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TABLE OF CONTENTS 8 CLAREMORE ZEBRAS PREVIEW
Claremore dreaming big after 3-straight quarterfinal appearances Three-straight trips to the state quarterfinals have changed the definition of success for Claremore.
10 OOLOGAH MUSTANGS PREVIEW
Oologah embraces ‘grit’ while rebuilding around stronger foundation Oologah may have lost plenty of familiar names, but coach Sam Noble believes the Mustangs have gained something that could matter just as much.
12 CATOOSA INDIANS PREVIEW
Catoosa goes ‘All In’ on turnaround after move to Class 3A A year ago, Catoosa was fighting a numbers problem almost as much as the opponent across the line of scrimmage.
14 INOLA LONGHORNS PREVIEW
Inola turns page after historic season, embraces new era under Ashley Inola spent last fall making history.
16 VERDIGRIS CARDINALS PREVIEW
Battle-tested Verdigris sets sights on next step with experienced core The difference between playing in November and watching from home can be painfully small.
18 SEQUOYAH EAGLES PREVIEW
Sequoyah spreads its wings with experienced roster, revamped offense Sequoyah spent last season learning how to survive with youth.
4 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
20 CHELSEA DRAGONS PREVIEW
Robison begins culture rebuild at Chelsea Tim Robison wants Chelsea to win football games, but his definition of winning extends well beyond Friday nights.
22 FOYIL PANTHERS PREVIEW
Foyil believes young core can take next step Foyil doesn’t have the luxury of waiting for the football.
24 CLAREMORE
CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PREVIEW
CCS embraces transition as defending champs reload
Publisher Heather Kilpatrick Executive Editor Kim Poindexter Sports Editor Kevin Green Photographers Jay Lederman Christian Potts Jean Ratley - Jean’s 4R Photos Regional Advertising Manager Joe Mack Layout & Design Jay Judah This Is Us is published by the Claremore Progress. Contents of the magazine are by the Claremore Progress. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the Claremore Progress. This Is Us, P.O. Box 248, Claremore OK 74018.
Claremore Christian School reached the mountaintop of the Frontier Christian Athletic Association last season.
2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 5
Real winners eat eggs, but
CHAMPIONS eat at
Eggbert’s! Open Every Day 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.
900 S. Lynn Riggs Blvd. • Claremore, OK 74017
918-342-1233
Order online at eggbertsrestaurant.net
6 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
Good Luck on the Gridiron! 1220 S. Lynn Riggs Blvd. • Claremore, OK 74017
918-283-0000
GO TEAM!
Wishing ALL our area athletes success on and off the field!
2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 7
2026 SCHEDULE 8/28
at Sallisaw
9/4
Bartlesville
9/11
Muskogee
9/25
Nathan Hale
10/2
at Bishop McGuinness
10/9
Tahlequah
10/15 at Edison 10/23 Memorial 10/30 at Pryor 11/6
at Collinsville
Coach: Jarrett Hurt, 11th season Offensive Coordinator: Noah Grimett Defensive Coordinator: Billy Willard Special Teams Coordinator: John Dexter Returning Offensive Starters: 6 Returning Defensive Starters: 6 2025 Varsity Record: 8-4 2025 JV Record: 8-1 Starting QB Returning?: Yes [Kellen Gaede] Top RB Returning?: No [Cecil Garrett IV, graduation] Top WR Returning?: No [Hudson Lee, graduation] Top OL Returning?: Yes [Ryne Near, Jaxon Heath and Preston Hollis] Top Defender Returning?: No [Landon King, graduation]
Claremore dreaming big after 3-straight quarterfinal appearances By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Jay Lederman Three-straight trips to the state quarterfinals have changed the definition of success for Claremore. Simply reaching November is no longer enough. After knocking on the door in each of the past three seasons, the Zebras enter 2026 intent on finally kicking it down, and coach Jarrett Hurt has given his senior class a fitting message for the challenge ahead. Dream Big. “We’ve got some kids that have big dreams, and we want to help those kids’ dreams come true, and that’s what we’re working towards right now,” Hurt said. “We’ve had a great preseason practice so far.” OVERVIEW For Claremore, the dream is straightforward: Take the next step toward competing for a state championship. The Zebras appear equipped to make another run with approximately six starters returning on each side of the ball, along with experienced specialists Jaxon Burton at kicker and Ryker Drake as the deep snapper. Before Claremore can worry about another postseason run, though, it has to navigate a demanding regular season. It begins immediately in Week Zero against Sallisaw, a perennial Class 4A playoff contender capable of providing Claremore with an early measuring stick. The Zebras return home in Week 1 to face Class 6A Bartlesville, whose offensiveminded staff includes offensive coordinator Mason Fine, a former Locust Grove and North Texas standout who owns the state record for most passing yards in a season (5,006) and a career (13,081). Another Class 6A opponent awaits in
8 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
Week 2 when Claremore takes on Muskogee. Then comes a district schedule with little room for an off night. Collinsville, Tahlequah, Pryor and Bishop McGuinness have established themselves as perennial playoff threats, creating a crowded race for the district’s postseason berths. “A good team or two is going to get left out in our district,” Hurt said. “It happens every year, and we don’t want that to be us.” PLAYERS TO WATCH Once the games begin, Claremore will lean on an experienced core supplemented by considerable depth at the skill positions. Quarterback Kellen Gaede, who threw for 1,721
Furious Poole [14] catches a pass midair during Claremore’s intrasquad scrimmage Aug. 15 at Lantow Field.
