2021 Pigskin Preview: Indian Bowl — Through the Years

PIGSKIN PREVIEW

Muskogee Phoenix Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021 OU, 29

TEAM PAGES: MUSKOGEE, 8 HILLDALE, 11

FORT GIBSON, 13 WAGONER, 16

CHECOTAH, 17 EUFAULA, 19

HASKELL, 20 WARNER, 21

PORTER, 25 GORE, 24

PORUM, 27

WEBBERS FALLS, 27 MIDWAY, 28

PRESEASON BEST, 3 VS. SCHEDULES, 15 ALSO :

INDIAN BOWL: A LOOK BACK

REFLECTIONS: PAGE 4

GAME BY GAME: PAGE 6

COLLEGES: OSU, 30 TU, 31

ARKANSAS, 31 NSU, 32

photos in this supplement were

contributing:

special thanks

PIGSKIN PREVIEW

ALL-PHOENIX PRESEASON TEAM

OFFENSE

• Luke Adcock, QB, 6-3, 205, Jr., Eufaula: The All-Phoenix selection in 2020 threw  for 2,170 yards and 22 touchdowns a year ago in leading the Ironheads to a 10-3 record and 3A quarterfinal spot.  An added plus, he has one of the area’s top receivers back (see below).

• Dontierre Fisher, RB, 5-10, 190, Sr., Checotah: Fisher averaged 127 yards per game in a 1,402-yard season. A very good line is mostly back. Fisher, who is offered by Iowa State, Kansas, North Texas, Memphis and Nebraska at this point. Made All-Phoenix and was Newcomer of Year as a freshman.

• Eric Virgil, RB, 5-7, 175, Jr., Hilldale: Had 1,502 yards and 16 touchdowns for the 4A quarterfinalist Hornets. He missed two games due to COVID tracing. Made All-Phoenix.

• Khelil Deere, WR, 5-11, 185, Sr., Eufaula: The All-Phoenix Deere led all area receivers with 53 catches for 1,110 yards and 14 touchdowns.

• Brayson Lawson. WR, 6-0, 190 Sr., Hilldale. A three-way impact player whose numbers will increase with the graduation of Dylan Walker, the second leading area receiver last year. Lawson had 339 yards on 18 receptions with four touchdowns.

• Ty Dodd, OL, 6-5, 300, Jr. Eufaula: All-Phoenix two consecutive years, Dodd graded out 92 percent with 26 pancakes.

• Omarion Warrior, OL, 6-3, 295, Sr., Checotah: Graded out 87 percent with five pancake blocks as a tackle. He’s also got a 3.6 GPA. All-Phoenix a year ago.

• Evan Keefe, OL, 6-3, 255, Jr., Hilldale: Keefe placed sixth at state at 275 and also threw in track.

• Brody Rainbolt, 6-4, 240, Sr., Fort Gibson: Rainbolt graded B-plus, tops among Tiger linemen and is a multi-year starter.

• Kyler Pouncil, OL, 5-8, 250, Sr., Checotah: The guard graded out 85 percent last year.

DEFENSE

• Fred Watson, DL, 6-0, 225, Sr., Wagoner: All-Phoenix a year ago and one of two returning starters. Watson had 85 tackles, 20 solos and 18 pressures with one interception for a touchdown.

• Cason Albin, DL, 6-2, 210, Sr., Hilldale:  Disrupter at defensive end, Albin caused four fumbles, 31 tackles for lost yardage of his 86 total tackles, 17 hurries and six sacks.

• Jaxon Harrison, DL, 6-5, 230, Sr., Midway: The rangy Harrison had six sacks a year ago.

• Garrett Douthit, DL, 6-3, 270, Jr., Gore: He’ll be a force in 2A requiring double-teams.

• Tim Murphy, LB, 5-10, 165, Sr., Fort Gibson: Consistent leader on defense a year ago will be in a forefront role after 92 tackles, 45 solo, 6 sacks and 3 hurries.

• Dayne Perryman, LB, 5-11, 185, Jr., Gore: Perryman had 84 tackles, 23 solo and a whopping 21 for lost yardage as a sophomore.

• Brayden Smith, LB, 6-0, 180, Sr., Hilldale: Smith had 83 total tackles, 56 solo, with 18 for lost yardage.7 hurries and 4 sacks.

• Isaiah Givens, DB, 6-1, 190, Sr., Muskogee:  Was outstanding as a linebacker as a sophomore. Was moved to safety at the outset last year then back to linebacker due to injuries. Had 78 tackles and two sacks. Look for a much settled Givens this year at safety. He  should also be a factor at running back having gained 500 yards a year ago.

• Jackson Duke, DB, 5-10, 180, Jr., Gore: Had seven interceptions, second in the area, with 51 tackles, 19 solo and eight for lost yardage.

• Callen Park, DB, 6-1, 180, Sr., Warner: As a free safety a year ago, Park led the area in interceptions with eight. Had 43 tackles, 16 solo and deflected eight other passes.

• Kayson Flud, DB, 5-10, 160, Sr., Checotah: Six interceptions and seven pass breakups.

• Christian O’Connor, K, 6-0, 160, Jr., Gore: 35 of 40 on extra points, 5 of 5 on field goals, longest of 41 yards.

• Cole Mahaney, P, 5-11, 160, Jr., Fort Gibson: Averaged 42.6 yards in making All-Phoenix. He’s also the starting QB.

• Brayson Lawson, 6-0, 190, Sr., Hilldale: Averaged 29.6 on kick returns and 19.0 on punts.

NEWCOMER OF YEAR:

• Alex Shieldnight, 6-3, 195, Fr., Wagoner: Has been thrust into a starting role.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

PIGSKIN PREVIEW

Muskogee High bids farewell to an old Friday night dating partner

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

The sun is settling on an era, and when Anthony McNac thinks about it, the emotions rise.

“I may cry,” he said, thinking ahead to the home finale Nov. 5 against Ponca City, which will bring an end to 83 years of varsity high school football at Indian Bowl. “It’s been home to me for years.”

Indeed that.

McNac, entering his 19th season as an assistant coach, played on this field as well, all the way back to his days as a youngster in the Paul Young Football League, which is named after the most successful coach ever to walk the Indian Bowl sidelines as a Roughers coach, winning three state championships from 1948 to 1951.

To put it into perspective: When 2,800 people came out to break in Indian Bowl’s seats and watch the Central High Roughers defeat Tulsa Webster 12-0 on Sept. 21, 1939, America was 10 years removed from the start of the Great Depression and two years from entering World War II.

Given that those seniors would be at or around 18 then, the class of 1940 would be 100 years of age today and most assuredly, all gone. Prior to 1939, all teams from the white Central High School and the black Manual Training High School played games at Athletic Park, which was

also used for minor league baseball and was located on the grounds where Muskogee Civic Center now stands.

Team captain Sonny Roberts, according to game accounts of the time, said of the new digs in the debut game, “We thought we were really uptown.”

The opening was rushed a bit, as the electronic scoreboard and cinder track around the field were not yet completed.

The official dedication was Nov. 11, 1939, when the Roughers played Capitol Hill to a 20-20 tie.

It is generally reported that the name for Indian Bowl was chosen by the students in a contest. Apparently Indian Bowl received the most votes of all the names suggested, as a tribute to Muskogee’s importance in Indian Territory history.

The 6,500-seat stadium cost $100,000 to build. Tickets were 50 cents each or a season ticket cost $2.50.

One of the most legendary of all Roughers and a standout Oklahoma Sooner — Indian Jack Jacobs — never played there. A two-time allstater in 1936 and 1937, he missed the opening by two seasons. Pete Smith, Muskogee’s first college All-American, played in the early 30s.

Also missing the cut, a few Manual standouts whose careers were played at Athletic Park:

• Albert Schoats, a 1946 all-state halfback who

would later coach the last Manual team to the Class A state finals in 1969;

• Deloyd Reed, an all-state running back and state champion, and the first black player at Northeastern State. Reed, who coached at Muskogee High into integration;

• Floyd Henderson, who went on to an outstanding college career at Valparaiso;

• Curtis Brackeen, would coach on the staff of the first integrated Muskogee High team and later became a 22-year broadcast veteran for MHS football; Reed, Henderson and Brackeen were all state champions from the early 1950s, part of a run at Athletic Park.

Meanwhile, at Indian Bowl, there were the B-boys — Bo Bolinger, Kurt Burris, Robert Burris and Max Boydston — all who would

become part of the record 47-game win streak by the University of Oklahoma under Bud Wilkinson and titles in 1948 and 1950. Indian Bowl in that time hosted its own streak of 15 consecutive wins from 1950-52, the longest streak in stadium history, and 27 of 28. Seminole was the loss between streaks, that in the 1949 playoffs, and Tulsa Rogers ended the 15-game streak, 23-21, in 1952.

There wouldn’t be another state title team there until head coach Ron Freeman, himself a former Rougher, and standout running back Glen Bell led the Roughers to a title in 1986, just after reaching the championship game the year before only to lose against Midwest City and a quarterback named Mike Gundy.

For a few years last

decade, the field of Indian Bowl was given its own name — Creek Nation Field, through an agreement with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.

Perhaps the most recent notable games came in the 2016 season.Before an overflow crowd, Muskogee, ranked No. 3 in Class 6AII, defeated No. 1 Bixby 45-42. Jacob Medrano connected with D.J. Mayes on a double-post route covering 50 yards with :55 left.

“The drive before, I had a vertical (route) and dropped a wide-open pass and felt the disappointment on the sidelines,” Mayes said, recalling the moment. “(Offensive coordinator) Jason Medrano switched me and Kamren Curl and said ‘Y post.’ I thought I was Y so I automatically ran the post forgetting that Kam and I had switched and he was Y. As I was running all I

could see was the ball.”

The win would lift Muskogee to No. 1, where it would stay for two weeks, on the way to a semifinal finish.

But it was that game, two weeks later, that will also be a dubious part of Indian Bowl lore, its finish making ESPN’s Top 10 plays. No. 5 Sand Springs handed Muskogee its first loss, 26-25, taking the lead with :06 to play on a bizarre conversion.

On the conversion, Muskogee lineman Keondre Davis batted Sand Springs quarterback Hunter Greathouse’s pass back at the quarterback, who managed to catch the ball. He then took off scrambling, first one way, then the other, before pitching a lateral to Josh Taber. Taber cut to his left, broke one tackle, avoided two more then shot through a lane to the end zone with :06 left. Mayes, whose father Don and uncle Ron both donned MHS green and have also served as lay coaches the last 10 years, has seen the facility from different perspectives.

“Growing up, I looked at it like it was a college stadium,” he said. Laughing, he added, “When we played little league I used to be excited just to practice there.

“Seeing pictures of it from when my dad and uncle played there and then going to games on Friday watching my

Continued on next page

brother (Ruben Gaines) play and the stadium would just be packed, it’s a feeling like no other. Then to play in it, there’s just so many memories there and I don’t think there’s a player that has ever gone through there who won’t remember something from their playing days, football-related or not.”

Don and Ron Mayes had an uncle, Elmer, who played there while attending Manual Training, which played one game there in 1957 and fully moved from Athletic Park to Indian Bowl in 1958. The Bulldogs, as they were called, had their own history of success over the

PIGSKIN PREVIEW

years. But at Indian Bowl, their best season would be their last as a school prior to integration. Coached by Schoats, they went 9-4 and lost in the Class A finals to Clinton. Manual High’s last home game was a 260 win over Claremore in 1969.

There have been upgrades over the years at Indian Bowl, as well as conversations about a new stadium over time. “But there was never a large enough bond issue to give it real consideration,” said superintendent Jarod Mendenhall.

That all changed in 2019 with the $110 million package that included

renovation or rebuilds on multiple facilities, including the adjacent Alice Robertson Middle School. The bond package will also bring a new basketball arena following the completion of the new football stadium, which has yet to be named.

There was thought given to moving the three-story press box, built in the mid 2000s, to the new stadium. But logistics in doing so, including deconstruction into small pieces, caused the idea to be dropped, Mendenhall said.

The superintendent realizes the history and tradition being left behind.

“It is amazing to think of the number of games played at the Indian Bowl, and the incredible players who stepped onto this field,” he said. “As a coach, I remember the mystique of playing Muskogee at the Indian Bowl.”

Bobby Jefferson’s Indian Bowl experience include sitting in the stands as a kid, to playing, to watching his sons play, observing as an athletic director, and now as a school board member. He was asked to reflect on that experience.

“I can remember the cedars along the perimeter and when we removed them, it gave some people

RIDE WITH A WINNING TEAM!

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

fits,” he said. “I also remember going out there as a kid with my dad and watching Manual games.”

But Jefferson also remembers about the rotting floor joist which may have been a game night or two from a potential disaster had the current press box not replaced it.

“That was the major upgrade with the press box and field house, really the only major one,” he said.

“There’s a lot of nostalgia there, and it’s not like it’s going away completely,” he said, referencing its continued use in the middle school and some other high school sports. “And people will see the benefit

of making this all happen when they walk into the new place.”

And as McNac, one of many who leave a piece of themselves behind, says, there’s a silver lining at the end that makes it all easier to embrace.

“It’s going to be emotional for a lot of us,” he said. “But what Mendenhall has done to revamp MPS, once people see the new stadium, they’ll understand why we needed an upgrade.”

And, a new era.

But first, to close this one.

Read on about the group that will bring down the curtain.

Free Oil Changes For Life

INDIAN BOWL TRIVIA

HOW MANY STATES HAVE HAD TEAMS PLAY THERE? Five. Texas and Arkansas for Manual, and Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and Illinois.

FIRST EVER GAME: Central 12, Webster 0, 1939.

FIRST PLAYOFF: Central 14, Cushing 7, 1948.

FIRST MANUAL GAME: 7-7 tie against Edison, end of 1957 season.

FIRST MANUAL WIN: Vs. Douglass, 20-14, 1958.

LAST MANUAL GAME: Playoff in 1969 vs. Claremore, a 26-0 win. They would go on to play ion the championship where they lost 55-6 to Clinton.

MOST MANUAL WINS: Five vs. Okmulgee Dunbar

MOST TRAVELED GUEST: Nationally-ranked East St. Louis, 401 miles, 1990. Muskogee would lose 38-26 but evened the score the following season. For Manual, it was Marshall, Texas. The Bulldogs were 3-1 against Texas teams and 6-1 against out-of-state teams, 3-0 against Arkanasas. LONGEST HOME WIN STREAK: 15, from 1950-52. That followed a 12-game win streak from 1948 to 1949.

FIRST GAME POST-INTEGRATION: Muskogee 34, McAlester 0. The Roughers would go 4-0 at home that year and get within three wins of the 15-game streak set in the 50s.

LAST PLAYOFF WIN (TO DATE): Muskogee 24, Stillwater 22, 2016.

LAST PLAYOFF GAME (TO DATE): Choctaw 29, Muskogee 21, 2019.

MOST POINTS (GAME) : 83, Manual (83-6 vs. Okmulgee Dunbar, 1963. Next: Muskogee 71, Bartlesville 6, 2017.

FIRST OVERTIME GAME: Lost 19-13 to Sapulpa, 1975. Had one other OT game that year, losing 19-13 to Tulsa Washington.

FIRST OVERTIME WIN: 27-26 vs. Tulsa Edison, 1976.

FIRST DOUBLE OVERTIME WIN: Muskogee 22, Okmulgee 14. The next was a 38-35 loss to Jenks in 1996.

