Prep Football Preview by The Norman Transcript

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

The Norman Transcript

T-WOLVES HEADED NORTH SO MUCH EXPERIENCE RETURNS ONE SEASON AFTER PROGRAM BLASTED PAST EXPECTATIONS

NORMAN HIGH: RELOADING AROUND SENIOR QB ZACH LONG, TIGERS BELIEVE THEY COULD BE IN FOR A BIG SEASON Also: Moore, Westmoore, Southmoore, Noble, CCS, Purcell, Little Axe, Lexington, Washington

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

Big stories

WELCOME TO THE SE ASON

Norman North is a study in potential coming off a season of surpassed expectation. Page 5 n With Zach Long back at quarterback for his senior year, Tigers have a leader they can count on. Page 8

Taking an inside look At Class 6A At Class 5A At Class 3A At Class 2A The band experience

Every team has several of them and they’re bound to change and multiply every week

he best part of it is the stories. Of course, you’ve heard this before. It is written all the time, frequently by me. It’s about the stories, the stories, the stories. It sounds romantically hokey and it may well be. Just not from here. From Sports Editor here, it’s much more real than that. You might have noticed Norman North has received most of the cover of this special section. You might also remember that last year, it was Norman High. Everybody loved the Tigers last season, one year after they were the surprise team in the state and before so much of the program’s talent graduated. Well, folks may not like Norman North quite as much as they liked NHS last season, but they like them. The T-Wolves are on the radar because they were one of last season’s surprises and almost everybody is back. And they’re in their second season under Wade Standley,

Clay Horning

11 18 22 23 26

Predictions District 6A-2 District 6A-3 District 6A-4 District 5A-3 District 3A-1 District 3A-4 District 2A-3 District 2A-4

It’s the stories

11 11 11 18 22 22 23 23

which ought to create better football simply simply as a matter of greater familiarity with Standley’s systems. And everybody’s a year older, stronger, faster. And, given a taste of success, most want to come back for a big gulp the next time around. And the TWolves can begin their trek to wherever they’re headed Thursday night at Owen Field. Of course, NHS will have something to say about it. The Tigers still have quarterback Zach Long, enough running backs not to miss Donovan Roberts (much) since his Fayetteville departure, and a defense that has coach Greg Nation excited. See? That’s not hokey and romantic. That’s real. They’re stories that will take several turns over the course of the season. Stories that will matter to people. Stories that stir emotional involvement. It wouldn’t be nearly as much fun if they didn’t. And that’s just NHS and North. Around the area, you know who’s enjoyed the most success over the last 15 years? Westmoore may have a case, but it’s probably Purcell and Washington. Well, Purcell has a new coach and Washington, though it maintained its almost two-decade long string of reaching the playoffs,

is coming off a 5-6 season. Shannon Watford has replaced longtime coach Mike Wilson at Purcel. So there’s another great story right there. How will that go? It’s never easy being the guy after “The Guy” (even though it helps when you’ve won state titles). Meanwhile, Brad Beller is entering his third season at his alma mater. As the last guy to win at Lexington, his previous stop, nobody should doubt his ability to coach. Further, the Warriors nondistrict schedule is once-again ridiculously tough. And still you know nobody at Washington likes going 5-6. So there’s another great story. Washington visits Purcell a week from Friday. Two great stories colliding. How about Noble? When I arrived at The Transcript in 1997, the Bears were an inept program. Then, somewhere along the line, Steve Barrett took over, some talent came together and the Bears had a nice run as a playoff team. This is Barrett’s third season back running the program. The Bears won two games last season, but Barrett believes that was a prelude to this season, when everything might come together. Will it happen? Good question, but it’s another

great story to watch. Lexington may struggle all season long. It did last season, winning one game. Maybe this season will be just as tough. Still, first-year coach Jeff Hall has already proven successful simply by exponentially upping roster numbers in the preseason. Will victories follow? Who knows, but don’t you want to find out? Moore won two games last season, two more than the year before, and could have won more, and a pride of Lions return. Another good story. Community Christian has left the OCSAA and, why not, there was nothing left for the Royals to win. Their dominance was complete to the point of monotony. But the OSSAA has no district for the program and may not have one next season. The Royals are playing for pride, literally. How will they handle it? Another good story. They’re everywhere. Always. Even before the games start. Things will begin to change Thursday and Friday, and next week and the week after. Stories will turn this way and that. Multiply, too. It’s why we’re here. For the stories.

Team Previews Norman North Norman High Moore Westmoore

5,6,7 8,9,10 12,13 12,14

Southmoore Noble CCS Little Axe

12,15 18,19 20,21 24

Purcell Washington Lexington

24 25 25

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

NORMAN NORTH TIMBERWOLVES

Another great leap? One more season of surpassing expectations could take Timberwolves a very long way

T-Wolves to watch

By Corbin Hosler Transcript Sports Writer

orman North faced its share of challenges last season, from injury troubles to learning first-year coach Wade Standley’s systems in what was supposed to be a rebuilding year. But those Timberwolves surpassed all expectations, going 6-4 and advancing to the playoffs. And with most of the team back, the T-Wolves face a different kind of challenge this year: improving upon last season’s performance. And they want more than just a return trip to the playoffs. Standley repeats his mantra, “The goal is to win championships,” so often that you know it’s the mindset he’s engraved upon his players. “The expectations are much higher this year, as they should be,” he said. “We have a long way to go, but that’s the goal. It’s not about where we are right now. It’s about getting better every day.” Getting better every day is something Standley thinks his team did last year, transforming a squad that went 3-7 in 2010 into a team that was able to go on a fourgame winning streak even after losing its starting quarterback, Peyton Gavras, to injury midway through the season. Standley is pleased with

Jaxon Uhles: LB

Beau Proctor: LB

Bryan Payne: WR

Peyton Gavras: QB

Norman North’s Zeke Burns (42) and Jordan Evans bring down Edmond Santa Fe quarterback Justice Hansen during a preseason scrimmage. Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

how far along his team is, especially compared to a year ago. “We’re much farther along in our system,” he said. “Last year at this time, we were still installing base defenses, and this year we’re actually adding more

to the playbook.” If the T-Wolves can be better, the next logical question is, how much better? North is floating around the top 10 in some preseason polls. It brings back all 11 starters on a defense that allowed 14 or

fewer points in four of its last six games. The unit should be able to keep North close in any game it plays and give the offense opportunities to put points on the board. An inconsistent offense was the biggest knock on

the T-Wolves last year, but returning experience at the skill positions should help. Whether Gavras or Channing Meyer ends up getting more time at quarterback, North will • See NORTH Page 29

Can two-QB system work? North may try to find out By Corbin Hosler Transcript Sports Writer

It’s a debate that has raged for countless years at all levels of football and has now come to Norman North. Can a two-quarterback system work? We may find out when North opens the season against Norman High on Thursday at the Crosstown Clash. The Timberwolves have two signal callers more than capable of filling the role in seniors Peyton Gavras and Channing Meyer. Gavras earned the starting job last year over the now-graduated Chad Ehrhart, while Meyer burst onto the scene from nowhere and led North on a four-game winning streak when Gavras went down with a concussion midway through the season. The pair combined to • See PLAN Page 29

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

NORTH SCHEDULE

NORMAN NORTH ROSTER 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44

Keaton Haney Bryan Payne Samuel Smith Beau Proctor Jordan Evans John Kolar Cale Horton Erwin Frazier Carter Klein DJ Gasso Jake Higginbotham Peyton Gavras Redford Jones Nick Basquine Zac Musgrove Channing Meyer Tyler Sipe Dillon Hyden Corbin Cleveland DJ Hicks Adim Chukwurah Cody Simpson Tyler Bottoms Mickey Velasco Christopher Briley Garrett Verble Trace Magee Trevor Magee Jordan Pryor Body Dodds Mike Mayberry Ryan Punto Quinn Cleveland Bo Garver Brody Compton Terrell Johnson Christian Lindsey Braden Kennedy Mason Volk Zeke Burns Kaden McClellan Jaxon Uhles

Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. So. So. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. So. So. So. Jr. Sr. So. So. So. So. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. So. Sr.

5’9 5’5 5’9 5’11 6’3 6’3 6’1 5’11 6’0 5’11 6’ 5’10 5’11 5’8 5’11 6’1 6’3 5’7 6’2 6’ 6’ 5’10 5’9 5’9 6’ 6’3 5’9 5’8 509 5’9 5’10 5’9 5’10 5’7 5’8 5’7 5’9 6’ 5’11 5’9 6’ 6’

170 150 165 210 210 152 175 195 151 181 157 179 170 150 177 170 200 140 170 195 177 145 170 170 185 185 162 162 154 145 165 160 155 150 130 155 167 220 210 185 180 226

DB RB QB LB LB QB DB RB DB DB WR QB K WR QB QB TE DB WR DB DB WR DB DB WR WR LB LB RB DB LB RB DB DB RB DB RB LB LB DL DL LB

45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 62 64 65 66 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 77 78 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 89 90 94 98

Justin Martin Coltyn Byington Trey Millican Zachary Pace Preston Cody Paxton Pennington Ryan Curtis Mark Losoya Jacob Terry Landon Liddell Josh Been Preston Couch Jack Davis Collin Power Jacob Martin Taylor McBroom Mike Baskeyfield Drake Mouse Christopher Jensen Michael Hooper Evan Coles Ethan Brockmeir Paxton Bruner Dylan Rodman George Neff Kain Williams Aaron Osby Stelen Covell Dalton Bowling Trey Wormington Nick Warren Jacob Wines Christian Williams Jesse Steepe Lavonte Doxey Nick Marr Brayden Sefcovis Brandon Curtis Payton Prince Shawn Collins Jake Edzards Andrew Buck

Sr. So. So. So. So. So. Jr. So. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. So. So. Jr. Sr. So. So. Jr. Sr. So. So. So. Sr. Sr. So. So. Jr. So. Jr. So.

5’11 5’9 5’9 5’9 5’8 5’8 6’1 5’10 5’9 5’6 5’11 5’11 6’ 5’6 6’3 6’ 5’6 6’3 5’11 6’ 6’ 5’11 5’11 5’11 6’2 6’ 5’11 6’1 5’7 6’7 5’11 5’2 6’1 5’7 5’10 5’9 5’7 5’7 6’3 6’3 5’11 5’10

220 182 145 178 140 160 185 170 195 204 240 215 245 170 245 220 220 270 195 180 225 225 280 190 215 296 219 230 175 220 180 110 175 130 205 155 140 140 232 190 165 170

DL LB RB LB LB LB OL DL OL OL OL OL DL DL DL OL OL OL OL DL DL OL OL DL DL OL OL DL DL OL WR WR OL WR LB WR DB WR TE TE K K

Aug. 30 Norman Sept. 7 Del City Sept. 13 at W’moore Sept. 21 at MWC Sept. 28 Yukon Oct. 4 at U.S. Grant Oct. 11 Ed. North Oct. 19 P.C. North Oct. 26 Moore Nov. 1 at Lawton Ike

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

THE BIG GAME

Well, Midwest City is huge, becuase it’s the first district game and it’s away from home and the Bombers are a terrific team. A win there would announce North’s arrival to the the state. And still, guess what’s bigger? Opening night. Win a Crosstown Clash, and confidence doesn’t wane after a district-opening loss, should the T-Wolves lose it. Also, beat NHS and confidence swells, maybe enough to take down Midwest City.

