staff: Steve Shelby, lay coach. Returning starters (6 offensive, 6 defensive): Josh Mason, TB/LB, Jr., 5-10, 180; Shawn Fullen, QB, Sr., 5-9, 160; JD Moore, OG/DE, Jr., 6-1, 220; Waylon Brasuell, OL/NG, Jr., 6-1, 250; Jordan Cole, TE, Sr., 6-1, 180; Dylon Sholly, TE/DE, Jr., 6-1, 175. back. There are six returning starters from last year led by senior quarterback Shawn Fullen with junior Bobby Tripp possibly battling for the signal calling spot. Running back is solid with the

return of Josh Mason who rushed for nearly 1000 yards last year and should get more with Holt’s offensive philosophy. “We’ll be predominantly a running team,” said the War-

rior boss. “I’m kind of old school and I believe that when you throw the football three things can happen and two of them are bad.” Upfront Webbers Falls will be well ex-

M I DWAY

Aspirations go higher — Chargers want more from postseason By Kenton Brooks kcbrooks@muskogeephoenix.com

“You can win seven games in the regular season but you go home COUNCIL HILL after the first night -- Excuse coach Troy of the playoffs, you go Bullard and home at 0-1. his Midway That’s the Chargers if way I look they sound a at it,” said little selfish. Bullard, They’ve entering his had success third season for the past as head Bullard Hood two seasons coach of the in reaching District C-4 team. the playoffs, “Our goal is we want but they litto get in the playoffs but erally want we also want to be proto go at least ductive once we get in one game the playoffs.” better in the One of the more pro2019 season. Washington ductive players on last They want year’s 7-4 team who to win a returns is sophomore playoff game at home.

quarterback Geral Washington, a 5-foot-9, 145-pounder. He’s optimistic about the team advancing past the opening round. “Experience is good because it helps us Ziegler play better and we’re not wandering what to do when it comes crunch times in big games,” he said. While All-Phoenix selection Darius MaysTweedy has graduated, the Chargers are loaded with players who have been through crunch

MIDWAY AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 7-4 Coach: Troy Bullard Staff: Jesse Bible, assistant Returning starters (6 offensive, 7 defensive). Leslie Howard, DE, Jr., 5-10, 190; Bryer Crosby, LB, Sr., 6-2, 210; Geral Washington, QB, 5-9, 145; Bryson Ziegler, Sr. time. Returning starters (six on offense and seven on defense) include junior defensive end Leslie Howard (5-10, 190), the Phoenix Newcomer of the Year in 2017 who had 108 tackles last season. Senior lineback Bryer Crosby (6-2, 210) also returns after making 111 tackles in 2018. It’s easy to see why this season is the one

the Chargers have been looking forward to the most. In addition, they come into 2019 ranked No. 6 in the preseason by Oklahoma Pigskin Preview. “It feels good but rankings don’t matter to us, to be honest,” Washington said. “We just want to make it state and show what we can do.” And, the players say, they have plenty to show.

“It’s going to be a good year, that’s all I can say,” senior tackle Bryson Ziegler said. “I’ve got a good feeling about this year. We just want to get (to the playoffs) and do bigger than we have been. We want to set new records at Midway this year.” Certainly, winning a playoff game at home would be one of those records.

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

W E B B E R S FA LLS perienced with juniors Waylon Brasuell and J.D. Moore in the down positions and a pair of tight ends who will help clear the way on the run in Jordan Cole and Dylon Shelly. Holt expects that after a year of hard knocks under their belt, the Warrior defense should be much better this season as well. So what would define a successful year for Webbers Falls? Given the events of the spring

and summer the answer from the head coach might surprise you. “In late May we weren’t even sure there would be a football season. So for us to go through all of this and get on the bus and travel to South Coffeyville and play a game on August 30 will be a success in itself,” said Holt. “When September 6 comes and we’re able to pull off that first home game, the season has been a success.”

And while wins and losses will be discussed every Saturday around Webbers Falls, Holt hopes this group will take more than that away from the 2019 season. “If we win more games than last year, that’s just gravy but what I would hope these kids take away from this season is a lesson in overcoming adversity that will stay with them long after school,” said Holt.

ONE ON ONE Khyle Flynn, Porum What part of football is addictive: Sacking Favorite sports movie: “The Longest Yard” Favorite pregame meal: Three Musketeers This qualifies as a practice pet peeve: Arguing

Kaleb Biglow, Muskogee Best sports book I’ve ever read: “Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream” by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn Jordan Favorite athlete of all time: Adrian Peterson What would I eat on a dare to inspire my locker room: Ghost pepper What school subject do I hit with the same intensity as football? Math

Caden Miller, Midway

Watson Schiller, Hilldale

Comfort item for practice or game day: Gloves Favorite NFL team: Falcons Favorite college team: Oklahoma Favorite pregame meal: Ramen noodles

Best sports book I’ve read: “Swing Your Sword” by Mike Leach Favorite pregame tune: “Jump around” by House of Pain Favorite pregame meal: Steak and potatoes What would I eat on a dare to inspire your locker room: Nothing, they listen to me anyway

Waylon Brasuell, Webbers Falls

Haeden Schoolcraft, Wagoner

Favorite athlete of all time: Russell Westbrook Favorite pregame tune: Don’t have one. My comfort item for practice or game day: Teammates Best sports movie I’ve ever seen: “The Blind Side”

Best sports book I’ve read: “First Team” by Tim Green What part of football is like an allergy: Coverage Favorite college team: Tennessee What would I eat to inspire my locker room: A bug

One final look back at 2018 before we open the door to 2019

Phoenix file photo

Hulbert’s Jacob Bruce became the state’s all-time rushing leader and the All-Phoenix MVP. Phoenix file photo

JOHN HASLER/Phoenix Special Photo

Kaleb Butler holds up The Rock for Hilldale after its rivalry win over Fort Gibson.

Wagoner’s Ashton Bartholomew looks for yardage. Barthlomew’s senior season was his first at Wagoner.

Phoenix file photo

Rougher defenders Joseph Campbell, left, Jareed Hagerman and Darian Davis, right, work to pull down a Sapulpa runner in a game against Sapulpa that went overtime.

Phoenix file photo

Eufaula’s Noah Alexander pushes away an Antlers defender in a win that got the Ironheads their first district championship since 2007.

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

HI LLDA LE Dylan Walker looks for yardage against Tuttle last year. He’ll be a multiunit contributor this year. VON CASTOR Phoenix Special Photo

setting a state record for most yardage (13,081) and touchdown passes (166). He’s current at North Texas and on the Heisman Trophy watch list with four school single-season marks so far there. Another multiple offensive threat is sophomore Brayson Lawson. Expect Lawson to have a breakout campaign on one side of the football or the other. “He has a tremendous upside,” Blevins said. Whoever wins that battle will have three tall targets on the edges. Ty O’Neal and Cashus Prather are both 6-4, but as sophomores, are part of that youth spoken of. Also back: Peyton Bennett, a fourth-year starter and All-Phoenix selection as a kicking specialist. His range extends to 55 yards out and he’s spent the summer in kicking camps. His longest a year ago on two attempts was 45 yards and he was 53-of-57 on extra points. Blevins becomes the third head coach in as many years after Greg Werner decided after one campaign to return to Poteau, where he was prior to a brief tenure in

Arkansas. Hilldale hasn’t gone through such a streak of single-season coaches since 2002 when the late Don Hendrix, the fourth in four years, brought some stability to the program, serving for eight seasons until his death in 2010. McWilliams shrugs at the adjustment. “It was kind of hard to learn the new stuff a second year in a row,” he said. “But this time, it’s not really as much of a challenge since we’ve gone through it once.” It’s hoped Blevins, with deep roots here, will bring back the stability Hendrix did, along with Chad Kirkhart, who was on Hendrix’s staff when he took the reins from 2010 through 2017. Even through the recent staff shakeups, there’s been a constant. “The stability here is a winning tradition,” Blevins said. “You go 9-3, there’s really not much to change. “What I want to do is get over the quarterfinal hump. I want to be the guy that brings Hilldale a state championship.”