Kannon Kinnard [32] rumbles into the end zone for a touchdown during Claremore intrasquad scrimmage Aug. 15 at Lantow Field.
yards and 19 touchdowns in 2025, returns to direct an offense that could have plenty of options through the air. The Zebras’ receiver room includes Ayden Gaines, Jahiem Ewen, Graham Williams, Furious Poole, Kaide Williams, Evan Jameson, Quenton Jones and Kooper Shisler, giving Gaede an assortment of targets. “We have probably as deep of a wide-receiver group as we’ve had since I’ve been here, and so [Gaede’s] job is to spread that ball to those kids,” Hurt said. “We’ve only got one football, so we’ve got to spread that thing around, and we’ve got lots of weapons. It’s going to be hard for people to double up on one certain kid because we feel like we’ve got really good depth across the board at wide receiver.” Rather than placing the rushing workload on one player, Claremore plans to use a committee of Demetrius Cummings, B.J. Crisp, Kannon Kinnard and Jagger Dunaway. “We’ve got some guys that are more bruisers,” Hurt said. “We’ve got a little thunder and lightning going on.” Up front, Ryne Near returns at center, while Jaxon Heath provides experience at pulling guard. The Zebras also return their strong-side lineman Preston Hollis, known as “Big Pee Wee.” Claremore’s experience extends to the other side of the ball. Hurt’s defense primarily operates from a 4-2-5 look, though Claremore quarterback Kellen Gaede directs a downfield receiver during the Zebras’ intrasquad scrimmage Aug. 15 at Lantow Field.
the Zebras can adjust their alignment based on personnel, situation and down and distance. Kaden Conley returns at defensive tackle with Cummings at defensive end, providing the foundation up front. Cummings was especially impactful last season, recording 34 tackles — including 18 tackles for loss — and 4 sacks Bo Wolf returns at inside linebacker, while Drake gives Claremore another option in the middle in addition to his duties at fullback. Graham Williams returns at outside linebacker. The secondary features Jameson at free safety and Ewen at cornerback, where Hurt views him as a potential lockdown defender. “We’ve got a lot of lot of kids, a lot of depth, and we’re just trying to put the pieces to the puzzle together that help us be the best we can be,” Hurt said. With experience at all three levels, the Zebras hope their defense can help turn another deep playoff appearance into something more. After three-consecutive quarterfinal exits, dreaming big means there is only one direction left to go. Claremore already knows it can compete deep into November. Now it is dreaming about playing beyond it. “We incorporate our theme into everything that we do,” Hurt said. “We try to ingrain our theme into the kids, and we really try to build the theme each year around our senior class. We try to tailor-make our theme towards them, and we feel like this group has big dreams. We feel like this group has what it takes to help us take that next step.” 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 9
2026 SCHEDULE 9/4
Hilldale
9/10
at Glenpool
9/18
at NOAH
9/25
Grove
10/2
at Fort Gibson
10/9
Cushing
10/15 at Wagoner 10/23 at Skiatook 10/30 Miami 11/5
at Cleveland
Coach: Sam Noble, 3rd season Offensive Coordinator: Layle DeVilbiss Defensive Coordinator: Cody Gilmore Returning Offensive Starters: 4
Oologah embraces ‘grit’ while rebuilding around stronger foundation By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Jay Lederman OOLOGAH — Oologah may have lost plenty of familiar names, but coach Sam Noble believes the Mustangs have gained something that could matter just as much. A little more grit. After improving from two wins to four, Oologah enters the new season rebuilding much of its production at the skill positions while attempting to continue its upward trajectory. OVERVIEW With a difficult district waiting and a relatively young roster taking shape, Noble has distilled what he wants from his team into that word “grit.” For the Mustangs, that means continuing to play with proper technique, executing assignments and working through adversity regardless of the opponent across the line of scrimmage. We live by grit, Noble said. How hard are you going to work when the going gets tough? We’re not going to cower down from any tough challenges.
It doesnt matter how many dudes we have on the roster, doesn’t matter who’s hurt, doesn’t matter who we’re lined up across. Weve just got to go, and whenever things get tough, just step up to the challenge and keep going. PLAYERS TO WATCH The challenge begins with replacing several key contributors lost to graduation or transfers, including Ayden Gaines, who moved to Claremore. Oologah returns only four starters offensively, but Noble sees reason for optimism in the unit that everything else will be built around. Our younger groups are going to be really good, too, Noble said. We still have a really good chance to do exactly what we want to accomplish this year. The offensive line has taken a step forward. Improved communication and camaraderie up front have Noble encouraged about a group that will be charged with making life easier for the Mustangs’ rebuilt collection of backs and other skill players.
Returning Defensive Starters: 6 2025 Varsity Record: 4-6 2025 JV Record: 2-1 Starting QB Returning?: Yes [Brock Lustig] Top RB Returning?: Yes [Carter Miller] Top WR Returning?: No [Ayden Gaines, transfer] Top OL Returning?: Yes [Lane Oliver] Top Defender Returning?: No [Ayden Gaines, transfer]
Oologah hopes to be a gritty bunch in the trenches in 2026 as the Mustangs rebuild their production at skill positions.
10 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
Oologah coach Sam Noble looks to get the Mustangs back into the playoffs during his third season at the helm of his alma mater.
Oologah also have some intriguing young size to develop, including 6-foot-4, 275-pound freshman Levi Gill. Big ole kid that loves the game of football, Noble said of Gill. There is more familiarity defensively, where approximately six starters return. That experience could prove crucial while the Mustangs’ offense finds its footing. After contributing as a freshman, quarterback Brock Lustig enters his sophomore season with increased expectations. Noble is looking for greater maturity and production as Lustig takes another step in his development. I expect him to be better this year, Noble said. He’s looked better a lot better. That’s going to happen with that maturity. Hunter Schondel brings experience at inside linebacker, while senior transfer Maverick Plummer arrives from Owasso to bolster the unit at the linebacker position. Carter Miller returns at safety and provides leadership in the secondary, while Ben Hogue is back at corner after dealing with a wrist injury. Tucker Rogers gives Oologah another experienced piece at defensive end. Depth, however, will be something the Mustangs must manage.
Oologah quarterback Brock Lustig, a sophomore, is back to lead the Mustangs in 2026.