N O R T H FA C T S A N D F I G U R E S Coach: Wade Standley (6-5, second season, 12-18 overall) That’s a quote: “Our goal is to win championships. Last year we got better every week, and if we can do that again this year, the rest will take care of itself” — Wade Standley 2011: 6-5 (5-2 District 6A-1) Returning experience: 9 offensive starters, 11 defensive starters. Players to watch: Peyton Gavras, QB; Channing Meyer QB/WR, Jaxon Uhles, LB; Jordan Evans, LB; Corbin Cleveland, WR; Beau Proctor, LB; Bryan Payne, RB Promising newcomers: Tyler Sipe, TE; Garrett Verble, WR; Carter Klein, DB. Offensive scheme: Multiple Spread Defensive scheme: 3-4 Keys to success: The offense was inconsistent at times last season, and Standley believes enacting a more balanced attack will help

What is North football? North returns 11 starters from what proved to be an already-stout and opportunistic defense from a year ago. Offensive playmakers are sure to get a lot of attention. Still, this season, if the T-Wolves are to challenge expectations again, will be about defense. this year. How well the TWolves are able to spread it around without turning the ball over will be pivotal. Enrollment: 2,069 Coach’s district forecast: Midwest City and Edmond North are the teams to beat, with North, Yukon and Lawton Eisenhower all in contention for the next pair of playoff spots. But all three of those teams are capable of pulling off an upset win over the two favorites and changing the district landscape.

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Timberwolves offense not short on playmakers By Corbin Hosler Transcript Sports Writer

A scouting report of the Norman North offense will say that senior receiver Corbin Cleveland is the most dangerous target on the field. And while that may be true, it is not complete. Senior wideout Jake Higginbotham has come a long way since last season, turning in a good summer program and excelling in the first weeks of practice. That much was evidenced by one series of plays in North’s intrasquad scrimmage in which he slipped behind an impressive North defense to catch two deep balls and break away. He also narrowly missed a third later in the scrimmage. “He’s done a great job,”

North coach Wade Standley said. “He’s been good for us and good players make great plays.” Having a second deep threat in Higginbotham takes some of the pressure, and the defense, off Cleveland. Alongside Cleveland and, possibly, Channing Meyer down the field, the game could really open up for senior running back Bryan Payne, creating the balanced offense Standley is looking for. “No matter what quarterback is in there we’re going to have the ability to be more balanced,” Standley said. Moving inside: Standley’s plan to present a balanced offense only works if the line gives the backfield enough time to make plays. And that

N O R M A N N O R T H P R E S E A S O N N O T E PA D line has undergone a few changes. There are still some moving parts in regards to the blockers, but 6-7 Trey Wormington has moved from tight end to tackle to shore up the inside. The junior was one of North’s most reliable blockers last year on the end and Standley expects him to help a line that has shown improvement this preseason. “They’re coming along pretty well,” he said. Ex-Sooner on staff: Mitch Williams, who played for Standley when he was an assistant at Tulsa Union, before playing collegiately at Oklahoma, has joined the North staff. Williams will

work with the offensive line. Bringing in a player with that kind of experience is a huge benefit for the team, Standley said. “Mitch knows our defense because he’s played in it. I’m excited to have him on board.” Evans drawing attention: Senior linebacker Jordan Evans had a breakout season last year, recording 87 tackles after moving from cornerback to linebacker. Yet, because of the position switch, collegiate attention has been slow in coming. Now, Evans has offers from the likes of Navy and New Mexico, but could garner still more interest with a big senior season.

Norman North receiver Jake Higginbotham readies to receive a pass during the T-Wolves preseason scrimmage against Edmond Santa Fe. Higginbotham has become a go-to receiver for North since practice began. Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

NORMAN HIGH TIGERS

Long road for Tigers After heavy graduation losses, NHS still has an experienced senior QB to lead the way

Tigers to watch

By Corbin Hosler Transcript Sports Writer

here will be plenty of new faces on the field this year for Norman High, which graduated its share of stars last season, including Donovan Roberts, who rushed for more than1,500 yards last season and is now carrying the ball at Arkansas. But there is at least one familiar name back this season, and it’s one Tiger opponents will have on their minds every week. That would be quarterback Zach Long, a threeyear starter who took the Tigers to the playoffs the last two seasons and is now entering his final season at the helm. Long was always more than a sidekick to Roberts in the backfield, but there’s no doubt this season that he will be the face of the team. It’s a lot of pressure for Long, who will also be auditioning for a college scholarship this season. All of which is just fine with Long. “It’s not really anything new,” he said. “I’ve always been kind of a leader as the quarterback, and now as a senior, I really am. I don’t want this year to end.” Long recognizes that he’ll have some youth around him, particularly in his receiving corps. But he’s stepped up his game to

Blake Dean: WR/LB

Boston Lewis: CB

Tigers have options at RB

They’re even faster than the last guy By Corbin Hosler Transcripts Sports Writer

A’erion Hines: RB

Imond Robinson: RB

Norman High quarterback Zach Long runs a play during Tiger preseason practice. Long is one of the state’s most experienced quarterbacks in any class. Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

compensate, particularly focusing on reading defenses and finding the holes in coverage. It’s a skill he’s honed this summer while attending college camps at a number of campuses, including Tulsa and North Texas.

“He’s really worked knowing where to go with the football before the play even starts,” coach Greg Nation said. “His reads are really good, and his footwork is impeccable.” Long has the skills to succeed as a collegiate

quarterback, though some take pause at his lack of height. At just under six feet tall, Long is a few inches shorter than the prototypical major college quarterback. Still, he has a few advantages over many

recruits. His reads are solid, and being a step ahead of the defense before the ball is snapped puts him ahead of the game regardless of his height. Also, tremendous • See NHS Page 30

It’s said that some programs don’t rebuild, they simply reload. And with star running back Donovan Roberts at Arkansas after graduating last year, Norman High hopes that will be the case with its program. Roberts, a workhorse who carried the ball 225 times for 1,558 yards and 23 touchdowns last season, isn’t easy to replace. But the Tigers have a trio of senior backs who all saw the field last season who will try. A’erion Hines, Imond Robinson and Jonathan Peters are all competing for the starting job, and each have their own strengths and weaknesses. One thing all three backs have in common, however, is speed. All of • See RBs Page 30

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

NHS SCHEDULE

NORMAN HIGH ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 46 47

Boston Lewis Jaykob Dean Kobe Lyon Jonathan Peters Dupree Young Matt Hockett Taylor Wheat A'erion Hines Stefan Williams Josh McGill Blake Dean Gavin Nadeau Andrew Behne Levi Fredrickson Zach Long Colton Lehenbauer Logan Hensley Michael Beard Lane Stephen Imond Robinson Stetson Martin Michael Piper Skylar Calhoun Andre German David Vance Tyler Felder Darius Manning Kierstan Pendleton Adam Selmon Cole McClellan Owen Kampert Kyle Wimberly Sean Wilson Logan Hill Tywon James Jake Gray Bernard Epie Matt Pettit Peyton Barrett Bryce Kelley Cale Stumpff Hud Oberly Cal Schone Kyle Wells Spencer Jones

Sr. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. So. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. So. So. So. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr.

5'10 5'8 5'8 6'2 5'10 6'3 6'2 5'8 5'11 5'11 5'10 5'9 5'10 5'11 5'11 5'10 6' 5'10 6'1 5'5 5'7 5'10 5'7 5'8 5'7 5'7 5'9 5'11 5'6 5'10 6'1 5'9 5'10 5'11 5'11 5'11 5'11 5'9 5'8 5'8 5'11 6'2 6' 5'5 6'

165 Fl/DB 155 WR/DB 160 WR/DB 180 H/FS 185 H/SPUR 185 K 190 RB/S 170 H/DB 170 Fl/DB 190 R/DE 190 R/DE 170 S 155 WR/DB 175 QB 165 QB/DB 155 WR/DB 175 QB 160 QB/DB 175 TE/LB 140 H/DB 160 FL/DB 165 QB/DB 145 WR/DB 160 R/LB 160 FL/DB 145 WR/DB 170 H/LB 150 WR/DB 155 H/SPUR 165 DE 180 TE/DE 160 R/LB 180 R/LB 170 H/B 180 R/LB 185 R/LB 175 R/LB 165 WR/DB 155 R/B 165 R/LB 175 R/LB 180 TE/DE 180 TE/B 140 WR/DB 170 TE/DE

48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 92 93 94 99

Bryce Burkhart Nick Bryant Jesse Aragon de Galvez Josh Farley Yatikah Warrington Zac Uhles Nick Scheid Jake Stinson Jacob Lefler Isaac Gillett Khalil Freeman Cole Ridgway Brandon Arrington Conner Anderson Blake Hull Codey Williams Jordan Davis Nick Webb Blaine Christian Preston Pennington Braxton Gibson Byron White Greer Ewing Dalon Lehenbauer Anthony Grimes Ryan Costello Patrick Murray Joaquin Vargas Cooper DeBerry Kedron Dibble Jake Stout Collin Kappell Travis Houch Tyler Luke Max Gillett Quanterrious Robinson James Gallaher Sayvon Foley George Carter Thomas Schoenborn Ayo Oyesanya Kyrin Lewis Cade Parker Dakota Arntson Ronnie Thompson

So. Sr. So. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. So. So. So. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. So. So. So. So. So. Jr. So. So. So. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr.

5'10 6' 5'9 5'11 6'1 6'3 6' 5'11 5'10 6'2 5'8 6'3 6'1 6'2 5'11 5'10 6' 5'10 6'2 5'10 5'11 6' 5'11 5'11 6'2 5'10 6' 5'11 5'10 5'11 5'9 5'10 5'11 5'9 6'2 6'1 5'9 5'7 5'10 5'7 6' 5'10 6'1 5'9 6'2

165 195 160 220 270 240 200 240 230 270 205 270 240 215 230 200 270 215 250 200 245 280 215 200 195 215 230 220 210 185 155 165 170 150 190 185 135 140 165 130 270 215 220 150 235

H/OLB DE C/DT C/DT C/DT C/DT OG/DT C/DT C/DT C/DT OT/DT OG/N C/DT OG/DT OG/N OG/DT DT DT OT/DT OG/DT OT/DT OT/N C/N OG/DT TE/DT C/N OG/DT OG/DT OG/DT OG/N WR/DB TE/DE TE/LB WR/DB SE/DE SE/LB WR/DB WR/DB FL/DB WR/DB OG/DT DT DT WR/DB DT

Aug. 30 North Sept. 6 at Moore Sept. 14 Yukon Sept. 21 Mustang Sept. 28 at EMHS Oct. 5 Choctaw Oct. 12 at S’moore Oct. 19 E. Santa Fe Oct. 25 at P.C. West Nov. 2 Lawton

7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

THE BIG GAME

The Clash is always huge, but if it’s Norman North’s turn to escape Owen Field with a victory, the Tigers will be placed in the position of finding themselves on the opening night of district play, at home against Mustang, could have nothing less than the season riding on it. A transition year for the Tigers, some believe they could finish fifth in District 6A-4. Beating the Broncos will be the first step toward making sure that kind of fall doesn’t happen.

