FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2010 SPECIAL SECTION NEWSOK.COM/VARSITY
PUTNAM CITY NORTH | JACE JAMES AND THE PANTHERS ARE GETTING COMFORTABLE IN THE SPREAD OFFENSE. PAGE 4
2010
YUKON | JAKE DOYLE AND THE MILLERS ARE READY TO MAKE A DEEP PLAYOFF RUN. PAGE 8
VARSITY
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW: WEST METR0 EDITION
From left; Jace James of Putnam City North, Jake Doyle of Yukon and David Glidden of Mustang.
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MUSTANG | EXCITEMENT IS RUNNING HIGH FOR DAVID GLIDDEN AND THE BRONCOS. PAGE 2
PHOTO BY JOHN CLANTON, THE OKLAHOMAN
Mustang’s hopes high BY SCOTT WRIGHT Staff Writer swright@opubco.com
MUSTANG — With a new stadium, a major-college recruit at wide receiver and an up-and-coming quarterback, excitement is high once again in Mustang as it goes after that elusive gold ball. Though wide receiver David Glidden, an Oklahoma State commit, and quarterback Brandon Taylor, as well as a variety of other experienced offensive players give the Broncos high-scoring potential once again, they still have some holes to fill. One of those holes measures 6-foot-5 and 305 pounds, as the Broncos try to fill the gap left by the graduation of current Oklahoma Sooner offen-
sive lineman Bronson Irwin. Mustang has a couple of returning starters up front to ease the loss, with left guard Caleb Schompert and center Elliot Malanca. “We’re pretty young right now, but we’re getting better every day,” Schompert said. “I think we’ll jell together really good and be pretty solid up front. “Every year, we just reload and never have a rebuilding year. We just keep going. We have high expectations — always for Mustang.” Glidden is joined at receiver by a variety of players, like Derek Garvin, Jon Luckey and Taylor Sparkman, with some other young players looking to contribute. It’s nearly impossible to
replace a running back like Daniel Farrow, but Tyler Webster gave the run game a boost before Farrow stepped in last year and should hold up well this year. The defense is looking for several new starters up front, but players like Justus Elliot and Zac McKay offer some experience. Glidden, Luckey, Sparkman and Cale Witter solidify the secondary. “The young guys have picked up the defense real quick,” Witter said. “I feel like this year, compared to last year, we’re farther ahead. Our secondary has a lot of guys with experience from last year. “We’ve got a tradition at Mustang and we’re here to live up to it. We’ve all gotten to the point that we expect it of ourselves.”
Mustang’s Brandon Taylor throws the ball against Putnam City North during a 2009 game. PHOTO BY BRYAN TERRY, THE OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE
PC North getting used to spread offense BY SCOTT WRIGHT Staff Writer swright@opubco.com
The no-huddle spread isn’t a new offense at Putnam City North anymore, and the team’s understanding of the system could be the biggest difference as the Panthers try to surpass last year’s firstround playoff loss. “It’s a lot easier, because we know what we’re doing,” returning senior quarterback Jace James said. “We know what the coaches are trying to accomplish. We know what we need to get done on the field. And it’s a lot easier knowing that we have guys that have run the offense before. “I think we’ll be pretty good at it.” James is running the show at quarterback, with two talented running backs at his
side. Sam Wolfe is a speedy back who missed most of last season because of a broken collarbone. Junior Dre Holman was a workhorse in Wolfe’s absence last year, though he suffered a knee injury in early August that could keep him out of the first game or two. Receiver was a strong point for the Panthers last year, but only one experienced player, senior Covin Conrady, is back from a unit that included guys like Antonio Johnson and Dillon Schooley. “Rico Griffin has been a pleasant surprise,” James said. “He had to sit out last year after transferring, but he’ll turn some heads.” Two starters returned on the offensive line, led by 6-foot-4, 265-pound Daniel Burton, a junior who was a consistent blocker at right tackle last sea-
son. He’ll be on the left side this year. “It’s been a change,” Burton said of the switch. “It’s kind of hard to get used to, because everything’s reversed. The left side of my body was strong last year, because I was pushing off with the left leg every play and now it’s the opposite. It just takes a little bit to get used to.” The Panther defense has some strength up front with twin brothers Brad and Nate Ross in the front seven, along with defensive end Abe Almatasem. But the defense will have some holes to fill on the back end, but they’ve got plenty of athletes to fill the void. “Not a lot of guys are back, but what we do have is pretty experienced,” Brad Ross said. “There’s a lot of things we can improve on, but I think we’ll be OK.”
High school football TV schedule Cox Communications (Cox 3) and KSBI (Cox 7) are back once again to showcase some of the top high school football games this year. The stations are televising a combined 36 contests. Week 1 Thursday, Sept. 2 — Douglass at McGuinness (Cox); Heritage Hall at Casady (KSBI) Friday, Sept. 3 — Bixby at Jenks (Cox); Clinton at Weatherford (KSBI) Week 2 Thursday, Sept. 9 — Yukon at Edmond Santa Fe (Cox); Del City at Norman North (KSBI) Friday, Sept. 10 — Jenks at Tulsa Union (Cox); Putnam City North at Mustang (KSBI) Week 3 Thursday, Sept. 16 — Tulsa Washington at Tulsa East Central (Cox); Norman North at Westmoore (KSBI)
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Friday, Sept. 17 — Mus›tang at Bixby (Cox); Ed-
mond Santa Fe at Midwest City (KSBI) Week 4 Thursday, Sept. 23 — Del City at Edmond North (Cox) Friday, Sept. 24 — Claremore at Coweta (Cox); Newcastle at Kingfisher (KSBI) Week 5 Thursday, Sept. 30 — Sapulpa at Southmoore (Cox); Shawnee at Norman (KSBI) Friday, Oct. 1 — Midwest City at Putnam City North (Cox); Norman North at Yukon (KSBI) Week 6 Thursday, Oct. 7 — Tulsa NOAH at Bethany (Cox); Edmond North at Putnam City (KSBI) Friday, Oct. 8 — Cascia Hall at Berryhill (Cox); Norman at Southmoore (KSBI) Week 7
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Thursday, Oct. 14 — ›Norman North at Moore (Cox)
Oct. 15 — Guthrie ›atFriday, Carl Albert (Cox); Putnam City at Mustang (KSBI) Week 8 Thursday, Oct. 21 — Owasso at Bixby (Cox); Jenks at Southmoore (KSBI) Friday, Oct. 22 — TBA (Cox); El Reno at Guthrie (KSBI) Week 9 Thursday, Oct. 28 — Norman North at Edmond Memorial (Cox) Friday, Oct. 29 — Broken Arrow at Jenks (Cox); Muskogee at Norman (KSBI) Week 10 Thursday, Nov. 4 — Yukon at Edmond Memorial (Cox) Friday, Nov. 5 — TBA (Cox); Midwest City at Norman North (KSBI)
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Putnam City North’s Dre Holman could miss the first game or two with a knee injury. PHOTO BY
STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN
PC offense progressing with experienced QB Lee BY SCOTT WRIGHT Staff Writer swright@opubco.com
August camp has been almost the exact opposite from last year for Putnam City as the Pirates try to build their way back to a playoff contender under second-year coach John Wofford. Last year, Putnam City came into camp wondering what its passing game would look like as it switched to a spread offense from a power rushing attack. And the Pirates knew the defensive front seven would be strong, with several returning starters in that group. Now, the defensive experience is in the secondary, and an established passing game with quarterback Caleb Lee is looking for help
from a rushing attack. “I like the way our offense is progressing,” Wofford said. “We still have a lot of work to do, but we feel like we’re on the right track. We feel like we have a lot of guys who can run the football, which we didn’t have last year. The junior duo of Casey Curtis and Desmond Tilley look to lead the way in the backfield. Tilley, a 5-foot-11, 186-pounder, got some experience as a sophomore. Curtis, 5-foot-7, 165 pounds, was a regular player as a slot receiver last season and perhaps the team’s most dangerous player with the ball in his hands. Together, they give the Pirates a good powerquickness combination behind an improving offensive line. “The run game is coming
along,” Tilley said. “Me and Casey just have to work hard and keep going. “We’re a good combination and I like having him as a teammate. He’s a good player.” Lee has some experienced receivers like Dalinte Johnson, Carson Lynn and a few others who got some game action last year. Johnson, Allen Zimmerman, Cody Minor and Deandre Gray are the most reliable players on the defensive side of the ball “Those are the guys we’re counting on, that we know can play in 6A,” Wofford said. “The rest of them, we have some questions. We’re replacing a lot of guys up front, and a lot of guys are gonna have to play both ways. “But the guys are working hard. We’ll hang in there.”