Oologah’s varsity roster sits in the mid-40s, making health especially important over the course of a physical season. Noble is encouraged by what is developing underneath the high school level, though, with more than 50 players participating in the middle school program. That growth offers promise for the future. We’re getting there, Noble said. This group is going to be really, really good. So we’ll see what happens and keep just rolling with the punches. For now, Noble wants his current group to continue the progress that has already taken the Mustangs from 2-8 to 4-6 during his tenure. With several new faces being asked to take on larger roles, Noble said he believes the ceiling for this year’s team is difficult to define. Talent will matter. Depth will matter. Staying healthy will matter. However, when the Mustangs inevitably find themselves in difficult situations, Noble wants to know they have something else to fall back on. Grit. Honestly, the sky’s the limit for this group, Noble said. I think our goal is still feasible. We we can still do exactly what we want to do, as long as we do what we’re coached to do and don’t think about too many things. As long as our kids are just shoring up their assignment, alignment, their technique, we’ll be just fine. 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 11
Catoosa goes ‘All In’ on turnaround after move to Class 3A
2026 SCHEDULE 9/4
at Mannford
9/11
at Verdigris
9/18
Inola
9/25
at Berryhill
10/2
Jones
10/9
at Jay
10/15 Metro Christian 10/23 Vinita 10/30 at Eufaula 11/6
Daniel Webster
Coach: Sal Guerrero, 4th season Offensive Coordinator: Joe Brown Defensive Coordinator: Chase Stookey Special Teams Coordinator: Jason Cochran Returning Offensive Starters: 7 Returning Defensive Starters: 7 2025 Varsity Record: 0-10
By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Christian Potts CATOOSA — A year ago, Catoosa was fighting a numbers problem almost as much as the opponent across the line of scrimmage. With only 22 players, there was little room for injuries, fatigue or mistakes. This fall, however, nearly twice as many Indians are suiting up, and coach Sal Guerrero believes the transformation goes deeper than the roster sheet. With approximately 48 players in the program, a more experienced group and a move down to Class 3A, the Indians are embracing an “All In” mentality as it attempts to leave last season’s struggles behind and return to the playoffs. “The windshield is bigger than the rearview,” said Guerrero, whose team finished 0-10 in 2025. “We only glanced a little bit in the rearview. We’re going to keep moving forward. I kind of shared that with our guys, and these guys said we don’t even have a rearview mirror. Everything’s looking forward.” OVERVIEW For Guerrero, Catoosa’s turnaround starts with Catoosa’s Matthew Compton [2] looks to the sideline for a play during the Green and White Scrimmage on Aug. 14 at Frank McNabb Stadium.
2025 JV Record: N/A Starting QB Returning?: Yes [Devin Johnson] Top RB Returning?: Yes [JR Brown] Top WR Returning?: Yes [Brysen Jimenez] Top OL Returning?: Yes [Julian Rodriguez, Jason Watkins, Jose Ramirez] Top Defender Returning?: Yes [Devin Johnson]
12 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
things that rarely show up in a box score. Hand placement. Footwork. Assignments. Discipline. Those details have been an emphasis throughout the offseason after mistakes proved costly a year ago. The Indians are older now, but Guerrero doesn’t want experience to create complacency. “Everything we do, we’re going to be disciplined,” Guerrero said. “We’re going to wear the same practice gear. We’re going to make sure we’re doing everything the same and be consistent with everything.” Perhaps the clearest sign of progress is simply the number of players at practice. That increase in bodies gives Catoosa considerably more depth and competition for positions as it enters its first season in a new classification. “I didn’t lose many kids this year [to the transfer portal], so a lot of those freshmen and sophomores that played last year now have meaningful reps,” Guerrero said. “But not only that, we also benefited
Brysen Jimenez [11] and Sean Stephens [10] celebrate a touchdown Aug. 14 during Catoosa’s Green and White Scrimmage at Frank McNabb Stadium.
from what hurt us last year as far as transfers. We’ve got a few that are really going to help us out.” The Indians have dropped to Class 3A for at least the next two seasons, providing a fresh start of sorts, though the road to the postseason won’t necessarily be easier. Catoosa’s district includes perennial contenders such as defending Class 2A-I state champion Jones, 11-1 Metro Christian and Berryhill, making Guerrero’s emphasis on eliminating self-inflicted mistakes particularly important. “We’re excited for those those top three games because that really shows where you’re at, and those those games can determine who’s going to make the playoffs,” Guerrero said. “You win one of those games, and you might secure third place.” PLAYERS TO WATCH One of Catoosa’s biggest changes comes at quarterback. Devin Johnson, who totaled over 1,000 all-purpose yards last year, is making the transition from halfback to quarterback, where his athleticism gives the Indians a dual-threat option to build their offense around. The move also allows Matthew Compton to shift from quarterback into a more versatile role. Compton is expected to line up at receiver and H-back, giving the Indians another weapon it can move around the formation. “Matthew can move around,” Guerrero said. “He’s playing receiver, he’s playing H-back and he can play running back, so he’s turned into
a really good athlete for us.” There should be no shortage of options around them. Brysen Jimenez, Brandon Hampton and Junior Brown are among the players expected to contribute at the skill positions, while L.J. Harrison offers versatility as a receiver and running back. Kaysin Morgan gives Catoosa a more physical option out of the backfield and will also contribute at linebacker. Another intriguing addition is Bryan Inegbenoise, who arrives from Broken Arrow and is expected to contribute defensively as well as at tight end. “Bryan’s probably sitting about 6-4, 230 pounds of just straight muscle, and his wingspan [is crazy],” Guerrero said. “He has great hands. He decided to want to come over here and give it a shot, and he’s turned out to be a really good defensive end and tight end for us.” On the other side of the ball, Ryder Phillips gives Catoosa a potential shutdown option at cornerback. Much of the Indians’ development, however, could depend on a young offensive line. Sophomores Jason Watkins, Julian Rodriguez, Jose Ramirez and Coby Byrum are among the players expected to anchor the group. The Indians have more players, more experience and a new classification. Now they are counting on being “All In” to produce a different result. “We want to win some games, but we want to make the playoffs, and I think we can,” Guerrero said. “I think we have the opportunity. We have the kids to do so.” 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 13