BEST WIN PERCENTAGE IN AT LEAST DOUBLE-DIGIT

ENCOUNTERS: vs. Memorial 16-2, .889.

MOST WINS OVER AN OPPONENT: Bartlesville 21 (That was both Bartlesville College and a single game against Bartlesville Sooner, both merged in 1982 to make Bartlesville High). The next two continuous were McAlester and Okmulgee, both with 20.

LONGEST 0-FOR: East Central has lost all nine encounters it has had with the Roughers.

RECORD VERSUS A COLLEGE TEAM: 3-0 vs .Northeastern A&M JV. Bartlesville identified itself as a high school and college until the 1980s.

LONGEST FUTILITY: Fort Smith Northside’s 4-0 mark is the longest without a single MHS win. Jenks is 16-1 versus Muskogee.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

MANUAL TRAINING

Coach: W.W. Cox

1957** (one game)

Manual 7, Idabel 7

1958 (2-7)

T. Washington 22, Manual 14 Manual 20, Douglass 14 Bristow 16, Manual 0

1959 (2-8)

Manual 22, Kelley 0

Okmulgee Dunbar 20, Manual 6

Dal. Madison 32, Manual 6

Stillwater 26, Manual 6 Ponca City 34, Manual 26

1960 (4-6)

Manual 24, Fort Worth Dunbar 0

Manual 12, T. Washington 10 Shawnee 20, Manual 14

Manual 24, Cascia Hall 7

1961 (2-6)

Douglass 50, Manual 12

Manual 60, Idabel Washington 0 Manual 30, Okmulgee Dunbar 24

Coach: George Washington

1962 (5-3-1)

Manual 14, T. Washington 7

Manual 20, Southeast 20 Manual 56, Cushing 16

1963 (5-4-1)

Manual 36, North Little Rock 20 Manual 28, Heavener 12

Douglass 18, Manual 8

Manual 21, Fort Smith Lincoln 8 Manual 0, Marshall (Texas) Pemberton 0

Manual 83, Okmulgee Dunbar 8 Manual 24, Pryor 6

1964 (4-5-1)

Washington 30, Manual 8

Manual 52, Little Rock Jones 20 Manual 22, Poteau 6 Manual 46, Hugo Washington 6

1965 (5-4)

Douglass 24, Manual 0

Stilwell 8, Manual 6

Manual 22, Marshall (Texas)

Pemberton 8

Manual 28, Okmulgee Dunbar 8

Coach: Albert Schoats

1966 (7-4)

Manual 38, Okmulgee Dunbar 2

Manual 6, Spiro 0 Washington 25, Manual 6 Manual 36, Poteau 22

PLAYOFFS

Wewoka 31, Manual 12

1967 (5-2-2)

Manual 34, OC Dungee 34 0 Manual 54, Checotah 6 Manual 6, Sallisaw 6

Manual 48, Stilwell 8

Manual 48, Wagoner 20

1968 (6-3-1)

Manual 20, Okmulgee Dunbar 6

Spiro 20, Manual 14

Manual 54, Stigler 6

Washington 54, Manual 8

Manual 48, Poteau 8

1969 (9-4)

Manual 20, OC Dungee 6

Cascia Hall 22, Manual 6

Manual 35, Checotah 14

Manual 20, Sallisaw 14

Manual 22, Stilwell 14

PLAYOFFS

Manual 26, Claremore 0

CENTRAL

Coach: Paul Marston

1939 (4-4-2)

Muskogee 12, Tulsa Webster 0

Muskogee 12, Fayetteville, Ark. 0

Muskogee 20, OC Capitol Hill 20

Muskogee 7, Tulsa Central 0

1940 (9-1-1)

Muskogee 27, Fayetteville 0

Muskogee 6, Sapulpa 0

Muskogee 15, Rogers 6

Muskogee 6, Okmulgee 0

Muskogee 12, Classen 7

1941 (6-2-2)

Fayetteville 12, Muskogee 6

Muskogee 12, Tulsa Webster 6

Muskogee 0, Bartlesville College 0

Muskogee 13, Fort Smith 0

Muskogee 31, Capitol Hill 4

Muskogee 12, Springfield, Mo. 0

1942 (3-6)

Muskogee 13, Fayetteville 0

Muskogee 7, Sapulpa 0

Rogers 46, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 34, Okmulgee 3

Shawnee 35, Muskogee 6 (Wed, Armistice Day game)

1943 (4-6)

Muskogee 25, Fayetteville 0

Tulsa Webster 28, Muskogee 6

Bartlesville College 20, Muskogee 12

Fort Smith 7, Muskogee 6

Muskogee 26, Stigler 14

Shawnee 19, Muskogee 0

Coach: W.E. Buchanan

1944 (4-4)

Muskogee 13, McAlester 0

Muskogee 19, Fayetteville 0

Muskogee 14, Okmulgee 6

Rogers 20, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 12, Sapulpa 6 Bailey Ricketts

Pigskin preview

INDIAN BOWL THROUGH THE YEARS

HOME VS. OPPONENTS

MUSKOGEE/CENTRAL

Okmulgee 20-3 McAlester 20-7-1

1945 (5-4)

Muskogee 57, Fayetteville 12

Tulsa Webster 26, Muskogee 7

Muskogee 27, Bartlesville College 0

Fort Smith 7, Muskogee 6

Tulsa Central 3, Muskogee 0

1946 (6-4)

Muskogee 27, Fayetteville 6

Muskogee 38, McAlester 6

Muskogee 21, Okmulgee 14

Rogers 13, Muskogee 6

Sapulpa 14, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 25, Ada 0

Coach: Paul Young

1947 (6-4)

Shawnee 13, Muskogee 10

Tulsa Webster 18, Muskogee 6

Muskogee 21, Bartlesville

College 13

Muskogee 26, Fort Smith 0

Tulsa Central 12, Muskogee 0

1948 (11-1-1)

Muskogee 19, McAlester 0

Muskogee 26, Okmulgee 0

Muskogee 20, Rogers 7

Muskogee 14, Sapulpa 7

Muskogee 13, Henryetta 0

PLAYOFFS

Bartlesville College and Bartlesville Sooner, 1-0

Muskogee 14, Cushing 7

Muskogee 27, Chickasha 6

1949 (9-2)

Muskogee 25, NEO 0

Muskogee 13, Tulsa Webster 7

Muskogee 26, Bartlesville College 0

Muskogee 35, Fort Smith 6

Muskogee 26, Tulsa Central 12 PLAYOFFS

Seminole 13, Muskogee 7

1950 (13-0)

Muskogee 19, McAlester 18

Muskogee 34, Okmulgee 0

Muskogee 33, Rogers 0

Muskogee 28, Sapulpa 0

Muskogee 27, Henryetta 0 PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 39, Stillwater 6

Muskogee 19, Capitol Hill 13

1951 (8-0-1)

Muskogee 16, Ponca City 12

Muskogee 32, Tulsa Webster 14

Muskogee 26, Bartlesville College 6

Muskogee 26, Tulsa Central 0

Muskogee 40, Fort Smith 0

1952 (5-3-1)

Muskogee 14, NEO 7

Muskogee 35, McAlester 6

Muskogee 21, Okmulgee 0

Muskogee 20, Duncan 7

Muskogee 20, Webster 12

Bartlesville Coll. 7, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 34, Sand Springs 6

Tulsa Central 13, Muskogee 7

1958 (9-1)

Muskogee 6, McAlester 0

Muskogee 26, Okmulgee 8

Rogers 26, Muskogee 8

Muskogee 20, Sapulpa 0

Muskogee 27, Springfield 20

1959 (9-1)

Muskogee 26, Duncan 6

Muskogee 32, Tulsa Webster 0

Muskogee 19, Bartlesville College 14

Rogers 23, Muskogee 21

Sapulpa 7, Muskogee 6

1953 (8-1-1)

Muskogee 14, Duncan 0

Muskogee 28, Tulsa Webster 0

Bartlesville College 12, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 34, Tulsa Central 0

Muskogee 27, Capitol Hill 27

1954 (9-0-1)

Muskogee 20, NEO JV 0

Muskogee 35, McAlester 13

Muskogee 37, Okmulgee 13

Muskogee 0, Rogers 0

Muskogee 34, Sapulpa 6

1955 (7-2)

Muskogee 9, Duncan 0

Muskogee 32, Tulsa Webster 7

Muskogee 18, Bartlesville College 0

Muskogee 13, Rogers 6

Muskogee 24, Sand Springs 6

Tulsa Central 13, Muskogee 0

1956 (3-7)

McAlester 6, Muskogee 0

Okmulgee 13, Muskogee 7

Rogers 26, Muskogee 14

Sapulpa 18, Muskogee 7

1957 (8-2)

Muskogee 40, Sand Springs 14

1960 (5-5)

Muskogee 14, McAlester 12

Rogers 22, Muskogee 12

Muskogee 28, Okmulgee 13

Springfield Mo. 13 Muskogee 0

Muskogee 8, Sapulpa 6

1961 (6-4)

Muskogee 8, Duncan 0

Muskogee 10, Bartlesville College 7

Muskogee 21, Tulsa Central 20

Ponca City 12, Muskogee 7

Coach: Phil Ball

1962 (8-1-1)

McAlester 36, Muskogee 9

Muskogee 7, Rogers 0

Muskogee 17, Okmulgee 7

Muskogee 7, Hale 7

Muskogee 14, Edison 6

1963 (4-6)

Muskogee 45, Pauls Valley 16

Duncan 15, Muskogee 8

Bartlesville College 19, Muskogee 14

Ponca City 42, Muskogee 20

Muskogee 14, Tulsa Central 0

Coach: Earl Overton

1964 (3-6-2)

McAlester 22, Muskogee 0 Rogers 38, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 24, Hale 0

Muskogee 28, Edison 8 Ada 12, Muskogee 8

Coach: Leo Fowler

1965 (1-9-1)

Muskogee 18, Springfield Mo. 6

Muskogee 0, Sapulpa 0

Bartlesville College 20, Muskogee 19

Fort Smith Southside 22, Muskogee 7

Ponca City 26, Muskogee 22 Tulsa Central 15, Muskogee 6

1966 (3-6-2)

Muskogee 0, McAlester 0 Rogers 25, Muskogee 6 Edison 20, Muskogee 0

Hale 21, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 7, Springdale, Ark. 7

Coach: Frank Tillery

1967 (3-7)

Muskogee 17, Broken Arrow 13

Lawton 28, Muskogee 7

Bartlesville College 16, Muskogee 7

Ponca City 20, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 10, Tulsa Central 8

1968 (5-5)

McAlester 9, Muskogee 7

Muskogee 28, Rogers 21

Springdale, Ark., 34, Muskogee 21

Muskogee 6, Edison 0 Hale 29, Muskogee 16

1969 (6-4)

Muskogee 27, Broken Arrow 0 Lawton 14, Muskogee 6

Muskogee 14, Bartlesville College 7

Muskogee 35, Ponca City 14

Muskogee 40, Tulsa Central 14

MHS

1970 (8-0-1)

Muskogee 34, McAlester 0

Muskogee 29, Bartlesville College

12

Muskogee 28, Edison 6

Muskogee 28, McLain 0

1971 (8-3)

Muskogee 20, Okmulgee 6

Muskogee 7, Tulsa Central 0

Muskogee 49, Ardmore 0

Muskogee 35, Liberal, Kan. 6

Washington 21, Muskogee 7

1972 (8-4)

Muskogee 32, McAlester 14

Muskogee 40, Rogers 26

Muskogee 14, Edison 7

Fort Smith Northside 17, Muskogee 14

Muskogee 32, Enid 28

Muskogee 21, McLain 12

1973 (6-3)

Muskogee 27, Okmulgee 12

Muskogee 27, Tulsa Central 6

Muskogee 19, Ardmore 7 Washington 14, Muskogee 13

Coach: Ray Grandstaff

1974 (4-6)

Muskogee 26, McAlester 14

Muskogee 13, Rogers 12 Edison 7, Muskogee 3

McLain 18, Muskogee 9

1975 (4-6)

Muskogee 27, Okmulgee 13

Norman 34, Muskogee 7

Muskogee 31, East Central 6

Sapulpa 19, Muskogee 13, OT

1976 (9-2)

Muskogee 27, Edison 26, OT

Muskogee 44. McAlester 0

Muskogee 32, Memorial 21

Muskogee 34, Bartlesville Sooner 6

Muskogee 28, Rogers 7

Muskogee 27, Broken Arrow 14

PLAYOFFS

Del City 21, Muskogee 13

1977 (10-1)

Muskogee 21, Okmulgee 7

Muskogee 10, Norman 0

Muskogee 30, McLain 7

Muskogee 14, East Central 0

PLAYOFFS

Midwest City 22, Muskogee 20

Coach: Don Freeman

1978 (9-3)

Muskogee 14, Lawton Ike 12

Muskogee 42, Bartlesville College 0

McLain 30, Muskogee 25

Muskogee 21, East Central 7

Sapulpa 21, Muskogee 20

PLAYOFFS

McLain 13, Muskogee 0

1979 (8-3)

Muskogee 22, Okmulgee 14 2 OT

Muskogee 28, McAlester 19

Muskogee 27, Broken Arrow 10

Muskogee 18, Memorial 0

PLAYOFFS

Hale 13, Muskogee 12

1980 (12-1)

Muskogee 33, OC Northeast 8

Muskogee 26, Jenks 18

Muskogee 26, McLain 14

Muskogee 41, East Central 0

Muskogee 55, Sapulpa 8

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 13, Hale 7

Muskogee 16 Ponca City 0

Coach: Warren Fain

1981 (8-5)

Okmulgee 8, Muskogee 7

Muskogee 32, Rogers 22

McAlester 7, Muskogee 6

Muskogee 16, Broken Arrow 10

Memorial 3, Muskogee 0

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 14, Memorial 0

1982 (7-4)

Muskogee 13, Union 12

Muskogee 34, McLain 0

Muskogee 28, East Central 15

Jenks 31, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 32, Sapulpa 15

1983 (3-7)

Okmulgee 13, Muskogee 6

Muskogee 36, Rogers 12

Muskogee 14, McAlester 12

Memorial 24, Muskogee 18

Broken Arrow 14, Muskogee 0

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INDIAN BOWL THROUGH THE YEARS

Union 20, Muskogee 13

McLain 14, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 6, East Central 2

Jenks 9, Muskogee 6

Tahlequah 28, Muskogee 21

1985 (11-2)

Muskogee 20, Okmulgee 6

Muskogee 20, Rogers 0

Muskogee 35, McAlester 13

Muskogee 28, Memorial 7

Muskogee 27, Broken Arrow 14

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 14, Lawton 7

Muskogee 45, Memorial 13

1986 (12-2)

Fort Smith Southside 21, Muskogee 18

Muskogee 28, Tahlequah 10

Muskogee 13, Union 3

Muskogee 35, Memorial 21

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 41, Moore 31

Muskogee 42, Stillwater 7

1987 (6-5)

McAlester 14, Muskogee 9

Muskogee 3, Okmulgee 0

Muskogee 27, Hale 6

Jenks 24, Muskogee 7

Muskogee 42, East Central 3

Muskogee 14, Broken Arrow 3

1988 (10-2)

Muskogee 21, Tahlequah 0

Bartlesville 28, Muskogee 14

Muskogee 48, Union 6

Muskogee 20, Memorial 14

Muskogee 65, Broken Arrow 20

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 31, Sapulpa 0

1989 (10-2)

