MIAMI WARDOGS
Coach: ZACH GARDNER
6-5
OFFENSE
The success of the last two seasons is fueling the Wardog faithful in hopes of the team putting together a season to remember. Head coach Zach Gardner believes this is the right time with the right players to do something special. “We’re coming off of two consecutive winning seasons and two playoff appearances. We now have bigger goals and will strive to achieve them,” said Gardner. Seven starters are back on offense including quarterback Sam Lillard (6-2, 175, Sr.) who threw for 1,119 yards on 71 completions with 11 TDs. Lillard added 463 yards rushing on the ground. Adding to the threat of a running game are Khyler Walker (5-9, 180, Sr.) and Seth Davis (6-2, 220, Sr.). Walker can beat you with speed while Walker can simply run you over. The single back offense will get help from an offensive line that can move people off the ball. Hayden Miller (6-3, 275, Sr.) will start at center with Josiah Barley (6-4, 295, Jr.) likely starting at one of the tackle spots. If they can give Lillard time in the passing game, look for Logan Sumagpang (5-8, 155, Sr.) to have a big year at wide receiver.
DEFENSE
Defensive coordinator Brad Homer will run the 3-4 defense with extremely productive players like Chris Kelley (6-0, 210, Sr.) back on the roster at linebacker. Kelley accounted for 119 tackles with one INT and two forced fumbles. David Homer (5-9, 160, Sr.) joins Walker at safety in the secondary. Homer recorded 109 tackles and two INTs last season. If the Wardogs are going to be successful this season, the battle in the trenches must be won. That starts with guys like Tanner Searcy (6-5, 300, Sr.) and David Snider (6-0, 220, Sr.). Their play in the interior of the defensive line will set the tone for the team. Defensive end Zander Clark (6-0, 240, Sr.) can force the issue with opposing QBs and make them uncomfortable enough to make mistakes. That will give big play opportunities to secondary players like Dillon Blundell (6-0, 180, Sr.). Blundell is talented enough to play WR on offense and has a size advantage over many of the receivers he will face on defense. The coaching staff includes Adam Teal, Zach Henry, Patrick Billings, Bob Homer, Pete Overman, and Daniel Allen.
8-30 – vs. Elkins, AR
9-6 – vs. NOAH
9-13 – at Vinita
9-27 – vs. Oologah
10-4 – at Wagoner
10-11 – vs. Skiatook
10-17 – at Grove
10-25 – vs. Cushing
11-1 – at Catoosa
11-8 – at Fort Gibson