2026 SCHEDULE 8/28
Sequoyah
9/4
at Adair
9/18
at Catoosa
9/25
Bristow
10/2
at Locust Grove
10/9
Stigler
10/15 at Muldrow 10/23 Heritage Hall 10/30 at Verdigris 11/6
Perkins-Tryon
Coach: Jim Bob Ashley, 1st season Offensive Coordinator: Wil Amos Defensive Coordinator: Jon Yates Special Teams Coordinator: Tristan Morgan Returning Offensive Starters: 3 Returning Defensive Starters: 3 2025 Varsity Record: 9-3 2025 JV Record: N/A Starting QB Returning?: No — Easton Hallman, transfer Top RB Returning?: Yes — Jayce Kent Top WR Returning?: No — Caleb Helling, graduation Top OL Returning?: No. Top Defender Returning?: Yes — Owen Ellis, DE; Dior Seji, MLB
Inola turns page after historic season, embraces new era under Ashley By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Christian Potts INOLA — Inola spent last fall making history. Now comes the harder part of proving it wasn’t a one-time thing. After a breakthrough 9-3 season that included the program’s first playoff win since 1994 and first quarterfinal appearance since 1980, the Longhorns enter a new era with Jim Bob Ashley moving from offensive coordinator to head coach, 18 seniors gone and a new quarterback taking control of the offense. There are plenty of reasons Inola could temper expectations, but Ashley isn’t interested in any of them. Hence the “No Excuses” motto the Longhorns adopted this season. “We’re going to go with the guys have, and they’re working hard and putting in the effort,” Ashley said. “We’re not going to make excuses that, ‘Oh, we lost all these guys,’ this and that. Definitely not going to do that because, like I tell these guys, there’s nobody on our schedule feeling sorry for us, so we’re not going to feel sorry for ourselves.” Inola quarterback
Yeshua Rachele OVERVIEW looks for an open Ashley isn’t receiver during trying to reinvent the Black and Gold Scrimmage the program that on Aug. 14. produced one of the best seasons in Inola history. Instead, he is trying to make it sustainable. After spending the previous two seasons as offensive coordinator, Ashley was promoted from within to replace Brett Thomas, who retired during the offseason. Although Thomas is no longer on staff, Ashley still considers his former head coach a mentor as he adjusts to running the program himself. “It’s a lot more, but I’m starting to get my feet on the ground and get my bearings,” Ashley said. “It’s starting to run a lot smoother.” Luckily, Ashley retained the existing staff and added Inola graduate Tucker Ford to replace Thomas. That is particularly important after last season. Inola’s 9-3 campaign established a new standard, but graduation took a massive bite out of the roster. The Longhorns lost 18
14 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
seniors, leaving Ashley with a much younger team attempting to follow a historic group. “I put that pressure on myself,” Ashley said. “It’s not necessarily from anyone else. We don’t want to be a one-hit wonder — we want to be a program where we can be consistent. We’re going to put some [standard operating procedures] in place and just try to keep building a program and not be a onehit wonder. The kids, they feel that, too. They don’t want to be the group after going 9-3 to turn around and go 3-7, or whatever it may be.” PLAYERS TO WATCH Inola’s offense will have a new quarterback, but not an entirely inexperienced one. Yeshua “Yoshi” Rachele has earned the starting job after making significant strides throughout the summer. Rachele brings a strong arm and, perhaps more importantly, has already experienced meaningful varsity pressure. He made three starts last season and helped Inola win three highpressure playoff seeding games. Now the offense belongs to him. “He’s perfectly capable,” Ashley said. “He’s learning more and more every day. He just seems to be getting better every day. He’s got a really strong arm, and he likes to show it off. We’ve got guys around him where he doesn’t have to go out and throw for 300 [yards] a game. I just need him to be a point guard. If he can just distribute the ball, we’ll be in good shape.” Jayce Kent returns at running back after an impressive freshman season and figures to take on a larger role in the offense. He rushed for 895 yards and 14 touchdowns on 141 carries
Inola running back Jayce Kent finds an opening during the Black and Gold Scrimmage on Friday, Aug. 14.
(6.4 ypc) for Inola, adding 11 receptions for 93 yards. Owen Ellis gives Inola experience at tight end and will pull double duty as a defensive end. Ellis registered 45 tackles and 8 sacks last season. Up front, Zayne Gregory and Kandon Williams are expected to provide stability on an offensive line that will be critical to easing Rachele into his expanded role. One of the more intriguing newcomers is freshman Cooper Thompson. Ashley sees Thompson as a playmaker at receiver despite his youth, and he will be trusted with an even bigger responsibility defensively as the starting free safety. “We’re going to need to get the ball in his hands,” Ashley said of Thompson. “Because he’s a playmaker.” Lane Padgett will also contribute at receiver and linebacker. Defensively, much of the leadership will run through Dior Seji. The senior middle linebacker will be tasked with directing a unit replacing several pieces from last year’s team. With so much experience gone, Seji’s ability to keep the defense organized could be every bit as important as the tackles he makes. “He’s kind of our ringleader on defense,” Ashley said. “He’s very physical player, which is what we want. We’re all about preaching physicality and getting after it.”
Blayze Stonecipher navigates traffic during the Black and Gold Scrimmage on Aug. 14.
2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 15
2026 SCHEDULE 9/4
at Sperry
9/11
Catoosa
9/18
Miami
9/25
Muldrow
10/2
at Stigler
10/9
Locust Grove
10/15 at Bristow 10/23 at Perkins-Tryon 10/30 Inola 11/6
at Heritage Hall
Coach: Justin Morsey, 2nd season Offensive Coordinator: Justin Morsey Defensive Coordinator: Jeremy Gray
Battle-tested Verdigris sets sights on next step with experienced core
By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Jay Lederman VERDIGRIS — The difference between playing in November and watching from home can be painfully small. Verdigris learned that lesson last season. The Cardinals did what they could down the stretch, closing the year with a victory, but results elsewhere ultimately kept them out of the playoffs. Rather than dwell on circumstances they couldn’t control, second-year coach Justin Morsey wants a veteran group to make sure its fate stays in its own hands this fall. With 10 starters returning on offense, nine on defense and a 15-player senior class leading the way, Verdigris enters the season believing the next step is there for the taking. The Cardinals just aren’t interested in looking that far ahead. Their goal each week is much simpler: Go 1-0.