N H S FA C T S A N D F I G U R E S Coach: Greg Nation (21-21 at Norman High, fifth season, 75-56 overall) That’s a quote: “People are counting us out, after everyone we graduated. But we have the right guys, and if we come in with the right attitude a lot of things are going to happen” — Greg Nation 2011: 7-4 (4-3 District 6A-3) Returning experience: 6 offensive starters, 6 defensive starters. Players to watch: Zach Long, QB; Blake Dean, LB; Boston Lewis, CB; A’erion Hines, RB; Jaykob Dean, WR; Matt Hockett, K. Promising newcomers: Sayvon Foley, WR; Cal Schone, TE; Gavin Nadeau, SS. Offensive scheme: Oneback multiple Defensive scheme: 4-2-5 Keys to success: The Tigers were effective on special teams last season, and Nation sees winning that battle as hugely important, especially

What is NHS football? Nation may run a one-back offense, but he’s still an oldschool coach. For him, it’s still about toughness and hitting somebody in the mouth. He’s willing to mix it up, as long as the Tigers still embrace some very old gridiron values. early in the season for a Tiger squad that is integrating new players at the skill positions. The Tigers also need to be more physical at the line of scrimmage, winning the battles in the trenches. Enrollment: 1,728 Coach’s district forecast: Nation sees the Tigers fighting it out with Edmond Santa Fe and Lawton at the top of the district, with Mustang and Southmoore in the middle of the pack but also posing challenges for the teams at the top.

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

Nation likes the way defense has come along By Corbin Hosler Transcript Sports Writer

With all the focus on Norman High’s offense and how it will retool after losing Donovan Roberts and a host of other talent, the Tiger defense has flown under the radar. That could all change when the season begins. Like the offense, the defense returns six starters and is looking to fill a few voids, notably the loss of linebacker Dominic Rosetti, who averaged nearly 10 tackles a game last season. Still, coach Greg Nation said the Tigers are ready to pick up where they left off. “They say at this time of the year the defense should be dominating,” he said. “I agree. But I think even with

that our defense is looking pretty good. They’ve stepped up to where I feel like they can be.” The player making the biggest impact thus far has been senior linebacker Blake Dean, who has proven himself to be a playmaker in practice and scrimmages. “Blake Dean’s been all over the field making tackles,” Nation said. “He’s been the leader of the defense.” A kick out of it: NHS junior kicker Matt Hockett enjoyed an impressive sophomore campaign, handling all the kicking duties for the Tigers. Another year of experience and a summer of practice have made him better than ever, Nation said. “We’re looking really

N H S P R E S E A S O N N O T E PA D good there,” he said. Hockett, a standout on the soccer pitch, has shown the ability to reach the goalpost from 50 yards or more. It’s one advantage the Tigers should enjoy against most of the teams on their schedule. Home-field advantage: Nation believes his team has what it takes to rise to the top of District 6A-4, and he knows who it will have to beat for that to happen. NHS, Lawton and Santa Fe are the class of the district, he believes, and the Tigers are fortunate enough to get the Wolverines and Wolves at Harve Collins Field Santa Fe will visit on Oct. 19, while Lawton visits on

Nov. 2 to wrap up the regular season. Of course, before both of those games the Tigers have another one that might stand out on the calendar. They travel to Southmoore on Oct. 12 with a chance to avenge an upset loss last season in which the SaberCats came to Norman and dominated from start to finish en route to a 40-23 victory. New freshman coach: There will be a new face along the sideline as well this season. Ian Dewey, now in his sixth year with the Tiger program, is taking over as head coach of NHS’ freshman team.

Norman High coach Greg Nation gets his point across after a preseason Tiger practice at Harve Collins Field. Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

TAKING A LOOK AT CLASS 6A PROSPECTS

MATCHUPS

STORYLINES

1. Khari Harding, DB, Edmond Santa Fe The 6’1, 205-pound safety is committed to Arkansas after considering offers from Oregon State, Kansas and several other smaller schools.

1. Crosstown Clash, Aug. 30 Around here, this has to be No. 1. Also, this time around, there may be no clear favorite. An added bonus, that doesn’t happen very often.

2. Maurice Chandler, CB, Lawton Chandler has 4.4 speed in the 40 and will play his Saturdays at Texas Tech next season.

2. Midwest City at E. Santa Fe, Aug. 30 Both teams enter the season ranked in the top five. Who’s best in the West? Could be the winner.

3. Jordan Smallwood, WR, Jenks Smallwood caught 50 passes and scored 11 touchdowns as a junior, and will head down the turnpike to play ball at Oklahoma next year.

3. Union at Jenks, Aug. 31 The two dynasties are no longer as far ahead of the rest of the state as they once were, but the history of this matchup is undeniable.

4. Dalton Rodriguez, OT, Tulsa Union Joining Smallwood at Oklahoma next season is Rodriguez, who chose the Sooners over Oklahoma State and Tulsa.

4. Broken Arrow at Owasso, Aug. 31 The other two powers in the east. Broken Arrow went all the way to the title game last season, while Owasso handed Union its only loss.

5. Chris Hall, FB, Tulsa Union The Tulsa commit is the No. 5 fullback in the nation as ranked by Rivals.com.

5. Broken Arrow at Union, Sept. 14 A rematch of last season’s Class 6A title game. What’s not to like? Well, other than the fact that BA and Union are the two biggest high schools in the state, both by more than a thousand students.

1. Can anyone topple the East? It’s a question that is asked every year, and it’s been 16 years since someone besides Jenks or Union won the state title. Midwest City and Edmond Santa Fe are the most likely candidates from the West. But the biggest threat to the continued dominance of Jenks and Union likely comes from other eastern rivals. 2. What’s the future of Midwest City? The Bombers went undefeated into the playoffs last year before dropping a three-point game to Owasso in the second round. Now they have a new coach in Darrell Hall. Change is always interesting. 3. The redistricting effect. Power has been shifted around the state, and almost every team is looking at a different path to the playoffs. Norman North still has familiar opponents for the most part, while Norman High has moved back west to a district that doesn’t include Jenks and Broken Arrow. How will it all shake out?

DISTRICT 6A-2

DISTRICT 6A-3

DISTRICT 6A-4

TR ANSCRIPT

BREAKDOWN

TOP 10

1. Jenks Many like Broken Arrow over the Trojans, but we’re going with tradition on this one. If the Tigers can beat Jenks yet again, maybe then we’ll become believers in the state’s largest (more than 4,500 students) high school. 2. Broken Arrow 3. Westmoore 4. Muskogee 5. Bixby 6. Putnam City 7. Sapulpa 8. Tulsa Edison

1. Midwest City The Bombers have a new coach, but an old quarterback in Joel Davis, giving them the nod over the Huskies, who are retooling after a breakout season in ex-Norman North coach Lance Manning’s first season. 2. EdmondNorth 3. Norman North 4. Yukon 5. Lawton Ike 6. Putnam City North 7. Moore 8. U.S. Grant

1. Edmond Santa Fe The Wolves turned in the state’s biggest turnaround a year ago and bring back most of the guys that made it happen. Many districts appear wide open. This isn’t one of them. 2. Lawton High 3. Norman High 4. Southmoore 5. Mustang 6. Edmond Memorial 7. Choctaw 8. Putnam City West

CLASS 6A 1. Union 2. Jenks 3. Broken Arrow 4. Edmond Santa Fe 5. Midwest City 6. Owasso 7. Lawton High 8. Westmoore 9. Norman North 10. Edmond North In the conversation: Southmoore, Tulsa Washington, Norman High, Yukon

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

MOORE LIONS

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

WESTMOORE JAGUA RS

SOUTHMOORE SABERCATS

Moore to the story

Lions hope a new winning attitude can be the difference

Jags going West at QB, behind very veteran line

By Michael Kinney

Transcript Sports Writer

MOORE — Todd Watters knew he had a tough challenge in front of him. When he took over as Moore football coach during the offseason it was easy to see, just by virtue of the program’s record the last five years, that the Lions were in need of major changes. What Watters has found since taking the job is the biggest change must be a cultural one. “There is nothing broken about Moore Lion football,” the first year coach said. “What we have Kyle Phillips / The Transcript to do is make sure our Moore running back Ryan Lujan carries the ball mentality is right. That we during a preseason scrimmage. are not expecting to lose. That we don’t expect bad things to happen to us. “That can easily be the result of two wins over the last three seasons. So we really have to work on the mentality of our kids and make sure they are expecting to win. You can’t just blindly expect to win. You have to prepare to win.” Watters took over the program when Scott Myers resigned to take a job at his alma matter in Chandler. Moore is comKyle Phillips / The Transcript ing off a season in which it Southmoore’s defense makes a play for a loss • See MOORE Page 17 during an intrasquad scrimmage.

By Michael Kinney OKLAHOMA CITY — Jhames West junior season at Westmoore didn’t go as he had planned. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound receiver suffered a high ankle sprain in the sixth game and missed the rest of the season. West had been the team’s Kyle Phillips / The Transcript main receiving target and big play threat. It was assumed Five different Jaguars defenders combine to make a he’d return in the same role. tackle during a preseason scrimmage. Jaguar coach Billy Langford go play quarterback. Think I er,” Langford said. “He had other ideas. played quarterback as a “My heart is at quarter- made the right decision.” Langford thinks so, too. sophomore. so it wasn’t back,” West said. “I played it all my life. (Coach) sat me West will be his third starting something that was new. He down in the offseason and quarterback in three years, ran our whole system as a asked me what I wanted to but perhaps his most com- sophomore. People will be surprised at how good he do. If I wanted to stay at plete one as well. “He’s just a great athlete throws the ball. It’ always receiver or go to quarter• See JAGS Page 17 back. I told him I wanted to and a very sharp football play-

SaberCats will put their lesson in humility to good use By Michael Kinney Transcript Sports Writer

MOORE — Southmoore entered last season high on confidence. Several players had predicted the team would have a chance to run the table despite playing in rugged District 6A-3 along with Jenks and Broken Arrow. The SaberCats will enter this season with a different mindset and a new-found

maturity. From a humble place, they’ve prepared to succeed. “We have a little bit of confidence going this year,” senior Tre Edwards said. “Hopefully we build on that every week … We are more realistic. We have the chance to go out there and do big things.” Southmoore has also gone through a change at the top. Gone is Chris Jensen, the program’s first head coach,

who left to build a new collegiate program at Oklahoma Baptist. In his place is former offensive coordinator Jeff Brickman. Brickman already has the players’ confidence. “We lost a good head coach and replaced him with a better one,” senior Jackson Stallings said. “We’ve strengthened ourselves through the adversity that • See SOUTHMOORE Page 16

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

MOORE SCHEDULE

MOORE ROSTER 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 35 36 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 50 51

Evan Sprayberry Derek Harris Jordan Norris Will Sprayberry Arthur Wilson Casen Haddox Garrett Grive Corban Lawrence Carlton Robertson Jacob Garvey DeCarlo Brewer Mason Vaught Colin Webb Sverri Finsson Jordan Bernhardy Micah Haggerty Chris Sanders Ryan Lujan Blake Brewster J.T. Dickan DeVonte Cooper Blake Hodges Keoni Walter Matt Hurst Tony Alvarado Tray Simpkins Steven Ramos Brandon Cummings Austin Arnett Justin Blakenship Dalton Bruno Tate Alvarez Ricky Holt Branden Conditt Kolten Onyshczak Jorge Rojas James Snodgrass Tyler Buckles Caleb Brumfield Zach Mitchell Ryan Diaz Tyler Nolen

6'2 5'10 5'8 5'11 5'7 6'2 5'10 6'2 6' 6' 5'6 6' 6'1 5'10 6'1 5'8 5'10 5'10 5'10 6' 5'6 5'7 5'7 5'8 5'5 5'10 5'6 5'10 5'10 6' 6'1 6' 5'8 5'9 5'5 5'8 5'11 5'10 5'10 5'8 6' 5'10