HILLDALE AT A GLANCE Record last year: 9-3 Coach: David Blevins, first year. Staff: Erwin Starts, offensive coordinator/ cornerbacks; Ernie Ragland, co-defensive coordinator/offensive line; Kaleb Harris, co-defensive coordinator/quarterbacks; Eric Stout, offensive and defensive line; Phil McWiliams, running backs/linebackers; Bailey Puckett, linebackers/offensive line. Returning starters (5 offensive, 5 defensive, 8 special teams): Devan Brandt OL// DL, Sr., 6-4, 280; Jay Stroble, OL//DL, Jr., 6-4, 325; Jaden McWilliams, LB/FB, Jr., 5-10, 220; Hunter Parson, WR/DB, Sr., 6-0, 170; Darrin Hays, RB/OLB, Jr., 6-0, 180; Peyton Bennett, K, Sr., 5-9, 165; Dylan Walker, WR/DB, Jr., 5-10, 165. Others to watch: T.J. Maxwell, WR/DB, Sr., 6-2, 175; Brayson Lawson, RB/OLB, So., 6-1, 165; Mike Oeser, QB/ OLB, So., 5-10, 175; Melchesidech Porter, QB, Jr,, 6-2, 190; Trace Ford, WR/DB, Jr., 5-11, 160; Cashus Prather, WR/DB, So., 6-4, 185; Ty O’Neal, WR/DB, So., 6-4, 175; Rylan Nail, TE/ILB, So., 6-3, 195; Ryan Mattox, OL//DL, So., 6-2, 195; Johnnie Durossette, QB, Jr., 5-10, 175.

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

Trends and things Area football historian Tommy Cobb hits the archives for data relevant to the 2019 season.

Pigskin Preview As a new season approaches there’s no better time than to look at how area teams most recent success relates to each school’s history.

The 500 Club

Six area teams have recorded over 500 victories. Muskogee leads with 694 wins followed by Wagoner 685, Eufaula 547, Stigler 543, Vian 531, and Haskell 501. Checotah could be the next team to join that club with 494 wins.

Trending Up

Despite missing the playoffs last year, Checotah’s offense averaged the most points since 2008 and the second highest in school history. Coach Chad Hendricks enters his seventh season needing just three wins to move into third on Checotah’s all-time win list. He currently stands at 40 wins, behind Brandon Turley (42), Harold Latham (55) and Ray Grandstaff (118). **** Eufaula’s defense gave the second fewest points of any Ironhead team in the past decade. They won their first district title since 2007 and advanced past the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2005. **** Gore held opponents to their fewest points in over 20 years in 2017, while last year’s Pirates set a school record by scoring 400 points and won their first playoff game since 2000. **** Porum coach Mitchell Girty had more success in his debut than any first year Panther coach. **** Tahlequah’s improvement continued last year. The Tigers’ nine wins were the most since 1991.

New kids on the block

Four area teams start the season with new head coaches — Haskell, Greg Nation; Hilldale, David Blevins; Hulbert, Scott Sapulpa; Warner, Chuck Capps and Keys, Mel Maxfield. **** Haskell has a different head coach for the third straight season. First time since 1964-66 that’s happened. **** Hilldale starts a third straight year for new coaches for the first time since 2001-2002, and that streak became four in four years. Blevins will take over a program that has advanced to the playoff quarterfinals seven of last eight years and won nine or more games during than span. **** Hulbert is coming off five straight winning seasons for the first since 1965-69, 30 wins and four playoff appearances in last four years are the most ever. **** Capps will attempt to do what only one of the last six Warner head coaches have done and that’s compile a winning recording in his debut season.

Seasoned veterans

Wagoner’s Dale Condict is the dean of area coaches, beginning his 15th season at the helm of the Bulldogs. He has compiled a school best 158-26 record with four state championships. **** Chris Risenhoover enters his 11th season as head coach at Stigler, Risenhoovers’ 77 wins are second most wins to David McSpadden’s 102. His winning percentage equals John Gray

(1969-73) for best since 1940s. More of the same Gary Willis of Vian joins Rob Kincade, Rich Jones, and Brandon Tyler (twice) as Wolverine coaches to record 10 or more wins in three straight seasons. **** Rafe Watkins starts his sixth season. It’s the longest tenure at Muskogee since Ron Freeman (1984-97). **** Midway’s win total has increased each year under coach James Worley who’s three wins away from becoming the Chargers winningest coach.

Seeking an identity

Fort Gibson averaged the fewest points since 2010 last year, but was still able to advance to the playoffs for the second straight year. **** Despite three playoff appearances, Porter has not had a winning season since 2009. **** Sequoyah is coming off its worst season since 2001 and lowest offensive output since 2002. **** After three straight playoff appearances, Webbers Falls has managed just five total wins in its last two seasons. **** Keys recorded nine winning seasons in the first 12 years of its program but has managed just two in the five years.

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

2019 AREA SCHEDULES Muskogee

6AII-2

S6 at McAlester, 7 p.m. S13 at Midwest City, 7 p.m. S20 PC West (HC), 7 p.m. S27 at Ponca City, 7 p.m. O4 Sand Springs, 7 p.m. O11 Sapulpa (HOF), 7 p.m. O17 at Shawnee, 7 p.m. O25 T. Washington, 7 p.m. N1 Bartlesville, 7 p.m. N8 at Bixby, 7 p.m.

4A-4

Hilldale

S6 at Cl. Sequoyah, 7 p.m. S13 at Checotah, 7 p.m. S20 Oologah, 7:30 p.m. S27 T. Central (HC), 7:30 p.m. O4 at Broken Bow, 7 p.m. O11 Sallisaw, 7:30 p.m. O17 Muldrow, 7:30 p.m. O25 at Fort Gibson, 7:30 p.m. N1 at Stilwell, 7 p.m. N8 Poteau, 7:30 p.m.

Fort Gibson S6 S13 S20 S27 O4 O11 O17 O25 N1 N8

Tahlequah

at Tahlequah, 7 p.m. Berryhill, 7 p.m. at Wagoner, 7 p.m. Stilwell (HC), 7 p.m. Poteau, 7 p.m. at Muldrow, 7 p.m. at Sallisaw, 7 p.m. Hilldale, 7 p.m. at Central, 7 p.m. Broken Bow, 7 p.m.

5A-4

S6 Fort Gibson, 7 p.m. S13 at Coweta, 7 p.m. S20 at Sallisaw, 7 p.m. S27 Will Rogers (HC), 7 p.m. O4 Skiatook, 7 p.m. O11 at Collinsville, 7 p.m. O17 at Pryor, 7 p.m. O25 East Central, 7 p.m.

N1 N8

Wagoner S6 S13 S20 S27 O4 O11 O17 O25 N1 N8

Checotah

at Memorial, 7 p.m. Claremore, 7 p.m.

4A-3 at Coweta, 7 p.m. at Pryor, 7 p.m. Fort Gibson, 7 p.m. Catoosa (HC), 7 p.m. Grove, 7 p.m. at Miami, 7 p.m. Oologah, 7 p.m. at Bristow, 7 p.m. T. McClain, 7 p.m. at Cleveland, 7 p.m.

3A-3

S6 Keys, 7 p.m. S13 Hilldale, 7 p.m. S20 at Eufaula, 7:30 p.m. S27 Webster (HC), 7:30 p.m. O4 at Okmulgee, 7:30 p.m. O11 at Stigler, 7:30 p.m. O17 Idabel, 7:30 p.m. O25 at Seminole, 7:30 p.m. N1 at Roland, 7 p.m. N8 Lincoln Christian, 7 p.m.

Stigler

S6 at Hartshorne, 7 p.m. S13 Sallisaw, 7 p.m. S20 at Muldrow, 7 p.m. S27 Lincoln Chr, 7 p.m. O4 at Roland, 7 p.m. O11 Checotah (HC), 7:30 p.m. O17 Seminole, 7:30 p.m. O25 at Idabel, 7 p.m. N1 at Okmulgee, 7 p.m. N8 Webster, 7 p.m.