Returning Offensive Starters: 10 Returning Defensive Starters: 9 2025 Varsity Record: 6-4 2025 JV Record: 4-3 Starting QB Returning?: Yes [Jensen Underwood] Top RB Returning?: Yes [Peyton Stelling] Top WR Returning?: Yes [Bret Schauffler and Braxton Dean] Top OL Returning?: Yes [Dawson Shanholtzer] Top Defender Returning?: Yes [Charter Zeimet] Verdigris running back Peyton Stelling [1] rumbles into open space during the Cardinals’ game against Beggs on Aug. 29, 2025.
16 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
I think at the beginning of last year, none of us kind of knew what to expect, Morsey said. We were all hopeful, but it made it real for them that we were that close [to making the playoffs] last year because we continued to get better. With how far they’ve come, we’ve got to continue to go that far this year if we want to reach our goals. OVERVIEW Hard, smart, tough. Those three words have become the foundation of what Morsey wants Verdigris football to represent. Playing hard is about effort. Playing smart requires understanding assignments and situations. Being tough encompasses the mental and physical resilience necessary to survive a football season. If you play harder, smarter and tougher for longer, you’re going to win, Morsey said. We always talk
Verdigris receiver Bret Schauffler [17] slips past a defender during the Cardinals’ game at Catoosa on Sept. 12, 2025.
about going 1-0. We don’t want to look too far into the future. We want to go 1-0 today. We want to go 1-0 this week. That is particularly relevant after the way last season ended. Verdigris remained in the playoff hunt until the end but needed help elsewhere to qualify. The necessary results didn’t come, leaving the Cardinals on the outside despite finishing their season with a 35-0 victory over rival Sequoyah. Morsey said he believes that win still mattered because it provided positive momentum for a returning group that saw how close it came. Other than winning a state championship, it’s kind of the only time you get to end the season on a win, Morsey said. I think it brought us some positive momentum into the offseason and made those guys hungry for reaching those goals this next year. PLAYERS TO WATCH Much of the Cardinals’ optimism begins with an offense that returns almost intact. Jensen Underwood is back at quarterback after adding about 25 pounds during an offseason in which his development has been both mental and physical. With another year in the system, Morsey expects him to have greater command of the offense. He will have plenty of familiar options. Peyton Stelling returns after powering the team with 1,311 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns on 221 carries while adding 30 receptions for 365 yards. Ayden Collins and Sebastion Villalobos, who is up to more than 200 pounds, give Verdigris additional options in the backfield. He is every bit as good as the numbers say that he is, and I think he probably deserves a little bit more publicity, Morsey said of Stelling. Bret Schauffler, Braxton Dean and Ethan Hushbeck give
Underwood an experienced receiving corps, with Charter Zeimet and Tate Roller providing options at tight end. Up front, Dawson Shanholtzer will be counted upon to lead an offensive line tasked with giving all of those weapons room to operate. Hes started every game for two years, and with that kind of experience and leadership, he’s done a great job developing, Morsey said. He’s kind of the leader of our weight-room culture. The experience isn’t limited to offense. Nine starters return defensively, with Luke Boren among the versatile pieces Morsey can utilize as the Cardinals try to turn their experience into a more consistent unit. Instead of teaching an almost entirely new group how to compete at the varsity level, Verdigris can spend more time refining what an established group already knows. That’s been the problem here, is we’ve not had very big senior classes for a long time, and now we’ve got 15 seniors, Morsey said. They’re a fun group of guys to be around, and they’ve bought into everything that we want to do. It’s fun to come to work every day. The program has the experienced players. It has growing community support. It even has a new video board shining over the field. Now the Cardinals have to make sure the results on that scoreboard keep the momentum going. We hope we give them a lot of stuff to put on there, Morsey said. When you’ve got Verdigris quarterback Jensen a bunch of guys coming back and they’ve Underwood [18] won some games, and then you get a new launches a pass scoreboard, it just feels like everything for during a home game last season. us is pointing in the right direction. 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 17
2026 SCHEDULE 8/28
at Inola
9/4
Cleveland
9/11
at Wyandotte
9/25
Holland Hall
10/2
at Tulsa Central
10/9
Sperry
10/15 at Westville 10/23 at Okmulgee 10/30 Rejoice Christian 11/6
Henryetta
Coach: Rob Gilbreath, 8th season Offensive Coordinator: Hunter Fick Defensive Coordinator: Scott Gatzemeyer Special Teams Coordinator: Jerry Don Ballard Returning Offensive Starters: 6 Returning Defensive Starters: 6 2025 Varsity Record: 3-7 2025 JV Record: 7-0 Starting QB Returning?: No [Jake Gilbreath, graduation] Top RB Returning?: Yes [Bryson Nichols] Top WR Returning?: Yes [Mason Weeks] Top OL Returning?: No Top Defender Returning?: Yes [Wyatt Mullins, LB]
Sequoyah spreads its wings with experienced roster, revamped offense By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Jay Lederman SEQUOYAH — Sequoyah spent last season learning how to survive with youth. Now, the Eagles want to see what that experience can do with room to fly. After battling through a three-win rebuilding season, coach Rob Gilbreath welcomes back a much more seasoned roster, adds several potentially impactful transfers and is overhauling an offense that intends to get its athletes into space rather than simply pounding away on the ground. Depth remains a concern, and a loaded Class 2A-I District 4 provides little margin for error, but Gilbreath said he believes the Eagles have considerably more tools at their disposal this fall. “We played a lot of young guys and had a very small senior class last year, and our experience was almost zero,” Gilbreath said. “This year we’re returning some of those players back, so we’ve got a little more knowledge.” OVERVIEW Those struggles could pay dividends now. Sequoyah brings considerably more varsity experience into the season, supplemented by six recent transfers who could provide immediate help. The question is whether the Eagles have enough depth behind them. An injury or two at the wrong position could quickly become problematic for a roster that Gilbreath believes has quality at the top but not necessarily an abundance of experienced replacements. That is one reason Sequoyah is changing how it utilizes its personnel. Rather than relying as heavily on a run-first approach, the Eagles plan to spread the field more this
18 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
season, incorporating run-pass option concepts and multiple formations designed to create space for their athletes. “We’re going to try to spread it out a little bit and be more not so much one-sided because we don’t have all those Jesses and Joes where we can just run the ball every play,” Gilbreath said. “So we’re going to implement some RPO stuff, some different sets and try to get our best athletes out in space a little bit more than we have in the past.” Transfer quarterback Gunner Allison, who arrives from Catoosa, will be at the center of that transition. The goal is to turn last season’s lessons into something more tangible. After two seasons competing in Class 3A, Sequoyah returns to 2A, but Gilbreath doesn’t necessarily view that as a reprieve. Classification changes have placed private-school powers back into Class 2A-I, creating a daunting path to the postseason. “We were fired up when it was determined that we were going to move down to 2A, and then the OSSAA came out and said, ‘Hey, all private schools are gonna go back to their original classification,’ which means they are all in 2A with us. That makes 2A a lot tougher than what it would have been without them.” PLAYERS TO WATCH Sequoyah’s new offensive approach starts with Allison. The Catoosa transfer takes over at quarterback and gives the Eagles a player around whom they can build their expanded RPO attack. Sequoyah receiver Mason Weeks turns upfield after making a catch against Cleveland on Oct. 16, 2025 at the Pope Athletic Complex.