181 168 157 174 168 163 160 165 177 163 162 184 194 161 150 145 165 180 158 167 148 130 145 138 141 155 141 167 130 185 155 195 154 145 139 161 177 188 145 145 247 175

WR/LB QB/DB WR/DB WR/LB WR/DB WR/DB QB/DB WR/DB WR/LB QB/DB WR/DB QB/DB QB/LB RB/LB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB RB/LB RB/DB WR/LB RB/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/LB WR/DB WR/DB WR/LB WR/DB RB/LB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB RB/LB WR/LB RB/LB WR/DB WR/DB OL/DL OL/LB

11 12 10 11 12 11 10 12 11 11 10 10 12 11 11 11 11 11 10 11 10 11 12 11 10 10 11 12 10 10 11 12 10 9 10 10 10 11 10 10 12 12

52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 82 83 84 87 90 91 92 93 95

Josh Moran Adelaja Grayson Colton Mangum Cody Greene Brett Karp Mark Perkins Victor Harris Kody Wright Robert Gaytan Dylan Grimsley Braydon Neidel Josh Robison Jason Vaughn Jordan Long Austin Barrick Robert Venter Tyeson Neals Canaan Cook Kenrick Cravens Austin Wilbanks Carlos Agius Tyler Brumley Ethan Birdwell Bradley Rivera Nic Kirchen David Johnson Gage Holliday Cody McCartney Lance Biswell Trevor Hunt Shannon Reaves Jeroem Hummell Colin Gilbert Dylan Webb Cyle Nance Ethan Williams Tevin Benson Noah Robison

6'2 6'4 6'1 5'7 5'7 5'10 5'11 5'6 5'6 5'11 5'11 5'10 5'11 6'5 6' 6'3 6'2 6'1 6'3 5'11 5'11 5'10 6' 6'1 6'1 5'11 5'10 6' 6'2 6' 5'7 5'10 5'10 5'10 6' 6'2 5'8 5'8

245 200 236 195 195 198 184 175 247 187 242 205 174 192 205 236 211 237 247 175 193 190 239 265 313 196 160 206 171 184 123 151 142 154 151 293 140 283

OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DE OL/DL OL/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL WR/DL K/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB OL/DL WR/DB OL/DL

10 12 12 11 10 12 10 10 10 12 10 12 10 12 11 12 10 11 10 10 10 10 12 12 10 10 10 11 11 12 10 11 10 10 10 11 12 10

Aug. 31 Westmoore Sept. 6 Norman Sept. 14 at S’moore Sept. 20 U.S. Grant Sept. 27 at P.C. North Oct. 5 Eisenhower Oct. 12 at Yukon Oct. 18 Edmond North Oct. 26 at N. North Nov. 2 at Midwest City

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

THE BIG GAME

If the Lions can win one of their first three games, it would be big. It would mean landing an upset before opening the district against U.S. Grant, a game they should win. Two wins heading into the second district game would be a bold step. But even if that doesn’t happen, P.C. North, the second district game, looms large. Moore may not be favored, but it’s winnable. Two straight wins to begin the district might become a snowball rolling downhill.

M O O R E FA C T S A N D F I G U R E S Coach: Todd Watters (0-0, first season) That’s a quote: “No matter what the talent level is, the kids play hard and compete. I think the fans can definitely expect that” — Todd Watters 2011: 2-8 (2-5 District 6A-1) Returning experience: 3 offensive starters, 2 defensive starters. Players to watch: Ethan Birdwell, OL; Ryan Diaz, OL; Derek Harris, QB; Ryan Lujan, TB; Corban Lawrence, SE; Carlton Robertson, SR/DB; Will Sprayberry SR/DB; Chris Sanders SR/DB; Adelaja Grayson OL/DE; Evan Sprayberry SE/DE; Austin Barrick OL/DL; Brad Rivera DL; Colin Webb LB; Tate Alvarez LB; Tyler Buckles LB Promising newcomers: Jordan Norris, DB; Blake Brewster DB Offensive scheme: Shotgun Spread-Option Defensive scheme: 4-3 Keys to success: The

What is Moore football? The Lions will snap it out of the shotgun, but otherwise be an option team. Defensively, it’s about bending without breaking. On the road back from several tough seasons, for Moore, it’s about staying in the game long enough to find a way to win in the end. Lions will have to replace large senior class full of starters from last season. The younger players have to step up and fill these roles from day one. Enrollment: 2153 Coach’s district forecast: Watters is having to start from scratch in his first year at Moore. Revamping the offense and replacing a large senior class. He knows it will be very tough for the Lions to compete with the likes of Midwest City in District 6A-1.

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

WESTMOORE SCHEDULE

WESTMOORE ROSTER 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

Cassius Hill Kiante Channel Jhames West Austin Dodd Brycen Lee Devon Navarro Kenion Hassan Tez Miles Collin Morris Josh Morgan Johnny Randle Ty Womack Jentrey Scammahorn Kieron Hardrick Austin Richards Addison Staggs Jacob Unsicker Joseph Gibson Terrell Skinner Zander Svetgoff Lexus Lee Giavonni Knight Jerrit Moore Angel Peralta Zack Stover Matt Day Dax Hannon Tyler Martinez Logan Holman Chase Huckeby Alec Pennington Denver Beebe Haden Tolbert Jacob Tilley Jordan Freeman Justin George Ryan Gilkes Austin Freeman So.loman Vanover

5’10 5’11 6’1 6’3 6’ 5’ 11 6’ 5’6 6’2 5’11 6’ 5’10 5’9 5’7 5’11 5’10 6’ 5’6 5’11 5’10 5’9 5’11 6’2 5’9 5’6 6’ 6’1 6’ 5’10 5’10 5’9 6’1 5’11 6’3 6’2 6’1 5’7" 6’ 6’1

160 155 185 175 195 165 160 150 170 220 170 170 150 170 175 170 155 160 170 160 175 170 225 165 160 195 170 160 150 160 140 175 170 200 215 195 160 170 205

So WR Jr. CB Sr. QB/S Jr. WR So. OLB/S Jr. QB Jr. WR/RB So. CB So. WR Sr. ILB Sr. WR Jr. OLB Jr. WR Jr. RB Sr. RB Sr. S/WR So. S So. RB So. RB Sr. S/WR Jr. WR/S Sr. CB Sr. DE/TE So. CB So. ILB Jr. ILB So. DE So. OLB So. CB So. OLB So. OLB Jr. OLB Jr. ILB Jr DE Sr. TE Jr. ILB So. ILB Jr. OLB Sr. NG

49 51 52 53 54 55 57 60 61 65 66 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 77 78 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 95 96

Sijon Rider Zach Clark Hunter O’Brien Conner Calabreese Kellen Warren Nick Ray Nathan Mata Dan Switch Blaine Milam Ty Watkins Eric Stevens Nick Hardaway Austin Stone Corey Rosser Matt Whitney Rhett Hall Kelley Turner John Jacob Finn Steven Scott Noah Hammons Austin Harless Jaylen Bennett Corbin Castle Rickey Garrett Rylan Williams Trent Grimes Dean Schooley Caleb Robertson Kamari Cole Jake Braiser D’Quavion Burnett Tristan Womack Talon Wolfe Austin Nicksh Garrett Loudermilk John Delmoral

5’11 6’ 5’6 5’7 5’11 5’10 5’8 5’10 6’1 6’1 5’10 6’4 5’11 5’10 6’1 6’1 6’2 5’11 5’8 6’2 5’8 5’10 5’11" 6’1 5’8 6’ 5’10 6’ 5’10 5’11 5’9 5’9 5’10 6’ 6’3 6’3

190 245 185 190 235 195 240 240 280 245 220 315 235 285 230 275 210 230 280 325 240 145 180 170 155 190 150 165 155 165 150 145 150 155 215 270

Sr. ILB Sr. OT/DE So. ILB So. DE Sr. C Sr. OLB So. OG Jr. OT So OT Jr. OT So. OG Sr. OG Sr. NG So. OG Jr. OT So. NG Sr. DE Sr. OG/DL Sr. C Jr. C/OG So. C Jr. WR Jr. WR Sr. WR So. WR Sr. WR Jr. WR Jr. WR So. WR So. DE So. WR So. CB So. WR So. OLB Sr. DE So. OT

Aug. 31 Moore Sept. 7 Southmoore Sept. 13 N. North Sept. 21 Bixby Sept. 28 at Muskogee Oct. 4 Putnam City Oct. 12 at Jenks Oct. 19 Sapulpa Oct. 26 at Tulsa Edison Nov. 2 at B. Arrow

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

THE BIG GAME

Many like Westmoore as the third team in the district behind Jenks and Broken Arrow. Still, even getting that far means the Jags will have to beat a few new opponents since moving into an eastern district. That makes their Sept. 28 road date at Muskogee very important. The Roughers could be a playoff team. Taking them down on their home field could get the Jags rolling.

W E S T M O O R E FA C T S A N D F I G U R E S Coach: Billy Langford (13-10 at Westmoore, third season) That’s a quote: "We want to win a district title. We don't care who is over there" — Billy Langford 2011: 7-4 (4-3 District 6A-2) Returning experience: 8 offensive starters, 7 defensive starters. Players to watch: Josh Morgan, ILB; Jacob Finn, OL/DL; Jhames West, QB/DB; Austin Richards, RB; Lexus Lee, WR/DB; Addison Staggs, WR/DB Promising newcomers: Austin Dodd, WR; Kiante Channell, CB; Kieron Hardrick, RB; Noah Hammons, OL/DL Offensive scheme: Spread Defensive scheme: 3-4 Keys to success: For Westmoore to climb higher in Class 6A, it simply has to execute. It can’t leave points on the field. It can’t give up the big play defensively. It has the tal-

What is Westmoore football? The Jags are a mix of old and new. They run a spread offense, but like to run the ball out of it. With Jhames West, they have a QB who can run and throw. It’s the kind of philosophy designed to build a team without limits. ent to be very competitive. Execution could be the difference between that and winning the big game. Enrollment: 1982 Coach’s district forecast: Langford likes his team’s chances, but admits he can’t pick the Jags over Jenks and Broken Arrow until the Jags beat Jenks and Broken Arrow. After his own team, he likes Muskogee to earn the last playoff bid in the district.

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

SOUTHMOORE SCHEDULE

SOUTHMOORE ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45

Nick Ward Tyler Painter Jaelon Walker Johnathan Martin Jackson Stallings Brandon Garrison Jalen Adams Spencer Martin Christian Tennyson Pierce Spead Tre Edwards Jaleel Asberry Ryan Richardson Zach Matthews Karltrell Henderson Tristan Johnson Xavier Black Jace Williams Aaron McDowell Aaron Holder Darious Joseph Aaron Olsanski Justin James Reginald Dantzler Jr. Jamal Stelly Zach Hernandez Alex James Gabe Garza Brandon Dick Eric Ortiz Terrance Bonner Lane Soltero Nick Scott Cody Earp Corey Keyes Tallorial Bonds Jordan Syrus Derrick Leonard Henry Mayhue Darnell Nicks Dillon Long Dapree Carson Reece Gilbert Tristen Cossey Keaton Bell

DB/WR DB/HB HB DB/WR DL/TE OLB WR/DB DB DB RB QB DB/HB OLB QB RB DB/WR DB/WR QB OLB DB/WR DB OLB RB DB/RB RB DB DL/WR WR DB HB ILB DB WR OLB OLB WR DB OLB WR OLB ILB DL LB/TE DE/TE ILB

Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. So. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. So. Jr. So. So. So. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. So. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. Jr.