Putnam City quarterback Caleb Lee scrambles away from a Choctaw defender during a 2009 game. PHOTO BY NATE BILLINGS, THE OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE
Q&A
With El Reno’s Ridge Gargasz You played receiver last year. Are you getting more comfortable at quarterback? Yes, I’m very comfortable. We’ve been working on my foot speed and my arm strength, and that’s really helping. I played quarterback at Weatherford before I moved here. They run more, so I wasn’t used to so much of the spread offense. Was your time at receiver helpful in making the transition to quarterback? Yes, it helped me understand the receiver’s job
better. At first, it’s difficult to understand the routes, but since I was a receiver, I know how and where to put the ball, when a guy is going to break. It made it much easier. Raymond Little is your only returning starter at receiver, but you’ve got an experienced running back in Devante Moore. How much does it help having at least a little experience around you? It’s really important. Raymond is a good receiver and we have a lot of sophomores that are looking pretty good. And it’s good to know I’ve got Devante back there, because he’s
HIGH SCHOOL PREVIEW SECTION Pick up Sunday’s Oklahoman for our 2010 high school preview section, where you can find schedules for every team in the state and rankings for every class.
gotten bigger since last year. He’s a hoss now. He can run it right up the gut at you and we have some guys up front on the line that know how to grind it out. Did the 7-on-7 leagues over the summer make it easier for you to be prepared for the season? Playing against other people helps a lot more than playing against your own defense. You get to see different defenses and see how things change, so throwing against other teams helped tremendously to get me ready for playing games. BY SCOTT WRIGHT
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Q&A
With Bethany OL/LB Michael Paul How has the offense progressed throughout August camp? We’re starting to come together. The offensive line is coming together. Devin Campbell keeps improving as a running back, and Ryley Claborn is starting to take control of the offense as our quarterback. Last year was a tough situation for Claborn, stepping in as the starter for the final two games in
SECTION PRODUCTION
Michael Paul Bethany OL/LB
place of a senior. How has he grown as a player? It was tough. He was young and there was a lot of adversity there, but I think he got better from it, just going into a place of adversity and playing. He has that behind him now.
He’s really becoming a leader. Where do you see the strength of this team? The defense. When we’re playing good, that’s our strength. Our team speed is good. We’re all pretty quick. We run a 4-3 and all our linebackers are pretty quick. Expectations are always high in Bethany these days. What do you see in this team’s future? We have a pretty tough district, so if we can get through that, we should be in a pretty good situation. BY SCOTT WRIGHT
› Sports editor: Mike Sherman › Assistant sports editors: Scott Munn, Hayley Riggs, Ryan Sharp and Darla Smith › Writers: Justin Harper, Robert Przybylo and Scott Wright › Design: Hayley Riggs Cover: Putnam City North’s Jace James, Yukon’s Jake Doyle and Mustang’s David Glid›den. Photo by John Clanton, design by Phillip Baeza
Yukon has sights set on deep playoff run BY SCOTT WRIGHT Staff Writer swright@opubco.com
YUKON — Eleven years of frustration was wiped away when the 2009 Yukon Millers qualified for the Class 6A playoffs. But a lopsided loss to Jenks ended the season in Week 11, and this year’s Millers are past any thought of “just happy to be there.” “Last year, our goal was just to make it to the playoffs,” senior receiver/linebacker Kollin Retter said. “This year is completely different. We want state, nothing else.” The Millers’ strength appears to be in its passing game, with junior quarterback Corben Jones, who threw for more than 2,000 yards and rushed for more than 500 as a sophomore. “Corben’s got a chance to be a pretty good quarterback,” coach Todd Wilson said of his
6-foot-2, 180-pound signalcaller. “He’s very talented and he’s a pretty good student. He pays attention. You don’t tell him something 100 times. When you tell him, he’s got a pretty good understanding of it. “The guys around him are pretty good, too, and they give him a chance to be even better.” Jones has a seemingly endless line of receivers to throw to, with Retter, Kaiden Horn, Eric Granado, Derek Deeds, Jordan Edwards and tight end Jake Doyle. Jones’ brother, Terry Jones, returns at running back with high hopes for the ground game. “Our line is bigger than it’s ever been, and they’re quicker than last year’s line,” he said. “This year is gonna be our best year so far. This summer, we worked out harder than we ever have. Everyone’s heads are up. We have more support than ev-
er. We’re fired up about it.” Travis Henning and Lantz Parks return on the offensive line, and the coaches have been pleased with the newcomers as well. “We’re trying to establish the run and make the offensive line known, instead of being that question mark,” said junior right tackle Tyler Bush. “We’re playing with a chip on our shoulder.” Some key players return in the defensive front seven, with ends Doyle and Andrew Edwards, and linebackers Jake Henderson and Carson Mathews. Many of the offensive skill players fill out the rest of the secondary and linebacker spots. “We were glad to make it to the playoffs last year, but our goal is to be better than that,” Wilson said. “We’re in a tough district and we’ll battle for a playoff spot. And I think our kids feel like we can do that.”