Haskell

2A-3

A29 at Gore, 7 p.m. S13 Porter, 7p.m. S20 at Rejoice Christian, 7 p.m. S27 Sperry, 7 p.m. O4 at Dewey, 7 p.m.

O11 Victory Christian, 7 p.m. O17 Caney Valley, 7 p.m. O25 at Morris, 7 p.m. N1 Beggs, 7 p.m. N8 at Kiefer, 7 p.m.

2A-5 Keys S6 S13 S20 S27 O4 O11 O18 O25 N1 N8

at Checotah, 7 p.m. at Lincoln, Ark., 7 p.m. Roland, 7 p.m. Sequoyah, 7 p.m. at Holland Hall, 7 p.m. Spiro, 7 p.m. Pocola, 7 p.m. Panama, 7 p.m. at Westville, 7 p.m. Vian, 7 p.m.

Vian S6 at Eufaula, 7 p.m. S13 at Lincoln Christian, 7 p.m. S 19 at Owasso JV, 7 p.m. S27 at Spiro, 7 p.m. O4 Panama (HC), 7 p.m. O11 Sequoyah, 7 p.m. O17 at Westville, 7 p.m. O25 Holland Hall, 7 p.m. N1 Pocola, 7 p.m. N8 at Keys, 7 p.m.

Sequoyah S6 Muldrow, 7 p.m. S13 at Miami, 7 p.m. S20 Locust Grove, 7 p.m. S27 at Keys, 7 p.m. O4 Pocola (HC), 7 p.m. O11 at Vian, 7 p.m. O17 at Holland Hall, 7 p.m. O25 Westville, 7 p.m. N1 Panama, 7 p.m.

2A-6

Eufaula S6 S13 S20 S27 O4 O11 O17 O25 N1 N8

Gore

Hulbert Vian, 7 p.m. at Holdenville, 7 p.m. Checotah, 7:30 p.m. Heavener (HC), 7 p.m. at Hartshorne, 7 p.m. Hugo, 7 p.m. at Wilburton, 7 p.m. Valliant, 7 p.m. at Antlers, 7 p.m. at Atoka, 7 p.m.

A-8

A29 Haskell, 7 p.m. S6 Heavener, 7 p.m. S13 at Mounds, 7 p.m. S20 at Pocola, 7 p.m S27 Talihina, 7 p.m. O4 at Hulbert (HC), 7 p.m. O11 Porter, 7 p.m. O17 at Warner, 7 p.m. N1 at Savanna, 7 p.m. N8 Central, 7 p.m.

Warner A30 Chouteau, 7 p.m. S6 at Mounds, 7 p.m. S13 at Henryetta, 7 p.m. S27 Sal. Central, 7 p.m. O4 at OKC Patriots, 7 p.m. O11 Savanna (HC), 7 p.m. O17 Gore, 7 p.m. O25 at Porter, 7 p.m. N1 Hulbert, 7 p.m. N8 at Talihina, 7 p.m.

Porter A29 S6 S13 S20 S27 O4 O11 O17 O25 N1

Mounds, 7 p.m. at Liberty, 7 p.m. at Haskell, 7 p.m. Colcord, 7 p.m. Hulbert (HC), 7 p.m. Talihina, 7 p.m. at Gore, 7 p.m. at Savanna, 7 p.m. Warner, 7 p.m. at Sal. Central, 7 p.m.

A30 S6 S13 S20 S27 O4 O11 O25 N1 N8

Porum

at Hominy, 7:30 p.m. Drumright, 7 p.m. Okemah, 7 p.m. at Ketchum, 7 p.m. at Porter, 7 p.m. Gore (HC), 7 p.m. at Talihina, 7 p.m. Sal. Central, 7 p.m. at Warner, 7 p.m. Savanna, 7 p.m.

B-6

S6 at Webbers Falls, 7 p.m. S13 at Midway, 7 p.m. S20 Quinton, 7:30 p.m. S27 at Watts, 7 p.m. O4 Canadian, 7:30 p.m. O11 Arkoma (HC), 7:30 p.m. O17 at Keota, 7 p.m. O25 at Cave Springs, 7 p.m. N1 Gans, 7:30 p.m. N8 Dewar, 7 p.m.

Midway

C-4

A29 at Cave Springs, 7 p.m. S6 at Gans, 7:30 p.m. S13 Porum, 7 p.m. S20 at Arkoma, 7 p.m. S27 Graham, 7 p.m. O4 Bowlegs (HC), 7 p.m. O11 at Paoli, 7 p.m. O25 Sasakwa, 7 p.m. O31 at Wilson, 7 p.m. N8 Webbers Falls, 7 p.m.

Webbers Falls A30 at S. Coffeyville, 7 p.m. S6 Porum, 7 p.m. S13 at Arkoma, 7 p.m. S20 Gans, 7 p.m. S27 at Paoli, 7 p.m. O4 Sasakwa, 7 p.m. O11 at Graham, 7 p.m. O17 at Wilson, 7 p.m. O25 Bowlegs (HC), 7 p.m. N8 at Midway, 7 p.m.

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

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F ORT G IB S O N

’Tis the season for Tiger seniors By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com The shock of the season will be if the Fort Gibson Tigers offense morphs into an air raid. There’s a better chance of Whiteley the legendary Teddy Lehman enrolling with a fifth year of eligibility. If Lehman could, he’d fit right in Woodworth to a deep cast of ground and pound that will define this squad — with perhaps the Ladd deepest cast of running backs in the state. Tavien Woodworth rushed for 1,668 yards Morgan — an average per carry of 5.1 yards — and 17 touchdowns last year as the featured back Potter

in the traditional Tiger I-formation. Jesse Rudd, who had 1,003 yards and 14 touchdowns as a sophomore, battled ankle issues throughout his junior year and played in eight games, but much of that on defense, with just 78 carries and yet a 4.4 yard average on those. Add to that mix a pair of backs converted from receivers in seniors Codale Ford and Connor Brown, and there’s just so many footballs to go around. Hence, barring injury, it’s likely the traditional I won’t be seen as much in the Tiger scheme of things. A two-tailback set will be the norm. “Now we have four tailbacks who can do what’s necessary, and with all four playing defense, it’s going to help us in both situations,” said Fort Gibson offensive coordinator Carter Bradley, who moves back to that spot after being on the defensive side the past couple years. “The more people we can put on the field who are threats to score, it slows the defense’s reactions to what we show them, and I hope it gives us a big advantage.” For Woodworth and Rudd, it’s not the only thing they share. They

JOHN HASLER/Phoenix Special Photo

Tavien Woodworth signals touchdown after a long run last year against Muldrow.

FORT GIBSON AT A GLANCE Record last year: 5-6 Coach: Greg Whiteley, 12th year, fifth as head coach. Staff: Carter Bradley, offensive coordinator; Scott Bethel, defensive coordinator; Sammy Johnson, special teams coordinator/defensive line; Jakob Tolbert, offensive line; Wes Whiteley, JH; Grayland Dunams, receivers and defensive backs. Returning starters (8 offensive, 10 defensive): Cameron Dornan, QB, Jr., 5-11, 145; Tavien Woodworth, RB/ LB, Sr., 5-9, 145; Jesse Rudd, RB/LB, Sr., 5-10, 170; Carson Ladd, TE/LB, Sr., 6-3, 220; Ben Johnson, OL/DL, Sr., 6-0, 260; Zane Potter, OL/DL, Sr., 6-1, 290; Karson Austin, FB/LB, Sr., 5-11, 215; Connor Brown, DB, Sr., 5-10, 155; Codale Ford, DB/WR, Sr., 5-8, 150; Tegan Thornbrugh, TE/LB, Sr., 6-2, 200; Brayden Morgan, DL, Sr., 6-2, 240. Others to watch: Dylan Mills, WR/DB, Sr., 6-1, 170; Kuper Austin, OL/DL, Sr., 6-1, 210; Devan Woodworth, WR/DB, Jr., 5-10, 155; Jacob Hess, FB/LB, Jr., 5-11, 190; Aidan Coleman, TE/LB, Jr., 6-1, 180; Brody Rainbolt, OL/DL, So., 6-3, 255. both make pizza at Urban Station, a local eatery at the Fort. “I think we both can be 1,000-yard rushers in the same year,” Woodworth said. “We’re on board with whatever it takes to

win.” Ford and Brown will both start on defense and play support roles on offense in various sets. Woodworth and Rudd will rotate at outside linebacker.