Sequoyah’s Wyatt Mullins [4] celebrates a big play Oct. 16, 2025 against Cleveland.
“He’s looking really good at quarterback, as far as running the offense and throwing the ball and taking charge of things,” Gilbreath said. He will have an established backfield threat alongside him. Bryson Nichols returns at tailback and figures to remain an important piece of the offense even as Sequoyah diversifies its attack. Mason Weeks also returns after leading the Eagles at receiver and should remain one of Allison’s primary weapons after catching 32 passes for 661 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2025. His importance extends to the other side of the ball, where he is transitioning from cornerback to safety. Gilbreath said he hopes the move will allow Weeks to provide leadership in the middle of the secondary and become an even larger presence defensively. “He’s really looked good in practice, making sure everybody’s lined up, making the calls, helping the younger kids out on what they should do and being a good leader on both sides of the ball,” Gilbreath said. “That ought to show dividends.” John Hull and Silas York give the Eagles additional athleticism at the skill positions and should benefit from an offense specifically designed to create favorable matchups in space. Sequoyah also added help at linebacker. Parker Dowell and Wyatt Mullins, both transfers from Claremore, are expected to factor prominently into a defense that will need to
Sequoyah running back Bryson Nichols [23] splits a pair of Cleveland defenders on his way to a big gain Oct. 16, 2025 at the Pope Athletic Complex.
withstand several explosive offenses during district play. Up front, Jace “J.J.” Johnson returns as the starting center and provides an experienced anchor for the offensive line. Asher Mader is also expected to return to the trenches after dealing with an injury. Sequoyah believes the time for rebuilding is over. Now comes the test of how high the Eagles can fly. “We’ve got some young kids that are really athletic,” Gilbreath said. “Once they learn the scheme and learn what’s going on, I think they’ll be really good.”
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2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 19
Robison begins culture rebuild at Chelsea
2026 SCHEDULE 8/28
Quapaw
9/4
at Ketchum
9/11
Nowata
9/18
Salina
9/25
at Chouteau-Mazie
10/2
Adair
10/9
at Wyandotte
10/23 at Keys 10/30 Kansas 11/6
at KIPP Tulsa
Coach: Tim Robison, 1st season Offensive Coordinator: Ronnie Simmons Defensive Coordinator: Tim Robison Special Teams Coordinator: Chase Smith Returning Offensive Starters: 7
By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Jean Ratley / Jean’s 4R Photos.
CHELSEA — Tim Robison wants Chelsea to win football games, but his definition of winning extends well beyond Friday nights. As Robison prepares for his first season as a head coach, he is attempting to build something designed to last, from higher expectations in the weight room and stronger connections from youth football through high school to a champion mentality that applies whether the Green Dragons are lining up for kickoff or walking through the halls. The wins, Robison believes, can follow the habits. And as Chelsea begins a new era, establishing those habits is priority No. 1. “I’m a person that likes to produce good men and good women,” Robison said. “That’s my teaching and coaching philosophy. It’s not all about football for me. Football is on the forefront, but right behind it, really close for me, is raising young men and young women.” OVERVIEW Robison’s path to Chelsea wasn’t necessarily a straight line. The former Green Dragons assistant spent the past two years at Booker T. Washington and Owasso
Returning Defensive Starters: 7 2025 Varsity Record: 2-8 2025 JV Record: N/A Starting QB Returning?: No [Tanner Reed, graduation] Top RB Returning?: Yes [Caleb Bates] Top WR Returning?: Yes [Colbe Morrison] Top OL Returning?: Yes [Mason Greene] Top Defender Returning?: Yes [Caleb Bates]
Chelsea football players go through a defensive drill during practice as the Green Dragons prepare for the 2026 season.
20 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
before superintendent Matt Hagebusch encouraged him to consider the Chelsea opening. Robison had previously spent four seasons as an assistant with the team. Conversations about Robison’s career aspirations eventually led to an interview and his first opportunity to run a program. “I’m very excited to be back,” Robison said. “I enjoy Chelsea; I like it a lot. I came back at the end of the year, and it felt like home as soon as I walked into the building, from teachers to students.” Robison wants Chelsea football to help develop character and accountability within the program, and that means establishing standards. Summer workouts matter. How players present themselves matters. Leadership matters. Building stronger participation at the middle school level is part of that vision, as is developing a youth football program capable of creating a pipeline into Chelsea’s older teams. “I’m just doing some things that will make students to want to play football for Chelsea,” Robison said. “That’s probably my biggest goal right now. I’ve had some incentives throughout the summer. I did a senior trip, and I’ll do that annually. Just doing things to try to create culture for football is important here.”