Yukon quarterback Corben Jones threw for more than 2,000 yards last season. PHOTO BY NATE BILLINGS, THE OKLAHOMAN
PC West numbers, motivation increasing BY SCOTT WRIGHT Staff Writer swright@opubco.com
BETHANY — The roster numbers are up, and now they’re looking to put some numbers in the win column at Putnam City West. The Patriots’ roster has doubled in size the last two seasons as fourth-year coach John Jensen and his staff have started from scratch in rebuilding the program. “Two years ago, we had about 30 guys,” senior-to-be Ryan Cooper said. “Now we’re up to about 70. People are buying into what we’re doing. We have a lot more potential.” That potential lies in a group of seniors with good leadership abilities and a strong focus on avoiding a third straight 0-10 season. “We’ve got stronger chem-
istry this year,” receiver Anthony Thomas said. “We want to make a difference and stop this losing streak. “We’ve got Jenks in our district this year, and we want them to be worried about us instead of us worried about them.” Ray Young returns at quarterback, with guys like Thomas, Cooper and Tevin Berry at receiver. And the Patriots have depth at running back with Corey Thomas and Johnny Smith, among others. Many of those players will play both ways, bringing good athleticism to the defensive secondary and linebacker positions. But the offensive and defensive lines must solidify, both in size and depth. Key players in the trenches for the Pats will be Grayson Buchanon, Bryson Bingman, Zac Yarber, Tyler Louden-
back and Cameron Sisco. “Defensively, we’re breaking in a lot of new players,” Jensen said. “On the offensive line, we’re replacing a lot of players. “But our numbers are up. We had 73 kids the first day of practice, up from 58 last year and 36 the year before. So something right is going on, and we’re excited about that.” And the players’ motivation to stop being thought of as a doormat is strong. “Everybody talks about PC West, saying they’re wack and this and that,” Corey Thomas said. “To me, it’s all about getting respect. That’s how I feel and I hope the rest of our players feel that way, too. It’s all about getting respect, and to me, a championship is what will get you respect. That’s my goal, and hopefully it’s everybody else’s.”
Putnam City West quarterback Ray Young tries to get past a defender from Deer Creek during an Aug. 19 scrimmage. PHOTO BY NATE BILLINGS, THE OKLAHOMAN
Millwood’s Larry Seals and the rest of the Falcons prepare to take the field before facing Kingfisher in the 2009 Class 2A state semifinals in Yukon. PHOTO BY CHRIS LANDSBERGER, THE OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE
Millwood ready to live up to expectations BY SCOTT WRIGHT Staff Writer swright@opubco.com
There’s only one question surrounding Millwood football this season: Can the Falcons finish the job? With as much or more talent than anyone they’ve played the last two seasons, Millwood hasn’t won a championship or even played for a gold ball. And answering that question with a “yes” will mean the Falcons first answered the questions about their offensive line. Last year, it was a revolving door of players cycling through as coaches looked for someone to earn the job. “We always have one or two guys that are really good and three guys we try to roll in there and figure
out who’s gonna go where,” offensive coordinator Kevin Cox said. “We think we’ve made some strides this year and found some people who can help us out a lot — maybe even a freshman.” Davion Pierson, a toplevel college prospect, will anchor the offensive line at left guard in addition to his duties as one of the premier defensive tackles in the state. Devin Dobbins, another 300-pounder, moves from center to left tackle. Harvey Hightower will also help the line, which gives the Falcons a clear picture of what their offensive line will look like. The value of that can’t be understated with the talent the Falcons have at the skilled positions, with Texas commit Josh Turner
at receiver, along with college prospects Brandon Swindall, Shevin Patton, Mike Cole and quarterback Kevonte Richardson. Patton and Allan Starks are the top two candidates for carries at running back as Millwood tries to replace Emilio Gatewood, a 2,000-yard rusher who moved to Norman North in the offseason. Larry Seals had 183 tackles at inside linebacker last year and will anchor the defense along with Pierson. That gives the Falcons a run-stopping threat up front and tons of speed on the back end. “A lot of people are expecting to see a lot of things,” Cole said. “And we’re gonna show ‘em. That’s what we plan on doing. We want that state title.”
McGuinness back as one of the 4A favorites BY ROBERT PRZYBYLO Staff Writer bprzybylo@opubco.com
The biggest question heading into last year for Bishop McGuinness was, who would be the quarterback and how productive would the offense be? The first question still has to be answered this season for the Irish, but there are no doubts about how explosive the offense is going to be. If you want any problems, having two solid quarterbacks is one you can tolerate. That’s exactly what coach Kenny Young has with juniors Camden Tharp and Quinn Shanbour. Shanbour won the job last season but had his season ended early with a broken ankle in the second week of the season. Bishop McGuinness running back LaRone Richardson was limited by injuries last season but should be back to full speed. PHOTO
BY JOHN CLANTON, THE OKLAHOMAN
Tharp took the reins, and the Irish remained one of the top teams in Class 4A. Whether it was running or throwing, Tharp matured immensely throughout the season. No matter who ends up with the job, Young is confident the offense will see both players on the field because “they’re two of our best 11.” All eyes will be on running back LaRone Richardson. Injuries limited his effectiveness last season, but he showed glimpses of what he can do when healthy. Richardson said it took him until about March to start feeling right, and it’s shown as the elusiveness and quickness is back for one of the top backs in the state. Jamaal Whitney will be the top target for Tharp or
Shanbour. Whitney is a freak of an athlete, and Young said the senior just has to be more consistent with his concentration. “You look at our offense, and I don’t see a weakness,” Richardson said. “Quinn or Camden, it doesn’t matter — they’re both really good at what they do.” Linebackers Jameel Whitney (Jamaal’s brother) and Jay Lester dominated the day defensively last year. But with both graduated, this year the strength appears to be on the line. Seniors Dakota Leftwich and Nick Callaway will lead the charge. Callaway had 72 tackles and three sacks, while Leftwich had 63 stops and four sacks. The defense also welcomes back Danny Krenger, who had 57 tackles.
SOUTH OKC METRO FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK
Choctaw’s Davis worth a look
Choctaw defensive end Hunter Davis committed to Tulsa over the summer. PHOTO
Choctaw coach Bill Bays is still in the process of trying to turn the team around, but he has a great cornerstone to build on. Senior Hunter Davis is one of the top recruits in the state and had a few offers before committing to Tulsa this summer. Davis should dominate on the defensive line and will also see time at tight end. Davis won’t be alone, as running back Aaron Fournier also returns for the Yellowjackets. “We have a lot of good guys coming back,” Davis said. “We feel we’re going to surprise people.”