Muskogee 28, McAlester 0

Muskogee 41, Okmulgee 12

Muskogee 28, Hale 14

Jenks 19, Muskogee 6

Muskogee 61, East Central 0

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 35, Enid 28

1990 (5-6)

East St. Louis (Ill.) 38, Muskogee 26’

Muskogee 30, Bartlesville 0

Muskogee 29, Union 14

Muskogee 58, Memorial 14

Muskogee 38, Broken Arrow 25 PLAYOFFS

Stillwater 15, Muskogee 14

1991 (9-3)

Muskogee 35, Enid 6

Muskogee 41, Hale 0

Jenks 7, Muskogee 0

Muskogee 55, East Central 0

1992 (7-4)

Muskogee 35, Tahlequah 0

Broken Bow 10, Muskogee 9

Muskogee 35, Tulsa Memorial 14

1993 (5-5)

Springdale, Ark., 14, Muskogee 12

Jenks 35, Muskogee 14

Muskogee 35, Rogers 8

Muskogee 28, Owasso 24

Union 26, Muskogee 6

1994 (10-3)

Muskogee 42, McLain 18

Muskogee 19, Broken Arrow 0

Muskogee 20, Owasso 6

Muskogee 42, Tahlequah 0

Muskogee 38, Memorial 0

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 28, Stillwater 7

1995 (9-3)

Muskogee 28, Sand Springs 6

Muskogee 44, Bartlesville 6

Muskogee 63, Union 21

Muskogee 56, Rogers 14

Jenks 32, Muskogee 22

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 33, Sapulpa 6

1996 (8-4)

Muskogee 35, Tahlequah 0

Jenks 38, Muskogee 35 (2 OT)

Muskogee 41, Memorial 0

Muskogee 58, Rogers 0

1997 (7-4)

Muskogee 49, McAlester 20

Muskogee 21, Rogers, Ark. 8

Fort Smith Northside 14, Muskogee 13

Muskogee 32, Owasso 0

Broken Arrow 10, Muskogee 7

Muskogee 25, Union 13

PLAYOFFS

Sapulpa 34, Muskogee 19

Coach: Tony Peters

1998 (6-5)

Muskogee 35, McAlester 14

Jenks 16, Muskogee 7

Muskogee 10, Tahlequah 7

Hale 40, Muskogee 13

Muskogee 21, Bartlesville 13

1999 (5-6)

Union 28, Muskogee 7

Fort Smith Northside 34, Muskogee 7

Broken Arrow 24, Muskogee 20

Muskogee 44, Tulsa Memorial 0

Muskogee 32, Rogers 8

2000 (4-7)

Olathe, Kan., 45, Muskogee 35

Stillwater 34, Muskogee 28

Muskogee 56, Okmulgee 13

Bartlesville 18, Muskogee 15

Jenks 31, Muskogee 0

Owasso 29, Muskogee 9

Coach: Mike Monroe

2001 (2-7)

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

Tahlequah 29, Muskogee 6

2002 (3-7)

Fort Smith Northside 31, Muskogee 13

Muskogee 38, Sand Springs 12

Muskogee 42, Rogers 14

Broken Arrow 56, Muskogee 16

Jenks 47, Muskogee 13

Coach: Ron Lancaster

2003 (7-4)

Muskogee 49, McAlester 28

OWasso 53, Muskogee 28

Muskogee 36, Tahlequah 6

Muskogee 27, Bartlesville 10

Muskogee 41, T. Memorial 10

2004 (7-4)

Muskogee 45, Rogers, Ark. 36

T. Washington 34, Muskogee 27

Muskogee 38, Bartlesville 20

Jenks 47, Muskogee 30

Muskogee 40, Tahlequah 14

2005 (8-5)

Union 28, Muskogee 10

Muskogee 24, T. Memorial 14

Muskogee 47, Sand Springs 25

Broken Arrow 17, Muskogee 14

Muskogee 43, Owasso 36

Coach: Matt Hennesy

2006 (10-3)

Muskogee 26, Broken Arrow 16

Muskogee 33, Norman North 14

Muskogee 57, Bartlesville 10

Muskogee 47, Sapulpa 0

Muskogee 12, T. Washington 0

2007 (9-4)

Union 26, Muskogee 11

Muskogee 43, Tahlequah 6

Jenks 50, Muskogee 35

Muskogee 24, Owasso 21

Muskogee 48, Sand Springs 21

Muskogee 25, Edmond North 12

2008 (7-4)

Norman North 26, Muskogee 15

Union 24, Muskogee 7

Muskogee 33, Bartlesville 15

Muskogee 10, Claremore 7

Jenks 34, Muskogee 6

Stillwater 16, Muskogee 9 OT

Playoffs

2009 (3-6)

Owasso 20, Muskogee 0

Broken Arrow 37, Muskogee 6

Muskogee 37, Sand Springs 29

Muskogee 53, Sapulpa 28

Muskogee 45, Memorial 13

2010 (5-6)

Muskogee 44, Sand Springs 14

Owasso 22, Muskogee 8

Muskogee 41, Southmoore 40

Coach: Josh Blankenship

2011 (4-6)

Tulsa Central 20, Muskogee 17

Broken Arrow 33, Muskogee 26, OT

Muskogee 16, Shawnee 12

Norman 35, Muskogee 27

Muskogee 38, Sapulpa 28

2012 (1-8)

Sand Springs 40, Muskogee 28

Owasso 28, Muskogee 0

Westmoore 55, Muskogee 14

Sapulpa 13, Muskogee 10

Jenks 52, Muskogee 3

2013 (3-7)

Fayetteville 27, Muskogee 22

Broken Arrow 65, Muskogee 10

Muskogee 39, Edison 8

Muskogee 33, Putnam City 23

Muskogee 46, Bixby 42

Coach: Rafe Watkins

2014 (3-7)

Owasso 34, Muskogee 0

Fayetteville 24, Muskogee 10

Muskogee 26, Sapulpa 7

Bartlesville 35, Muskogee 15

Sand Springs 13, Muskogee 0

2015 (3-7)

Muskogee 42, Ponca City 13

Muskogee 38, Claremore 8

Bixby 48, Muskogee 41, OT

T. Washington 46, Muskogee 21

2016 (9-2)

Muskogee 51, McAlester 13

Muskogee 45, Bixby 42

Sand Springs 26, Muskogee 25

Muskogee 48, Ponca City 0

PLAYOFFS

Muskogee 24, Stillwater 22

2017 (5-5)

Midwest City 26, Muskogee 20

Bentonville West, Ark., 43, Muskogee 35

Muskogee 71, Bartlesville 6

T. Washington 42, Muskogee 21

Muskogee 27, Sapulpa 14

2018 (6-5)

Muskogee 35, McAlester 14

Midwest City 16, Muskogee 14

Muskogee 16, Ponca City 7

Muskogee 35, Shawnee 26

Bixby 51, Muskogee 7

2019 (8-3)

Muskogee 62, PC West 15

Muskogee 54, Sand Springs 6

Muskogee 34, Sapulpa 6

Muskogee 7, T. Washington 6

Muskogee 44, Bartlesville 27

PLAYOFFS

Choctaw 29, Muskogee 21

Muskogee 34, Tulsa Central 6

Washington 19, Muskogee 13, OT

Coach: Ron Freeman

1984 (4-6)

Muskogee 35, Broken Arrow 31, OT

Muskogee 43, Bartlesville 13

Muskogee 31, Rogers 12

Muskogee 26, T. Memorial 14

Broken Arrow 68, Muskogee 35

Jenks 62, Muskogee 14

Muskogee 42, PC West 2

2020 (0-7)

Coweta 42, Muskogee 21

Bartlesville 52, Muskogee 24

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

New Roughers coach carefully sets foundation

Travis Hill, following two separate stints as defensive coordinator at Muskogee High School, became head coach in January. It’s his first head-coaching stint since winning a state championship at East Central in the mid 2000s.

MUSKOGEE ROUGHERS

Record in 2020: 0-7

Head coach: Travis Hill, 1st season.

Staff: Chris Risenhoover, offensive coordinator/quarterbacks; Steve Craver, defensive coordinator/ safeties; Brad Higeons, assistant head coach/linebackers; Ryan Dvorak, offensive line; Nigel Carter, receivers; Keaton Scott, tight ends, Don Mayes, running backs; Prentice Joseph, defensive ends; Anthony McNac, nose guards/centers.

Returning starters (6 offense, 7 defense, 1 specialist): Jayden Bell, WR, 5-7, 160, Jr.; James Moore, OL, 6-1, 295, Sr.; Vernon Pepiakitah, OL, 6-0, 285, So.; Kenan Adams, OL, 5-10, 245, Sr.; Anthony Watson, TE, 6-0, 220, So.; Walker Newton, QB, 5-7, 158, Jr.; Isaiah Givens, S, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Ayden Kemp, S, 5-10, 168, Jr.; Teyon Brewer, DE, 6-2, 245, So.; Devin Whitfield, DE, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Ronald Warren, LB, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Deshawn Smith, LB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Hunter Hess, LB, 5-11, 200, Sr.

Others to watch: Brandon Tolbert, TB, 5-9, 195, Jr.; Keondre Johns, CB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Kennedy McGee, WR, 5-9, 172, Sr.; Kayden McGee, WR, 5-9, 150, So.; Blade Todd, TE, 6-2, 200, Sr.; KD Freeman, LB, 5-9, 190, Jr.; Jacob Jones, QB, 6-2, 170, So.; Jemarian Ficklin, QB, 6-0, 170, Fr.; Jase Garrett, OL, 5-10, 255, Jr.; Brayden Henry, OL, 5-11, 220, So.; Brendan Wilson, RB, 5-6, 138, Sr.; Ian Williams, TE, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Skyler Onebear, K, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Carter Stewart, K, 5-7, 140, Jr.; Jaren Riggs-Brown, DB, 6-3, 150, Sr.

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

First things first.

When taking over as head football coach in January, Travis Hill embarked on a mission to lay the foundation of what was to come.

Which, as he points out, is not based on play outcome.

“Doing small things, doing the details, is big to him,” said Isaiah Givens, a senior leader.

And it starts before any snap, any practice.

“We have high expectations,” Hill said recently. “Better in the classroom, better citizens, better at home. Parents like that too, good decision-making processes as well.

And when I went about filling out my staff, I went about finding guys who were all about that. Down the road, and while I want to be remembered as a nice guy, when I see these kids, I want to see men being good dads and good husbands. It’s very important to use football for that. Selfishly from a coaching perspective, I believe it also helps us

win games too. The schematics come in time, but setting a direction is first and foremost.”

Hill relied on guys with backgrounds steeped in that, including two former head coaches. He brought in Stigler head coach Chris Risenhoover as his offensive coordinator, former Tulsa Hurricane player and Owasso and Broken Arrow assistant Steve Craver as defensive coordinator, former Broken Arrow assistant Brad Higeons as assistant head coach and linebackers coach, and Prentice Joseph as defensive line coach after serving three seasons as Porter’s head coach.

Ryan Dvorak moves to an offensive line slot after coaching special teams and receivers. Anthony McNac switches to tight ends and Don Mayes to running backs coach. All of this follows a year in which the top three players on the roster were lost to injury either during an off-season that due to COVID-19,

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MUSKOGEE

didn’t include a spring season and also banned off-campus work and the usual team camps in the summer. Then, Muskogee played six regular season games, lost all of them, then after an idle four weeks due to games being canceled due to contact tracing or other pandemic issues, lost a playoff game in a year everyone made the post-season.

Thus, a foundation was needed simply because

there wasn’t a lot that hadn’t been wiped out. With just one season to go, Blake Todd, like Givens, is among a small group of seniors who must take the crash course in this.

“We all knew him on the defensive side and have that chemistry,” Todd said. “The coaches he brought in are good coaches. Everything is working well but we (as seniors) have to learn

quick.”

Givens is a guy who has next-level potential, as does perhaps a couple others who come in with less experience than the three-year letterman. But much of the promise of this year’s team is in the youngsters.

Freshman Jamarian Ficklin was named the starter at quarterback. He’ll guide an offense that will have Givens in a mix at running back and

“Doing small things, doing the details, is big to him.”

sophomore Anthony Watson as a multi-use weapon at tight end, H-back. Add Walker Newton as another versatile weapon in that same manner, possibly lining up behind center at times. Brandon Tolbert, a junior, will be the primary ball carrier at running back.

Up front, Kenan Adams is at the core of a line that

has developed signifcantly, so much so that Adams was able to move from a tackle spot to a more naturally suited spot at guard.

The most experienced unit of the defense is up front with linemen Teyon Brewer and Devin Whitfield returning. But with a shortened season and a long layoff between

the COVID-allowed open playoff — and the youth now on board, this is likely to be a year of continuous discovery with a roster that has a lot of promise to be realized over the next three years. And know with Hill and staff, it’ll be a work in progress on and off the field.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

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New at the helm

Four schools have new head coaches in 2021.

Muskogee: Travis Hill becomes the 19th Rougher head coach in the Indian Bowl era. Debut seasons have not been kind to those coaches. Only eight had winning seasons in their first year. However, 11 won their first game as Muskogee head coach.

Warner: Former Muskogee head coach Rafe Watkins becomes the Eagles’ head man this year. Watkins becomes the 16th head coach in Warner history. Seven of those coaches stayed at Warner two years or less including the last four. The Eagles had their best season in 2020 and first playoff win since 2012.

Haskell: The Haymakers have been on a continuous coaching carousel as of late. Phil McWilliams is the fifth head coach at Haskell in the last six years. Jim Reece spent 22 years at the helm from 1982-2003. In the 18 years since, Haskell has had seven different head coaches. Haskell has not had a winning season of playoff appearance since finishing runner-up in 2015.

Porter: Denton Long takes over at Porter. It seems like more than a decade ago that the Pirates finished undefeated and won their only playoff

what’s trending

game. In fact, it was that 2009 season that Porter experienced its last winning season. However, despite the lack of winning seasons, four Pirate teams have advanced to the playoffs.

Winning ways

These teams finished on top or near the top of their respective districts and earned home playoff spots a year ago. Will that success continue?

Wagoner: The Bulldogs won their fifth state title under head coach Dale Condict. The stats were impressive on both sides of the ball. The offense scored 630 points, averaging 45 points a game. That’s the most for any Wagoner team in the Indian Bowl era. The defense was almost as good. Wagoner shut out six opponents matching the 2011 team. However, the 1945 team posted eight.

Hilldale: The Hornets recorded their sixth 10-win season in the last nine years. Hilldale advanced to the quarterfinals of the Class 4A playoffs for the fifth time in the last six years. The offense had its highest points output in five years while the defense continued its three-year improvement in points allowed.

Eufaula: The Ironheads were less than a minute away from their third-straight 10-win season. Eufaula has dominated

2A-6 winning the title three straight years and advancing to the quarterfinals in two of the last three years. The three consecutive district titles are a school record. Larry Newton became the fourth Ironhead head coach to win over 60 games in his career joining Paul Bell (112), Frank Farrow (84) and Kerry Roberts (78).

Gore: The Pirates won backto-back district titles for the first time since 2010-11. Brandon Tyler starts his fifth season as head coach. In his first four years, Gore has won 35 games. It took Pirate teams eight seasons previous to Tyler’s arrival to win 35 games.

Midway: The Chargers returned to the top of their district after finishing second or third the four previous seasons. Last year, Midway put up the second-most points in school history and their 51.64 per game average was a record.