Even with all the guys ready to tote the pigskin, there will still be times to throw. Cameron Dornan was thrust into that role prematurely last year and developed in a trial by fire setting as a soph-

omore. “We weren’t looking for him to play but Robby Allen goes down and he had to get ready quickly,” said Greg Whiteley, the Fort Turn to Page 15

Fort Gibson Tigers

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

WAG O NE R

Bulldogs, coach seek December games deer lease was dumped for By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com Dale Condict is an avid outdoorsman. One of the last things he did on his summer vacation was a fishing expedition in Canada. Two years ago, he painfully gave up his deer hunting lease. “We kept going to the semifinals Condict so I never got to use it like I wanted,” he said. “The first year I gave it up, we didn’t go to the semifinals.” He found himself in that situSnyder ation again last year. He hasn’t bought it back. But he’s not planning on missing the semifinals a Marshall third consecutive year. Such is a program that, for four of those years, won state titles — including a run of three consecutive. The last of those was that last year Condict owned the lease. “I never had a season I felt disappointment with. I’ve felt disappointed at losing the last game, but once you get to a level where we’ve been you always want to get back to that level again,” he said. “There’s so little room for error when you get into the playoffs. There’s been years where we won state championships that one play goes a different way and we don’t.

Last year we lost to injury who might have been the best defensive lineman in Class 4A, who didn’t play a game, yet if we don’t give up a fake punt we’re probably in the semifinals again ... We were right there with a chance and if you give yourself a chance as many years as we have, sometimes it’s just not going to happen.” That helped keep a team Condict at one time compared to the front end of the group that ran off the three state titles Schoolcraft — and most of a 48-game win streak — from trying to match that fete. The junior-dominated group can still go for two titles. That bid starts Mills with a polished quarterback. Sawyer Jones threw for 1,189 yards after winning the battle for the job that went into the start of the regular season. His numbers, and his completion rate of 55 percent, should both increase as he enters his junior year. “He made a significant amount of progression during spring practices,” Condict said. “It’s the mental confidence that he’s gained. He has more confidence around me. Like I told him, being the quarterback you and I will get the blame when we lose. It’s just something that goes with the Turn to Page 18

VON CASTOR/Phoenix Special Photo

Wagoner quarterback Sawyer Jones will be a second-year starter, having won the job early last season as a sophomore.

WAGONER AT A GLANCE Record last year: 10-2 Coach: Dale Condict, 15th season. Staff: Ryan Keenom; Leland Alexander; Moose Henson; Chad Soma; Micco Charboneau; Ray Bell; Ed Wiley; Beau Bowman; Corey Tipton; Allen Sevier. Returning starters (7 offensive, 7 defensive): Chochee Watson, RB, Jr., 5-11, 210; Sawyer Jones, QB, Jr., 6-3, 192; Jesse Fair, OL, Jr., 6-4, 255; LaMarion Clayton, HB, Jr., 6-0, 218; Jaden Snyder, WR, Sr., 5-6, 160; Jaydn Marshall, OL, Sr., 5-10, 265; Haeden Schoolcraft, LB, Sr., 6-3, 205; Drew Mills, S, Sr., 5-11, 185; Kaden Charboneau, OLB, Jr., 5-11, 175; Brian Trimble, Jr., corner, 5-7, 145; Isaac Smith, DE, Jr., 6-5, 210; Braden Drake, OLB, Jr., 5-8, 155.

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

F ORT G IB S O N Continued from Page 12

Gibson head coach. “He had reps behind Robby in practice but not as many. But he’s made great strides, and one of the things I’ve really liked about his progress is seeing him every day after morning workouts, out there throwing.” Junior Devin Woodworth, senior Dylan Mills and sophomores Alaska Graves and Cage Edgmon are primary in the wide receiver picture, and tight end Carson Ladd, 20 pounds heavier with improved explosiveness and offers from UCO, Southwestern, Northwestern, Northeastern State and Friends University to come play tight end there, will also loom in the flat. While eight starters are back offensively, 10 are back on defense including linebacker Karson Austin, who led the team in tackles last season with 84, and lineman Brayden Morgan, tops is sacks with seven. It’s definitely not a rebuilding year for Scott Bethel, the new defensive coordinator. Bethel had the same job at Rogers Heritage a year ago and before that climbed the ranks from player to coaching staff to head coach at Sallisaw. “He’s got both an energy and the technical side to him,” Morgan said. “A little of both.” Speaking of Lehman, the one-time Tiger standout and eventual All-American, Butkus and Bednarik Award winner at Oklahoma will along with his former teammates be honored at some point this season, the 20th anniversary of the Tigers’ only team to play for a Class 4A championship. It’s hoped this group will get Fort Gibson within range of a gold ball grab again. As seventh through ninth grade, the current seniors never lost a game. JOHN HASLER/Phoenix Special Photo “We’ve been waiting for this class to come for a Jesse Rudd, who battled injureis a year ago, will be part of a tandem running back set for Fort Gibson this fall. while,” Morgan said. “We believe there’s big things He rushed for 1,000 yards in his sophomore season. coming this year.”

ONE ON ONE

Hunter Parson, Hilldale This part of football is like an allergy: Getting up early Comfort item for practice or game day: Headphones Favorite sports movie: “Coach Carter” Something I’d eat on a dare to inspire your locker room: I’d do anything for my guys

Dadrian Wilson, Muskogee This part of football is like an addition: The contact Favorite sports movie: Last Chance U School subject I hit with the same intensity as football: Science Something I’d eat on a dare to inspire your locker room: A hot pepper

Carson Ladd, Fort Gibson Comfort item for practice or game day: My headphones Favorite pregame music: NBA Youngboy Favorite athlete of all time: Baker Mayfield Favorite sports movie: “The Blind Side”

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

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E UFAU LA

Ironheads scripting an encore to 2018 postseason run By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent After a disastrous start in 2018, the Eufaula Ironheads made all the right moves three games into the season and ran off nine straight wins, making it to the state quarterfinals where they fell to eventual state champ Sperry. Many of those Newton right moves return for Eufaula this year. making the Ironheads a force to be dealt with in Class 2A. Junior Jacob Fitzer started last season at quarterback but volunteered to move to center when that

EUFAULA AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 10-3 Coach: Larry Newton, Jr., eighth year. Staff: Josh Luna, offensive coordinator; Jeremy Gragg, defensive coordinator; Michael Campbell; Victor Paden; Cameron Box; Larry Newton, Sr. Returning starters (6 offensive, 6 defensive): Nick Jones, QB, Jr., 6-0, 165; Noah Alexanders, RB, Jr., 6-0, 180; Kendan Watson, OL/NG, Sr., 6-0, 270; Jacob Fitzler, OL, Jr., 6-3, 200; Tye Pippenger, OL/LB, Jr., 6-0, 200; Ty Dodd, OL, So., 6-4, 300; Noah Gray, OLB, Jr., 6-0, 155; Nick Jones, DB, Jr., 6-0, 165; Larry Rea, DL, Jr., 5-10, 180. position became a problem for Eufaula. That put sophomore Nick Jones at quarterback and he proceeded to put up nearly 1,300 yards in offense and 14 touchdowns. Other bright sophomore standouts were Noah Alexander, who rushed for over 1,400 yards

and Ty Pippenger who played in the line and was a standout linebacker with 128 tackles. All three are back to give the Ironheads a solid core of experience even with the loss of some talented players. Eufaula will have plenty of beef up front with senior

Kendan Watson (6-0, 270) and sophomore Ty Dodd (64, 300) joining Pippenger and possibly Fitzer, although coach Larry Newton Jr. would like to keep Fitzer’s quarterback Fitzer skills sharp. Jones says he’s ready to take the next step with the Ironheads and has put in the work this summer. Jones “I’ve worked on my passing all summer and have been to several camps as well as our passing league to make that part of my game

stronger,” he said. “But I still prefer running the ball when I have the chance.” Pippenger, who’s older brother was one of those talented players lost to graduation, Rea exemplifies what this team senses is their duty and what the summer has been like. “Being a success at linebacker starts Pippenger by working hard during the summer. It’s not something that just kicks in before the first game. For me, the biggest thing is watching

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

ONE ON ONE

Tyler Whitlock, Checotah

Favorite athlete of all time: Troy Aikman Comfort item for practice or game day: Gloves Favorite pregame meal: Chicken, broccoli and rice Something I’d eat on a dare to inspire my locker room: Anything

Jacob Fitzer, Eufaula Comfort item for practice or game day: Helmet Favorite football player of all time: Mason Rudolph Favorite athlete of all time: Connor McGregor Favorite pregame music: Tim McGraw

Phoenix file photo

Nick Jones returns as Eufaula’s quarterback after a 10-3 season.