SMITH HAS LITTLE AXE THINKING POSITIVE To say the last few months have been trying for Little Axe is an understatement. Whether it’s been on the field or off, it certainly hasn’t been dull. Jason Wheeler was going to be in his first year as head coach but left in the summer to take a job in Texas. Last year’s coach, Tony Smith, who helped lead the team to its best year and first playoff appearance, stepped back into the trenches. The program is also still trying to deal with the tornado that hit the area in May, but that hasn’t broken their spirit. “We’re going to be out here every day and do what we always do,” senior leader Robby Dryden said.
NICHOLS BACK FOR BETHEL After some recent success, including its first playoff appearance, last year was a step backward for Bethel football. The program has made several changes. Oklahoma Coaches Association Hall of
BY CHRIS LANDSBERGER, THE OKLAHOMAN
Famer Eddie Paul is taking over as head coach, while Kevin Nichols is going to be coaching the quarterbacks. Nichols led the Wildcats to the playoffs in 2007. “Eddie asked me, and it was too good of an opportunity to pass up,” Nichols said.
CHA’S BLAIR A FORCE Christian Heritage Academy was a game away from the playoffs in 2009, and the Crusaders haven’t forgotten that. After an 0-3 start, CHA closed out at 5-5. Anchoring John Merrell’s team will be senior linebacker Josh Blair. As a junior, Blair had 113 tackles and three sacks. "This will be his third year to start for us at linebacker," Merrell said. "And he’s bigger and stronger than he’s ever been. He’s over 215 now. He just has tremendous desire to be a good football player and he’s only gotten better and better every year."
TUGGLE PACING HARRAH The improvement of Harrah football has been
evident under coach Greg Willis. The Panthers have gradually worked their way up and were 5-5 last season in Class 5A. Now that Harrah has dropped to 4A, expectations are even higher. One big reason is the return of running back Trey Tuggle. Tuggle rushed for nearly 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns last year. Junior wide receiver Jake Queen should also play a much bigger role this season.
TECUMSEH RELYING ON FOWLER Nobody thought Tecumseh was going to win eight games last year, but Greg George’s kids pulled out some close games and gained confidence throughout the year. Quarterback Kyle Fowler grew up as well. The only thing Fowler could be accused of is trying too hard. To go with his 10 passing touchdowns, he also had 15 interceptions. He was the team’s top rusher as well, amassing more than 800 yards on the ground and adding 12 more touchdowns. BY ROBERT PRZYBYLO
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL NOTEBOOK
Young, Mayfield power Jets offense Darius Young sees big potential for the Western Heights offense this season as the Jets try to improve on last year’s 2-8 mark. Young, a 5-foot-7, 205pound junior, powers the run game with returning starter Kenneth Mayfield at quarterback. “The offense should be pretty good with a whole bunch of skill kids and the quarterback coming back,” Young said. “We should be explosive.” Two seasons ago, the Jets were winless. Young feels the team is making significant progress from year to year under coach Kevin Ball. “I hope we can be in every game,” Young said. “Maybe we can go .500 at least, get better every year. Maybe this year or next year, make the playoffs.”
PIEDMONT BACKFIELD COMING BACK STRONG Neither the quarterback or running back in Piedmont’s offense started all of last year, but both turned out to be reliable players who will anchor an offense with a lot of experience this season. The Wildcats returned 14 starters in all, even with the loss of top receiver Keith Vick, who gave up football because of multiple concussions. Cole Davis started the last five games at quarterback and continues to improve, and he’s joined by tailback Taylor Ashcraft, who rushed for 850 yards over the final six games of the year.
PATTERSON BACK FOR KINGFISHER Moving up from Class 2A to 3A, Kingfisher’s expectations haven’t changed. The
Darius Young Western Heights running back
6-foot-2, 185 pounds, and 5-foot-8, 155-pound sophomore T.J. Martin will both be in line for carries, giving coach Lynn Shackelford high hopes for 2010. “I expect that if we can stay healthy, we should compete for a state championship,” Shackelford said.
CRESCENT’S MUSIL A FAMILY MAN Michael Musil says he has a big family. He’s not just referring to his eight brothers and sisters, though. He’s talking about
Kingfisher quarterback Derek Patterson has put up solid numbers but struggled with injuries throughout his career. PHOTO BY STEVE GOOCH, THE OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE Yellowjackets want to be back in the state title game, and this time they want to win it. A key to getting there will be quarterback Derek Patterson, who has been haunted by injuries in his career. Last year, he played in 11 of Kingfisher’s 15 games, throwing for more than 2,200 yards with 22 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He also rushed for 526 yards and seven scores.
EAGLES STRONG IN THE TRENCHES With some key losses from the offensive and defensive backfields off last year’s Class A semifinalist, Hennessey will have a little different look in making the move up to Class 2A. The strength of the team will be up front, with guys like Trevor Ritz on the offensive and defensive lines, as well as linebacker
Raul Orosco, the team’s leading tackler last year. And the most notable player in the group is lineman Derrick Luetjen, a 6-foot-3, 275-pound senior who is being recruited by multiple NCAA Division I programs.
CASHION LOOKING FOR GOLD BALL Quarterback/linebacker Jeremy Seaton, a 6-foot-4, 230-pound senior, can almost put a Class A team on his back and carry them to the playoffs, but if Cashion hopes to surpass last year’s 12-1 record and finish off its run to the state title, Seaton will need help from those around him. He has a pair of returning receivers in Taylor Cochran and Britt Basler who will be key pieces to keep the offense moving, and a good battle at running back has taken shape. Senior Gerrod Bailey,
his teammates on the Crescent High football team. Musil, who plays linebacker and will be a senior, is one of five boys in his family, all of whom have played football at Crescent. “I think having a bunch of brothers at home has helped me on the football field, it’s toughened me up,” he said. “When I was younger we’d go outside and they’d teach me how to catch the ball and how to tackle.” Musil grew close to his brothers growing up, when they all slept in the living room of the two-bedroom, one-bathroom house his family lived in. Musil’s parents had one room, and his sisters had the other. “In the long run, it was good for me,” he said. “It reminds me to not take anything for granted. Whatever I do, I’ll always remember where I came from.”
A NEW ADVENTURE FOR SOUTHWEST COVENANT For the first time, Southwest Covenant’s football team will be a part of the OSSAA, and from the start, opposing coaches see them as a potential playoff team. But coach Bill Martin knows just how tough his team’s district is, with names on the schedule like Class C defending champ Timberlake, CovingtonDouglas and Deer CreekLamont, the team that ended Shattuck’s record 93-game winning streak. “We’re apprehensively excited about it,” Martin said with a grin. “The kids are really excited about it and the school is excited about it. “It could be a really good season for us, or we might find out just how tough it’s gonna be.” BY SCOTT WRIGHT AND CORBIN HOSLER
Q&A
With Casady junior RB Garrison Lee
It’s been incredibly hot for fall practice. What are you doing when you’re done? I’m just trying to rehydrate and relax. I feel like I’m losing 10 pounds with each practice. I’m getting my strength back, taking a dip in the pool and relaxing.