Finding their way

These schools had some success at times. Can they move to the next level this year?

Fort Gibson: The Tigers found themselves ranked as high as eighth in Class 4A last year but five straight losses left a sour taste in their mouth. However, the Tigers finished with just their second winning season in the last six years. Greg Whiteley returns for his

seventh season, the most for a Tiger coach since Jim Hendren coach for eight straight years when Fort Gibson revived its program in 1959.

Checotah: The Wildcats finished 5-6 under first year head coach Zac Ross. However, Checotah captured a legitimate playoff berth and won its first-round game before losing to eventual state champion Holland Hall. Four of Checotah’s six losses came against top-10 ranked teams.

Webbers Falls: Trent Holt starts his seventh season as Warrior head coach. Only Charles Coleman (1981-94) has had a longer tenure. . Webbers Falls advanced to the playoffs for the fourth time under Holt and broke a nine-game playoff losing streak.

Porum: The Panthers continued to struggle but did make their first playoff appearance since 2005. That was also Porum’s last winning season.

Our takes:

Trending way up: Gore. Experience everywhere, the Pirates are set for a probable two-year run of dominance. Not so fast: So Wagoner’s fifth state champions all wore graduation caps. For the most part. Don’t worry, they’re still Wagoner, and Thanksgiving will still be Thanksgiving in Wagoner. At least.

Enough is enough: Depth at the skill positions and a superb ground game make this Hornets team the team that will knock down the quarterfinal curse. Yes, we have said this before. Sooner or later, we’ll will it to happen.

No. 2 ain’t bad: Warner will chase, but not catch, Gore in A-8 but will host a playoff game in Rafe Watkins’ first season.

Watch out for this guy: Haskell’s Brannon Westmoreland will be the surprise quarterback of the area. The Haymkers will get a playoff berth after a forgettable 2020.

Bounce-back Roughers: Injuries and Covid couldn’t have designed a worse season for Muskogee in 2020, 0-7. This team could make the playoffs this year, setting the stage for a special run over the next 2-3 years.

Charge it: Midway’s Geral Washington is a special talent at quarterback and this isn’t your mother’s C-4. Just watch, again.

Fishing around: As Dontierre Fisher goes, so will go the Checotah Wildcats. The potential for a very deep run in 3A is there, but so is a loaded private school 3A.

—Tommy Cobb and Mike Kays

Pigskin Preview

Blevins’ mark set on Hornets

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

The third lead-up to a football season at Hilldale for head coach David Blevins has put its own unique layer on the foundation.

In 2019, he had just been hired, returning to the school he once played for as a lineman. In 2020, the pandemic knocked out spring work and any summer off-campus events like 7-on-7 or team camps. As for 2021, it’s back to

what 2019 was, only with more familiarity with each other, and more likely, something far closer to the 11-2 mark they had in 2020 than the 4-6 finish in 2019.

There’s one thing he’ll miss about 2020.

“One thing getting back to normal does, it normalizes everyone’s schedule and you have the usual lineup of church camps, vacations and such,” Blevins said. “Last year

there wasn’t anything to do except be up at school and you know, we actually saw them a lot more.”

The lineman in Blevins knows you can’t hit weights like you can an opponent. So those contact drills between vacations — even if it wasn’t a complete team all the time — were a good thing to have back, especially when you have a standout running back as a centerpiece of your offense and four of five starting linemen returning, none of which are seniors.

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Eric Virgil is out to top easily the 1,400 yards rushing he had as a junior in 2020.

HILLDALE HORNETS

Record last year: 11-2, 4A quarterfinals

Head coach: David Blevins, 3rd season

Staff: Earnie Ragland, defensive coordinator, Erwin Starts, offensive coordinator; Jordan Alexander, wide receivers; Rick Lang, defensive backs; Bailey Puckett, defensive line; Alex Puckett, outside linebackers; Grant Dunn, defensive backs; Blake Burns, quarterbacks.

Returning starters (7 offense, 6 defense, 9 special teams): Eric Virgil, RB, 5-7, 175, Sr.; Jaxson Whittiker, K, P, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Logan Harper, WR, 6-3, 190, Jr.; Rylan Nail, TE, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Brayson Lawson, WR/CB/RET, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Evan Keefe, OL/DL, 6-3, 255, Jr.; Koby East, OL, 6-2, 275, Jr.; Grayson Gaddy, OL, 5-10, 240, Jr.; Micah Gonzalez, OL, 6-2, 255, Jr.; Mike Oeser, LB, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Cason Albin, DE, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Isom Smith, CB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Brayden Smith, OLB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Jace Walker, WR/S, 5-10, 170, Jr.

Others to watch: Whittiker, WR; Smith, RB; Nail, OLB; East, DE; Smith, TE; Harper, OLB; Blair Paulson, OL, 5-9, 245, Jr.; Caynen David, 5-7, 155, Jr.; Kayden Shoals, G/NG, 5-9, 275, Jr.; Lamarion Burton, CB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Isaac Gonzales, RB/SS, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Jax Kerr, QB, 6-4, 165, Fr.; Hayden Pickering, WR, 5-7, 140, Fr.; Mason Pickering, LB, 5-10, 170, Fr.

Muskogee Phoenix Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

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“Oh definitely, that contact time has helped,” he said. “The experience we have up front is something as we looked toward this fall that we were pretty excited about.”

that has crystallized within this group of players.

“Two of his closest friends are on the team (Branscum and Gonzalez) so there’s that kind of chemistry there,” the head coach said. “But for us, we all hold each other to a higher standard. If you’re not up to that standard, we’re going to let you know.

Evan Keefe, Micah Gonzalez, Koby East and Grayson Gaddy are the incumbent starters. East moves from center in 2020 to left guard, next to Keefe. Gonzalez at tackle and Gaddy at guard are on the other side. Wyatt Branscum will be part of the line rotation and Blair Paulson moves in at center.

Their main goal, other than to protect quarterback Caynen David, is to open holes for senior running back Eric Virgil, who is coming off 1,402 yards and 16 touchdowns on 179 carries, numbers that were limited by missing two due to quarantine.

Keefe and Virgil won special honors at a USA Football camp this summer in Kansas City.

“We have a great line,” Virgil said. “They block, I get good yards. They make me look good out there.”

Virgil, by nature a quiet guy, says he can get loud with them if necessary for encouragement. Blevins says that’s all part of a competitive nature he sees

“And I really like how competitive of a group that makes us. If it’s competition, everybody is in. Compare that to my first year where we were just learning each other, and were at a whole new level.”

When it comes to competing, Brayson Lawson is among those who seemingly will be all in on every single play. Lawson will start at receiver and in the secondary and will also return kicks and punts.

His effort and intensity will help shape his season, just as it will those around him. Like Blevins said, the competitive juices flow all over the field.

“I’ve put in a lot of running, a lot more than usual,” Lawson said. “When we’re all in, it makes it a lot easier to run more sprints.”

Hilldale should be contenders for a District 4A-4 title, with two-time defending champion Poteau again the primary target. The Hornets were runners-up to the Pirates in 2020.

But moreover, Hilldale’s year will be more broadly defined by their postseason road. In their entire playoff history dating back to a quarterfinal loss to Afton in 1981, Hilldale is 0-10 at the quarterfinal round.

Michael Oeser, a senior linebacker who will also figure in some time on both sides of the ball, said those lessons, most recently a heartbreaking home loss to Cushing in 2020, are grounded in resiliency. The Hornets fought back from trailing 21-0 to come within a deflected pass of pulling out a win in a 3428 verdict.

“You just have to keep working hard and trust in each other and what we’re all out here to do,” he said. Sooner or later, the breakthrough will happen.

“Our goals are centered on not just deep playoff runs but state titles,” Blevins said. “That’s what I want us to be about.”

RIDE WITH A WINNING TEAM!

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

Tigers hope to match fast start, add strong finish

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

It was a tale of two seasons in one at Fort Gibson in 2020.

Part one: The Tigers rolled to a 6-0 start.

Part two: Two disappointing back-to-back losses led to five consecutive losses, including a playoff game after losing home-field advantage in a year every team got the opportunity to play in the postseason, meaning the top four in each district hosted.

One lesson was learned from lineman Trey Forrest.

“Never get too comfortable,” he said. “We got pretty used to winning and let our guard down.”

It was a schedule back-loaded with contenders. Sallisaw, Broken Bow, Poteau and Hilldale were the top four teams, not in that order, in District 4A-4.

Sallisaw knocked off Fort Gibson 39-34, then the Tigers came home

(Continued on next page)

FORT GIBSON TIGERS

Record last year: 6-5

Head coach: Greg Whiteley, 7th year (12th at school).

Staff: Scott Bethel, defensive coordinator; Sammy Johnson, Jacob Tolbert, Wes Whiteley, Jordan London, Grayland Dunams.

Returning starters (7 offense, 7 defense, 1 specialist): Cole Mahaney, QB/P, 5-11, 160, Jr.; Landon Bebee, FB/OLB, 6-4, 195, Sr.; Hunter Branch, WR, 6-2, 155, Jr.; Cade Waggle, WR/CB, 5-11, 145, Jr.; Brody Rainbolt, OT/DE, 6-4, 240, Sr.; Tim Murphy, LB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Trey Forrest, C/NG, 6-0, 285, Sr.; Jase King, G/DE, Sr.; Toby West, CB, 5-6, 155, Jaxon Perdue, S/K, 5-8, 130, Sr. Others to watch: Atlas Potter, HB/LB,/K, 5-10, 170, So.; Connor Loepp, TE/FB/LB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Seth Rowan, WR, 6-0, Sr.; Rylie Ladd, DB, 5-11, 140, So.

14

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

and stumbled 14-13 against Broken Bow.

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“I thought we lost a little momentum in those two close games,” Tigers head coach Greg Whiteley, now in his seventh season at the helm and 12th overall at the school. “I think it helps us this year if we get into those situations because these kids have been there. Getting over the hump and being able to win those close games, we’d have been 8-0 and playing Poteau and Hilldale there at the end and you never know what might have happened.”

Those two were 1-2 in the district and expected to do so this year. But don’t count the Tigers out.

Junior quarterback Cole Mahaney is in his third season at quarterback and is coming off throwing for 1,385 yards in 2020. He has three returning starting offensive lineman, including Forrest. Juniors Hunter Branch and Cade Waggle combined for 668 yards receiving last year, with only the graduated Cameron Dornan (355) ahead of them.

“I’ve been coaching these kids from the seventh grade going forward and they’ve heard it many times: If they’re not having fun I don’t want to have anything to do with it.”

Tigers coach Greg Whiteley

There’s a hole to be filled in the backfield in place of Deven Woodworth, who had 1,140 yards in 10 games with eight touchdowns last year as a senior. Toby West and Tim Murphy will both see action there as the lead guys, among a potential of a committee at times.

West was a thirdplace wrestler at 132 pounds last year in Class 4A.

“Shooting and upper body work really helps with tackling,” he said earlier this summer. “Those double-legs in wrestling help with a guy who is bigger to go low. If a guy is my size I try to go low but it’s also about getting my arms around him.”

92, most among those returning as well. West looms as an impact guy in the secondary. He had two interceptions a year ago.

Murphy is an incumbent at middle linebacker. He was second in tackles last year with

Brody Rainbolt is another starter up front and a two-time All-Phoenix selection. Like West and many of the Tigers, they also spend time in other sports in the summer. Rainbolt’s was baseball, where Fort Gibson reached the 4A semifinals and were gutpunched by a controversial call at the plate

that kept them from advancing to the championship game.

He guessed he played 50 additional baseball games this summer, but said the balance of dual commitments was challenging only on Monday mornings.

“Baseball was basically a weekend deal with games, so getting back for workouts on Monday after getting in late on Sunday was the only tough thing about it,” he said.

The upcoming challenge is finding a way to

have the type of football season that the baseball players did.

“I feel like we know what success looks like in baseball, and we want to have that in football,” Rainbolt said. “We have the talent. It just comes down to work ethic and how bad you want it.”

Whiteley adds another component for unlocking good things.

“I’ve been coaching these kids since the seventh grade and they’ve heard this many times from me. If they’re not

having fun, I don’t want to have anything to do with it,” he said. “I want to work and get better and all that stuff like every other coach wants to do, but let’s have fun while we’re doing it.

“We have a great locker room. The on-field presence of the kids is good. And you know, not only are we coaching kids, we’re trying to build some relationships with these kids that extend down the line. If that means winning games too, that’s perfect.”

SCHEDULES

MUSKOGEE

A27 Greenwood, Ark., 7 p.m.

S3 Bentonville West, 7 p.m.

S10 at Rogers, Ark., 7 p.m.

S24 at Putnam West, 7 p.m.

O1 Sand Springs, 7 p.m. (HC)

O8 at Bartlesville, 7 p.m.

O14 Choctaw, 7 p.m. (HOF)

O22 at Bixby, 7 p.m.

O29 at T. Washington, 7 p.m.

N5 Ponca City, 7 p.m.

HILLDALE

S3 at Tulsa Rogers, 7 p.m.

S10 at Checotah, 7 p.m.

S17 Oologah, 7:30 p.m. (HC)

S24 Poteau, 7:30 p.m.

O1 Broken Bow, 7:30 p.m.

O8 at Stilwell, 7 p.m.

O14 Muldrow, 7:30 p.m.

O22 at Sallisaw, 7 p.m.

O29 Tulsa McLain, 7:30 p.m.

N5 at Fort Gibson, 7 p.m.

FORT GIBSON

S3 at Berryhill, 7 p.m.

S10 Catoosa, 7 p.m. (HC)

S17 at Glenpool, 7 p.m.

S24 at Muldrow, 7 p.m.

O1 Stilwell, 7 p.m.

O8 at McLain, 7 p.m.

O14 Sallisaw, 7 p.m.

O22 at Broken Bow, 7 p.m.

O29 Poteau, 7 p.m.

N5 Hilldale, 7 p.m.

WAGONER

S3 at Coweta, 7 p.m.

Pigskin Preview

S10 at Tahlequah, 7 p.m.

S17 Sperry, 7 p.m.

S24 Cleveland, 7 p.m.

O1 at Bristow, 7 p.m.

O8 Catoosa, 7 p.m. (HC)

O14 Miami, 7 p.m.

O22 at Oologah, 7 p.m.

O27 at Grove, 7 p.m.

N5 Skiatook, 7 p.m.

CHECOTAH

A27 at Metro Christian, 7 p.m.

S3 Hugo, 7:30 p.m.

S10 Hilldale, 7:30 p.m.

S17 at Eufaula, 7:30 p.m.

O1 at Stigler, 7 p.m.

O8 Seminole, 7 p.m. (HC)

O14 Westville, 7 p.m.

O22 at Lincoln Chr., 7 p.m.

O29 Sequoyah, 7 p.m.

N5 at Locust Grove, 7 p.m.

EUFAULA

S3 Vian, 7 p.m.

S9 at Owasso JV, 7 p.m.

S17 Checotah, 7:30 p.m.

S24 at Hartshorne, 7 p.m.

O1 at Hugo, 7 p.m.

O8 Atoka, 7 p.m. (HC)

O14 at Wilburton, 7 p.m.

O22 Idabel, 7 p.m.

O29 at Vallliant, 7 p.m.

N5 Antlers, 7 p.m.

HASKELL

S3 at Cl. Sequoyah, 7 p.m.

S10 at Porter, 7 p.m.

S17 Morrison, 7 p.m.

S24 at Kiefer, 7 p.m.