EUFAULA lots of film and recognizing what the play is before the ball is ever snapped,” said the junior lineman. “This year our summer pride has been the best since I’ve been here.” Newton echoed that sentiment as he talk-

ed about the mental preparation of his team for the upcoming season. “We’ve preached all summer that there’s only one Ironhead team and we talk about some of the legends that have passed

through this program and about maintaining that pride because the next legend might come from this group of kids,” the coach said. “They’re probably one of the most vocal groups I’ve had and they’re not afraid to call out those that aren’t making practice or giving it their all.” Although it can be a long season, the Ironheads are unified in avenging two of last year’s losses starting with the season opener against Vian which drubbed them 44-6 in a game Eufaula felt it gave away with mistakes. The other is the third game of the season, the annual McIntosh County battle with Checotah, which prevailed last year 36-8.

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

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WAG O NE R Continued from Page 14

positions. Another thing, he’s 6-3, 190 instead of 6-1, 160, so there’s a big difference with his body now.” Chochee Watson averaged 8.9 yards in a supporting role at running back and becomes the featured back this year, with LaMarion Clayton behind him. Condict got Ashton Bartholomew out of basketball and track to follow in the footsteps of four-year receiving sensation Nikia Jones, but Bartholomew’s one-year career is over due to graduation. Chase Nanni is a 6-3 receiving target, and the precise but smaller Jaden Snyder (6-0) as well as Jamon Davis (5-10) and Muskogee transfer Marcus Newton are among those who look to fill that void. “Chase has as good of hands as anyone I’ve had,” Condict said. “Jaden is as good a route runner as anyone we’ve had and has a great understanding of the game and getting open. And I think Jamon is due a breakout year.” Snyder, who was in the battle at quarterback last year just after having transferred from Fort Gibson, has a football future as a kicker but senses his improvement as a receiver. “As a quarterback I had to be focused on all the defensive back’s tendencies going into a game and now I’m more focused on one or two guys and how to beat them every play,” he said. “I think Sawyer and I have a lot of the same mindset and when we see something it’s instinctive how we respond.” As for kicking? He’s nailed a 58-harder in practice and has made unofficial visits to Tulsa, Louisiana-Lafayette, Houston and Oklahoma State.

“I’ve really used those and different camps to talk with those there about how I can get better, just soaking up what I can,” he said. Jaydn Marshall and Jesse Fair started all 12 games in 2018, but give Marshall credit for some major off-season strides. Listed at 305 a season ago, he’s now at 265. Defensively look for linebacker Haeden Schoolcraft (6-3, 205) and safety Drew Mills to have big seasons. Schoolcraft severely broke the middle finger on one hand last year and missed all but four games. Mills had 106 tackles and three interceptions last year. Kaden Charboneau and Braden Drake, both veteran wrestlers, have shown continued improvement as outside linebackers, Brian Trumple started every game at one corner and Isaac Smith, a movein from Coweta, is a junior defensive end who at 6-5, 210, has a tremendous upside. It’s a defense that will be under the oversight of Ryan Keenom, who was Hilldale’s defensive coordinator until leaving last spring — a familiar face to Mills, for one. “I used to go to Hilldale and he coached at Hilldale and brought great energy here, and it’s made a good transition,” Mills said. Keenom is the second former Hilldale defensive coordinator to take on a similar role at Wagoner. The other, Travis Bryant, left Wagoner for Inola prior to the 2018 season. “Keenom cut his teeth on defense with Travis, and bringing him in allows us to run a similar defense with a guy who has a lot of energy and we’re familiar with,” Condict said. “He’s all the things you see in a young coach who will be a great head coach some day.”

Phoenix file photo

Wagoner’s Drew Mills is back at safety. He came up with this turnover last year against Bristow.

ONE ON ONE

Jaden Snyder, Wagoner Pick to win Super Bowl: Chiefs Favorite pregame tune: “In the Air” by Phil Collins Pet peeve in practice: Joking around and distracting teammates Something I’d eat on a dare to inspire my locker room: Mustard

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

CHEC OTA H

Wildcats’ skill guys could be special, multiple threats primed for deep run By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com Jacob Barrett led the area last season with 941 yards receiving on 56 catches and 11 touchdowns in 10 games. He’s the first Division I commitment for 2020, having given Hendricks that word to Eastern Michigan. So his senior season at Checotah will be spent Barrett at — quarterback, filling the shoes of Cade Shropshire, the Phoenix Male Athlete of the Year who was also a state champion wrestler.

When Barrett arrived at Checotah two seasons ago as a junior, Shropshire was there, having arrived a couple years earlier from Moore when Barrett was developing as a quarterback at Okmulgee, where he played as a sophomore. “Both are great athMartin letes, both have good leadership skills, both have great work ethic,” said Checotah head coach Chad Hendricks, who begins his seventh year there. “Cade was more the straight dropback passer and Jacob will be more play-action. Above all, they are both team players, so we won’t miss a beat there.” That team mentality

made it easy for Barrett to give up a position he’d played since third grade. “My sophomore year in practice I’d go out with the second team and play around there,” Barrett said. Dan “I get here and it was like, Cade was really good, so anything to help the team win, I was all in. He’s also not the typical 6-3 or taller quarterback Division Whitlock I colleges look for. So he became a 6-1 receiver bound for Division I and the MAC, and is also the

SHANE KEETER/Phoenix Special Photo

Checotah’s Jacob Barrett, an early commit to Eastern Michigan as a defensive back, seeks yardage for the Wildcats. Wildcats’ only returning on both sides, the most starter in the secondary. athletic team I’ve had For Hendricks, it was since I’ve been here,” a necessary move for an Hendricks said. “We offense that won’t lose a know we have the pieces weapon, but rather shift and now we have to put it to another place on it together.” the puzzle board. Another key piece of “We have guys who that puzzle is last year’s have game experience Phoenix Newcomer of

CHECOTAH AT A GLANCE

the Year, running back Dontierre Fisher. He rushed for 1,554 yards and 14 touchdowns in 10 games a year ago as a freshman. The challenge for Fisher moving forward is to become more of the complete picture of a player that can shine at the next level. “Physically there’s a big change in development from a freshman to a sophomore but with that comes the added deal of developing a work ethic and things you need to do in the classroom,” Hendricks said. “When people get put in that spot whether they like it or not, they are thrown into a leadership role. That’s something hard for some 15-year-olds to understand. So it’s basically not just about teaching football but all those things that go with it outside of the game.” One of Barrett’s go-to passing targets is also seeing a change of scenery — a bit more radical than Barrett’s. Turn to Page 23

Record last year: 6-4 Coach: Chad Hendricks, seventh year. Staff: Jimmy Whitlock, defensive coordinator/defensive line; Tom Butler, inside linebackers/wide receivers; Brian Young, co-offensive coordinator/quarterbacks; Robert King, co-offensive coordinator/offensive line; Brent Oleson, running backs; Marcus Cunningham, defensive line/tight ends; Austin Baker, wide receivers/defensive backs; Dylan Mills, outside linebackers. Returning starters (5 offensive, 6 defensive): Jacob Barrett, QB/DB, Sr., 6-1, 175; Dontierre Fisher, RB/LB, 5-10, 175; Bobby Morton, OL, Sr., 6-0, 235; Tyler Whitlock, OL, Sr., 6-0, 265; Chance Wood, OL, Sr., 6-1, 285; Bailey McIntosh, DL, Jr., 6-1, 205; Andrew Arden, DL, Jr., 5-11, 180. Others to watch: Brenden Dan, Sr., WR.