The Casady team was loaded with seniors last year, but that’s not the case this year. In fact, with only three seniors this season, some of the juniors will have step up. One of them will be junior Garrison Lee. In addition to his role at running back, Lee had 101 tackles last year.
Garrison Lee Casady junior running back
What did last year’s ‘Redeem Team’ teach you guys? They were just really good guys, on and off the field. They taught how to be leaders and how to represent the school. We learned how much football and the success means to the school.
What’s the biggest difference for you entering this year? I’ve put on a lot of weight. I’ve added 20 pounds since last year. I just spent a lot of time in the weight room, and it came pretty easy. I could squat 275 pounds last year, and now I can do 500.
You’re not the only expected to be a bigger leader this year, but are you ready for it? I am. I definitely feel like I am. I’ve improved a lot from last year, and we have a lot of guys who are going to play a big role. The one talent you wish you had? I wish I could sing. I don’t have any musical talents at all. I sing all the time, and it just annoys people. I would love to be able to sing. BY ROBERT PRZYBYLO
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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SCHEDULES B BETHANY (3A-3) (Reagan Roof) S 3 Blanchard S 10 at Pauls Valley S 17 at Washington S 23 at John Marshall O 1 SeeWorth Aca. O 7 Tulsa NOAH O 15 Kingfisher O 21 at Centennial O 29 Heritage Hall N 5 at Newcastle BETHEL (3A-4) (Eddie Paul) S 3 McLoud S 10 at Bridge Creek S 17 Madill S 24 at Perkins O 1 at Keys (Park Hill) O 8 Little Axe O 15 Star Spencer O 21 at Prague O 29 at Chandler N 5 Bristow BLANCHARD (3A-1) (Jeff Craig) S 3 at Bethany S 10 Lindsay S 17 at Newcastle S 24 at Riverside O 1 Pauls Valley O 8 Tuttle O 15 Weatherford O 21 at Anadarko O 29 at Marlow N 5 Bridge Creek BRIDGE CREEK (3A-1) (Jerry Wallis) S 3 Elgin S 10 Bethel S 17 Little Axe S 24 Tuttle O 1 at Weatherford O 8 Anadarko O 15 at Marlow O 21 at Kingfisher O 29 Riverside N 5 at Blanchard
C CAPITOL HILL (5A-2) (Montana Lyons) S 2 Centennial S 10 at U.S. Grant S 17 Southeast S 23 Duncan O 1 at Chickasha O 8 Altus O 15 at Ardmore O 21 at Northwest O 29 Lawton MacArthur N 5 at Durant CARL ALBERT (5A-1) (Gary Rose) S 3 Tulsa Washington S 10 at Ardmore S 17 at Duncan S 24 at Western Heights O 1 El Reno O 7 at Southeast O 15 Guthrie O 21 Ada O 29 at Deer Creek N 5 Noble
CASADY (IND.) (Koby Scoville) A 27 at FW All Saints S 2 Heritage Hall S 10 Oklahoma Christian S 16 at Houston Kinkaid S 24 Dallas Cistercian O 1 at Dallas Greenhill O 8 Dallas St. Mark’s O 15 at Houston St. John’s O 22 Houston Episcopal O 29 Holland Hall CASHION (A-2) (Lynn Shackelford) S 3 Yale S 10 Morrison S 17 at Luther S 24 Pioneer O 1 at Crescent O 8 at Watonga O 15 Okeene O 21 at Minco O 29 Wellston N 5 at Hinton CENTENNIAL (3A-3) (Mark Ryan) S 2 at Capitol Hill S 10 Anadarko S 17 at Northwest S 23 Heritage Hall O 1 at Newcastle O 8 John Marshall O 14 SeeWorth Aca. O 21 Bethany O 29 at Kingfisher N 5 Hennessey CHANDLER (3A-4) (Neal Bacon) S 2 Stroud S 10 at Kingfisher S 17 Harrah S 24 at Star Spencer O 1 Prague O 8 at Henryetta O 15 Bristow O 21 at Perkins O 29 Bethel N 5 at Little Axe CHOCTAW (6A-1) (Bill Bays) S 3 Putnam West S 10 Edmond North S 16 at Putnam City S 24 Moore O 1 at Lawton Eisenhower O 7 at Edmond Memorial O 15 Midwest City O 21 at Norman North O 29 Yukon N 5 at Putnam North CHR. HERITAGE (2A-2) (John Merrell) S 3 Maysville S 10 Lincoln Christian S 17 at Oklahoma Christian S 24 Jones O 1 at Northeast O 8 Konawa O 15 at Millwood O 21 Lexington O 29 at Luther N 5 Crooked Oak COMMUNITY CHR. (IND.) (Josh Norman) A 28 Sunrise Christian S 3 at Quinton S 10 SeeWorth Aca. S 17 at SW Christian S 24 OKC Patriots
O O O O O
1 9 15 21 29
at Rejoice Christian Lighthouse Chr. Destiny Christian at Life Christian Windsor Hills
COYLE (C-3) (Shane Weathers) S 3 at Agra S 10 Medford S 17 Ryan S 24 SW Covenant O 1 at DC-Lamont O 8 Timberlake O 15 Riverfield O 21 Waukomis O 29 at Covington-Douglas N 5 at Carney CRESCENT (A-2) (J.L. Fisher) S 2 at Wynnewood S 10 at Crooked Oak S 17 Perry S 24 at Sayre O 1 Cashion O 8 at Okeene O 15 Minco O 21 at Wellston O 29 Hinton N 5 at Pioneer CROOKED OAK (2A-2) (Greg Adams) S 3 at St. Mary S 10 Crescent S 17 John Marshall S 24 at Luther O 1 Lexington O 8 Northeast O 15 at Perry O 21 at Millwood O 29 Jones N 5 at Chr. Heritage
D DAVENPORT (B-2) (John Greenfield) S 3 Dewar S 10 Okla. Christian Aca. S 17 at Fox S 24 Alex O 1 at Macomb O 8 Cyril O 14 at Sasakwa O 22 at Bowlegs O 29 Central Marlow N 5 at Paoli DEER CREEK (5A-1) (Grant Gower) S 3 at Piedmont S 10 at Shawnee S 17 Tecumseh S 24 at Guthrie O 1 Southeast O 8 at El Reno O 15 Western Heights O 21 at Noble O 29 Carl Albert N 5 Ada DEL CITY (6A-2) (Nick Warehime) S 3 at Midwest City S 9 at Norman North S 17 Norman S 23 at Edmond North O 1 Putnam City O 7 at Westmoore O 15 Lawton O 21 at Edmond Santa Fe O 29 U.S. Grant N 5 Mustang