O1 Morris, 7 p.m. (HC)

O8 Victory Christian, 7 p.m.

O14 at Okmulgee, 7 p.m.

O22 Henryetta, 7 p.m.

O29 at Beggs, 7 p.m.

N5 Metro Christian, 7 p.m.

WARNER

S3 Savanna, 7 p.m.

S10 at Henryetta, 7 p.m.

S17 Chouteau, 7 p.m. (HC)

S24 at Gore, 7 p.m.

O1 Colcord, 7 p.m.

O8 at Sal. Central, 7 p.m.

O14 at Talihina, 7 p.m.

O22 Canadian, 7 p.m.

O29 at Hulbert, 7 p.m.

N5 Porter, 7 p.m.

PORTER

A27 at Chelsea, 7 p.m.

S3 at Mounds, 7 p.m.

S10 Haskell, 7 p.m.

S24 Talihina, 7 p.m. (HC)

O1 Canadian, 7 p.m.

O8 at Hulbert, 7 p.m.

O14 Gore, 7 p.m.

O22 at Sal. Central, 7 p.m.

O29 Colcord, 7 p.m.

N5 at Warner, 7 p.m.

GORE

S3 at Keys, 7 p.m.

S10 at Mounds, 7 p.m.

S17 Panama, 7 p.m.

S24 Warner, 7 p.m.

O1 Sal. Central, 7 p.m. (HC)

O8 at Colcord, 7 p.m.

O14 at Porter, 7 p.m.

Phoenix Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

O22 Hulbert, 7 p.m.

O29 at Canadian, 7 p.m.

N5 Talihina, 7 p.m.

PORUM

A27 Gans, 7:30 p.m.

S3 S. Coffeyville, 7:30 p.m.

S10 at Claremore Chr., 7 p.m.

S24 at Arkoma, 7 p.m

S30 Cave Springs, 7 p.m. (HC)

O8 Dewar, 7 p.m.

O14 at Weleetka, 7 p.m.

O21 Quinton, 7 p.m.

O29 at Webbers Falls, 7 p.m.

N5 at Wetumka, 7 p.m.

MIDWAY

A26 at Cave Springs, 7 p.m.

S3 Arkoma, 7 p.m.

S17 at Gans, 7 p.m.

S24 at Bowlegs, 7 p.m.

O1 Maud, 7 p.m.

O8 at Hen. Wilson, 7 p.m.

O14 Oaks, 7 p.m.

O21 Graham-Dustin, 7 p.m.

O29 at Coyle, 7 p.m.

N5 Sasakwa, 7 p.m.

WEBBERS FALLS

A27 Prue, 7 p.m.

S3 at Wesleyan Christian, 7 p.m.

S17 Oaks, 7 p.m. (HC)

S24 Cave Springs, 7 p.m.

O1 at Watts, 7 p.m.

O8 Quinton, 7 p.m.

O14 at Dewar, 7 p.m.

O22 at Wetumka, 7 p.m.

O29 Porum, 7 p.m.

N5 at Weleetka, 7 p.m.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

At Wagoner, does 2021 group resemble 2014 champs?

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

Seven seasons ago, Dale Condict at one point found himself 1-4 with a young but promising team going through some early growing pains.

Including a forfeit handed to them from a prior loss, they never lost another game, and kept that up for 47 consecutive contests, setting a new state record.

colm behind center. Like M-Rod, G-Rod is also playing safety, the spot his brother was recruited to play at Oklahoma State after collecting three championship rings as a Bulldog.

Gabe may be more of a hard-hosed ball carrier like his older brother Roman, a running back on that first of three title teams — than his middle brother.

So it might be a warning that Condict, in his 17th season at the school, sees some similarities in this bunch, gutted by graduation from a team that ran the table at 140 to win the fifth state title in his tenure — and school history.

“I think there are some similarites in the makeup of the team as far as, you know, a lot of young players we don’t know a lot about,” the coach said.

There is, however, a familiar last name that connects both groups.

Gabe Rodriguez takes over at quarterback this year. In 2014, it was his middle brother Mal-

“Gabe is very respected by his teammates,” Condict said. “His work ethic and attitude are beyond his years. He’s prepared himself to be successful. He hasn’t played a lot of varsity football, but from the quarterback position he’ll be one of the better runners we’ve had.”

Rodriguez’s reaction?

“I’m not a one-dimensional guy but I’m pretty confident in my ability to run with the football,” he said.

One element of the 2014 charge was the breakout of a star wide receiver in then-freshman Nikia Jones. Where

(See Page 18)

Wagoner coach Dale Condict ended 2020 with an ice bucket shower after his Bulldogs ran the table for their fifth state title. To get a sixth, a major re-tooling must maintain tradition.

WAGONER BULLDOGS

Record in 2020: 14-0, 4A champs

Head coach: Dale Condict, 17th year (24th as a head coach)

Staff: Ryan Keenom, Travis Bryant, Leland Alexander, Moose Henson, Chad Soma, Micco Charboneau, Ray Bell, Ed Wiley, Beau Bowman, Corey Tipton, Allen Sevier.

Returning starters (0 offense, 2 defense, 1 specialist): Fred Watson, DE, 6-2, 226, Sr.; Gabe Goodnight, LB, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Ethan Muehlenweg, K, 5-10, 185, Jr.

Players to watch: Watson, RB, Gabe Rodriguez, QB/S, 5-8, 160, Jr.; Marquez Barnett, RB/CB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Logan Sterling, RB/S, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Witt Edwards, WR, 6-6, 205, So.; Braylan Roberson, HB/LB, 5-11, 220, Jr.; Brayden Skeen, WR, 6-0, 155, Jr.; Nikko Jones, OL, 6-3, 306, Sr. Jamaal Riggs, OL, 6-10, 275, Sr. Roman Garcia, OL, 6-2, 236, Jr.; Caden Dick, DE, 6-0, 225, Jr.; Alex Shieldnight, 6-3, 195, Fr.

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

It’s a better fit now.

Last year, Zac Ross didn’t get a spring to introduce himself, nor much of a summer, prior to his debut season as Checotah head coach.

Now, he’s one of the more familiar faces.

Ross went out and hired two new coordinators. Carter Bradley arrives from one season at Muskogee and prior to

that, served as a coordinator on both sides at Fort Gibson. Rusty Harris, a one-time Muskogee offensive coordinator who was head coach at both Hulbert and Haskell before stepping into a superintendent’s role there, is back into coordinating, on the

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18

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

WAGONER

that comes from now remains to be seen.

Witt Edwards is a 6-foot-6 sophomore. Brayden Skeen a 6-0 junior. But also in the running is another freshman in Alex Shieldnight, a 6-3, 195-pound transfer from Fort Gibson along with his sister Gracy, a freshman on Fort Gibson’s state finalist basketball team.

“Strong kid, a lot of athletic ability,” Condict said.

They also have Jones’ younger brother, Nikko, on the roster. But he’s a 6-3, 306 lineman.

Other than that, Jamaal Riggs is the only player on offense with significant experience, that being up front. On the defensive side, two starters return — linebacker Gabe Goodnight and Fred Watson at defensive end — from a unit that posted six shutouts and a 6.3 points against average that was the lowest of any Wagoner team since 1945.

There’s returning scoring in Ethan Muehlenweg, an All-Phoenix kicker who was 78 of 80 on extra points and had three field goals, the longest being 37 yards.

There’s similarities to 2014, yet its a collective personality that’s still being processed.

“That’s what keeps me interested in coaching,” Condict said. “They’re all different every year, and I can remember each in their own unique way. They all have a different feel to them, they all have different personalities, and this one has started but hasn’t reached its final point. It’s fun to see where they take it.

“You have a unwritten book to start each season and at the end the final chapter will be written. They’ll be some challenging times along the ay but I’m excited to see how it goes.”

For G-Rod, it’s also Chapter 3 of his family’s story, which is already legendary.

“It’s a little bit of pressure,” he said. “I think I use it more as a drive to get better, like a fuel to get to my goals.”

All things considered, that’s not good news for Bulldogs’ opponents.

defensive side.

Pigskin Preview

Also new: Bret Bouher, one-time assistant at Wagoner, coaching tight ends and defensive linemen, and Cody Hubbard, special teams, running backs and cornerbacks coach, over from Hulbert.

The lone holdovers? Tom Butler, linebackers and receivers coach, and Marcus Cunningham, who oversees fullbacks and the defensive line.

“I like hiring people older than I am that have been around a while,” Ross said. “When it’s the right fit, it goes fast and easy.

“These kids have adapted really fast through spring and summer. I’m excited about how fast it has changed. These guys have been coaching for a long time so they know how to engage these guys and get them to a higher level.”

Eight starters on offense and seven on defense are back and primed to take a shot at a district headed by Lincoln Christian, one of three private schools in the final four of 3A in 2020 and a dominant force in recent years.

“It is what it is,” he said. “Stigler was the only public school in the final four last year. We’re going to give it a shot. We’re not backing down from anyone.”

Nor should he.

He’s got arguably the area’s best running back as well as the best in his district in senior running back Dontierre Fisher, who totaled 1,685 yards last year and has Kansas, Iowa State, Nebraska, Memphis and North Texas offering him at this point. He’s a two-time All-Phoenix selection already, including Newcomer of the Year as a freshman. He’ll double at corner.

Fisher’s not the only thing that has quarterback Jake Vernnon, returning in that spot, feeling comfortable. Omarion Warrior made All-Phoenix last season, grading out at 87 percent. Kyler Pouncil was close to that.

“You have a great line, you have time to pass,” Vernnon said. “People prepare for Dontierre because he’s so good. That makes it easier for me, because if they’re preparing for him to run, they’re not as prepared for me to pass.”

Ross sees a coachable kid in the spot he himself is most familiar with, having played quarterback at Muskogee High

CHECOTAH WILDCATS

Record in 2020: 5-6, lost in 2nd round in 3A

Head coach: Zac Ross, 2nd year

Staff: Carter Bradley, offensive coordinator, QBs, safeties; Rusty Harris, defensive coordinator, linebackers, offensive line; Tom Butler, linebackers, wide receivers; Cody Hubbard, special teams, running backs and cornerbacks. Bret Bouher, tight ends and defensive line; Marcus Cunningham, fullbacks, defensive line.

Returning starters (8 offense, 7 defense): Dontierre Fisher, RB/CB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Omarion Warrior, OL/DL, 6-3, 295, Sr.; Trenton Dan, WR/CB, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Rylee Campbell, WR/CB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Kyler Pouncil, 5-8, 250, Sr.; Ty Vinson, OL, 6-0, 280, Sr.; Jake Vernnon, QB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Kayson Flud, FS, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Levi Lawson, OL/DL, 6-5, 320, Jr.

Others to watch: Vernnon, CB; Vinson, DL; Flud, WR; Brock Butler, TE/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Tanner Jones, RB/LB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Jason Hamilton, OL/DL, 6-1, 260, Sr.; Matt Mercer, WR/ CB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Kreed Hall, RB/LB, 5-9, 185, Jr.; Jonah Marshall, OL/DL, 6-0, 265, So.; Elijah Thomas, WR/CB, 6-0, 160, Fr.

and later at Harding University.

“Jake’s willingness to listen — he takes criticism but never stops,” Ross said. “This is a team sport and we’ve got a lot of seniors around him who know what to do.”

A year of maturity helps, says Vernnon.

“When I knew where I was going, I was good. When I didn’t I was like a chicken with its head cut off,” he said. “The bigger the game, that seemed to happen. But I’m feeling a lot more confident in those situations now.”

Fisher, meanwhile, has a firm grasp on situations.

“My goal is just to go do good,” he said.

Ross’ view of that?

“It’ll be what he wants it to be,” he said of his running back. “If he works hard, continues to grow in all phases, his future could be whatever he wants. It’s all about staying accountable with everybody.”

On defense, Kaysun Flud, a senior free safety, had six interceptions and seven pass breakups en route to being an All-Phoenix selection. Ross is also moving Trenton Dan to middle linebacker from cornerback, a move he made in the spring.

“He’s very talented and in the best spot he’s ever been in,” said Ross.

Every mentioned Wildcat is a senior.

Muskogee Phoenix

Pigskin Preview 19

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

Seasoned air game in place at Eufaula

By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent

Eufaula head coach Larry Newton Jr. has high expectations for his Ironheads as the new season draws near.

With six returning starters on each side of the ball, the Ironheads have a solid core to carry on where last year’s team left off with a 9-3 record and a spot in the state quarterfinals.

One reason for the optimism is junior quarterback Luke Adcock.

The rangy All-Phoenix move-in came to Eufaula last summer and had to learn the system cold

without any spring or summer practice due to the pandemic. After struggling in the first two games, which the Ironheads lost, Adcock went on to pass for 2,168 yards and 22 touchdowns while connecting on 64 percent of his passes as Eufaula rattled off nine straight wins.

“I was very impressed with Luke last year not having the 7-on-7 or being able to do anything until a short preseason practice schedule,” said Newton.

So after a great rookie season and a full complement of spring and summer workouts this year, Adcock should be even more dangerous.

EUFAULA IRONHEADS

Record in 2020: 9-3, lost in 2A quarterfinals Head coach: Larry Newton, 10th year Staff: Josh Luna, offensive coordinator; Jeremy Gragg, defensive coordinator; Michael Campbell, special teams; Victor Paden, Cameron Box, Cory Adcock, Jimmy Whitlock. Returning starters (6 offense, 6 defense): Khelil Deere, WR/DB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Luke Adcock, QB, 6-3, 205, Jr.; Ty Dodd, OL/DL, 6-5, 300, Sr.; Eden Gray, OL, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Johnny Burton, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Sr.; Draven Gragg, OL, 6-1, 260, So.; Matt Clover, OLB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Kaden Bumgarner, OLB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Ontario Ellen, RB/DE, 5-11, 195, Jr.; Tyler Lee, WR/DB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Slade Williams, DB, 5-10, 165, Sr. Others to watch: Jayden Bray, WR/DB, 6-0, 19 0, So.

“I’m a lot more comfortable with everything now and there’s not near the stress there was starting last year,” said the 6-foot-4 signal-caller.

Another reason for comfort is the return of All-Phoenix receiver Khelil Deere, who had 53 receptions for 1,110 yards and 14 TDs last season.

“Unless you see Khelil Deere live, you don’t understand what he’s able to do,” said Newton. ‘I had one D-I coach tell me he might be the best skill player in the state

this year.”

Deere is in the midst of the recruiting wars, with solid offers on the table from Tulsa and Arkansas State at this point, with others likely to follow.

“The recruiting creates a lot of stress, but I’m experiencing a lot of things and having a good time with it,” said Deere.

The offensive line will also be solid with the return of Eden Gray at center along with Johnny Burton and two-time All-Phoenix selection Ty Dodd. The only big

question on offense will be replacing running back Noah Alexander and that task will fall to junior Ontario Ellen.

“Once Ontario grasps the game mentally, I think he’ll be the man at that position,” said Newton. “I’ve seen a lot of improvement from him in the last month.”

The Ironheads face a unique predicament on defense where they’ll be looking for a stopper.

“This is the first year in a long time that I haven’t had a strong returning linebacker,” said

Newton. “But it’s like I tell the kids, somebody will step up and take on the challenge.”