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

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TAHLE Q UA H

Tigers establish consistency in winning, but aspire to take it up a notch By Byron Beers CNHI Sports Oklahoma The hype is strong for Tahlequah. It’s easy to see why. The Tigers, coming off a nine-win Gilbert regular season, have a plethora of key players back on both sides of the ball. Head Leathers coach Brad Gilbert

TAHLEQUAH AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 9-2 Coach: Brad Gilbert, seventh year. Staff: Gary McClure, offensive coordinator/offensive line; Keith Wilson, defensive coordinator/inside linebackers; Joe Ichniowski, special teams/outside linebackers; Cody Ryals, secondary; Brandon Christian, running backs; Nathan Frisby, receivers; Rocky Reeves, defensive line. Returning starters (7 offensive, 4 defensive): Blake Corn, OL/DL, Sr., 6-0, 235; Dae Dae Leathers, RB, 5-7, 168; Jaxon Jones, WR, Sr., 6-3, 171; Tate Christian, QB, Sr., 6-3, 171; Kobey Baker, WR/SS, Jr., 5-9, 175; Dylan Parrish, LB, Sr., 5-11, 192; Hayden Napier, OL, 6-0, 245; Trae Patrick, CB/K, Sr., 5-9, 155; Qua’shon Leathers, FS, Jr., 5-11, 158; Bradley Pruitt, WR, Jr., 5-7, 165. Others to watch: Tristian King, WR/LB, Sr., 6-3, 191; Simeon Armstrong, WR/DB, Sr., 5-11, 175; Malik McMurtrey, RB/DB, So., 5-10, 158; Carson Ferguson, RB/LB, Jr., 5-8, 162; Angel Quezada, FB/LB, Jr., 5-8, 190; Joe Hendrix, OL, Sr., 6-3, 256. acknowledges the preseason buzz. He’s just not claiming it. “We still haven’t done the things we want to do all in the same year,” Gilbert said. “That’s something

we’re striving for, and yes, expectations are somewhat high and we haven’t had those expectations before. I thinks it’s a testament to where we’re at, with what we’ve been able

Christian

to do. But on the other hand, it’s not something we ever pay

attention to. We’ve got to go out and win football games.” Tate Christian directs an offense that averaged better than 350 total yards last year and scored 40

points or more four times. The senior threw for 1,434 yards and 15 touchdowns and matched a single-game Parish school mark with five touchdown passes in just his second start in a week two Corn win over Coweta. Dae Dae Leathers Turn to Page 23

SE Q U OYA H

Indians eager to resurge after taking a dip a year ago with growing pains By Billy Nichols CNHI Sports Oklahoma Sequoyah suffered through a disappointing season, going 3-7 in its first season in Class 2A-5. The Indians will look to establish themselves Richardson this year and get back to the playoffs, and they will have the experience Watie to do so on

SEQUOYAH AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 3-7 Coach: Shane Richardson, 15th on staff, seventh as HC. Staff: Brandon Richardson, offensive coordinator; Phil Angieri, linebackers; Brad Jones, OL/DL; Jeromie Hammer, offensive linebackers; Jerrod Hammer, wide receivers/defensive backs. Returning starters (11 offensive, 11 defensive): Shade Watie, RB/FS, Sr., 5-7, 165; Trenton Harris, WR/OLB, Sr., 6-3, 190; Skyler Birdtail, QB, Sr., 5-10, 175; Tyler Purkey, LB, Sr., 5-10, 180; Dakota Sanchez, TE/ILB Jr., 6-1, 190; Joah Fourkiller, OL, Sr., 5-9, 225; Drake Breuklander, OL, Jr., 6-3, 260; Christian Dry, OL, Sr., 5-10, 240; Ty Fixin, DB, Sr., 5-9, 165; Elizah Lena, OLB, Jr., 5-7, 150; Tyson Cochran, OL, Jr., 5-10, 220; Marcellis Factor, DL, Jr., 5-11, 280; David Hadley, DE, Jr., 6-2, 170; Mason Holmes, WR, Sr., 6-0, 170; Jaxen Smith, DB, Jr., 5-10, 170; Justus Retzloff, FS, Jr., 6-2, 165; Garrett Neugin, OL, Jr., 5-10, 215. Others to watch: Clayton Wallace, FB/LB, Jr., 5-9, 190; Kyle Welch, OL, Jr., 6-0, 240. offense. They return 10 starters from last year’s squad. The offense will be directed by the same quarterback, Skylar Birdtail (5-10, 175), who will

look to be a much bigger threat passing the ball in 2019 after passing for 885 yards and 11 touchdowns last year. Look to see improved stats from Birdtail this year while he directs

a spread offense that could have some big play capabilities from a few different players.

Purkey

A huge weapon for Birdtail this year will be wide receiver Trenton Harris, who coach Shane Richardson will make a point to get the ball to more this fall. Harris (6-3, 190)

logged 25 catches for 390 yards and six touchdowns in 2018. Harris will look to sigBirdtail nificantly increase his totals and should do so as he has all the physical tools to be Harris dominant at the wide receiver position he is tall, rangy and could be Turn to Page 23

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Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

HULB E RT

Riders begin Sapulpa era, and the cupboard was almost left bare By Austin Headlee CNHI Sports Oklahoma Hulbert has finished the regular season with a winning record for the past five seasons and first-year head coach Scott Sapulpa expects Sapulpa to continue the streak and make a playoff push. Only one starter from last year’s 8-4 team will be returning for the 2019 season. It is up to the young and inexperienced players on the roster to make up for the lost production to have a chance at making the playoffs. Sapulpa was hired as

the Riders’ new head coach in April, but he has a lot of confidence in the team’s grit and coachability in the few months he has spent with the players. “We have some grit to us,” he said. Bruce “That was the question when I first got here. These guys are young and I was curious about how much grit they had but I think we’re good there. The thing I like about these guys is that they’re coachable. They’re learning and that’s good.” Oklahoma career rushing leader Jacob Bruce

HULBERT AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 8-4 Coach: Scott Supulpa, head coach, offensive coordinator, quarterbacks, inside linebackers Staff: Ty Pilgrim, defensive coordinator, offensive line, defensive line; Cody Hubbard, special teams coordinator, slot receivers, outside linebackers; Terrance Wiley, wide outs, free safeties; Brandon Wolfleg, tailbacks, cornerbacks; Sylvester Bruce, director of football operations. Returning starters (1 offensive, 1 defensive, 1 special teams): James Bruce, QB/DB, Sr., 5-8, 170. Others to watch: Jacob Beall, OG/DE, Sr., 6-0, 250; Jonathan Jones, QB/S, Sr., 6-1, 180; Donnie Girdner, SR/OL, Sr., 5-10, 175; Lane Gordon, OT/DE, So., 6-2, 180; Mason Hill, TB/OL, Sr., 5-9, 180. was the focal point of the Riders’ offense last season and led the team to the playoffs. Now that Jacob has graduated it is time for James Bruce, Jacob’s younger brother,

to step up as the team’s running back. “It’s different, I’m not used to it,” said James Bruce. “I’m still kind of getting used to it. I just feel like it’s my time to

shine now.” Jacob offered his brother some advice for his new role: Keep running and keep going. James will look to keep the team’s offensive production going in the new Girder season. The quarterback position will be filled by a new face in senior Jonathan Jones. The team is not bringing back a starter on the defensive side of the ball and the players are fighting for their new starting spots in Sapulpa’s 3-3 base defense. “There are two big

things,” said Sapulpa. “One is that we don’t have five million linemen, we only have to have three and we can rotate if one goes down. Also, it’s an uncommon defense, the coverJones ages are uncommon in that the free safety/ strong safety spot is a deep-cover guy, but he’s Beall also like another inside linebacker so it looks like we have seven in the box instead of just six.”