Robison intends to cultivate it through leadership development, hard work and personal relationships with his players. He wants his athletes to understand that coaches aren’t simply demanding more from them, they’re willing to invest the work alongside them. “I think they see my work ethic, and that reflects to them,” Robison said. “They see you working hard for them, and they think you care about them. They’ll run through that wall for you.” That approach will extend into game preparation. The Green Dragons won’t always possess a physical advantage over their opponent. Robison said he believes thorough preparation can help close those gaps, giving them an opportunity to compete regardless of who stands on the opposite sideline. “I will make sure we are very prepared every week,” Robison said. “Sometimes the Jimmies and Joes don’t match, but if we’re prepared, then we can have a chance.” PLAYERS TO WATCH Robison has a senior leader capable of handling several responsibilities in Caleb Bates. Bates will contribute at quarterback and running back, putting the ball in the hands of one of Chelsea’s most experienced players in multiple ways. His leadership will be particularly important as the Green Dragons integrate younger players into prominent roles. Chelsea also has experience where Robison will need it most, which is in the trenches. Khaiden Yarnell and Mason Greene give the Green Dragons veteran linemen capable of providing stability on both sides of the ball. Robison has been impressed by the way each leads through his actions. Then there is Colbe Morrison, a three-sport senior whose athleticism gives Chelsea another versatile piece to build around. Malachi Williams and Urriah Williams bring size and athleticism to the younger portion of the roster. Robison expects both to play significant roles as they continue developing within the program. Three freshmen have also caught his attention. Brendon Paris, Bryson Wever and Brayden Yarnell are still at the beginning of their high school careers, but their combination of potential and speed has Robison optimistic about what they could
eventually become. “Paris may be the fastest kid on the team,” Robison said. “He may be right behind Caleb [Bates].” For a first-year coach, there will inevitably be mistakes along the way. There may be losses, too. Robison’s challenge, however, is ensuring Chelsea learns from them. Because before the Green Dragons can consistently produce championship results, their new coach wants them to learn championship habits. “You don’t lose if you learn from it, no matter what the scoreboard says,” Robison said. “If we learn from it, we can continue on and continue to grow.” Chelsea football players test out blocking dummies during the first week of practices in August.
Chelsea practices offensive formations during the first week of practices in August.
2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 21
2026 SCHEDULE
Foyil believes young core can take next step
8/28
Bluejacket
By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Jay Lederman
9/11
at Webbers Falls
9/18
at South Coffeyville
9/25
Welch
10/2
Claremore Christian
10/9
at Weleetka
FOYIL — Foyil doesn’t have the luxury of waiting for the football. The Panthers intend to go get it. With a new defensive coordinator, six returning starters on each side of the ball and a young roster coach Luke Anderson said he believes is capable of winning in the postseason, the word “aggression” has defined Foyil’s approach entering the season. That mentality will be tested by a district Anderson considers the “SEC of eight-man football” thanks to the likes of two-time defending state champion Dewar, Class B-II runner-up Weleetka and perennial contenders Garber, Yale and Coyle. “Aggression and just flying to the football,” Anderson said. “That’s kind of our thing.”
10/15 Garber 10/22 at Dewar 10/30 Coyle 11/6
at Yale
Coach: Luke Anderson, 2nd season Offensive Coordinator: Luke Anderson Defensive Coordinator: Adam Anderson Special Teams Coordinator: Staff + Nolan Fletcher Returning Offensive Starters: 6
OVERVIEW Numbers are always significant at a small school, and Anderson likes where Foyil stands. The Panthers enter the season with 24 players, a healthy roster considering the size of the high school and return six starters apiece on offense and defense. “When we only have 50 boys walking the hallway in the high school, that’s pretty big-time,” Anderson said. “We’re only going to lose three seniors this
Returning Defensive Starters: 6 2025 Varsity Record: 5-5 2025 JV Record: 3-0 Starting QB Returning?: No [Kaige Baxter, injured] Top RB Returning?: Yes [Virgil Pendergraft and Kolby Sanders] Top WR Returning?: No [Orasio Flores, graduation] Top OL Returning?: Yes [Jacob Dorsey] Top Defender Returning?: Yes [Virgil Pendergraft and Kolby Sanders]
Foyil coach Luke Anderson gives instructions to his team during a timeout last season.
22 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
year. They were good ones, but we’re loaded with juniors and sophomores.” Anderson’s brother Adam joins the staff as defensive coordinator and has been tasked with injecting more energy and aggression into the unit. The coaching staff spent part of the summer studying online clinics and looking for ways to better adapt its defense to the unique challenges of eight-man football. “He’s bringing a lot of energy to the table,” Anderson said. “The boys seem to be responding well to him.” On offense, the Panthers’ emphasis is almost the opposite. Ball security is another priority after turnovers plagued Foyil last season, including 5 lost fumbles in a 14-8 win over South Coffeyville. Three came inside the Lions’ 10-yard line. “I don’t have hair, but if I did, I would have been pulling it all out in that South Coffeyville game,” Anderson said. “So frustrating.” PLAYERS TO WATCH Foyil will have to navigate the opening portion of its schedule without its expected starting quarterback.
Kolbey Sanders [27] dashes toward the end zone as a South Coffeyville defender approaches during a game last season.
Kaige Baxter underwent shoulder surgery and isn’t expected back until approximately mid-October. That puts the offense in the hands of sophomore Maddox Butler. While losing Baxter is significant, Anderson said he believes Butler changes what the Panthers can do rather than simply serving as a replacement. The sophomore brings more elusiveness to the position and gives Foyil additional ability in the passing game. “He’s a little more elusive, and he can throw the ball a little better, but him and Kaige are different,” Anderson said. “It’s the zone reads and options — he’s not near as patient, but that’ll come, hopefully, with age and experience.” Few players will be more important to his success than Virgil Pendergraft. Pendergraft returns as one of the Panthers’ fastest players and will be utilized at wide receiver a year after rushing for 1,225 yards and 15 touchdowns while also catching 17 passes for 345 yards and another three scores in addition to a trio of specialteams scores. His responsibilities extend well beyond offense, with Pendergraft also contributing as an edge rusher and punter. “He’s super fast,” Anderson said. “He’s a weapon in punting. He can punt the ball. That’s handy in itself, just being able to flip the field on people.” Kolbey Sanders provides similar versatility. After putting together a productive summer, Sanders is expected to handle work at both fullback and tailback while anchoring the middle of the defense at linebacker.