Dodd and Burton will anchor the line on defense while Adcock and Kaden Bumgarner will try to fill the shoes at linebacker and Deere and Tyler Lee will be the lockdown guys in the secondary. Eufaula gave up an average of just 16 points a game last season and the play at linebacker will be a key to repeating that feat in 2021.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

New Haskell coach mixes freedom with responsibility

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

Phil McWilliams’ approach to his first head coaching job, at least in football, leans on the administrative approach he learned through responsibilities as a head soccer coach at Hilldale, or multiple years as football assistant under three different head coaches there.

Much of that has approach has been spent administering his program through what he said was probably the most 7-on-7 camps of anyone in the state in addition to team camps and other summer opportunities, creating opportunities for the kids to show what they have.

The rest has been up to the kids.

“The first thing I told them was if you’ll come to work, we’ll do something pretty special and try and make this a great place to play football. And really, it’s been them buying in to what we’re doing,” said McWilliams.

“I haven’t even had to say something about buy-in this summer. They were ready to do it and hungry for somebody to lead them, and I think my leadership style fits what they want to do. I’m not a rah-rah, blow smoke type of guy. I just tell them what they need to do and let them go do it.”

The approach, said left tackle Junior Faul, is a welcome change.

“If I can be completely honest, last year I think (the struggles) had mostly to do with the coaching staff if I can put it that way,” he said. “I feel like there’s a lot of talent within our school. I feel that a certain aspect of people who were just there at the moment didn’t know how to harness that and get to these players. Us not being a big school, a lot of the players have to work to help the families and (coaches) weren’t just very flexible around it.

“(McWilliams), he puts it on us to take the team in the direction we want it. And we haven’t gone anywhere but straight up.”

And Faul is more than willing to be at the forefront of shaping that, even as he is one who juggles a lot of those responsibilities at home, work, and at school.

“(McWilliams) putting that on us makes us need to mature and act older,” he said. “I feel like a lot of our previous seniors have been more, I don’t want to say childish, but not stepping up and being at that level. Having that strong mentality of being a leader is very important. It puts it on us as role models to get the most out of the younger guys.”

Even quarterback Brannon Westmoreland finds comfort in the approach.

“Coach will come into the

Haskell was 1-5 last year and suspended the season in late October, basing that decision on COVID-19 numbers in the county. The Haymakers also had two of their non-district games knocked out by the pandemic after losing in its opener 38-0.

That’s all in the past now, flushed out by the new attitude.

Westmoreland is spending extra time connecting with receivers after practice — guys like Fernando Gonzales, a two-way performer who if you listen to McWilliams, will need to be in top shape based on his game-long usage.

HASKELL HAYMAKERS

Record in 2020: 1-5

Head coach: Phil McWilliams, 1st year

Staff: Phil McWilliams, offensive coordinator, quarterbacks, offensive line and inside linebackers; Tony Springer, defensive coordinator, defensive backs, running backs; Paul McCrary, wide receivers, outside linebackers; Mike Jones, defensive line, offensive line, tight ends.

Returning starters (7 offense, 8 defense, 3 specialists): Fernando Gonzalez, WR/DB, 5-11, 157, Sr.; Marcus Clark, CB/K, 6-1, 170, Sr.; J.D. Powell, LB, 5-8, 140, Sr.; Jason Mendoza, LB, 5-5, 151, Sr.; Lane Mann, WR, 6-2, 162, Jr.; Brannon Westmoreland, QB/K, 6-3, 173, Jr.; Andrew Williamson, C, 6-1, 168, Jr.; Jon Michael McClain, RT, 6-3, 243; Junior Faul, LT, 6-1, 205, Jr.; Hunter Powell, LB, 6-0, 151, So.; Briar Payne, LG, 6-3, 265, So.

Others to watch: Marcus Clark, WR; DeShaun Clark, WR; Mann, CB/S; McClain, DE; Faul, DE; Payne, NG; Lucas King, WR/CB, 5-8, 144, So.; Isaiah Timmreck, TB, 6-0, 180, So.

huddle in 7 on 7 and say ‘what do you want to call, what do you want to run,’ and we go with that,” Westmoreland said. “To have a coach with that kind of confidence in you to take that kind of responsibility is good.”

McWilliams indeed has con-

fidence in his quarterback.

“We’ve got guys 40, 50 yards down the field running under the ball he’s throwing to them,” he said. “Brannon’s made some huge strides. A lot of it is the experience that he didn’t have in the off-season last year.”

Both Gonzales and Westmoreland played baseball as well, on a team that had just nine players all season and reached the regional semifinals.

“Just being out there competing, we have good chemistry and a connection,” Gonzales said.

While some have to juggle various responsibilities, there hasn’t been a numbers problem at the amped-up summer activity the new coach has instilled.

“We’ve had kids coming out all summer a little at a time. Building trust between the coaches and players has kind of been one of those challenges, and the kids out here talking to others about what it’s like has really helped get the other kids out,” McWilliams said.

“A lot of our kids didn’t get the spring and part of the summer, but I think we’ve got enough bodies to go out in the fall and have some good preparation in place.”

One thing is certain — it’ll be player-owned.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

Watkins era starts at Warner

By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent

Where’s the beef?

It’s one of the big questions that the Warner Eagles will be asking this football season.

While the Eagles return a solid nucleus of skilled players from a team that went 8-5 last year, they lost a lot of size in the line

that helps protect those skill guys.

After a seven-year run at Muskogee, veteran coach Rafe Watkins takes over the helm at Warner with a little added advantage that most new coaches don’t get.

“I got an early start here in March after leaving Muskogee, so I went through spring drills with these guys.

Then we took a break during power lifting season, and I got a chance to see their work ethic. I’ve been really proud of how well and quickly the kids picked up some of the changes we’ve made,” said Watkins.

Much of the attention on offense will again be focused on

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Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

WARNER

Warner’s outstanding running back, Mason Jim, who has 3,560 career rushing yards in three years for the Eagles with 21 games of 100 or more yards running the ball.

The senior ball carrier reflected on the changes he’s anticipating with Watkins at the helm.

“I think we’ll run more of a pistol set instead of the wing set that we’ve had the last few years and I think we’ll be more of a power running team between the tackles,” he said. “Myself, I’d like to rush for 2,000 yards this year. Even though we’ll be smaller in the line, I think our skill players are better and I think we’ll be better than last year.”

Watkins says he’ll go back to an offense that helped him win state titles in Guthrie and that he used in his early years at Muskogee.

“I see us being more of a double tight end (set) instead of the spread offense and maybe run more option-style plays where we can better utilize the skills of Mason,’ said Watkins, now in his 29th year of coaching.

The quarterback battle began with junior Adam Thompson, soph -

Pigskin Preview

omore Jace Jordan and freshman Cole Mayfield.

All-Phoenix selection Callen Park as well as Jeremiah Person are back to make the grabs when the Eagles do air it out.

Defensively, Watkins says he favors a 4-3 or 5-2 look, but because the Eagles gave up an average of only 13.5 points a game last year, the head coach says he’ll stick with the current 3-4 set. Senior Carson Parks returns at linebacker as the leading tackler with 84 last year.

“My goal this year is to be All-District linebacker,” stated Parks. “Last year they gave it to a guy from Gore and I felt a little cheated, so I plan to be more aggressive and get over 100 tackles this year.”

The Girty boys will again make their presence known on defense. Hunter had 77 tackles last year while Joey posted six sacks. Park heads up the secondary where he had six interceptions last year.

Following non-district games against Savanna, Henryetta and Chouteau, Warner will find out quickly how they’ll fare in the district as they face three of the top contenders — Gore, Colcord and Sallisaw Central — right off the bat.

WARNER EAGLES

back Mason

centerpiece

Record in 2020: 8-5

Head coach: Rafe Watkins (1st year, 29th overall)

Staff: John Williams, defensive coordinator; Josh McMillan, offensive coordinator; Charlie Parks, defensive lineman; Mike Combs, wide receivers and defensive backs; and Scott Mayfield.

Returning starters (5 offense, 7 defense): Mason Jim, RB/LB, 5-8, 185, Sr.; Adam Thompson, QB, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Jace Jackson, QB, 6-1, 170, So.; Callen Park, WR/DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Jeremiah Person, WR/DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Hunter Girty, DL, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Joey Girty, LB, 5-9, 190, Sr.; Carson Parks, LB, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Others to watch: Julian Hensley, RB, 5-9, 175, Jr.. Ty Vinson, OL, 6-0, 195, So.; Braxton Williams, OL, 5-6, 200, Jr.; Cole Mayfield, DB, 5-9, 150, Fr.; Preston Cannon, RB/LB, 5-6, 150, Fr.; Lubbock Drake, RB/LB, 5-8, 170, Fr.

Muskogee Phoenix Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

THEY SAID IT....

First the players

JAXON HARRISON, MIDWAY

Q: Who do you wish was watching you on game nights?

A: My grandpa. He lives in New York and I’m not able to see him much but he really helps me out . I push to be my best so I don’t let him down.

JASON MENDOZA, HASKELL

Q: What’s the best part about competing?

A: Getting better and getting everyone else better.

ZANE CRAIGHEAD, GORE

Q: What pregame rituals do you go through, just by habit or superstition?

A: I listen to “Friday Night Lights” halftime speech — from “Friday Night Lights,” the movie.

CHANDLER LANG, WEBBERS FALLS

Q: What’s your favorite sports quote?

A: If you’re not first, you’re last.

CLAY HOLT, PORTER

Q: Tell us your worst heartbreak in sports.

A: The first time I watched a coach leave was pretty tough.

TRENTON DAN, CHECOTAH

Q: What pregame rituals do you go through, just by habit or superstition?

A: Take a nap.

KHELIL DEERE, EUFAULA

Q: What is your favorite sports quote?

A: “Never say never because limits, like fears, are often just illusions.” Michael Jordan.

HUNTER GIRTY, WARNER

Q: What is your favorite pregame meal?

A: Subway Cold-Cut Combo. It gets me in the right mental frame of mind.

LOGAN STERLING, WAGONER

Q: What is your favorite pre-game meal?

A: Grandma’s burgers.

TIM MURPHY, FORT GIBSON

Q: What is your favorite pregame music to listen to?

A: “Bodak Yellow” by Cardi B

RYLAN NAIL, HILLDALE

Q: What do you like most about playing a team sport?

A: It builds a brotherhood and it just feels good knowing you and your teammates have each other’s backs.

KOLBY BROWN, PORUM

Q: What’s your favorite pregame ritual you go through, just by habit or superstition?

A: (Listening to) “Still God” by John Keith

ISAIAH GIVENS, MUSKOGEE

Q: Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of sports?

A: Writing scripts, making beats, and drawings.

Coaches

WHAT MENTAL TOOL IS MOST IMPORTANT IN HANDLING PRESSURE?

Reading my Bible— Brandon Tyler, Gore

Being prepared —  Phil McWilliams, Haskell

What are three reasons you like being a part of a team sport?

Teamwork, family, discipline — Trent Holt, Webbers Falls

YOUR FAVORITE GET-AWAY HOBBY IS: Bass fishing — Denton Long, Porter Hunting — Mitchell Girty, Porum

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS HERO?

Wes Welker — Zac Ross, Checotah Michael Jordan or football, Alan Page — Travis Hill, Muskogee

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS QUOTE?

“Yeah buddy,” by bodybuilder Ronnie Coleman — Larry Newton, Eufaula

“There is no greater feeling than moving a man from Point A to Point B against his own will,” from NFL lineman Russ Grimm — David Blevins, Hilldale

“I firmly believe that any man’s finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is the moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and he’s exhausted on the field of battle, victorious.” Vince Lombardi — Dale Condict, Wagoner

ONE KEY ATTITUDE COMPONENT YOU LOVE IN AN ATHLETE:

The desire to compete no matter if they are up by 20 or down by 20. You learn a lot about their character. — Rafe Watkins, Warner

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS MOVIE?

“Varsity Blues.” I can relate to the main character in the movie being a backup quarterback waiting for his time to lead. — Steve Corn, Midway

HOW ARE KIDS DIFFERENT TODAY THAN AT ANY OTHER TIME?

“Kids are the same. Culture is different.” — Greg Whiteley, Fort Gibson

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

Pigskin Preview

Pirates are loaded in coach’s silver season, but gold is sought

By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent

Going into his 25th year of coaching, most things become routine.

But Gore’s Brandon Tyler faces something new.

could tell it,” said Craighead. “But by the fourth or fifth game, I started feeling pretty comfortable.”

any, does the head coach have about the upcoming season?

GORE PIRATES

Record in 2020: 8-1, lost in 2nd round

Head coach: Brandon Tyler, 5th year

Staff: Eric Douthit, defensive coordinator, offensive line, outside linebackers; Robert Clark, offensive coordinator, quarterbacks, running backs and linebackers; Tyler Capps, special teams, receivers, defensive backs.

“This is the first time in my career when I’ve had everyone returning from the previous year,” said the veteran coach. “And being able to have a spring and summer program this year has really helped put us ahead of the game at this point.”

The Pirates return 21 players from last year’s team that went 8-1 and advanced to the third round of the Class A playoffs which should make them one of the top ranked teams in the class this year.

Leading the way is quarterback Zane Craighead, a 2019 transfer from Vian, who rushed for over 1,000 yards and passed for 682 more with 12 touchdowns last year after taking over the signal calling chores when Weston Shanks was injured early on.

“Weston really pushed me hard last summer before he won the job and I think that helped me prepare, but I was still nervous the first couple of games and everyone

Craighead is surrounded by talent in the backfield with All-Phoenix running back Gunner Dozier, who ran for 1,217 yards, and fullback Dayne Perryman.

Junior stalwarts Gabe Dozier and Garrett Douthit anchoring a returning offensive line.

On the defensive side where the Pirates averaged giving up just 14 points a game last year, Tyler welcomes back leading tackler Lynden Manning, who had 97 tackles last year, as well as All-Phoenix selections Jackson Duke, who had seven interceptions, There’s also Noah Cooper, the All-Phoenix Newcomer of the Year, who had 61 tackles and will be Craighead’s understudy at quarterback, and linebacker Dayne Perryman, who recorded 88 tackles last year and says he wants to get over 100 this year.

The Pirates even return their kickers in Perryman who punts, and junior Christian O’Connor who was 5-for-5 in the field goal department last season.

So what concerns, if

“First and foremost is complacency,” said Tyler. “That was the first thing we talked about when summer practice started. I told them about the 2013 when I was at Vian and we went 13-1with a junior-heavy team and made it to the state semifinals. The next year I had most of those guys back and we went 8-4. So you’ve got to stay healthy, have a little luck, and above all don’t get complacent.

Returning starters (11 offense, 11 defense, 3 specialists): Zane Craighead, QB/DB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Gunner Dozier, RB/LB, 6-2, 205, Jr.; Wyatt Marrell, TE/ H/LB, 5-11, 195, Jr.; Journey Shells, WR/DB, 6-3, 175, So.; Keigan Reid, WR/DB, 6-1, 170, Jr.; Blue Steward. WR/LB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Tyler Lane, WR/DB, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Jesus Thomas, DB/WR/RET, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Layne Ward, OL/DL, 6-0, 215, So.; Gabe Dozier, OL/DL, 6-2, 250, Jr.; Garrett Douthit, OL/DL, 6-3, 270, Jr.; Nick Wolf, OL/DL, 6-0, 250, Jr.; Cas Moore, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Jr.; Christian O’Connor, K-WR/DB, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Jackson Duke, DB/RB, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Noah Cooper, LB/TE/QB, 6-2, 190, So.; Lynden Manning, LB, 5-10, 205, Jr.; Dayne Perryman, LB/FB/P, 5-11, 185, Jr.