K E YS

Young Cougars start anew under veteran Texas HS mentor Maxfield By Austin Headlee CNHI Sports Oklahoma Keys will look to rebound after last season’s 3-7 record coming off two consecutive 6-5 seasons which led to playoff berths. New head coach Mel Maxfield, who replaced former head coach Mitchell Crittenden, brings over 30 years of Texas high school football to the Cougars’ program and looks to make an impact in year one. Maxfield doesn’t have a set number of wins to define a successful season,

but his observations from over the offseason lead him to believe the team is ready to be competitive and improve with every passing week. “We have had a good summer program,” he said. “I was able to be the head coach during the spring training. I am optimistic about our chances of success.” The Cougars are a young team mostly compiled of sophomores and juniors. Fortunately, most of those players started last year as freshmen and sophomores or gained experience from

KEYS AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 3-7 Coach: Mel Maxfield, first year. Starters/players to watch: N/A. last season. “I think we have some experience now,” said Maxfield. “I think experience is a plus if it was positive, but I don’t know if getting the dog getting beat out of you every week really helps you. We are going to make a big deal out of doing positive

things and correct the negative things and push forward.” Sophomore quarterback Lane Taylor started every game last season under coach Crittenden and spent time as a defensive back. His athleticism, moxie and leadership will be crucial. “He has a good foundation,” said Maxfield. “He had a good summer program and he is committed to the cause. He also has good leadership skills and he’s everything you look for in a quarterback. Of course, it’s early and I’m projecting he’ll be the

guy, but I really believe he’ll be the guy.” Last season the team ran the occasional shotgun formation while primarily playing in the wing-T formations. Maxfield doesn’t anticipate bringing that back into the game plan, but he will integrate a new wrinkle into the offensive system. “What we are going to incorporate into the offense is some options because I like to have the ball in Lane’s hands,” said Maxfield. “It’ll help take some pressure off our running backs.”

Senior offensive linemen Drake Hathaway is one of the team leaders who leads by example and through his actions. “I think we are going to be a young team and our offensive line will be our biggest strength going into the season,” said Hathaway. “We have some powerhouse players on the offensive line, but we also have a lot of talent in the backfield and in the secondary on defense. We will have a lot of speed and strength, but I think our offensive line will be the strength of everything.”

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

Pigskin Preview HAS KELL

ST I G LE R

Panthers could make deep run Haymakers find themselves provided they battle out of 3A-3 building upon a new Nation STIGLER AT A GLANCE By Jim Weber Phoenix Correspondent

After an opening round win in the Class 3A playoffs last season, the Stigler Panthers fell short against eventual state champ Heritage Risenhoover Hall. This season coach Chris Risenhoover is looking for a deeper run with West 17 of his 22 starters returning. The first chore is to weather the storm of DisPeery trict 3A-3, which was arguably the most competitive district in any classification a year ago Calhoun and appears to be headed back that way. “Going into that final week of the regular season a year ago, we had a chance last year to be 8-2 and miss the playoffs,” Panthers head coach Chris Risenhoover said. “The talent level in that district

Record last year: 9-3 Coach: Chris Risenhoover, 11th year. Staff: Kevin Wilkett, Dwight Carey, Cade Sherwood, Eric Stout. Returning starters (9 offensive, 8 defensive): Mason Peery, QB/WR/DB, Sr., 5-9, 178; Jaxon Calhoun, WR/DB, Sr., 6-0, 170; Ridge McClary, RB/OL, 5-9, 170; Lakin Bass, WR/DB, Jr., 6-1, 175; Braden Drewry, WR/DB, Jr., 5-11, 165; Keaton Shaffer, OL/DL, Sr., 6-1, 260; Bruce Engle, LB, Jr., 5-11, 200; Cole West, NG/TE, Sr., 6-0, 230; Vance Hamlin, DT/OL, Jr., 6-2, 245; Jackson Winkle, DB/ WR, Sr., 6-4, 195; Billy Mitchell, OL, Jr., 6-1, 170.

won’t change. All of the teams return a lot of people. I suspect another good team will miss the playoffs.” Mason Peery gets the call this year at quarterback for the Panthers, moving from slot receiver. For much of the last decade, quarterback hasn’t been an issue for the Panthers, which have had a string of All-Phoenix team members over that time. “You go from a primarily passing quarterback in Jarrett Radford to athletic dual threats with (Cade) Sherwood and Seth Sandlin to Nate Bryant last year, those guys have all found a way to move the football,” Risenhoover said. “Mason fits in that category as a dual threat guy. As a slot receiver the past two years, he’s familiar

with what the passing game is about. Athleticism, as far as his ability to run the football, you couple that with what he’s shown us in the summer with his ability to throw, he’s got a chance to be like the rest of them.” Peery has the advice of one of those, Sherwood, to lean on as an offensive assistant. “He’s had an impact, definitely,” said Peery. “He’s shown me how to be a better quarterback and better for the whole team.” Perry will have a talented group of experienced receivers to choose from. Braden Drewry, besides calling some signals as a sophomore, was on the receiving end of 16 passes for 345 yards. His classmate Lakin Bass hauled in 18 tosses for 384, and Jaxon Calhoun along with

By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent

Greg Nation takes over the coaching reins at Haskell this season with hopes of getting the Haymakers out of a threeyear slump without a winning record. With some holes Nation to fill in the backfield, Nation will rely on a host of older guys to help take up the Adams slack. “I think our senior leadership will be very important this year,” said Nation, who will install his trademark multiple set, motion-based offense. One area of focus during the run-up to the season opener is at quarterback. Senior Jackoby Goldsby left Haskell for Jenks last year but returns this season and is ready to learn from his new coach. “I saw a picture of coach (Nation) in some wild orange pants this summer and said ‘that’s dope” so I think he’ll be alright,” laughed Goldsby. “I’m glad to be back here with my boys this

HASKELL AT A GLANCE

Record last year: 5-5 Coach: Greg Nation, first year. Staff: Mike Jones, Paul McCrary, Matt Wallbaum, Kyle Ward, Mark Garner Returning starters (3 offensive, 3 defensive): Zane Adams, OL, Sr., 6-2, 250; Brace Polk, OL, Sr., 6-3, 220; Jakoby Gouldsby, QB, Sr., 5-9, 175; Kyle Burris, SB, Sr., 6-1, 210; Easton Roberts, WR, Sr., 6-2, 185; Jaxon Sanders, Sr., RB, 6-1, 180; Inez Medoza, LB, Sr., 5-6, 170; Jason Mendoza, LB, So., 5-6, 165; Conner David, CB, Jr., 5-7, 170. year.” Jaxon Sanders, who saw limited action last season will get the nod at running Gouldsby back for the Haymakers. One area where Haskell is well set is at receiver. Easton Roberts had 24 catches for over 600 yards last year and Kyle Burris had 25 receptions for 282 yards as a slotback, both return. Burris says he looks forward to reuniting with Goldsby this season. “We’ve played together before so we kind of know what to expect from one another. We’ve spent time after practice running routes and working on footwork and just throwing the ball around,” he said. Defensively, the Hay-

makers will employ another Greg Nation tradition — the 4-2-5 defense. Mendoza “I’ve always believed you have to be able to apply pressure on the quarterback to be successful so that’s what we’ll do here,” said Nation. The line should also be solid with Brace Polk and the highly-touted Zane Adams back for what should be a great senior year. “I’ve worked hard this summer to get ready and I think this year’s Summer Pride is the best we’ve had since I’ve been here,” said Adams, who ranks near the top of his senior class and has received looks from Northeastern State and OBU so far. “I hope we

Pigskin Preview can just get over the hump and make the playoffs this year.” Nation knows that hard work is a key to success but he also believes that a little fun can also be mixed in. “I’ve found that the weight room is really important to these guys and that bar has been set high by previous coaches, but I also think sometimes you have to get away from the all-work, no-play mentality in order to build some team comradery.” To that end, prior to the start of fall practice the Haymakers decided to hold the first annual team fishing derby with laurels for big fish and dunking for the small one. And although we didn’t get the official results, you can almost bet that the new head coach ended up getting wet.