“He’s slimmed up and muscled up,” Anderson said. “He’s got a little quicker. He’s should have a very good year running the ball, and at middle linebacker, he’s a ball hog when it comes to finding the ball.” Up front, senior Jacob Dorsey is moving from center to guard in an effort to strengthen the offensive line, while Christian Long figures to become one of the Panthers’ primary defensive linemen. Chace Delk and senior Keegan Thompson give Butler additional receiving options, with Anderson praising Delk’s sure hands and Thompson’s commitment after not missing a day during the summer. On the back end of the defense, Alex Quintero and Isaiah Wilkerson will handle important roles at safety after defending the deep ball proved problematic last season. “They can flat out cover people,” Anderson said. “I don’t think we’ll be giving up too many deep balls over the top anymore.” Anderson knows the Panthers aren’t entering the season with overwhelming depth or a roster filled with seniors, but what they do have is experience, youth and a belief that merely reaching the playoffs doesn’t have to be the ceiling. In a district loaded with some of Oklahoma’s best eightman programs, Foyil intends to meet that challenge the same way it wants to meet the football. Aggressively. Virgil Pendergraft [11] takes a handoff against Claremore Christian last season.
2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 23
2026 SCHEDULE 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 10/2 10/10
at Crossover Prep Welch at South Coffeyville Wichita HomeSchool at Foyil Cornerstone [Joplin, Mo.] 10/15 at Life Christian 10/23 Cross Christian *Home-Game Locations: September at Wright Christian October at Foyil
Coach: Steve Robinett, 6th season Offensive Coordinator: Chris Zehder Defensive Coordinator: Steve Robinett Special Teams Coordinator: N/A Returning Offensive Starters: 4 Returning Defensive Starters: 3 2025 Varsity Record: 7-2 2025 JV Record: N/A Starting QB Returning?: Yes [Grant Schulze] Top RB Returning?: No [Troy Frank, graduation] Top WR Returning?: Yes [Malachi Zehder] Top OL Returning?: No [Noah McClurg, graduation] Top Defender Returning?: Yes [Jaxon Robinett]
CCS embraces transition as defending champs reload
By Kevin Green | Progress Sports Editor | Photos by Jay Lederman Claremore Christian School reached the mountaintop of the Frontier Christian Athletic Association last season. Staying there, however, will require a different group to learn how to climb. Coming off a championship campaign, the Warriors enter the new season with only four returning offensive starters, three on defense and significant youth in the trenches. Coach Steve Robinett isn’t starting completely from scratch, though. Veteran quarterback Grant Schulze returns healthy, several proven playmakers are back around him and a seven-player senior class gives CCS an experienced foundation for its title defense.
football program a week before the season due to low numbers. Moreover, Canadian’s attempt to join was denied by the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association, while Wesleyan Christian was also unable to field a team at the last minute. That has forced the Warriors to look outside the league to fill out their schedule and provide players with a full season. Wichita HomeSchool filled Wesleyans spot, but Robinett has yet to find a replacement for Billings. We’re obviously always looking, said Robinett, whose team outscored league opponents 190-64 through three games, including a OVERVIEW 64-20 championship Seven seniors headline the roster, but victory. I’m not trying to graduation left CCS replacing starters on both make the league huge sides of the ball. Robinett returns four offensively by any means, but we and three defensively, putting development of do want it competitive. the team’s younger players at the center of its Ultimately, the goal preseason work. is to give the guys an The offensive and defensive lines present option to do something perhaps the largest questions. other than play nine games The Warriors are young up front and and be done. still developing at the snapping and guard Logistics remain another positions. How quickly those players challenge for a program without its settle in could determine how smoothly own home football stadium. an otherwise experienced group of skill CCS will primarily utilize Wright players operates. Christian in Tulsa and Foyil for We have a senior lineman, but games rather than Sequoyah, where he’s also the lightest lineman out of field rental is more expensive. With them all, Robinett said. There’s some officiating costs also increasing, struggles with that. He’s a little more Robinett hopes saving money on consistent, but sometimes on the line, facilities will allow the program to weight helps. devote more resources toward CCS will again participate in the equipment. Frontier Christian Athletic Association Home games will be played at this season, though it wont be as Wright Christian in September before large as initially expected. transitioning to Foyil in October. Claremore Robinett had hoped the league We don’t have thousands in the Christian’s Jaxon Robinett would grow to five or six football stands to pay those bills, so anywhere catches a programs, but the Warriors will I can save it and put it back towards pass over the instead operate with last years equipment is great, Robinett said. middle of the field against three alongside Cornerstone of the Wichita Joplin and Life Christian. Billings PLAYERS TO WATCH HomeSchool Defenders on joined the league during the CCSs retooled offense has an Aug. 29, 2025 offseason but dropped its important piece returning at its most
24 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
at Sequoyah’s Pope Athletic Complex.
important position. Schulze is back healthy at quarterback and gives the Warriors an experienced player to direct the offense while the young line develops in front of him, and he will have familiar weapons around him. Senior Derek Smith is transitioning back to wide receiver after filling in at quarterback for an injured Schulze last season, while fellow senior Malachi Zehder returns at the X receiver position. Zehder caught 53 passes for 959 yards and 20 touchdowns for CCS last season while also adding 119 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns. Jaxon Robinett, son of the coach, is also back for his junior season and figures prominently into the Warriors’ plans as one of the team’s returning offensive contributors. Together, that group gives CCS continuity at the skill positions despite the turnover elsewhere on the roster. Defensively, Landry Langford and Andrew Betchan are among the players Robinett expects to take on significant responsibilities. [Betchan] started for us up until he broke his wrist in that eighth game of last year, Steve Robinett said. Did a decent job for us last year, so we’re expecting some improvement, just more consistency and continued starting out of him. As with the offense, however, the development of the defensive front will be crucial. With only three starters returning on that side of the ball and youth along the line, the Warriors will need new contributors to emerge around its established veterans. Our line is young, so we’re working through that, Steve Robinett said. Weve got some young kids that we’re hoping to develop to where, hopefully, they’ll get some good playing time this year, but then continue to develop, and as we need them over the next year or two, they become ready.
CCS quarterback Grant Schulze [12] is back to lead the Warriors after missing most of last season with an injury.
CCS wide receiver Malachi Zehder darts down the sideline after making a catch against Foyil on Oct. 3, 2025.
2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress 25
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26 2026 Gridiron Preview | Claremore Progress
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