Others to watch: Ben Kirkpatrick, WR/DB, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Liam Edwards, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Hunter McGee, WR/DB, 5-8, 150, So.; Gage Grant. OL/DL, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Mike McAlister, TE/DL. 6-1, 210, Jr.; Blane Barnes, WR/DB, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Aiden DIckerson, TE/LB, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Chester Abercrombie, WR/DB, 5-11, 150, So.

“The other thing we have to concentrate on is conditioning and mental toughness because being experienced isn’t always enough. I remember a game against Haileyville when I was playing where we had over 500 yards of offense and they had about 40. But we turned the ball over 10 times and lost the game 14-13. We got a taste of success last year so this year our goal is to be playing in December. If we stay healthy, this could be one of the best years ever for Gore football.”

And yet Gore returns all of these guys mentioned here except Craighead in 2022. Not what Class A needs to hear.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

Denton Long steps into coaching seat at Porter

By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent

At Porter, the next era of high school football will involve a father who once coached his son and is now his son’s assistant.

Denton Long has been around football for a long time. He played for his father David, who was the coach at Heavener for many years. Now, David is on Denton’s staff, in his

first head coaching job.

“I’ve been a coordinator for several years, but becoming the head coach brings a whole new perspective because you’re in charge of all the detail work as well,” said Long.

The new head coach is charged up.

“We had great participation in spring drills and during the summer and the overall numbers are up from last year,” said Denton. “The expec-

tations for me are high. I look at our numbers and our talent and our senior leadership and it’s exciting to get these guys into our new system.”

PORTER PIRATES

Record in 2020: 2-7

Head coach: Denton Long, 1st year.

Staff: Travis Hollis, defensive coordinator; Allan Cox, special teams coordinator and defensive backs; Troy Mitchell, receivers; Patrick Reeder, offensive line and defensive line; David Long, offensive line and linebackers; Caleb Cox, assistant; Jon Brewer, linebackers.

Porter returns six starters on each side of the ball with senior Kaleb Brewer expected to see a lot of the action at running back along with Nathan Johnson.

“I think we’ll be doing a lot more running this year and so I’m looking

Returning starters (6 offense, 6 defense, 1 specialist): Kaleb Brewer, RB/LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; KeJuan Reynolds, 6-4, 240, Sr.; Clay Holt, OL/DL, 6-1, 230, Sr.; Tate Payne, 6-0, 280, Sr.; Caden Willard, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Kyle Anderson, 5-11, 250, Jr.; Camden Price, WR/QB/DB, 5-11, 200, So.

Others to watch: Nathan Johnson, RB/LB, 5-11, 190, Jr.; Wyatt Jackson, OL/LB, 5-10, 200, Jr.

forward to that. I’ve been running a lot at home in addition to all the running during workouts and also been hitting the weight room pretty hard this summer,” said Brewer.

“I’ve been a coordinator for several years, but becoming the head coach brings a whole new perspective because you’re in charge of all the detail work as well.”

Porter coach Denton Long

to have the attitude of not ever quitting and not to expect any glory for yourself,” said Holt. “Your goal on offense is to help your teammates get to the end zone on every play.”

spirits up.

“Kicking is tough mentally because you only get one shot at it, so there’s a lot of pressure there,” said Willard.

The quarterbacking duties fall to sophomore Camden Price, who is tasked with learning the new offense of Long’s, which will feature a splitback set with a run-first mentality.

“He can run. He can throw the ball and once he gets a hold of our offense, I think he’ll be really good,” said Long.

The line will be anchored by returning seniors KeJuan Reynolds at tight end as well as Tate Payne, Clay Holt and Kyle Anderson.

“As a lineman you have

Holt feels strong line play is vital in his new offense.

“We’ll be pulling a lot in our new offense and so getting those linemen in good shape to get to the edge and make the key blocks will be a big key to our success on offense,” said Holt.

The kicking chores will again be in the hands of senior Caden Willard whose father was a kicker and who helps keep his

In Long’s 3-4 defense it looks like the Pirates will have Brewer, Johnson and Wyatt Jackson as linebackers with Payne, Anderson, Holt, and Reynolds rotating on the line and Willard and Price manning the secondary.

As far as District A-8 is concerned, Long agrees with most pre-season prognosticators that Gore, Warner and Colcord will be the teams to beat to have a shot at the playoffs.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

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After chaos of 2020, Porum optimistic for good things to come in 2021

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

Unlike some other schools impacted by the pandemic, Porum managed to put in a full season in 2020. Not that they went in to each of those gameswith a full deck.

Preparations for what the Panthers hope will be a less chaotic 2021 have been encouraging.

“Just being able to schedule something and have faith that we’re able to do it has been great,” said Porum coach Mitchell Girty. “We didn’t have to worry about cancellations or who might be in quarantine.”

The Panthers were 2-9 in 2020. They got a win over South Coffeyville, 24-6, in the season opener. Their other win came

in early October, 48-8 against Cave Springs. What remained was a stacked deck where they managed to score more than one touchdown twice and were shut out five times, including by traditional toughie Hollis in a non-district contest in week three then Class B state champion Dewar along with Quinton and former Porum coach Ken Hokit.

Six returning starters fill spots on both sides of the line of scrimmage.

A 48-24 loss to rival Webbers Falls matched their season-high in points in the opener.

“Our district was super tough last year and I don’t think it changes any this year,” said Girty. “If you don’t show up every week you’ll get thumped.”

But there’s optimism those thumps won’t happen as frequently.

“We’ve been putting in hard work all summer and taking care of business,” said running back/linebacker Kolby Brown. “Parachutes and a lot of leg workouts. I wasn’t as fast as I need to be last year.”

Brown is also a vocal leader, more so than his quarterback, Seth Brown. But the latter Brown (not related) takes an even-keel perspective to his game and has his own secret for staying grounded no matter what.

PORUM PANTHERS

Record in 2020: 2-9

Head coach: Mitchell Girty, 4th year

“A lot of people have a false drive, they may be playing for personal gain. I try to not look at it like that,” he said. “My

(See Page 30)

Staff: Patrick Mayer, Landon Berry, assistants. Returning starters (6 offense, 6 defense, 6 special teams): Kolby Brown, RB/LB, 5-10, 205, Sr.; Ronnie Brown, RB/DE, 5-11, 210, Sr.; Seth Brown, QB/DB, 6-1, 150, Jr.; Jacob Tallon, WR/DB, 5-10, 145, Sr.; Kade Womack, WR/CB, 5-8, 135, Sr.; Austin McCarter, LB, 5-11, 155, Jr.; Kevin Barnes, OL, 5-10, 305, Jr.

Improved numbers has Warriors optimistic after solid 2020 season in face of pandemic

By Nick Hampton Phoenix Correspondent

Webbers Falls quarterback

Maddux Shelby heads into his sophomore seson having ran for 800 yards and passing for 500 in leading his team to a 7-5 record in Class B.

As Warrrors coach Trent Holt explains, that’s the good news around a lot of unanswered questions among a roster of 18 to 20.

“Last year we managed to dodge Covid for the most part and posted our best record in several years. Eighteen

to 20 kids on the roster is also a big plus for us,” Holt said. “But we’re a little short on experience.”

Just four starters are back for the eight-man squad. One key loss is All-Phoenix defender

Josh Mason, who had 65 tackles.

“We have two (under-

classmen) that played last year but aren’t coming back,” said Holt. “We don’t have any seniors, so our juniors will really have to step up and be our leaders.”

Two of those juniors will anchor the trenches in Chandler Long and Caden Dishman.

WEBBERS FALLS WARRIORS

Record in 2020: 7-5

Head coach: Trent Holt, 7th year

Staff: Hunter Holt, quarterbacks and lienbackers; Steve Shelby, receivers and defensive backs.

Returning starters (4 offense, 4 defense): Maddux Shelby, QB/LB, 5-9, 170, So.; Caden Dishman, TE/ DE, 6-2, 220, Jr.; Chandler Long, OL, 5-8, 150, Jr.; Dylan Young, WR/DB, 5-7, 145, So.

Others to watch: Blaize Herriman, RB/LB, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Hunter Briton, OL/DL, 6-2, 330, Jr.; Riley Ogg, WR/ DB, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Ben Ward, OL/DE, 6-1, 210, So.

“The defense will be challenged without Josh, but I think we’ll be okay in the offensive line,” said Dishman, who came to Webbers Falls from a non-football school and had to be talked into playing foot-

ball, but now loves the game though he says basketball is still his favorite sport.

Shelby says a year under his belt will help.

“I’ve been playing since I was 8 but even though I felt prepared, last year was still nerve-wracking,” said Shelby. “I think my biggest takeaway from

(See Page 30)

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

Pigskin Preview

Corn-led Midway has QB back, big expectations after nice 2020

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com

MIDWAY CHARGERS

Record in 2020: 10-1, lost in Class C quarterfinals

Head coach: Steve Corn, 1st year

Steve Corn knows C-4. He was at Midway for three seasons, serving as head coach in 2012 before he switched to Webbers Falls in 2013 and 2014. Since 2015, he’s been at Graham, another member of that district.

Back at Midway this season as the head guy, he’s aware of the run the Chargers had in 2020, seeing an unbeaten campaign end in the C quarterfinals to eventual state champion Tyrone in a wild 78-68 outcome.

“Last year’s team had a great chance of winning a championship,” he said. “C-4 is better than what it was 7-8 years ago.”

The difference between Midway (11-1) and Tyrone, one of the top teams from the tal-

Staff: Chris Henry, assistant head coach, wide receivers, tight ends and defensive backs; Jesse Bible, special teams and video; Corey Miller, offensive/defensive assistant.

Returning starters (5 offense, 3 defense, 3 special teams): Geral Washington, QB/DB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Jonathan Reed, OL, 6-2, 325, Jr.; Jonathan Mitcham, 6-4, 285, Jr.; Jaxon Harrison, TE/DE, 6-5, 230, Sr.; Cole Miller, WR/CB, 5-7, 145, Jr.

Others to watch: Cody Galliton, HB/LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Gervon Washington, FB/LB, 6-1, 225, Fr.; OL/DL, Sam Herrera, OL/DL, 5-11, 230, Jr.; Rangler Williams, RB/DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.

ent-heavy west side of the state when it comes to 8-man football, was a thin line. As in two-point conversions, five in all.

“We didn’t convert many,” said quarterback Geral Washington.

So when Corn suggests the Chargers, with Washington — the Small School Offensive Player of the Year on the All-Phoenix team in 2020 — are a top-four team going into 2021, he’s got reason to feel that way.

“We’ll have some growing pains and some experience we’re lacking that we will gain in the first 3-4 games,” Corn said. “But you haven’t seen what I’ve seen in these kids this summer. We’ve got talent in these young guys who are going to step up. I’ve seen bigger, faster, stronger come about. I know what it takes to win this district and like I said, it’s reached a higher competitive level

compared with districts like C-1. We saw that last year.”

Tyrone didn’t have a playoff game closer than the one against Midway. Washington continues to work on his footwork in the pocket after a breakout year as a passer. His 88-of-124, 1,638 yard effort with 23 touchdowns and just two interceptions gave him a quarterback rating of 146.16, best among area signal-callers.

His major hurdle to playing at the next level might be that nasty label eight-man football gets as not being real football.

Which shouldn’t be a hurdle, said Corn.

“He’s been working on his footwork, getting more velocity on the ball with more accuracy and he has a lot of speed,” Corn said. “Those all transition at the next level. It comes down to the right sys-

tem and we’re going to do our best to make him look good on the field and that way, he has the opportunity to play at the next level. With his arm, you’re going to see some good things.”

Some of his spare parts graduated, though.

Cody Galliton and Ranger Williams hope to fill the spot behind him, working in rotation at running back. Galliton came over from Oktaha, a non-football school, and Williams, who played freshman ball at Hilldale before transferring to Midway, came out for football the day after Corn was hired. He will also play in the secondary.

“Eight-man just seems more fun,” Williams said. “We’ve bonded and become what I think will be a really good team.”

Galliton echoed those sentiments.

“Coming to Midway was a good decision for me,” he said. “I don’t

have any blood brothers. I consider all of these guys my brothers. I’ve grown closer in the last two months with them than I have anyone in my life.”

Jaxon Harrison takes over at defensive end, where four-time

All-Phoenix selection Leslie Howard played. “I’ve got pretty good height and speed off the ball,” Harrison said. “Leslie was a different type of animal, but I’m going to do my 100 percent best to fill those shoes.”

Muskogee Phoenix

Pigskin Preview 29

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

For OU, SEC can wait. There’s Big 12 business to address

Associated Press OU SCHEDULE

NORMAN — While Oklahoma’s plans to eventually join the Southeastern Conference have generated plenty of excitement, the Sooners are focused on more immediate goals, such as chasing their seventh consecutive Big 12 championship and their first national title since 2000.

“It’s exciting to think about,” Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley said of the SEC move, set to happen in 2025, “but I guess for me, it’s tempered because of the task at hand. ... I mean, sure it will be great when it happens, but it doesn’t matter right now. I mean, right now, we’re a member of the Big 12.”

It’s easy to see why Riley wants to live in the moment. Quarterback Spencer Rattler leads a talented, experienced team that is ranked No. 2 in the preseason AP Top 25 -- Oklahoma’s highest preseason ranking since 2011 and its best under Riley.

Oklahoma’s offense was dynamic as usual a year

S4 at Tulane, 11 a.m.

S11 W. Carolina, 6 p.m.

S18 Nebraska, 11 a.m.

S25 W. Virginia, TBA

O2 at Kansas St., TBA

O9 Texas (DAL), TBA

O15 TCU, TBA

O23 at Kansas, TBA

O30 Texas Tech, TBA

N13 at Baylor, TBA

N20 Iowa St., TBA

N27 at OSU, TBA

ago, despite preparation time being limited by COVID-19 restrictions. Riley said things look even better now.

“You can tell we had spring ball,” Riley said. “You definitely can. We’re a lot further along. A lot more consistency. I would imagine everybody else in the country is, too. I like what we’ve done in the first two weeks.”

Rattler is already a star. In 11 games last season, he passed for 3,031 yards with 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Now he has a season as a starter under his belt — one including a 55-20 Cotton Bowl win

yards and 18 touchdowns his first two seasons.

Eric Gray has transferred in from Tennessee and has cemented his spot as one of the team’s top two running backs. Last season, he rushed for 772 yards and caught 30 passes for 254 yards. He’s the Big 12’s preseason Newcomer of the Year.

Star defensive linemen

Oklahoma will count heavily on defensive linemen Isaiah Thomas and Perrion Winfrey.

Thomas was a second-team All-Big 12 selection last season after leading the Sooners with 8.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss. Winfrey, projected by some to be a first-round draft pick, had six tackles for loss and three pass breakups last season.

over Florida.

“I feel like a veteran now,” Rattler said. “Knowing what to expect, I’m very comfortable and focused. I feel like I’m in control.”

Three years ago, the Sooners had one of the worst defenses in college football. Last season, defensive coordinator Alex Grinch’s unit ranked third nationally with 16 interceptions, fourth in opponent third-down conversion percentage, seventh in sacks per game, ninth in pass efficiency defense and ninth in rushing defense.

Linebacker Nik Bo-

nitto is an anchor this year. The second-team AP All-American last season said the defense has a swagger now that some success has come from executing Grinch’s “Speed-D.”