DESTINY CHRISTIAN (IND.) (Rusty Stone) A 27 Lawton Christian S 3 SW Covenant S 10 at OKC Patriots S 17 at Windsor Hills S 24 Rejoice Christian S 30 at SW Christian O 8 Corn Bible O 15 at Community Chr. O 22 Gracemont O 29 Life Christian DIBBLE (A-5) (Charley North) S 3 Minco S 10 Bray-Doyle S 17 at Wilson S 24 at Wayne O 1 Waurika O 8 Maysville O 15 Elmore City O 21 at Rush Springs O 29 at Stratford N 5 Wynnewood DOUGLASS (4A-2) (Willis Alexander) S 2 at McGuinness S 11 Millwood S 17 at Star Spencer S 24 Tecumseh O 1 at Santa Fe South O 8 Cushing O 15 at McLoud O 21 at Harrah O 29 Glenpool N 5 Cleveland
E
EL RENO (5A-1) (Tom Cobble) S 3 Woodward S 10 at Chickasha S 17 at Elk City S 24 Noble O 1 at Carl Albert O 8 Deer Creek O 15 at Ada O 22 at Guthrie O 29 Southeast N 5 Western Heights
EDMOND MEMORIAL (6A-1) (Justin Merideth) S 3 Edmond Santa Fe S 10 Stillwater S 17 at Edmond North S 24 Putnam North O 1 at Moore O 7 Choctaw O 15 at Lawton Eisenhower O 21 at Midwest City O 28 Norman North N 5 at Yukon
G
EDMOND NORTH (6A-2) (Jeremy Dombek) S 2 Southmoore S 10 at Choctaw S 17 Edmond Memorial S 23 Del City O 1 at Mustang O 7 at Putnam City O 15 Westmoore O 21 at Lawton O 29 Edmond Santa Fe N 4 at U.S. Grant
GUTHRIE (5A-1) (Rafe Watkins) S 3 Duncan S 10 Ponca City S 17 at Enid S 24 Deer Creek O 1 at Ada O 8 Noble O 15 at Carl Albert O 22 El Reno O 29 at Western Heights N 5 at Southeast
EDMOND SANTA FE (6A-2) (Bruce Gowen) S 3 at Edmond Memorial S 9 Yukon S 17 at Midwest City S 24 at Westmoore O 1 Lawton O 8 Mustang O 15 at U.S. Grant O 21 Del City O 29 at Edmond North N 5 Putnam City
SEE SCHEDULES, PAGE 17J
SCHEDULES H HARRAH (4A-2) (Greg Willis) S 3 Western Heights S 10 at Piedmont S 17 at Chandler S 24 Cushing O 1 at McLoud O 8 Tecumseh O 15 at Santa Fe South O 21 Douglass O 29 at Cleveland N 5 Glenpool HENNESSEY (2A-1) (Shannon Watford) S 3 at Northeast S 10 Jones S 17 Kingfisher S 24 Perry O 1 at Alva O 8 Chisholm O 15 at Oklahoma Christian O 21 at Tonkawa O 29 Watonga N 5 at Centennial HERITAGE HALL (3A-3) (Andy Bogert) S 2 at Casady S 10 Clinton S 17 at Davis S 23 at Centennial O 1 Tulsa NOAH O 8 Newcastle O 14 John Marshall O 21 SeeWorth Aca. O 29 at Bethany N 5 Kingfisher
J JOHN MARSHALL (3A-3) (Bruce Troxell) S 3 Northwest S 10 Cache S 17 at Crooked Oak S 23 Bethany O 1 Kingfisher O 8 at Centennial O 14 at Heritage Hall O 22 Newcastle O 29 at Weatherford N 5 SeeWorth Aca. JONES (2A-2) (Dave Martin) S 3 Perkins S 10 at Hennessey S 17 St. Mary S 24 at Chr. Heritage O 1 at Morris O 8 Millwood O 15 at Lexington O 21 Luther O 29 at Crooked Oak N 5 Northeast
K KINGFISHER (3A-3) (Jeff Myers) S 3 Watonga S 10 Chandler S 17 at Hennessey S 24 Newcastle O 1 at John Marshall O 8 SeeWorth Aca.
O O O N
15 21 29 5
at Bethany Bridge Creek Centennial at Heritage Hall
L LEXINGTON (2A-2) (Waymon Scott) S 3 Sulphur S 10 Little Axe (at Noble) S 17 Purcell S 24 Northeast O 1 at Crooked Oak O 8 at Luther O 15 Jones O 21 at Chr. Heritage O 29 at Meeker N 5 Millwood LIFE CHRISTIAN (IND.) (Loy Hill) A 27 at Boulevard Chr. S 3 at Eagle Point S 10 at Windsor Hills S 17 Lawton Christian S 24 at Riverfield O 2 SW Christian O 8 Rejoice Christian O 15 OKC Patriots O 21 Community Chr. O 29 at Destiny Christian LITTLE AXE (3A-4) (Tony Smith) S 3 Santa Fe South (at Noble) S 10 Lexington (at Noble) S 17 at Bridge Creek S 24 at Bristow O 1 Perkins O 8 at Bethel O 15 at Okmulgee O 22 at Star Spencer O 29 Prague N 5 Chandler LUTHER (2A-2) (Scott O’Hara) S 3 Wellston S 10 at St. Mary S 17 Cashion S 24 Crooked Oak O 1 at Millwood O 8 Lexington O 14 at Northeast O 21 at Jones O 29 Chr. Heritage N 5 at Stroud
M MACOMB (B-2) (Tommy Price) S 3 at Carney S 10 at Bowlegs S 17 Cyril S 24 at Sasakwa O 1 Davenport O 8 at Central Marlow O 14 Paoli O 21 at Okla. Christian Aca. O 29 Fox N 5 at Alex MCGUINNESS (4A-1) (Kenny Young) S 2 Douglass S 10 Tulsa Kelley S 17 at Millwood S 24 Clinton O 1 at Woodward O 8 Elk City O 15 at Elgin O 21 at Piedmont