Continued from Page 20

The standout is Tyler Purkey, who recorded 132 tackles a big deep threat this year for last season. With this being the Indians. Purkey’s senior season, look for “We feel like with him you’ve him to be an even better playgot a little bit better chance er looking to further improve than 50/50 on what you would himself. call a 50/50 ball,” Richardson Dakota Sanchez (6-1, 190) said. is one of the linebackers back Typically in the past the for the Indians this season. In Indians have been a more 2018, Sanchez had 106 total conservative offense when it tackles and will be looking to comes to passing, but with do more of the same this seathe emergence of Harris they son. have a legitimate deep threat The secondary has the most for their spread attack. Look overall experience with Kobey to see a lot more deep shots Baker, Qua’shon Leathers, thrown down the field this Trae Patrick, Simeon Armstrong, Dae Dae Leathers and season to Harris. He will definitely be a player to watch out Bradley Pruitt providing solid pieces. for this season.

ST I G LE R began his head coaching duties for the Panthers in 2008. On the defensive side of things Stigler is led by Bruce Engle. Last season, as a sophomore, the linebacker manage 126 tackles, 2 fumble recoveries and an interception. He will be aided by nose guard

Cole West, a 6-0, 230 pounder and two-way starter. Calhoun and Jaxon Winkle could be ond of the top shutdown cornerback tandems in the state. Overall, Risenhoover puts a lofty tag on the unit. “This may be the best defense we’ve put on

the football field in a long time. Our overall athleticism — and not just there but on offense with a quality group of wideouts and a quality running back with three to four starters back up front and our overall depth. I think this has got a chance to be one of those special years.”

“I’ll take the best option for me,” Dan said. For Hendricks, the biggest challenge is developing depth and particularly up front on both sides of the ball. Bobby Morton and Jimmy Whitlock are both four-year starters on offense on a full-time basis, and spot starters before eventually becoming full-timers on defense. Chance Wood returns at center. “We’re going to have to

rely on two-way guys in some places,” Hendricks said. “We’re skilled at running back, receiver and linebacker, but defensive line, secondary, offensive line, we’ll have to create it.” If successful at that, the Wildcats should emerge in a big way from a district where they were part of a fiveteam race for a district title going into week 10 but missed the postseason entirely.

CHEC OTA H Continued from Page 19

SEQUOYAH

HAS K E LL

Peery, combined for 916 receiving yards in 2018. The quartet of Calhoun, Bass, Peery and Drewry accounted for 22-of-27 Stigler passing touchdowns last season. Even with Peery moving positions, according to Risenhoover, he will have the deepest group of receivers since he

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

route,” Brenden said. “Jacob, he’d been on me since basketball, asking Since his ninth grade me after every game if I year, Brenden Dan has focused his athletic skills would come out for footon the hardwoods — un- ball, harder than anyone else did. My brother just til now. The senior and told me if you do it, you younger brother of New need to commit to go Mexico State wide receiver Drew Dan will try work hard in both.” Rogers State, NSU and emulate his brother and Lyon (Ark.) have — for at least a year. expressed interest in his “When I was a freshbasketball talents. The man Drew was already really, really good in foot- football DNA is in him though, so what if the ball and I thought hey, I’ll just go the basketball love comes there?

ONE ON ONE

Jaxon Sanders, Haskell Favorite football player of all time: Barry Sanders Favorite NFL team: Jaguars Subject I hit with the same intensity as football: Social Studies Something I’d eat to inspire my locker room: Something off the ground

Mason Peery, Stigler Favorite NFL team: Cowboys Favorite pregame tune: “Glorious” by Macklemore Favorite pregame meal: Spaghetti Favorite athlete of all time: Russell Westbrook

Dylan Parish, Tahlequah This part of football that’s addictive: Making plays Comfort item for practice or game day: Water Favorite pregame meal: Cliff bar or something light School subject I hit with the same intensity as football: Lunch

Muskogee Phoenix Sunday, Aug. 25, 2019

Pigskin Preview

VIAN

Wolverines’ leadership circle just shifts to new family By Jim Weber Phoenix Correspondent There’s a leadership vacuum that had to be filled at Vian after last season. For the first time since 2008, there isn’t Willis a Simon brother on the team. Gone is the last of a group (Rowdy, then Rylee and finally, River) that proCloud duced seven All-Phoenix Small School Defensive Players of the Year in eight seasons — the lone exception being River’s Lyons freshman year, when he got the nod as Newcomer of the Year. All were two-way standouts whose reputation weighed slightly heavier on the defensive Griffith side. That, in addition to their leadership roles, and what better definition of that than River, now boot-camping at West Point Military

VIAN AT A GLANCE Record last year: 10-3 Coach: Gary Willis, fifth, fourth as HC. Staff: Beau Burlison, offensive coordinator, defensive line coach, special teams coordinator; Lance Winans, defensive coordinator, quarterbacks coach, running back coach; Gary Willis, offensive coordinator, defensive back coach; Kenyatta Wright, linebacker coach; Chris Peoples, receivers coach, kickers coach; Johnny Teehee, lay coach. Returning starters (7 offensive, 9 defensive): Javyn Wright, QB/DB, Jr., 6-0, 165; Gray Cloud, RB/DB, Sr., 5-6, 155; Elijah Wright, WR/OLB, Sr., 6-0, 225; Gunnar Griffith, TE/MLB, Sr., 6-1, 210; Xavin Lackey, WR/OLB, So., 6-1, 220; William Lyons, OT/DT, Sr., 6-0, 280; Solomon Wright, NT, Jr., 6-0, 280; Nick Hughes, OT/DE, Jr., 6-2, 235; Isaiah Teehee, SS, Jr., 5-10, 180; Elijah Mendoza, WR/DB/K, Sr., 5-10, 160. Academy where he’ll eventually compete in wrestling. That void will be handed off in part to another family name steeped in Vian tradiE. Wright tion. Elijah Wright is a senior and son of one of Vian’s alltime defensive greats, Kenyatta Wright, who went on to a stellar career at S. Wright Oklahoma State and stints in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets. “From the time I moved to Vian, River was someone I looked up to because of how hard he worked,” Wright said. “He wasn’t all the time vocal, but if he did something we followed because we knew he was going to do the right

thing and lead us in the right way and that helped us become better leaders.” So did Elijah’s dad. “He’s always telling me I’m a leader and it’s taken me 18 years to realize that,” Wright said, in his second season at Vian after moving from Fort Gibson. “I’m finally stepping into that leadership role.” Elijah’s brother, Solomon Wright, will thrive on the defensive line. An All-Phoenix selection last year. Wright and fellow 280-pounder William Lyons totaled 134 stops and 16 sacks last year and will also go on the offensive side. Javyn Wright, a junior and cousin of Elijah and Solmon, will get the starting nod at quarterback after throwing for 301 yards in backup duty to River Simon last season. With a completion percentage of just over 60 percent, expect the air attack to pick up. with Simon having played with a not fully recovered

fractured elbow. Elijah Wright will be a prime target, having had six touchdown passes on just 15 receptions after mak-

ing the All-Phoenix team as a Fort Gibson sophomore two years ago. Senior Gray Cloud will fill the gap as Vian’s lead-

ing ground gainer. The speedy Cloud compiled eight rushing touchdowns in 2018 along with 720 yards gained on just 73 carries for a 9.8 yards per carry average. Jacob Brockman (6-3, 250) leads an offensive line with “good size and leverage,” said Vian coach Gary Willis. A bit undersized, but “as tough as they come,” according to the coach, is center Brek Escojido (5-10, 210), Along with Wright and Lyons are seven other deTurn to Page 26