“Once people started running to the ball, like, we’ve seen it can work,” Bonitto said. “Once you start getting takeaways, we see it equals victory. And a lot of those things that he preaches -- once we started doing it, it all started coming into fruition and we started believing it and trusting in what he’s saying.”

Receiving corps

Oklahoma returns its top three receivers from last season. Marvin Mims caught 37 passes for 610 yards and nine touchdowns last season.

Theo Wease caught 37 passes for 530 yards and four scores and tight end/H-back Austin Stogner grabbed 26 passes for 422 yards and three touchdowns.

Running back reload

Running back Kennedy Brooks returns after sitting out a year due to COVID-19 concerns. Brooks ran for 2,067

“He’s probably, within the locker room, one of the more beloved members on the team,” Riley said. “He’s so for everybody in that room. The guys see that.”

Kickin’ It

OU kicker Gabe Brkic is a preseason All-Big 12 selection. He was perfect on field goals and extra points as a freshman two years ago. Last season, he had eight multi-field goal games and made four field goals from at least 50 yards. He’s made all 102 of his extra point attempts in his career.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

last year was adapting and overcoming adversity when I had to.”

Holt had lots of kudos for his young quarterback who will have to shoulder the bulk of the offense this season.

“He’s a talented multisport athlete who is very dedicated and a knowledgeable player who we expect to have a great year,” said the Warrior head coach.

Helping Shelby out in the backfield at running back will be another sophomore, Dylan Young, who will also return as the primary lockdown man in the secondary.

“I think the biggest adjustment for me last year as a freshman was making sure I didn’t let the receivers get behind me because the game is so much faster at the high-school level,” said Young.

Emerging defense leads the way for Oklahoma State

Oklahoma State has built its reputation under coach Mike Gundy with explosive offensive play.

The defense has caught up and that makes the Cowboys a threat to contend in the Big 12 this season. Oklahoma State returns nine starters from a unit that anchored an 8-3 finish last season.

“I’ve been very impressed with our defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles, and his staff, and his willingness to adjust to our league,” Gundy said. “I feel more comfortable with our defense going on the field than I have maybe in my first 12 to 14 years as a head coach.”

Receiver reload

Oklahoma State has to replace Tylan Wallace, one of the school’s all-time best receivers.

“We have a number of guys that we feel like should develop as the season goes on,” Gundy said. “We don’t necessarily have what would be a marquee player that we have traditionally had at that position at Oklahoma State.”

goal in playing football is to really try to make bonds that will last a long time. The only way I make it through the mental game is Christ alone. I care a lot about what people think and that gets in your head a lot. That’s your worst enemy in football — your head.”

Ronnie Brown returns as a running back and defensive end. The secondary is seasoned as Seth Brown, Jacob Tallon and Kade Womack all return there. Kevin Brown at 305 pounds anchors the offensive line.

If the overall numbers are there, the Panthers should make some strides coming out of the chaos of 2020.

The key returnee is safety Kolby Harvell-Peel, a preseason All-Big 12 selection. He enters his senior season with 167 tackles, seven interceptions and 21 pass breakups in 35 career games played. He could have left for the NFL.

“I think at one point that, like most young men, he felt like that he wanted to try to move on and make some money playing this game,” Gundy said. “And then, at some point, he called and said that he would like to return and develop himself for another year.”

Linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, the former Wagoner standout quarterback/safety, chose to return for an extra season after leading the team with 82 tackles last season. Safety Tre Sterling led the team with 12.5 tackles for loss a year ago.

On offense, Spencer Sanders is one of the most versa-

Oklahoma State safety Kolby Harvell-Peel gets set during an intrasquad scrimmage.

tile quarterbacks in the Big 12. He has passed for 4,072 yards and rushed for 897 in his career. He was the MVP of the Cheez-it Bowl win over Miami.

Gundy said he likes how Sanders is developing mentally to maximize his physical gifts. He said the pandemic slowed Sanders’ growth.

“There’s never been a question with his toughness, his commitment, and his competitive nature,” Gundy said.

Offensive line

Even without Teven Jenkins, the 39th pick in the NFL draft, Oklahoma State’s offensive line should be much better this season. Josh Sills, a preseason All-Big 12 pick, leads the way. Hunter Woodard started 10 games last season and Jake Springfield started nine.

Cole Birmingham and Hunter Anthony were starters before injuries forced them

OSU SCHEDULE

S4 Missouri St., 6 p.m.

S11 Tulsa, 11 a.m.

S18 at Boise St., 7 p.m.

S25 Kansas St., TBA

O2 Baylor, RBA

O16 at Texas, TBA

O23 at Iowa St., TBA

O30 Kansas, TBA

N6 at W. Virginia, TBA

N13 TCU, TBA

N20 at Texas Tech, TBA

N27 Oklahoma, TBA

out of the season opener last season. Preston Wilson started four games a year ago.

The injuries forced the Cowboys to play young guys who weren’t physically ready to play. Gundy said the experience and the year of offseason work should help.

“All of the butt whippings they took (last season) should help them this year,” Gundy said. “We’ve had a couple of adjustments. We’re already better just by the depth chart.”

Brennan Presley had six catches for 118 yards and three touchdowns in the bowl win over Miami. He’s set to have a breakout year. Tay Martin had six catches for 73 yards against Miami. Speedster Braydon Johnson could take a step forward this season.

By committee

Oklahoma State will use several backs to replace Chuba Hubbard, who now is in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers.

The two main returnees are LD Brown and Dezmon Jackson. Brown has rushed for 1,044 yards and eight touchdowns in his career with a 5.7-yard average per carry. Jackson ran for 235 yards in his first career start last season against Texas Tech.

Ford in the driveway

Defensive end Trace Ford could be among the nation’s best. As a sophomore last season, he had 22 tackles, 4.5 sacks, four passes broken up, four quarterback hurries and two fumbles forced. He draws significant attention from opponents, freeing up his teammates to make plays. He had nine quarterback hurries as a freshman.

For Tulsa, it’s about starting games in 2021 like they finished games in 2020

By Mike Kays mkays@muskogeephoenix.com TU SCHEDULE

In a year of COVID chaos, disrupted preparations and canceled games, there was also the holes Tulsa dug itself into in the early goings of games.

At Central Florida, Tulsa won despite trailing at one point by 18 points.

Against East Carolina, the Hurricane trailed by 14 but won.

The margin was 21 down against SMU, but a W was gained.

Then came Tulane and a 14-point deficit in a game in which TU would take a massive hit to its quarterback depth chart.

Zach Smith went out with a rib injury. Backup Seth

S2 UC-Davis, 6:30 p.m.

S11 at OSU, 11 a.m.

S18 at Ohio State, 2:30 p.m.

S25 Arkansas St., TBA

O1 Houston, 6:30 p.m.

O9 Memphis, TBA

O16 at S. Florida, TBA

O29 Navy, 6:30 p.m.

N6 at Cincinnati, TBA

N13 at Tulane, TBA

N20 Temple, TBA

N27 at SMU, TBA

Boomer left with an ailing leg injury.

In came Davis Brin, whose 37-yard touchdown pass to JuanCarlos Santa on the final play of regulation forced overtime and another win. It was the third touchdown drive Brin directed in the final quarter.

In five home games, Tulsa, which finished 6-3, won by a total of 20 points and wound up in the American championship game and a narrow loss at Cincinnati, 27-24, followed by a 28-26 loss in the Armed Forces Bowl against Mississippi State.

Smith graduated, Boomer stayed, but Brin is the starter a week away from the Hurricane’s season opener.

“We’ve got great leadership on this team,” said Tulsa head coach Phil Montgomery at this year’s AAC Media Days. “I thought last year those guys did a good job of coming together and then we started making plays late in games.

“I think our team really took a big step forward in understanding we’re never out

of a game, that those plays are going to be made. We’ve got to do a better job this year of coming out of the gates a little cleaner, starting a little faster, and we’ve still got to finish the way we did.”

Brim is at the center of that leadership.

“That’s what Davis has,” said wide receiver Keylon Stokes. “He took a huge role and stepped up.”

Those rallies were equally credited to defense, which loses a key piece in NFL firstround pick Zaven Collins.

Jaxon Player has emerged as having NFL stock and will anchor the front line defensively. In a season where that kind of attention can enhance one’s pocket book with the new rules on name, image and likeness. Player isn’t

spending a lot of time on that.

“My focus is on winning games and how I can contribute to that,” he said.

Back on offense, all five starters up front are back, and all earned All-AAC honors in one way or another, led by first-teamer Tyler Smith at left tackle. Behind Brin, Shamari Brooks returns after suffering an early-season knee injury in 2020.

Stokes caught 46 passes for 644 yards and three TDs. Santana averaged a teamhigh 16 yards per catch, and Josh Johnson’s six touchdown passes were a team best. Brin will have all three back.

The biggest question defensively is filling two holes in the secondary.

Three-win season in all-SEC slate? It’s enough to have Arkansas looking up

ARKANSAS SCHEDULE

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Few second-year coaches inspire great optimism after a 3-7 season.

But at Arkansas, it’s all about perspective. The two previous seasons yielded a combined four wins, including none in Southeastern Conference play, so last season’s showing under Sam Pittman was a significant jump. Along with the victories over Mississippi State, Ole Miss and Tennessee, the Razorbacks lost three other games by three or fewer points.

Pittman’s energy and the competitive play last season have Arkansas’ players feeling positive about the program.

“The direction we’re going — it’s going to be a beautiful thing once you guys see it,” running back Trelon Smith said. “Losing days are over. We’re tired of losing. This whole team is tired of losing.

S4 Rice, 1 p.m.

S11 Texas, 6 p.m.

S18 Ga. Southern, 3 p.m.

S25 Texas A&M at Arlington, TBA

O2 at Georgia, TBA

O9 at Ole Miss, TBA

O16 Auburn, TBA

O23 UA-P. Bluff at Little Rock, TBA

N6 Miss. State, TBA

N13 at LSU, TBA

N20 at Alabama, TBA

N26 Missouri, 2:30 p.m.

It’s time to win now.”

Beloved as Arkansas’ offensive line coach from 2013 to 2015, Pittman returned as head coach in 2020 after Arkansas limped through the two wretched seasons under Chad Morris. In Pittman’s first year, the three wins were all in SEC play since all non-conference

games were scuttled by the pandemic.

Arkansas returns many starters thanks in large part to the NCAA’s decision to grant an extra year of eligibility to those who were seniors last year.

“We feel a lot better about our football team,” Pittman said. “We know them better and they know us better. Feel good about it (the season). There’s not many teams in the country that ever bring back 19 starters, I wouldn’t imagine.”

There are question marks, most notably at quarterback -- a key reason the Razorbacks are picked to finish sixth in the SEC West. Feleipe Franks had Arkansas’ best season at quarterback in five years in 2021, but it was his lone season in Fayetteville after transferring from Florida.

Junior K.J. Jefferson will start at quarterback for just the second time in his career. The previous try yielded an 18-for-33 day passing for 274 yards and

three touchdowns with no interceptions in a 50-48 loss to Missouri last year.

Jefferson isn’t taking contact in practice simply to protect him. When the dual-threat quarterback finally sheds the green jersey, he will be able to use his 6-foot-3, 245-pound frame to punish opponents.

Jefferson has dynamic wide receiver Treylon Burks to throw to. Burks is the returning SEC leader in receiving yards per game after catching 51 passes for 820 yards and seven touchdowns in nine games in 2020. He was named second-team All-SEC after the season.

Arkansas had five players named to the three All-SEC preseason teams. Burks made the first team. Linebacker Grant Morgan, safety Jalen Catalon and center Ricky Stromberg were on the second team and offensive tackle Myron Cunningham was named to the third team.

Muskogee Phoenix

Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021

After year on the COVID shelf, NSU, Eckert look for football revival

NSU SCHEDULE

When Northeastern State coach J.J. Eckert looks at junior offensive lineman Madison Wrather and defensive lineman Damani Carter, he sees the building blocks of the type of football program the RiverHawks aspire to be in the MIAA.

“We want to be a program of not just recruiting great talent but great character,” Eckert said. “You want a group of guys who are going to be here for four or five years, get a chance to earn a great degree and have a lot of memories they take with them as they transition into life 101.”

In Wrather and Carter, the RiverHawks have two leaders who have the character to show a young Northeastern football team the right way to do things.

Wrather has played the last 22 games for the RiverHawks. In July, Wrather earned CoSIDA First-Team All-Academic honors.

“I couldn’t have done it without being put in position to do it,” Wrather said. “The football staff here and my teammates were flexible enough with me and allowed me to accomplish it. It is something I am proud of.”

Carter arrived in 2019 as a graduate transfer from the University of Arkansas. An injury cut short his final season of collegiate football. He was granted a redshirt. Covid-19 canceled the 2020 season, and Carter got another redshirt.

“Having to miss seven games in 2019 really ignited a fire in me that I never had before,” Carter said. “I un-

S4 Emporia St., 6 p.m.

S11 at Mo. Southern, 2 p.m.

S18 Pitt State, 6 p.m.

S25 at Lincoln, 1 p.m.

O2 C. Missouri, 2 p.m.

O7 C. Oklahoma, 7 p.m.

O16 at Mo. Western, 7 p.m.

O23 NW Missouri, noon

O30 at Washburn, 1 p.m.

N6 Fort Hays St., 1 p.m.

N13 at Neb.-Kearney, noon

derstood I loved the game, but having to sit back brings a whole different perspective on how lucky I am to play. I am highly motivated.”

The RiverHawks, Eckert said, used the time off from games in 2020 to continue to build a culture that will hopefully bring success on the field on Saturdays in the fall.

Throughout the previous school year, the players hit the weight room and got bigger, faster and stronger. Eckert pointed out that the players look better in their uniforms because of the work they put in.

Several spring scrimmages against outside competition also aided in the development.

“We finished against a real good team in Ouachita Baptist in our last scrimmage of the year,” Eckert said. “The time off gave us a chance to see exactly where we are at going into the summer. It gave us a chance to change the culture into something we can really be proud of.”

Of course, players like Wrather and Carter wanted to play last season. But they recognized the benefits the time off from games meant

to the program.

“We are a young football team,” Wrather said. “I think it helped us out more than other schools. In the spring, the competition meant the world to us. It kind of taught us to not look at the scoreboard as much, to keep going on the field.”

Going into last fall, Carter said, there was a lot of uncertainty of who was going to be playing. The fall of 2020 helped the RiverHawks concentrate on themselves.

“I think it actually made us focus to take it one day at a time to get better, bigger, faster, stronger,” Carter said. “When we eventually got on the field, we were really focused to bettering ourselves to be better as a team. That period helped us. Getting a chance to compete in the spring helped us to see where we are at.”

Rarely does a team in the bottom half of conference make a leap to the top half in one year in a conference as strong as the MIAA. It is a process. Eckert is realistic and understands the necessary steps it takes. He watched the work the RiverHawks put in a year ago and believes they are ready to make the climb up.

“I think we made a lot of headway there,” Eckert said. “We were able to find some ways to improve. We grew closer as a football team and became more of a brotherhood which you are looking to be as a program.”

Northeastern State junior receiver Mark Wheeland catches a pass while freshman defensive back Jaylin Coleman defends during preseason drills at Doc Wadley Stadium.

“Our overall habits got better. Our commitment to each other got better. The idea of being a team and being part of something bigger than yourself definitely got better.

“We want to be a competitive football program. We want to go out on a weekly

basis and play 60 minutes of football and be the best football team we can possibly be.”