O 29 Cache N 5 at Guymon MCLOUD (4A-2) (Eric Cardin) S 3 at Bethel S 10 at Perkins S 17 Seminole S 24 at Glenpool O 1 Harrah O 8 at Cleveland O 15 Douglass O 21 at Santa Fe South O 29 Tecumseh N 5 Cushing MEEKER (2A-5) (Mike Hedge) S 3 at Prague S 10 Konawa S 17 Wellston S 24 at Haskell O 1 Okemah O 8 at Stroud O 15 Morris O 21 at Mounds O 29 Lexington N 5 Holdenville MIDWEST CITY (6A-1) (Steve Huff) S 3 Del City S 10 at Enid S 17 Edmond Santa Fe S 24 Yukon O 1 at Putnam North O 8 Moore O 15 at Choctaw O 21 Edmond Memorial O 29 at Lawton Eisenhower N 5 at Norman North MILLWOOD (2A-2) (Tony Henry) S 2 Star Spencer S 11 at Douglass S 17 McGuinness S 24 at Alva O 1 Luther O 8 at Jones O 15 Chr. Heritage O 21 Crooked Oak O 28 at Northeast N 5 at Lexington MINCO (A-2) (Clint Warren) S 3 at Dibble S 10 at Wayne S 17 Apache S 24 Wellston O 1 at Hinton O 8 Pioneer O 15 at Crescent O 21 Cashion O 29 at Okeene N 5 Burns Flat-Dill City MOORE (6A-1) (Scott Myers) S 3 Westmoore S 10 at Norman S 17 at Southmoore S 24 at Choctaw O 1 Edmond Memorial O 8 at Midwest City O 14 Norman North O 21 at Yukon O 29 Putnam North N 4 Lawton Eisenhower MUSTANG (6A-2) (Ty Prestidge) S 3 at Yukon S 10 Putnam North S 17 at Bixby S 24 at Lawton O 1 Edmond North O 8 at Edmond Santa Fe
O O O N
15 22 29 5
Putnam City at U.S. Grant Westmoore at Del City
N NEWCASTLE (3A-3) (Keith Bolles) S 3 at Pauls Valley S 10 at Tuttle S 17 Blanchard S 24 at Kingfisher O 1 Centennial O 8 at Heritage Hall O 15 Tulsa NOAH O 22 at John Marshall O 29 SeeWorth Aca. N 5 Bethany NOBLE (5A-1) (Steve Barrett) S 3 Tecumseh S 10 at Duncan S 17 Chickasha S 24 at El Reno O 1 Western Heights O 8 at Guthrie O 15 Southeast O 21 Deer Creek O 29 at Ada N 5 at Carl Albert NORMAN (6A-3) (Greg Nation) S 2 Norman North S 10 Moore S 17 at Del City S 24 at Sapulpa S 30 Shawnee
O O O O N
8 15 21 29 5
at Southmoore Putnam West at Broken Arrow Muskogee at Jenks
NORMAN NORTH (6A-1) (Lance Manning) S 2 at Norman S 9 Del City S 16 at Westmoore S 24 Lawton Eisenhower O 1 at Yukon O 8 Putnam North O 14 at Moore O 21 Choctaw O 28 at Edmond Memorial N 5 Midwest City NORTHEAST (2A-2) (Tim Thomas) S 3 Hennessey S 9 at Northwest S 17 at Riverside S 24 at Lexington O 1 Chr. Heritage O 8 at Crooked Oak O 14 Luther O 22 at Oklahoma Christian O 28 Millwood N 5 at Jones NORTHWEST (5A-2) (Anthony Robinson) S 3 at John Marshall S 9 Northeast S 17 Centennial S 24 Altus O 1 at Ardmore O 8 Duncan O 15 at Chickasha O 21 Capitol Hill O 29 at Durant N 4 at Lawton MacArthur
O OKLA. CHRISTIAN ACA. (B-2) (Keith Lough) S 3 OKC Patriots S 10 at Davenport S 17 Central Marlow S 24 at Paoli O 1 Bowlegs O 8 Fox O 14 at Alex O 21 Macomb O 29 at Cyril N 5 Sasakwa OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN (2A-1) (Derek Turner) S 3 Metro Christian S 10 at Casady S 17 Chr. Heritage S 24 at Chisholm O 1 Watonga O 8 at Perry O 15 Hennessey O 22 Northeast O 29 Alva N 5 at Tonkawa OKC PATRIOTS (IND.) (Jon Sikes) S 3 at Okla. Christian Aca. S 10 Destiny Christian S 17 Rejoice Christian S 24 at Community Chr. O 1 at Lighthouse Chr. O 8 at SW Christian O 15 at Life Christian O 22 Open O 29 at Gracemont N 5 Dallas HSAA
SEE SCHEDULES, PAGE 18J
SCHEDULES
S
P PAULS VALLEY (3A-2) (Kevin Foster) S 3 Newcastle S 10 Bethany S 17 at Lindsay S 24 at Plainview O 1 at Blanchard O 8 Dickson O 15 Purcell O 21 at Lone Grove O 29 at Sulphur N 5 Madill PIEDMONT (4A-1) (Rob Green) S 3 Deer Creek S 10 Harrah S 17 at Western Heights S 24 Elgin O 1 at Clinton O 8 Woodward O 15 at Elk City O 21 McGuinness O 29 at Guymon N 5 at Cache PURCELL (3A-2) (Mike Wilson) S 3 Lindsay S 10 at Washington S 17 at Lexington S 24 Sulphur O 1 Madill O 8 at Plainview O 15 at Pauls Valley O 21 Dickson O 28 Mustang JV N 5 at Lone Grove PUTNAM CITY (6A-2) (John Wofford) S 3 at Putnam North S 10 at Putnam West S 16 Choctaw S 23 U.S. Grant O 1 at Del City O 7 Edmond North O 15 at Mustang O 22 at Westmoore O 29 Lawton N 5 at Edmond Santa Fe PUTNAM NORTH (6A-1) (Bob Wilson) S 3 Putnam City S 10 at Mustang S 17 at Putnam West S 24 at Edmond Memorial O 1 Midwest City O 8 at Norman North O 15 Yukon O 21 Lawton Eisenhower O 29 at Moore N 5 Choctaw PUTNAM WEST (6A-3) (John Jensen) S 3 at Choctaw S 10 Putnam City S 17 Putnam North S 24 Broken Arrow O 1 at Jenks O 8 Shawnee O 15 at Norman O 21 at Muskogee O 28 Sapulpa N 5 at Southmoore
SANTA FE SOUTH (4A-2) (Jerry Braziel) S 3 Little Axe (at Noble) S 10 Riverside S 17 SeeWorth Aca. S 24 at Cleveland O 1 Douglass O 8 at Glenpool O 15 Harrah O 21 McLoud O 29 at Cushing N 5 at Tecumseh SEEWORTH ACA. (3A-3) (Robert Walker) S 3 at Riverside S 10 at Community Chr. S 17 at Santa Fe South S 24 Open O 1 at Bethany O 8 at Kingfisher O 14 at Centennial O 21 at Heritage Hall O 29 at Newcastle N 5 at John Marshall SHAWNEE (6A-3) (Billy Brown) S 3 Bartlesville S 10 Deer Creek S 17 at Ponca City S 24 Jenks S 30 at Norman O 8 at Putnam West O 15 Muskogee O 21 at Sapulpa O 29 Southmoore N 5 at Broken Arrow SOUTHEAST (5A-1) (Michael Branch) S 3 U.S. Grant S 9 Star Spencer S 17 at Capitol Hill S 24 Ada O 1 at Deer Creek O 7 Carl Albert O 15 at Noble O 21 Western Heights O 29 at El Reno N 5 Guthrie SOUTHMOORE (6A-3) (Chris Jensen) S 2 at Edmond North S 10 at Westmoore S 17 Moore S 24 at Muskogee S 30 Sapulpa O 8 Norman O 15 at Broken Arrow O 21 Jenks O 29 at Shawnee N 5 Putnam West ST. MARY (2A-3) (Dal Nichols) S 3 Crooked Oak S 10 Luther S 17 at Jones S 24 at Washington O 1 Frederick O 8 at Lindsay O 15 Cordell O 21 Hobart O 29 at Comanche N 5 Walters