6’1 5’9 5’8 5’9 6’1 5’10 5’10 6’1 6’1 5’7 5’9 5’8 5’8 6’2 5’9 5’8 5’10 5’10 5’10 5’11 6’0 5’7 5’6 5’6 5’7 5’8 6’3 5’8 5’8 5’5 5’10 5’7 6’0 6’2 5’9 5’11 6’2 5’6 5’9 6’0 5’11 6’2 5’9 6’0 5’11

190 162 170 182 214 181 162 167 160 200 175 172 184 188 205 153 147 155 174 161 146 144 184 160 151 137 191 154 159 123 195 145 151 195 181 170 143 142 141 182 217 206 180 187 204

46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 68 69 70 71 72 73 75 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 86 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 96

Ricky Clark Griffin Thompson Alex Precilla Steve Beard Drew Nickell Tyler Davis Brandon Riley Dillan Thompson Kameron Dahlin Branson Zundell Chad Mullenberg Dakota Haynes Jackson Suriano Andrew Cooper Eric Chavez Garet Boren Jake Spradling Dominique Hendrix Steven Foss Richard Corwine David Schemenauer Branden Dufour Mundo Puga James Weaver Ricky Chavez Houston Tyler John Ashcraft Josh Lyons Dustin Knight Daniel Pantalia Ethan Graumann Kris Williamson Chase Driskell Xavier Black Tyler Millard Bobby Henry David Gaines Dakota Troglin Troy July Bryce Hatton Brandon Minton Quinton Greb Brandon Riley Tristen Fenlason Garrison Bailey

WR ILB K DB DL/OL OL DL/OL OL OL OL DL OL ILB OL OL OL OL DL OL OL OL OL OL DL OL DL/OL DL/OL DL/OL DL OL DL/OL HB WR WR WR DL ILB/TE DL/TE ILB DL OLB DL DL/OL K DL

So. Sr. Fr. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. So. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. So. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. So. Sr. So. So. So. So. So. So. Jr. So. So. So. So. Jr. So.

5’8 5’10 5’9 5’10 5’10 5’11 5’11 5’8 5’10 5’10 6’0 5’11 5’11 6’0 5’7 5’10 6’1 5’10 6’1 5’10 6’2 5’9 6’0 5’11 6’1 5’10 6’0 5’11 5’10 5’10 6’0 5’5 5’7 5’11 5’9 6’4 6’0 6’4 6’1 5’9 5’8 5’9 5’11 6’0 6’3

160 183 185 144 195 232 205 161 206 207 280 269 158 281 238 249 265 270 265 202 294 192 293 296 235 225 215 333 228 213 193 148 128 145 138 240 190 221 190 219 157 190 194 157 190

Aug. 31 at Carl Albert Sept. 7 at Westmoore Sept. 14 Moore Sept. 20 at Edmond SF Sept. 28 PC West Oct. 4 at Lawton Oct. 12 Norman Oct. 19 At Edmond Oct. 26 Choctaw Nov. 2 Mustang

7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.

THE BIG GAME

It has to be Westmoore in Week 2. For one thing, being city champs is kind of cool and for that to happen, the SaberCats need to beat the Jaguars. Still, bigger than that is what it would mean going forward. It would probably mean being 3-0 before district play begins. Also, both the Jags and ’Cats believe they’re capable of a big season. The winner is likely more capable.

S O U T H M O O R E FA C T S A N D F I G U R E S Coach: Jeff Brickman (0-0 at Southmoore, first season, 00 overall) That’s a quote: “Our motto this year is ‘Doing It Faster.’ We like to say that we strive to be the Oregon of high school football” — Jeff Brickman 2011: 5-6 (4-3 District 6A-3) Returning experience: 9 offensive starters, 9 defensive starters. Players to watch: Tre Edwards, QB; Jackson Stallings, DL/TE; Nick Ward, DB/WR; Jaleel Asberry, HB/DB Promising newcomers: Jalen Adams, WR/DB; Jaelon Walker HB; Houston Tyler, OL/DL; Dominique Hendrix, DL. Offensive scheme: High tempo no-huddle Defensive scheme: 3-4 Keys to success: Despite it’s fast-tempo offense, when the SaberCats have been good, their defense has been comprised of playmakers. Southmoore needs to make

What is Southmoore football? Fast. Now. Go get it. Something like that. Brickman believes he has the athletes to play faster than any other team in Class 6A, even on both sides of the ball. He says he wants to be like Oregon? No word yet on the number of uniform combinations the SaberCats will have available to them. plays on both sides of the ball. Enrollment: 1955 Coach’s district forecast: After two years in an eastern district, Southmoore has returned west, although District 6A-2 is no cakewalk. Edmond Santa Fe and Lawton figure to be two teams the rest of the loop will be gunning for.

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

Southmoore: After learning lesson, ’Cats taking a new approach • From Page 12

Moore: Bucking offensive trend • From Page 12 went 2-8, but had its chances to make the postseason. Instead, several victories slipped through its fingers late in games and prevented the Lions from greater resurgence. “Moore football’s been down a little bit, but it’s not broken,” Watters said. “There was a great coaching staff here last year. They did a great job. They could have easily been 6-4 and everybody knows that.” This year’s upperclassmen don’t want to let those victories slip away again. “I think the seniors looked at what we had last year and felt we could have done a lot better than what we did,” senior Ryan Diaz said. “We feel like we are coming out here a lot hungrier and are going to fight for what we have to get.” Moore’s going through an offensive transformation. Instead of the normal spread offense most Class 6A teams are running, Watters has installed a shotgun spread-option. “You need to fit the system to the personnel,” Watters said. “But I’ve always in the past tried to find a system that allowed you to overachieve; a system that

is the great equalizer. “Option football does that. I’ve always had some option football in our offensive package. And we think that fits the players here.” Derek Harris is the likely starting quarterback. He has the athletic ability and quickness to run the option and makes plays in the open field. However, Colin Webb is the better pure passer and will also see time under center. Defensively, Watters said not much will change. Look for Webb, Tyler Buckles, Evan Sprayberry and Casen Haddox to lead a young, but aggressive unit. “The biggest difference is that this year’s squad, we’ve all grown up together … We have a better connection and a better bond,” Sprayberry said. Still, the Lions must overcome a recent history in which they’ve won only five games the last five seasons. Watters likes how his players work. “I think just like every year, no matter what the talent level is, kids play hard and compete,” Watters said. “I think the fans can expect that. That’s the mentality of the whole community. We have great parents. They raise their kids right and to work hard and to compete in

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

Moore players get ready for a preseason practice session.

Lions to watch

Derek Harris: QB

Collin Webb: LB

Ryan Diaz: OL/DL

Adelaja Grayson: OL/DL

we’ve faced. I think this year we can have some special things.” Despite going 5-6 last year, the cupboard was not left empty. Southmoore returns 18 starters. That number includes Edwards, who has committed to play baseball at Arkansas, but will quarterback the Cats this season. Edwards racked up 1,469 yards and 15 touchdown passes against four interceptions last season. Brickman wants one thing from Edwards. “To lead by example,” he said. Other key offensive players include offensive lineman Drew Nickell, tailback Kartrell Henderson and wideout Jalen Adams. Still, it’s Stallings who will continue to be Southmoore’s biggest aerial target. “Our go-to receiver the past two years has been our tight end Jackson Stallings,” Brickman said. “He led the state in receptions and yards for tight ends the past two seasons. “I like our receivers this year … We have five to six receivers this season that are all capable, which makes us harder to defend.” On the defensive side, Terrance Bonner, Spencer Martin, Nick Ward and Dominque Hendrix are expected to lead a fast moving and aggressive unit. Competition should be tough in District 6A-4 against the likes of Edmond Santa Fe, Lawton High and Norman High. But the SaberCats have learned to focus on themselves. “My expectations for this final year is to play every down like it’s our last,” Stallings said. “Because we have a group of seniors this year that have been playing together since we were sophomores. There is no reason we shouldn’t go out there and play to our full potential … “We will have something special if we stay together as a team.”

’Cats to watch

Jackson Stallings: DL/TE

Tre Edwards: QB

Nick Ward: DB/WR

Dominique Hendrix: DL

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Jags: Ready to win • From Page 12 good to have the ball in your best athlete’s hands every snap.” With the athletic, fast and mobile quarterback, the Jaguars envision their offense opening up more dangerous than ever. “When you are able to do a lot of quarterback run game, it really gives your offense a whole new dimension,” Langford said. “Jhames is such a good athlete, it would be silly not to run him … It should open up the passing game even more.” West will play behind a veteran offensive line. All five starters return: Zach Clark (6-foot, 245pounds), Kellen Warren (5-11, 235), Ty Watkins (6-1, 245), Nick Hardaway (6-4, 315) and four year starter John Finn (510, 230). “I think the chemistry, you can’t compare,” Clark

said. “We are a unit and a family. That’s something you can’t coach.” Westmoore has also made a big alteration to its defense by moving to a 3-4 scheme: three linemen, four linebackers. “We don’t have a whole lot of size on the defensive line,” senior linebacker Josh Morgan said. “We moved to the 34 because everybody has a lot more speed. I think we can work with it a lot easier. I have to be a lot more physical because we don’t have another guy on the line.” The Jags have high hopes. “Expectations are the same, if not higher,” West said. “We’ve been to the playoffs the last two years. Now we want to be a semifinal team, final team. That’s the stuff our coaches are harping on us about.”

Westmoore coach Billy Langford addresses his players following a preaseason workout. Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

Jaguars to watch

Jhames West: QB/S

Josh Morgan: LB

Austin Richards: RB

Jacob Finn: OL/DL

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

NOBLE BE A RS

Postseason calls Bears to watch

Noble banking on this being year everything turns around By Corbin Hosler Transcript Sports Writer

NOBLE — It’s coach Steve Barrett’s third year back as the head man at Noble High, and it’s shaping up to be a defining year for the program. Barrett, who returned to the sideline in 2010 after leaving the job in 2002, thinks this is the year the Bears, who haven’t made the playoffs since 2007 and finished 2-8 last year, will finally turn the corner. It’s a sentiment shared by many in Noble. There’s a nearlycompleted fieldhouse overlooking a brand-new football field, and there’s reason to believe the product on the field will be just as improved. The team returns 15 starters, many of whom are juniors who saw significant time as sophomores. The Bears also moved into a district devoid of traditional powers Deer Creek and Guthrie, giving them their easiest road to the playoffs in years. It has all the makings of a turnaround season, and Barrett isn’t shying away from the notion. “This year will determine a lot about the direction of our program,” he said. “We feel good about the guys we’ve got, and things are set up for us.” The junior class is a battle-test-

CLASS 5A

TOP PROSPECTS

Dakota Boxwell: QB

DISTRICT 5A-3

BREAKDOWN 1. Bishop Kelley McAlester has won more games lately, but the Comets bring back most of their defense and Austin Morris, one of the state’s best running backs, averaged more than 8 yards per carry last season. 2. McAlester 3. Durant 4. Noble 5. Shawnee 6. Tulsa Memorial 7. Skiatook 8. Tulsa Hale

Kyle Johnson OT/DT

TR ANSCRIPT

TOP 10 CLASS 5A Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

Noble players receive instruction during a preseason practice. The Bears are hoping for a breakout year in coach Steve Barrett’s second year back atop the program. ed bunch. Many saw playing time in their freshman season and played big roles last year. “We have some juniors who’ve seen two full years of football,” Barrett said. “A few years ago we had underdeveloped kids out there and it was basically boys against men. That’s not the case this year.” The biggest advantage of having so many returning players is how much more efficient coach-

es and players can be in practice, senior receiver Jared Palmer said. “They don’t have to do any teaching in practice,” he said. “Everyone knows what’s going on.” The Bears showed signs of improvement last season, even if it wasn’t reflected in their final win-loss record. They played competitvely against several talented teams and, more importantly, Barrett

1. Kimmie Carson, LB, Tulsa East Central State’s No. 7 prospect as ranked by Rivals.com has yet to commit his collegiate intentions. 2. Devin Rolan, LB, McAlester 98 tackles last sason, committed to Tulsa. 3. Cory Lawrence, ATH, Del City Tulsa, Kansas State have offered scholarship.

Casey Huggins: DE

Jimmy Wood: RB

saw it in practice every day, too. That has carried over to this preseason, and if the Bears can pick up a few wins, confidence and victories could snowball. This year’s senior class has seen how far the team has come in the three years since Barrett returned. It’s ready to go out a winner. “We’ve lost a lot in the past few years,” receiver Devin Wheeler said, “and we’re tired of it.”

CLASS 5A

STORYLINES

1. Guthrie 2. Tulsa East Central 3. Lawton MacArthur 4. Bishop McGuinness 5. Duncan 6. Bishop Kelley 7. McAlester 8. Carl Albert 9. Del City 10. Ardmore In the conversation: Coweta, Deer Creek, Tulsa Central

1. Keeping it local, how about Noble? If Bears do what their coach thinks they can, they might put a few seasons together. 2. Stepping down in class Though talented, Del City won one game last season in Class 6A. The Eagles are now a Class 5A program. What’s that worth?

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

NOBLE SCHEDULE

NOBLE ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 16 18 19 21 22 24 25 27 28 34 40 44 45 51 52 53

Kenny Harris Cody Graves AJ Draper Daniel Dixon Joshua Lara Fredie Shirley Joseph Haggard Dakota Boxwell Cory Jennings Colton Blakley Devin Wheeler Michael Tyran Talon Hester Ryan Walker Alec Venegas Kendrick Baldwin Nikolas Wahl Austin Echols Matthew Howard Tanner Forbes Jimmy Wood Tyler Showers Daryl Irons Jared Palmer Preston Boomer Brock Boomer Jake Baze DJ Zachary Colton Neyman

So. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. So. Sr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. So. Sr. So. So. Jr.

5’6 6’ 5’6 5’7 5’11 5’7 6’1 5’11 5’7 5’7 6’2 5’11 5’10 5’9 5’10 5’9 5’9 5’7 6’ 5’8 5’10 5’9 5’10 5’7 5’5 5’8 5’6 5’9 5’9

140 180 140 130 190 140 190 190 155 145 220 160 170 160 155 150 165 150 180 180 215 155 170 165 150 175 150 170 180

WR QB/FS WR K FB/LB WR TE/DE QB/DE RB/FS QB/FS TE/DE WR/LB K FB/LB WR/SS FB/LB RB/LB RB TE/DE FB/LB RB RB/LB FB/LB WR FB/LB FB/LB G/DT FB/LB G/DT

55 57 58 59 60 62 63 65 66 68 71 73 76 77 84 85 87 88

Dustin Staats Chase Mercer Kyle Johnson Nicholas Mata Anthony Acosta Ryan South Ryan Sturdy Clayton Baker Hayden McDonald Aaron Hartman Dylan Shrabel Braden Bradshaw Michael Macy Sammie Samples Daniel Nolan Aaron Pettijohn Casey Huggins Hunter Hayes

Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Sr. So. So. So. So. So. So. Sr. Sr.

5’10 5’11 5’10 5’11 5’11 6’ 5’10 5’10 5’10 6’2 6’ 6’2 5’10 5’10 6’2 5’8 6’1 6’3

230 230 230 225 215 240 215 215 175 325 220 210 175 200 165 145 190 185

T/DT G/DT T/DT G/DE G/DT T/DE G/DT OL/DT FB/DE G/DT G/DT C/DT G/DT T/DT WR WR TE/DE TE/DE

Aug. 31 Tecumseh Sept. 7 at W. Heights Sept. 14 El Reno Sept. 21 at McAlester Sept. 28 Memorial Oct. 5 at B. Kelley Oct. 12 Skiatook Oct. 19 at Tulsa Hale Oct. 26 Durant Nov. 2 at Shawnee

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

THE BIG GAME

How about opening night? Really, what Noble does against Tecumseh on Friday could make all the difference in the world. Win that game and you’ve got a great chance to go 2-1 in non-district play, which could help keep the team together when the Bears enter a front-loaded District 5A-3 slate. It’s true, the biggest games are played between the ears. If Noble can open strong, staying in the right frame of mind all season long will be made easier.

N O B L E FA C T S A N D F I G U R E S Coach: Steve Barrett (26-27 at Noble, 6th season) That’s a quote: “This year will determine a lot about the direction of this program. We’re going to surprise a lot of people” — Steve Barrett 2011: 2-8 (2-5 District 5A-1) Returning experience: 8 offensive starters, 7 defensive starters. Players to watch: Jimmy Wood, RB; Dakota Boxwell, QB; Austin Echols, RB/WR; Kyle Johnson, OT/DT; Tanner Forbes, WR; Casey Huggins, DE Promising newcomers: Cody Graves, FS; Cory Jennings, FS. Offensive scheme: Power spread Defensive scheme: 4-3 Keys to success: The Bears have a lot of starters back, but after last season’s disappointing finish they need to build some confidence. Success early in the schedule would build some momentum

What is Noble football? Its back to basics this time around. One small change Barrett has made this season has been to simplify the Bears’ schemes. Already, the squad is long on experience. Simplification should make it that that much easier for the Bears to find their best game. for Noble heading into district play. Enrollment: 751 Coach’s district forecast: Gone are powers Deer Creek and Guthrie from Noble’s district. Barrett sees McAlester and Bishop Kelley as the teams to beat in District 5A-3, with Durant and Shawnee and his own squad in the running for the other playoff berths.

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

COMMUNIT Y CHRISTI AN SCHOOL ROYALS

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a matter of pride CCS plans to make most of its waiting game

By Michael Kinney Transcript Sports Writer

Community Christian only knows how to go after titles. Its past three football campaigns have ended with Oklahoma Christian School Athletic Association state championships. Yet, the Royals have decided to take a step up in competition. They have left the OCSAA and joined the Oklahoma Secondary

School Activities Association. The move will allow them to compete against the public schools for hardware. However, because CCS applied to the OSSAA after redistricting took place, it will have no football postseason available to it over this and next season. The Royals are champions with no championship to defend, nor a new one to pursue. But coach Paul Potter is not worried about his team finding a reason to play hard even without the anticipation of a title game. â&#x20AC;˘ See ROYALS Page 27

Community Christian will be hoping it can run into 10 more victories this season. Coming off an OCSAA state title, the Royals are beginning their transition into the OSSAA this season. Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

Royals to watch

Alex Borgering: OT/DT

Canaan Cox: RB/DB

Blake Nelson: TE/DE

James Ohsfeldt: OG/DT

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CCS SCHEDULE

CCS ROSTER 3 4 5 8 10 12 13 14 15 20 22 25 30 34 34 41 51 57 60 63 63 70 72 73 75 80 81 85 88

Tyler Green Nate White Haddon McIntosh Tyler Franks Canaan Cox Aaron Haler J.J. Cortez Andrew McClung Stephen Bradley Blake Nelson Jonathan Bentley Matt Borgerding Cody Rudd Ryan Kroeger T.J. Jeremiah Chris Abernathy Blake Carter Zane Campbell Garrett Dooley Zach Chestnut Cameron Greer Joshua Craft Chris Kitchen J.W. Ohsfeldt Alex Borgerding Jordan Bilyeu Robert Walker Josh Gray Christian Franklin

Fr. Sr. Fr. So. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Fr. Fr. Fr. So. So. So. So. Jr. So. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Fr. So.

QB/FS LB/RB/WR QB/WR/CB WR/CB RB/WR/SS QB QB/WR/CB QB/FS RB/WR/CB/K WR/TE/DE FB/LB WR/LB WR/CB WR/DE RB/LB WR/FS DE/DT/C FB/LB OG/DT OT/DE OT/DE OG/DT OT/DT OG/DT OT/DT TE/DE WR/FS WR/CB OG/DE

Aug. 31 at Drumright Sept. 7 at Casady Sept. 14 Destiny Sept. 21 OKC Patriots Sept. 28 Seeworth Oct. 6 L’house Christ Oct. 12 Sunrise Christ. Oct. 19 at Dal. H.S.A.A Oct. 25 Legion Nov. 2 Canyon Creek

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

CCS coach Paul Potter watches his team get ready for the season during a recent Royals practice.

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m.

THE BIG GAME

Truth be told, the Royals don’t really have one. Some games will be tougher than others, but there is no big district game, and no big rivarly game on their slate. Too bad, in these two seasons they have no OSSAA district assignment, that an old rival, Christian Heritage isn’t on the schedule. What CCS does have is several strong seasons in the rearview mirror, making every game this season a big one as they try keep a near-perfect run going.

C C S FA C T S A N D F I G U R E S Coach: Paul Potter (18-5 at CCS, third season) That’s a quote: “The kids have heart and work hard. Our kids, their strength is their willingness to get after it” — Paul Potter. 2011:11-1 (OCSAA state champion) Returning experience: 4 offensive starters, 5 defensive starters. Players to watch: Alex Morgan, OL; Blake Nelson, WR; J.W. Osfelt, DL; Nate Wright, RB; Aaron Taylor, QB Promising newcomers: Stephen Bradley, WR; Blake Carter, OL. Offensive scheme: Spread Defensive scheme: 4-3 Keys to success: The Royals are not very big and not tremendously deep. That means they can’t be taking on injuries and can’t get trapped leaving their defense on the field for extended periods. Enrollment: 165

What is CCS football? Over the past few seasons, the Royals have simply overwhelmed opponents. That’s less likely this season. Instead, the name of the game will be execution if CCS is to continue winning at such an efficient clip. Good for the Royals, that’s also been their strength, allowing them to run roughshod over the rest of the now-departed OCSAA. Coach’s district forecast: The Royals are no longer a part of the OCSAA. Because this year’s districts were determined last year, although CCS has been accepted into the OSSAA, the Royals are not in a district.

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

DISTRICT 3A-1

BREAKDOWN 1. Tuttle The Tigers bring back almost everybody from a seven-win team a year ago. And, Jones aside, this may not be the toughest district in Class 3A, leaving an experienced Tuttle squad to run away with the District. 2. Jones 3. Blanchard 4. Little Axe 5. Bridge Creek 6. Mt. St. Mary 7. Marlow

DISTRICT 3A-4

BREAKDOWN 1. Plainview The race is ridiculously wide open. All the powers from a year ago lost a bunch of talent, but so did the chasers. Plainview is coming off a big playoff run. Madill has put together a run of strong seasons. 2. Madill 3. Purcell 4. Sulphur 5. Pauls Valley 6. Atoka 7. Lone Grove 8. Dickson

CLASS 3A

TOP PROSPECTS

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

Purcell’s Jonah Northcutt reacts after a play during the Dragons’ playoff game last season against Bridge Creek. The Dragons have long been a force in Class 3A, and will try to remain so this season under new coach Shannon Watford.