STAR SPENCER (3A-4) (Terrell Love) S 2 at Millwood S 9 at Southeast S 17 Douglass S 24 Chandler O 1 Bristow O 8 at Perkins O 15 at Bethel O 22 Little Axe O 29 at Victory Christian N 5 at Prague SW CHRISTIAN (IND.) (Chuck Peot) A 27 Windsor Hills S 3 at Cherokee S 10 at Chetopa, Kan. S 17 Community Chr. S 24 Lawton Christian S 30 Destiny Christian O 2 at Life Christian O 8 OKC Patriots O 22 at Rejoice Christian O 29 Thackerville SW COVENANT (C-3) (Bill Martin) S 3 at Destiny Christian S 10 at Waukomis S 17 Covington-Douglas S 24 at Coyle O 1 Carney O 8 at DC-Lamont O 15 Medford O 22 Open O 29 Rejoice Christian N 4 at Timberlake
T TECUMSEH (4A-2) (Greg George) S 3 at Noble S 10 Seminole S 17 at Deer Creek S 24 at Douglass O 1 Cleveland O 8 at Harrah O 15 Glenpool O 21 Cushing O 29 at McLoud N 5 Santa Fe South TUTTLE (3A-1) (Phil Koons) S 3 at Cache S 10 Newcastle S 17 Elgin S 24 at Bridge Creek O 1 Riverside O 8 at Blanchard O 15 Open O 21 at Weatherford O 29 Anadarko N 5 Marlow
U U.S. GRANT (6A-2) (Matt Miller) S 3 at Southeast S 10 Capitol Hill S 17 at Ada S 23 at Putnam City O 1 Westmoore O 7 at Lawton O 15 Edmond Santa Fe O 22 Mustang O 29 at Del City N 4 Edmond North
W WASHINGTON (2A-3) (Brad Beller) S 2 at Apache S 10 Purcell S 17 Bethany S 24 St. Mary O 1 at Walters O 8 at Comanche O 15 Frederick O 21 at Lindsay O 29 at Cordell N 5 Hobart WAYNE (A-5) (Brandon Sharp) S 3 at Konawa S 10 Minco S 17 Empire S 24 Dibble O 1 at Maysville O 8 Elmore City O 15 at Rush Springs O 21 Stratford O 29 at Wynnewood N 5 at Ringling WELLSTON (A-2) (Lloyd Leep) S 3 at Luther S 10 Drumright S 17 at Meeker S 24 at Minco O 1 Carnegie O 8 Hinton O 15 at Pioneer O 21 Crescent O 29 at Cashion N 5 Okeene
WESTERN HTS. (5A-1) (Kevin Ball) S 3 at Harrah S 10 Tulsa Central S 17 Piedmont S 24 Carl Albert O 1 at Noble O 8 Ada O 15 at Deer Creek O 21 at Southeast O 29 Guthrie N 5 at El Reno WESTMOORE (6A-2) (Billy Langford) S 3 at Moore S 10 Southmoore S 16 Norman North S 24 Edmond Santa Fe O 1 at U.S. Grant O 7 Del City O 15 at Edmond North O 22 Putnam City O 29 at Mustang N 5 at Lawton WINDSOR HILLS (IND.) (Wes Randall) A 27 at SW Christian S 2 at OSD S 10 Life Christian S 17 Destiny Christian S 24 Eagle Point O 1 Boulevard Chr. O 8 Lawton Christian O 15 at Rejoice Christian O 22 Open O 29 at Community Chr.
Y YUKON (6A-1) (Todd Wilson) S 3 Mustang S 9 at Edmond Santa Fe S 17 at Stillwater S 24 at Midwest City O 1 Norman North O 8 Lawton Eisenhower O 15 at Putnam North O 21 Moore O 29 at Choctaw N 5 Edmond Memorial
MORE SCHEDULES IN PREVIEW SECTION Pick up Sunday’s Oklahoman for the full high school preview section, which contains schedules for every high school in the state.
Heritage Hall’s standout class one year smarter BY ROBERT PRZYBYLO Staff Writer bprzybylo@opubco.com
A lot was said about this year’s Heritage Hall junior class back when they were freshmen. The hype didn’t die down last year as sophomores. And with a certain number of them already entering their third year with significant playing time, no one is giving them a free pass this season. After dominating Class 2A in 2008, a lot was expected from last year’s team. But the kids had some growing pains and could never maintain that consistency. The difference is already showing up in this year’s practices. The unit is much more crisp, more in sync.
“We’re wondering more about what plays to run at this time than last year, when we were still trying to line up correctly,” coach Andy Bogert said. The offense is going to run through junior Barry Sanders. After a phenomenal sophomore year, Sanders knows there will be even more attention this year. He also welcomes the challenge that goes with moving up to 3A. The Chargers have two solid quarterbacks in junior Sterling Shepard and senior Cooper Cloud. Bogert said he’s not looking for a competition, but instead will plan to use both of them depending on the offensive package. One of the biggest changes is in the leadership department. Heritage
didn’t have many seniors last year, and it showed at times. That shouldn’t be the case as Cloud and some of the juniors have stepped up, especially junior tight end Quintaz Struble. “He’s become a big leader for us,” Bogert said. “He won’t let people get down on themselves.” The receiving game should be stronger as junior quarterback-turnedwide receiver Cale Courtney said he’s a lot more comfortable now. Shaun Tkach had a terrific summer, Bogert said, and adds another dimension to the team. Bogert said the defense should be extremely fast, one of his fastest teams yet. However, size might be an issue, Bogert said.
Heritage Hall senior Cooper Cloud is one of the Chargers’ two quarterbacks. PHOTO
BY BRYAN TERRY, THE OKLAHOMAN