TR ANSCRIPT

TOP 10

1. Kingfisher 2. Tuttle 3. Sequoyah Tahlequah 4. Seminole

1. Brayden Scott, QB, Sequoyah Tahlequah The 6-2, 195-pound quarterback prospect has already given his committment to Memphis. 2. Taylor Bilyeu, LB/FB, Jones 3. Kenneth Davis, RB/LB, Star Spencer 4. Cyle Atkins, OL, Star Spencer 5. Zach Jackson, QB, Berryhill

5. Berryhill 6. Beggs 7. Stigler 8. Bethany

CLASS 3A

STORYLINES

9. Plainview 10. Lincoln Christian In the conversation: Jones, Heritage Hall, Newcastle 1. Is there a darkhorse in the field? Kingfisher, Tuttle and Sequoyah Tahlequah make it look like a three-team race. But with 58 teams in the Class, a surprise could await. 2. Does Purcell keep it going? Shannon Watford replaces longtime coach Mike Wilson. He’s certainly inheriting a winner.

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

DISTRICT 2A-3

BREAKDOWN 1. Frederick Coming off a big season with a bunch of starters back, the Bombers are the easy pick. Lindsay and Washington should fight it out for the remaining home playoff date, but it’s a wide open district after that. 2. Lindsay 3. Washington 4. Comanche 5. Mangum 6. Hobart 7. Hinton 8. Riverside

DISTRICT 2A-4

BREAKDOWN

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

A few fans take in an intrasquad scrimmage at Lexington thispreseason. The Bulldogs are coming off a two-win season, but feel good heading into the year after significantly increasing the number of players on the roster.

TR ANSCRIPT

TOP 10

1. Millwood 2. Vian 3. Davis 4. Hennessey

CLASS 2A

TOP PROSPECTS

5. Stroud 6. Frederick 7. OCS 8. Okemah

1. Rob Boyd, Vian A Tulsa OL commitment, the 6-4, 300-pounder is considered a top five prospect in the state. 2. Austin Brooks, QB, OCS 3. Rowdy Simon, RB/LB, Vian 4. Brady Barrett, LB, Wyandotte 5. Riley Hess, WR, Alva

9. Lindsay 10. Adair In the conversation: CHA, Commerce, Alva,Wyandotte

CLASS 2A

STORYLINES

1. Davis The Wolves are for real, maybe even a state-title contender. But they are the only power in the district, leaving the next three playoff spots quite wide open. Don’t even count Lexington out of the running to reach the postseason. 2. Coalgate 3. Tishomingo 4. Kingston 5. Konawa 6. Lexington 7. Marietta

1. Can Hennessey threepeat? The Eagles have two straight state titles, but graduation losses (and the loss of their coach to Purcell) have made others the favorites. 2. How strong is District 2A-2? Millwood, OCS and CHA give loop three very good teams.

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

LIT TLE A XE INDI ANS

Indians to watch

Great expectations

Indians like chances to build on 5-5 season By Clayton Hooper Transcript Staff Writer

LITTLE AXE — Numbers are up at Little Axe and coach Ted Dorrell likes what that means. Players are buying in. There’s a desire to be a part of the program. “This summer we’ve seen a lot more participation than in years past,” Dorrell said. “Having more numbers this early is really going to help us achieve what we want to do

this season.” The Indians went 5-5 a year ago, but made their living topping only non-playoff teams. Meanwhile, every team that beat them reached the playoffs. With that, Dorrell knows what the Indians’ next step must be. “If we want to beat playoff caliber teams, we have to play better defense,” said Dorrell. “We have to keep the game close with defense so we can a have a chance.” The Indians will run a 3-4 scheme but plan on mixing up coverages and frequently crowding the line of scrimmage. Dorrell wants the unit

SCHEDULE Aug. 31 SF South Sept. 7 Lexington Sept. 14 at Tecumseh Sept. 21 at Blanchard Sept. 28 Tuttle Oct. 5 Centennial Oct. 12 at B. Creek Oct. 18 Marlow Oct. 26 Jones Nov. 2 at Mt. St. Mary

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Little Axe running back Noah CanaryVawter finds running room during a preseason scrimmage.

to have an attacking personality. “We’ve been stressing takeaways to our guys all summer,” he said. “If you want to force turnovers, you

By Corbin Hosler Transcript Sports Writer

PURCELL — In some ways, everything has changed at Purcell. New coach Shannon Watford demands more of his players than anyone has before. The Dragons return only four starters and have to learn new offensive and defensive schemes. Practices have been long and difficult. But the more things

Jeremy Smith: WR

Coop Watts: RB

• See AXE Page 28

Change on the menu change, the more they stay the same. “The expectation is still to win the district and go to the playoffs,” said Watford, who came to town after winning two state titles at Hennessey. “We’ve got a little tradition here, and we have to protect that.” The Dragons are a consistent playoff team coming off a 9-2 season and a district title. But a 46-14 home loss to Bridge Creek in the first round of the playoffs meant a disappointing end to a season for a senior-laden team that had state-title aspirations. Now the next generation

Ryan Diffee: OL/LB

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

PURCELL DR AGONS

New coach brings state-title pedigree

Steven Dye: WR/DB

SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 18 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

at Lindsay Washington at Lexington at P. Valley Madill Plainview at Dickson Lone Grove at Sulphur Atoka

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

of Dragons will take the field, and they are hungry to take the next step after first-round playoff exits in each of the last two seasons. • See PURCELL Page 28

Purcell’s Mac McGregor looks for room to run during the Dragons’ Red-White intersquad scrimmage.

Dragons to watch

Drew Rolin: QB

Dominique Gavia: RB/LB

Eric Gonzalez: WR/DB

Nathan Schmidt: TE

John Denny Montgomery / Purcell Register

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

WASHINGTON WA RRIORS

Ready to come back

Hardworking offseason has Warriors hopeful By Clayton Hooper Transcript Staff Writer

Brad Beller is entering his third year as Washington head coach. Judging by the commitment he’s seen out of his team since last season ended, he doesn’t see why this won’t be his best bunch of Warriors since he returned to his alma mater after a short stint at Lexington. Washington finished last

season at 5-6 and returns 12 starters from a squad that maintained the Warrior’s streak of reaching the postseason but fell short of another winning season. Beller is hoping his squad can utilize its speed and quickness to contend with Lindsay and Frederick atop District 2A-3. Expectations are always high at Washington and a big part of those expectations will rest on the broad shoulders of running back Zeke Zimmer, a 5-foot-9, 195-pound senior. Zimmer has accounted for more than 2,500 yards since putting on a Warrior

SCHEDULE Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 18 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

at B. Creek at Purcell Bethany at Frederick Hobart at Hinton Comanche at Mangum Riverside Lindsay

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

uniform and has surpassed 1,000 yards rushing each of the last two seasons. “We’re looking for Zeke to carry the load for us,” said Beller. “We need him to have

The Warriors will have the pads back on for Thursday’s season opener at Bridge Creek.

By Clayton Hooper Transcript Staff Writer

LEXINGTON — There’s nowhere to go but up for Lexington. The Bulldogs finished 1-9 last season, but the more shocking number is they finished with only 16 players on the roster. After serving as an assistant on last year’s staff, Jeff Hall has taken over the program and building up his

Cooper Treadway: WR

Brock Harmon: QB

Tyler Lenhart: OL/DL

• See WARRIORS Page 28

It’s a new beginning numbers has been job one. “That was horrible,” Hall said. “We did not want to go through that again.” So Hall and his assistants addressed the problem and went through the Lexington hallways and looked for players to fill the roster. “It was just going around and talking to the kids,” Hall said. “We weren't going to beg, but we told them we were here if they wanted to be a part of it. The biggest thing is we tried to get them to give it a shot and if they liked it, stay out. Most of the ones who came out have stayed.”

Zeke Zimmer: RB

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

LE XINGTON BULLDOGS

New coach, new players will have a chance

Warriors to watch

SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 18 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

at Maysville at Little Axe Purcell Marietta at Davis Kingston at Coalgate Tishomingo Konawa Open

7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

Lexington qiarterback Colten Langford (10) tries to avoid being tackled during a Lexington intrasquad scrimmage.

Bulldogs to watch

Colten Langford: QB

Dalton Duke: WR

T.J. Somers: LB

Jake Blanchard: WR

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

The coaches’ hard work paid off and the Bulldogs’ first practice of the preseason included 48 players. Colten Langford will • See DOGS Page 28

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

BAND: IT’S NOT JUST THE PL AYERS WHO PUT FORTH MA XIMUM EFFORT

Providing a soundtrack The Norman North band prepares for its marching season last Thursday morning before the first hour of school. The North band counts 148 members heading into the season.

Band experience good for game, the fans watching, not to mention the students creating the music studying music after graduation. He finds it rewarding high school football when all the hours put into game just isn’t the practice pay off in a great same without the performance. That it’s also marching band. part of the overall gameThese colorful spirited night experience is still students belt out catchy more rewarding. tunes and energize the Davis said besides the crowd and players, providing traditional tunes, fans can entertainment and atmosexpect the North band to phere for four quarters. lead more spirit chants. Norman North’s band Band members have put plays at every home game in many long hours since and most away games. the beginning of August “The kids really enjoy preparing the show and going to the games and polishing their marching to participating,” Norman entertain the fans. North band director Trent “They have put in a lot of Davis said. time and are very dedicatNorth senior Dillon ed,” said Davis. Downey believes the band Spectators won’t recogcan even give its team a nize the music for this competitive edge. season’s show, a high“I believe the band adds energy performance with spirit and helps bring the various difficult woodwind school together to support passages, Davis said, but the team and help it be they will enjoy it. victorious,” he said. He believes game nights Downey will serve the present the band with dual North Band as drum major opportunities. for a second year. Like an “We get to entertain the unselfish athlete, he hopes crowd each week, but his presence and experience halftime also serves as live will serve to help those practice with an audience around him. For Downey, for upcoming competitions,” music has long been a he said. universal language. North’s band has “It is incredible that 150 received superior ratings for people with all different five years running in backgrounds can come statewide competition and together and create a has made it into the finals at musical product that is various invitational contests breathtaking,” said Downey, in Oklahoma and surroundwho plans to continue ing states. But this is a By Amy David For the Transcript

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

special time. The fall — marching season — is the only time of the year the entire band works and plays together. The rest of the year the group is split into smaller concert groups. It’s a big job, but Davis has help in assistant director Matt Hedrick. Also, Oklahoma music majors are helping Hedrick and Davis with the band. Tigers: At Norman High School, the marching band will be 40 instruments stronger. “That is pretty awesome actually,” said NHS band director Jim Meiller, who graduated a few seniors but has since picked up a bushel of freshmen musicians. The increased size provides new opportunities for the band.

The theme of the Norman High show will be “Alone.” Meiller said the music is a combination of classical pieces that will include an electronic wind instrument. The production includes cool and upbeat music, but also emphasizes feelings of loneliness, Meiller added. OU students Brian Teed, Rocio Garcia, Phillip Nguyen and Laura Morris will also work with the band this year. The assistant band director at NHS is Joel Deardorf. Alcott Middle School band director Seth Coleman also works with the drum line. Meiller said each audience, whether at a football game, student pep rally or contest, responds differently. For the past two years, Meiller’s band has received

superior ratings at the OSSAA’s regional marching contest. Band members have to have great determination and the desire to be part of a larger group, he said. Meiller believes that being a part of band helps students develop many skills they will continue to use throughout life such as working as a team, cooperation and being organized. Students can start participating in band in Norman’s public schools in sixth grade. The sooner the better, Meiller said. Coming together for a cuase: Both bands will perform together at Thursday’s Crosstown Clash. Before the game, the annual Taste of Norman will be held to benefit both

bands. Patrons can sample food from 31 participating restaurants, including local eateries such as Brothers, The Mont, Legends, Penny Hill and Victoria’s Pasta, among others. The event will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at OU’s Mosier Indoor Practice Facility on Brooks Street east of the stadium. In past years, proceeds have accounted for about a third of each band’s budget. Tickets are $15 — under 5 eat free — and are available from any band student, or at the main office or band office of either high school. They should also be available at NPS offices at 131 S. Flood, or Republic Bank & Trust, 401 W. Main or at the door.

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

Community Christian goes through a preseason intrasquad scrimmage.

Royals: For love of the game • From Page 20 “Good thing about our kids, they love to play football,” Potter said. “They don’t care if there are five people in the stands or 500 people in the stands. They just want to go out and play and get after it. That’s what I really like about them. They are tough kids. They work their butts off. They will just go out there and compete.” With no district teams to make up its schedule with, the Royals will play a variety of teams from the OSSAA, OCSAA and other leagues. They include Lighthouse Christian, Canyon Creek, Casady and Dallas HSAA. “Obviously, it would be a little easier if you were going for a championship,” Potter said. “But these kids just like to play the game of football .And that makes it t easy for a coach.” What also makes it easy

“Good thing about our kids, they love to play football. They don’t care if there are five people in the stands or 500 people in the stands. They just want to go out and play and get after it. That’s what I really like about them. They are tough kids. They work their butts off. They will just go out there and compete.” Paul Potter, CCS football coach for Potter is that he has a talented team in his third year as coach. Even though he returns only nine total starters on both sides of the ball, he likes what he’s seen from them. “I think we’re going to be pretty good,” Potter said. “We have a lot of potential. If that potential comes around, we should be pretty good. We should be as good as we’ve ever been.” As the Royals make their

move to the OSSAA, they have to overcome two liabilities. Lack of size and lack of depth. “Last year we had 36 kids out, but we lost the home schooled kids,” Potter said. “That really hurt us numbers-wise. We are pretty talented. We are real deep at our skill positions. We are thin on the line. Skill positions will be our strength. We will have a chance to win more games.”

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

Warriors: Purcell: Coming off Watford big offseason takes over

Dogs: Fresh start, optimism

• From Page 25

• From Page 24

• From Page 25

big games for us, especially in the first three weeks.” The Warriors begin at Bridge Creek, and it will only get harder as they travel and play host to Bethany before entering district play at Frederick, the loop favorite. Quarterback Brock Harmon, a 5-foot-10, 170-pound junior, will lead the Warriors’ spread option offense. Harmon should be a threat on the ground as well as through the air. Now, it’s just a matter of putting preparation to work, preparation that began long before practice opened back up Aug. 7. “Everyone has been in the weight room since December,” said Beller. “We are a lot faster and stronger than we have been.” If that’s true, Washington could be in business. The Warriors could have plenty to play for when Lindsay, yet another district power, visits Reed Field on the last night of the regular season. “We want to make sure we progress each game,” Beller said. “Our team goal is to win district, and with that, host home playoff games.”

“Coach brings that game up whenever we start to get tired and asks us how it feels,” junior Dakota Green said. “It makes us work that much harder.” The adjustment hasn’t been easy, and learning a new offense hasn’t made it any easier for a young team. “We have to move slower because of that, but these kids want to work hard, and it’s also been fun to coach such a young team,” Watford said. All that teaching has put Purcell in a tough spot entering the season. The team isn’t as far along as Watford would like and there’s not a lot of experience to fall back on either. To live up to their own expectations, the Dragons will have to grow up fast. They’ve embraced the challenge. “It’s been tough, but we feel like we’re finally getting it going,” said junior quarterback Drew Rolin, one of the few players with any varsity experience. “It’s been hard and it’s been more intense, but we know it’s going to make us better.”

make the change from tight end to quarterback. What prompted the move was an injury that forced Langford to the sideline last season. It was there that Hall noticed Langford had a quarterback’s throwing skills. Langford has spent much of the summer attending quarterback camps and learning his new position. Hall believes the Bulldogs’ strength is their speed. Senior Dalton Duke might be the fastest guy on the team and will move from running back to inside receiver. Duke hopes to create mismatches in the middle of the field, while also opening up the field for other receivers. During spring drills the coaching staff timed Duke in at 4.45 seconds in the 40-yard dash. “We have a very fast team and we hope to get those guys the ball in space,” Hall said. “If we can do that, we have a chance to be a very successful team.”

Axe: Indians ready to take next step • From Page 24 have to be very aggressive and that’s what we want to do.” The offensive charge will be led by senior quarterback Jeremy Smith. “Staying balanced is our

main objective this season,” Dorrell said. “We feel with this group were better at running the ball. We have to keep teams honest.” Steven Dye, coming off a very productive junior season, should be a constant receiving threat. Senior Coop

Watts should be a threat running and catching. “I couldn’t be happier with what I’ve seen so far this year,” Dorrell. said. “I love our defensive intensity and our consistency on offense. These have to be our foundation if we want to be successful.”

anytime...anywhere

TAKE US TO THE

The Norman Transcript’s MOBILE Site!

A l w a y s

C o n n e c t e d

my p a p e r, my t ow n subscribe normantranscript.com

e-edition

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Norman North head coach Wade Standley surveys things during the first week of the T-Wolves preseason practices. Standley is entering his second year of running the program.

Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

Plan: Two QBs? • From Page 5 lead the T-Wolves to a 6-4 regular-season record and a playoff berth against Lawton. In that game, both took snaps under center, and Meyer also lined up in the backfield or at wideout to keep the defense guessing. All of which begs the question: What will the T-Wolves do this season? Coach Wade Standley has remained non-committal on the issue, not fully endorsing the two-quarterback system but also promising that both players will be on the field. “They’ve both had success and they’re both great young men who bring a lot to the table,” he said. “We’re going to continue to work with both young men and evaluate them, and we’ll go from there.” Standley’s offense will spread the field but aims to be

more balanced this year than last, and both quarterbacks have the skillset to do that. Meyer is a better natural athlete than Gavras, but Gavras is a superb passer and the offense hummed under his leadership before he was injured. It’s a decision Standley’s coaching staff isn’t taking lightly, and isn’t likely to make quickly. “They’re both getting better and competing,” Standley said. “But whatever quarterback is in there we’ll be able to do more than we did last year.” For Gavras and Meyer, it isn’t easy competing against each other for the position, though Meyer said they are being adults about the situation. While the competition on the field is intense, the duo has been able to check the tension as soon as they hit the locker room.

North quarterback Channing Meyer takes off running during an intrasquad scrimmage. Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

“It’s different on the field, but we’re right back to friends once we step off of it,” Gavras said. “Nobody likes it, but it’s the way it is.” Whatever decision Standley and his staff reach, Gavras and Meyer will create headaches for opposing coaches. Against Lawton last season, the only game in which both players

were fully healthy, Gavras threw for more than 200 yards while Meyer added 60 all-purpose yards. “If I’m not at quarterback, then he’s throwing me the ball,” Meyer said. “We’ll keep defenses on their toes.” Corbin Hosler 366-3528 chosler@normantranscript.com

North: Looking to take the next step road for North to advance past the opening round. present a more balanced Two games loom large attack, with senior Bryan on the district schedule, Payne taking handoffs in with Yukon visiting North the backfield and receivers on Sept. 28 and Edmond Corbin Cleveland and Jake North coming two weeks Higginbotham once again later. Those two games running routes. figure to be key for North On the other hand, to position itself for playoff redistricting in Class 6A success. didn’t do North any favors. Not that the T-Wolves Last year North was in a are willing to look into the fight with Yukon for horizon. Instead, they second place behind sound a lot like their Midwest City and a coach. chance to host a playoff “We’re just trying to not game. Edmond North get ahead of ourselves,” joins the district this Gavras said. “We know season, bringing in a team expectations are high for that went 9-3 last year and us, but we’re just trying to lost by just a point to Tulsa take it a day at a time.” Union in the second round Corbin Hosler of the playoffs. That makes 366-3528 for a much more difficult chosler@normantranscript.com • From Page 5

PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

THE NORMAN TRANSCRIPT

Norman High quarterback Zach Long hands off to running back A’erion Hines against Broken Arrow last season. Both are back this year for their senior seasons. Jerry Laizure / The Transcript

RBs: Still running • From Page 8 their 40-yard-dash times are faster than Roberts’ time. Whoever wins the starting job isn’t likely to be as bruising as their predecessor, but should have the swiftness to break a carry to the outside more quickly than Roberts. Provided, of course, their decision-making and timing are up to par. “Having that kind of speed really helps us in our game-planning,” coach Greg Nation said. “Donovan was in that 4.5 to 4.6 range; these guys are 4.4 or under.” Regardless of who’s in the backfield, the Tigers’ gameplan isn’t likely to change. They are a run-first team and that won’t change with the loss of one player. Nation’s teams pride themselves on hitting their opponents in the mouth and wearing them out on the

ground. If the Tigers’ offensive line can give them enough time, any of the team’s backs have the ability to break a big run or wear down opposing defenses. As for who will ultimately get the call come the opening kick of Thursday’s Crosstown Clash, that’s a decision that isn’t yet clear. Hines saw the most action at back last season, but all three split minutes almost evenly in the backfield and were present on special teams. And when Roberts was forced out of last year’s regular-season finale against Jenks with an ankle injury, all three backs got on the field, combining for 17 rushes and an effective 135 yards. But Nation made it clear that probably won’t be the case this year. “There are no commit-

NHS running back Imond Robinson breaks into the open field during a recent Tiger preseason practice. The Tigers claim several dangerous backs. Kyle Phillips / The Transcript

tees here,” he said. “Whoever’s running the best is who will get the ball. Whoever’s got it and knows what we’re doing best that week will be back there.” And alongside senior quarterback Zach Long in the backfield, the Tigers are hoping it’s a one-two combination that drives their offense even further than

last season, when it averaged more than 30 points a game. “It’s definitely a little different that last year,” Long said. “I’m going to miss Donovan, but we have other guys who are stepping up who can get it done.” Corbin Hosler 366-3528 chosler@normantranscript.com

NHS: The Long way • From Page 8 footwork and form make him hard to bring down anywhere on the field, much less in the pocket. And he has seamlessly taken the responsibility of teaching the players around him. “You couldn’t run him down in a phone booth,” Nation said. “And his leadership and maturity have been great for us.” Nation said he won’t judge Long’s success this season on numbers or wins and losses. More than anything, he wants to see consistent development from Long over the course of the season. “I want him to win, but more than anything I want to see him improve,” he said. And there’s one more advantage Long will have this season. His father,

Chuck, the former Oklahoma and Kansas offensive coordinator, will be around this year. The coach, former Heisman runner-up (to Bo Jackson) and former NFL quarterback is volunteering his time with the NHS staff for his son’s senior season. More comfortable on the field with his father’s presence around the team, Long took it upon himself to work with the young wideouts on the squad. It is an effort that seems to be paying off. “It’s actually gone a lot smoother than I thought it would,” Long said. “It’s a little different in that we don’t have all the speed that we did, but I’ve been working with the new receivers every day and it’s been fun with them.” Corbin Hosler 366-3528 chosler@normantranscript.com